Vedic Knowledge – Yoga & Health Expo Foundation

16 Jun

June 16, 2022March 28, 2023yogahealthfoundationadmin Announcements, Ayurveda, Vedic Knowledge, Veganism, Vegetarianism, Yoga

5 Yogic Secrets For A Long and Healthy Life

A Sanskrit proverb says, “For breath is life, and if you breathe well, you will live long on earth.” When you live in a world where the hustle seldom is on pause, it isn’t far-fetched to say your health deteriorates quicker. This is why it is important to find wisdom in Yoga.

Since years galore, Yoga has been known for improving life, be it physically, mentally, emotionally, or spiritually. It is the all-encompassing guide to nurture your mind, body and soul. With the steadfast lives we all live, it has grown even more essential to turn to this practice so we can reverse the ill effects affecting our lifespans.

You have within you the ability to outgrow yourselves into a healthier and happier you. Following the Yogic way of life, here are five essential ways you can create a long, peaceful, and healthier life day by day:

MEDITATE REGULARLY

Owing to its profound healing effects, meditation is a quintessential arm of Yoga that benefits both physically and mentally. Consciously taking time to slow down your breathing synchronizes your mind and body and calms down your nervous system as well. Daily meditation also helps reduce anxiety and negative emotions, build mental resistance, and increase self-awareness.

LISTEN TO YOUR BODY

It is easier said than done, but living life with open arms to your own body will do great wonders to your overall health. This includes sleeping when your body calls for it, eating only when you feel like it, and paying attention to your gut instincts. Staying in touch with your body’s responses will help you maintain a good sleep cycle, not overeat, and avoid negative situations amongst other things. Your body knows what it needs, you just have to listen.

OPT FOR FASTING

Fasting, or intermittent fasting, has been a part of good human health since ancient times. It helps detoxify the system, improve digestion, and allow our internal organization to rest. Think of your body constantly working to break down food materials all the time, everyday. It is bound to break down at some point, right? So make sure you lighten the burden on your body twice or thrice in a week for a good gut, and eventually a good life.

PRACTICE YOGA ASANAS

Practicing yoga, or its asanas, implies a whole new facet of wellness that guarantees extending your life to a longer and better form. Meaning “a posture producing physical comfort and mental composure”, asanas help tone your muscles, build flexibility, improve and align posture as well as balance secretion of hormones in the body. Remember: the emphasis should be on proper position and proper breathing so you can rightly reap the benefits of practicing yoga asanas.

HABITUALISE HALF BATHING

Get in the practice of half bathing where before meditation or going to bed, you cool down your body by splashing cold water on your face, neck, arms, legs, and hands. This is an ancient Yogic practice proven to help retain good sleep and maintain the body’s healthy temperature. This will calm the body and mind and bring you focus on what you want to pour your energy into.

Established in Vancouver, Canada, the Yoga Health Expo 2022 will be a one-day festival celebrating the joys of good well-being through a holistic approach to the Yogic way of life including Yoga, Veganism, and Vegetarianism in our lifestyle. The celebration shall welcome famous yoga teachers Vancouver, interactive yoga classes Vancouver and a platform for vegan products and vegan food Vancouver.

For more information on our upcoming International Yoga Festival & Health Expo, please visit: https://yogahealthfoundation.com/.

5 Yogic Secrets For A Long and Healthy Life

For 8th Yoga Health Expo 2022 Webinar Registration click here @

Stay tuned for the 8th Yoga Festival & Health Expo on 19th of June, 2022, Sunday.

#yogahealthfoundation #yogahealthfoundation2022 #YogateacherVancouver #YogaclassesVancouver #VeganproductsVancouver #VeganfoodVancouver #adityatawatia #Veganfoods #health #wayoflife #plantbased #plantbasedfood #yoga #localisvocal #awareness #mentalhealthawareness #healthylifestyle #healthyfood #webinar

16 Jun

June 16, 2022March 28, 2023yogahealthfoundationadmin Ayurveda, Vedic Knowledge, Veganism, Vegetarianism, Yoga

Myth Or Fact: Can Vegans Live On Low-Carbs?

15 Jun

June 15, 2022March 28, 2023yogahealthfoundationadmin Others, Vedic Knowledge, Veganism, Vegetarianism

Vocal for Local: Go Vegan!

As the pandemic struck and economies crumbled, nations recognized the power of opting local. From building and supporting small businesses to encouraging a local way of life, Vocal for Local is a timely motto that can help lead a sustainable lifestyle.

WHAT IS VOCAL FOR LOCAL

Vocal for Local stands for not only domestically making products, but also promoting them on a native scale. We can all incorporate Vocal for Local in our lives to lead a more sustainable and healthy lifestyle – whether it begins with fashion, food, beauty, or wellness.

WHY IT’S IMPORTANT

The idea of the slogan is to promote local industries and consume local wherever possible so that the long term effects of an increase in demand can be used to develop the domestic industries and make them gradually self-reliant.

MAKE IT VEGAN

Many might find switching to native products a massive shift in their lives. But the good thing is, it doesn’t have to be! Supporting native brands and products can begin in your daily life.

FOOD:

Local and seasonal produce makes a significant change to our lifestyle as well as the economy. That is why veganism is attached to being vocal for local. Vegan food and vegan products both are an important aspect of supporting small businesses and creating a chain of economical and green living for everyone.

Brands like NONA Vegan Foods, Yoso, Fair/Square, Leafii, and Culcherd are some of the most noted names in the Canadian vegan foods market – perfect to initiate the Vocal for Local conversation. Moreover, growing seasonal produce in your own homes directly supports the notion.

BEAUTY:

Clean beauty enthusiasts, look for the vegan and cruelty-free tags before buying any product. Today, beauty is all about supporting the right brands and redefining the industry standards. Take Sephora, Milk Makeup, Kylie Cosmetics, Marcelle, and Plume Cosmetics. These are the reigning native names in beauty with a cause! Industry giants are now moving towards nurturing native ingredients in their collections, and it is the duty of us consumers to bring them at the forefront of being vocal for local.

Essentially, it is the evolution of consumers shifting to a local perspective that would encourage brands to cater to this demand. This eventually will lead to a sustainable ecosystem where both can enjoy a healthy, better life.

With consistent efforts and awareness, we can all build a long-term eco-friendly nation that is supported from its roots.

For more information on our upcoming International Yoga Festival & Health Expo, please visit: https://yogahealthfoundation.com/.

#yogahealthfoundation2022 #YogateacherVancouver #YogaclassesVancouver #VeganproductsVancouver #VeganfoodVancouver #adityatawatia #yogahealthfoundation #clearthekitchen #govegan #SHOP #GREENISTHENEWGLAM #TRAVELLIKEALOCAL #localisvocal

15 Jun

June 15, 2022March 28, 2023yogahealthfoundationadmin Self Awareness, Vedic Knowledge, Veganism, Vegetarianism

10 Best Vegan Protein Sources

Gone are the days when only meat was a good source of protein. Plant-based proteins are just as nutritious and are even concluded to lower chronic illnesses! Variety is key to a well-planned vegan diet and eating a combination of these 10 vegan protein sources can easily provide your body with complete protein to meet its intake requirements. Take a look:

SEITAN

A popular protein source for many vegans, seitan is produced from gluten – the main component of wheat. It is one of the richest plant protein sources and can be incorporated into a variety of recipes as a meat alternative. However, vegans with gluten-related issues should steer clear of seitan.

LENTILS

A staple in South Asian cuisine, lentils (or pulses) are known as some of the most important sources of protein in the vegan diet. They are also great sources of fiber and promote good gut health. Brown, green, black, red, French – there is a plethora of options you can include in your diet.

BEANS

Packed with protein and fiber, beans are a cost-effective and rich source of proteins. Whether you’re fond of black bean, pinto, kidney, or cannellini, there is much to choose from. Chickpeas are another source that falls under beans and is highly nutritious in protein. It is also rich in carbs, so you get your full dose of both protein and carbs!

QUINOA

Known as the superfood seed, quinoas are easily a must-eat for a vegan. It is one of the rare plant protein sources that provide all nine essential amino acids – a protein diet’s dream! While quinoas are exponentially eaten in salads, you can add them to burgers, and wraps, and can also ground them into flour!

OATS

The perfect balance of protein, fat, and carbs, oats are a whole-grain food that finds its way into a vegan’s breakfast and snack choices. This grain can be used in baking, hence making it an ideal vegan alternative for baking! Oat milk is another great way to get your protein of the day in.

NUTS AND BUTTER

Any product derived from nuts, be assured that they are excellent for protein intake. They are also great sources of healthy fats and fiber. You can eat nuts butter and spreads (they’re delicious, convenient, and varied!), but make sure to go for organic options instead of highly processed counterparts.

PEAS

If you are familiar with the vegan diet, you would know pea, especially pea powder is a popular ingredient as a protein source. This can be eaten fresh, frozen, or canned. One serving of green peas also covers a large portion of your daily fiber intake, so make sure to include this green haven in your daily intake.

TOFU

Originating from soy, tofu is a given must-eat for vegans. You can choose from its many textures: silken, soft, medium, firm, and extra-firm. It is considered a whole source of proteins and remains one of the most experimental ingredients for a vegan since it easily absorbs the flavor of its paired ingredients and makes for a tasteful dish.

EDAMAME

A prominent part of Japanese cuisine, edamame is immature soybeans that need to be steamed or boiled before eating. An excellent protein snack, edamame can be best enjoyed either on its own or in soups, salads, wraps, stir-fries, and more.

TEMPEH

Made from fermented cooked soybeans, tempeh is a rectangular cake that can be cut into slabs to eat along with your vegan meals. With its robust flavor and high protein input, it is easy to enjoy for its nutty flavor and smooth texture.

For more information on our upcoming International Yoga Festival & Health Expo, please visit: https://yogahealthfoundation.com/.

#yogahealthfoundation2022 #YogateacherVancouver #YogaclassesVancouver #VeganproductsVancouver #VeganfoodVancouver #adityatawatia #yogahealthfoundation #clearthekitchen #govegan #SHOP #GR

15 Jun

yogahealthfoundation2022, Yoga teacher Vancouver, Yoga classes Vancouver, Vegan products Vancouver, Vegan food Vancouver, aditya tawatia, Vegan foods, health, way of life, plant based, plant based food, yoga, local is vocal, awareness, mental health awareness, healthy lifestyle, healthy food,

June 15, 2022March 28, 2023yogahealthfoundationadmin Announcements, Ayurveda, Environment, Meditation, Message, Others, Recipes, Sattology, Self Awareness, Vedic Knowledge, Veganism, Vegetarianism, Yoga

Is Reducing Meat Consumption Really Helping the Environment?

With issues of climate change and sustainability finding urgency all around the world, many experts advise us to try and limit our consumption of meat – owing to the environmental impact of the global meat industry. We find out if reducing meat consumption helps the environment, and how vegan foods are replacing the traditional meat industry.

We have more choice than ever before to choose what we eat. But are we making the right ones? With issues of climate change and sustainability finding urgency all around the world, many experts advise us to try and limit our consumption of meat – owing to the environmental impact of the global meat industry. But is it making any difference, and is meat consumption really destroying our planet? Let’s find out.

The global meat industry is nothing less than immense. In 2022, the global industry is worth over $2 trillion! With its presence so prevalent, the scale and intensity of meat production combined with projected population growth estimates show that current practices are bad for the environment.

Here is why:

IMPACT OF EATING MEAT

Health Risks

Diets high in red and processed meats, high-fat dairy foods, processed foods, and sugar are associated with diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancers whereas diets rich in fiber, fruit, and vegetables are associated with a reduced risk of these diseases.

Biodiversity Loss

Livestock production accounts for roughly 30% of current global biodiversity loss! With the need for more land to produce more meat, we are losing the lush flora of our planet for specifically animal rearing, only to have them killed in the end. The meat industry is causing an irreversible loss to our planet to produce meat.

Global Warming

According to studies, meat production is responsible for generating about 14.5% of total global greenhouse gas emissions. Moreover, an astounding amount of meat is gone to waste both before and during the manufacture of meat. These practices are extremely harmful to our ecosystem, especially global warming which is directly caused by these greenhouse gas emissions.

Water Usage

About 29% of the total water footprint of the agricultural sector in the world is related to the production of animal products. By not purchasing meat products and avoiding such companies, you have the power to reduce the demand for meat, and thus – save water and conserve the planet.

IMPACT OF NOT EATING MEAT

If you’re looking to reduce your impact on the environment, going vegan is one of the best choices you can make. Here is why:

Plant-based options high in protein and, alongside a well-balanced diet of plenty of fruit and vegetables, will mean you aren’t going without the vitamins you need. You will find equal amounts of natural nutrition in a vegan diet without hurting your

Producing plant-based meat emits up to 90% fewer greenhouse gasses than producing conventional meat. If more people were to adopt veganism as a diet, the impact could cause a major shift in the ecosystem and help slow climate change.

The global meat industry is notorious for polluting our oceans. When we leave land animals and fish off our plate, we are contributing to stabilizing the marine ecosystem as well as giving marine life a chance to thrive once again.

Reducing demand is the most significant factor in taking a stand against meat production. Ease your diet’s burden on the planet and choose veganism.

For more information on our upcoming Yoga Festival & Health Expo, please visit: https://yogahealthfoundation.com/

07 May

May 7, 2020March 28, 2023yogahealthfoundationadmin Announcements, Ayurveda, Environment, Meditation, Message, Self Awareness, Vedic Knowledge, Vegetarianism, Yoga

6th Online International Yoga Festival & Health Expo

We are pleased to announce that we are organizing 6th International Yoga Festival & Health Expo virtually. As we know that from last few months the entire world is facing the outspread of Coronavirus, but that would not dampen our spirit. We have successfully hosted 5 festivals in the past, and we are proud and blessed to organize our 6th festival with the same enthusiasm and energy. Our idea is pious and we promote a healthy organic lifestyle for everyone through Yoga, Meditation, Veganism, and Vegetarianism. We feel blessed to support and connect with the global community and strengthen our ties amid dark time. We are happy to invite everyone to our 6th online yoga festival & health expo on 20th June 2020 from 11 am to 2 pm. We will soon share the program highlights and other details.

Have a blessed & soulful day!

05 Oct

October 5, 2018March 28, 2023yogahealthfoundationadmin Self Awareness, Vedic Knowledge, Yoga

Patanjali Yoga Sutra

Sutra means thread, formula or a principle expressed in a few words. Yoga would mean add or to connect or put together. In order to guide the humanity to spiritual discipline via meditation, sage Patanjali wrote “Yoga Sutra” some 1500 years ago, in around 500 AD.
The book of yoga consists of four chapters. Chapter 1, the Yoga and its aims, has 51 sutras. The remaining 3 chapters are: chapter2: Yoga and its practices (55sutras), chapter 3: Yoga and its powers (56 sutras) and chapter 4: Liberation or Samadhi (33 sutras).

We shall now describe, in short, the essence, meaning and the purpose detailed in each chapter. In chapter 1, the first sutra, is a style of starting a book, as is common in any old Sanskrit work. “Ath Yoganusashanam”, meaning, here begins the instruction of Yoga. Remember the word ath meaning “here we begin”. The second sutra is the key to the whole book. It defines what yoga is and possibly what it is not. “Yogah chitta vritti nirodhah”. Yoga is the control of the wavering mind. Yoga is not a hard physical exercise. A yogi is not a muscular person. His/her body would be smooth, without muscles, as yoga focuses on flow of blood in one’s arteries and veins.

Yoga is thus a method of using human psychology to align one’s mind to becoming a benevolent, kind and clear thinking person who always thinks good of others and the environment around him/her. He/she will thus attain equanimity as Krishna would say in Geeta,”Samatvam yoga uchyate”. Yoga practices consist of breathing exercises, physical postures that would lead to the final destination of the Samadhi state of profound absorption, all the time focusing on one’s inner most thoughts. As poet Kalidasa said in his Abhigyan Shakuntalam, “Pramaanam antahkaran pratyayah” meaning, the ultimate truth (God) lies in your innermost thoughts. Also, Krishna says in Geeta-“Yada samharate chayam, kurmoanganeeva sarvashah”, as the turtle withdraws his limbs at sensing danger, this is how you withdraw your thoughts from the worldly attachments.

Before one proceeds to understand the theory behind Yoga, one must keep track of three things. 1. Mind, 2. Prakriti, the physical world, made out of three gunas (characteristics) namely, satva, the pure truth, rajasa, the worldly pleasures and the tama, the dark or negative thinking; and lastly, 3. Atman, the super consciousness or spirituality which is reached by attaining the Samadhi state. That is the aim of Yoga.

Now, coming back to chapter 1, there are five kinds of thought waves. 1. Right knowledge, 2.wrong knowledge, 3. Verbal delusion, 4. Sleep and 5. Memory. (sutra 6: Praman- viparyaya- vikalpa- nidra- smritayaah). They are controlled by practice and non-attachment. (Sutra 12: Abhysvairagyabham tannirodhah). Concentration of true spiritual aspirant is attained through faith, energy, recollectedness, absorption and illumination (sutra 20: shraddha-virya-smriti-samadhi-pragya purvak itaresham). Concentration may be attained through devotion to God (sutra 23: Ishwara pranidhanadwa). In Him, knowledge is infinite, in others, it is only a germ. The word that expresses Him is Om. (sutra 27: Tasya vachak Pranavah).

There are two types of Samadhi (the ultimate absorption state), one savikara or sabeeja, with seed and the other nirvichara or nirbeeja or without seed. When the object of concentration is subtle object, the primal cause; or Prakriti, the Samadhi is called the savichara or sabeeja Samadhi. When the object of concentration is the Atman, the pure truth, it is the nirvichara or nirbeeja Samadhi. (Sutra 48: Ritumbhara tava pragya)

Chapter 2, sutra 1 says, the preliminary steps to Yoga are: austerity, study and dedication of the fruits of one’s work to God, that is, detachment. There are eight limbs of Yoga: 1. Yama: abstention from evil doing, 2. Niyama: following strict code of conduct. 3. Asana: postures 4. Pranayama: life force. 5. Pratyahar: withdrawal from sense object, 6. Dhaarana: concentration.7. Dyaana: meditation and 8. Samaadhi: absorption. (sutra 29).

Chapter 2, then, in sutra 46 introduces asana, the postures, “sthir sukhaasanam”, meaning that the asana or postures is to be seated in a position which is firm but relaxed. Then after mastering posture, one must practice control of the praana (pranayama), the life force, by stopping the motions of inhalation and exhalation.
Chapter 3 relates to obtaining mystic powers (samyama) by mastering the three: 1. Dhaarna (concentration), 2. Dyaana (meditation) and 3. Samaadhi (absorption). (sutra 4: Trayamekatra samyama).

Chapter 4 is entitled “Liberation”. The very first sutra sets up the source of obtaining mystic powers. It says: Janma aushadhi mantra tapahsamadhijaha siddhyah. That is, the psychic powers can be obtained either by birth, or by medicines or by the power of words or by practice of austerities or by concentration (Samadhi). The ego sense alone can create minds (sutra 4). Of the various types of minds, only that which is purifies by Samadhi is freed from all latent impressions of karma and from all cravings. (Sutra 6: tatra dhyanjamanaashayam).
PRANAYAM- the breathing exercises. Prana means life or life force. Pranayam means that concerns the life force. The following seven pranayams can be practiced every day. They will fill energy before one goes for the asanas or postures.
1 Bhastrika: Sit down in easy pose (Sukhasana) or lotus pose (Padmasana). Breathe regularly via lungs for 5 minutes. Inhale for a 2.5 seconds and exhale for 2.5 seconds. Cancer patients should do it for 10 minutes (Yoga guru Ramdev)
2 Ujjayee: Inhale breath strongly through nose with tighten throat. Make sure there is no force on ear drums. It is good for asthma, snoring and bronchitis.
3. Anulome-Vilome: Press right hand thumb on the right nostril and breathe in, and then press right hand middle finger on the left nostril and breathe out. Then reverse the order of nostrils for breathing in and out.
4. Kapaal Bhati. Breathe out hard by forcing the air through nostrils and pumping the air by forcing the stomach and the lower abdomen. Helps in prostate cancer (Swami Ramdev)
5. Bhramari. Block the ears by two thumbs, place the two middle fingers of both hands on the eye lids, the two pinky fingers on the nostrils and the two index fingers on the forehead and pronounce OM by prolonging it on the M sound. This will create a vibration in the brain. This is an exercise for the brain.
6. Udgeet: Take a deep breath and exhale with the sound of OM, very slowly.
On top of these breathing exercises, there are locks that one places on the paths of breath for more effect on various parts of body and for various ailments.

A Jalandar Bandh: While during Bhastrika pranayam, or any other, lower the head and rest the chin on the neck and breathe in and out. This will close ida and pingla narhies (vessels) and prana enters the sushumna narhi. Good for thyroid.
B Eddyan Bandha: Stand, place hand on knees, bend down and use Jalandhar Bandha.
C Moola Bandha: Sit in the sukhasana (easy posture), breathe while region below naval is lifted upwards with every inhale. With this bandha, the apaan vayu (air)moves upwards and unites with prana (the life force). This awakens the mool (bandha) chakra and also awakens Kundalini.
D Mahabandha: While sitting in sukhasna, apply the three bandhas simultaneously.
Asana. Most asanas or postures are designed to balance the bone structure or force the blood circulation in a part of body that needs healing. Most postures in yoga are imitations from animal kingdom. How the animals stretch when the get up in the morning, how they prepare themselves to defend or get ready to pounce on their victim. I will only mention a few that I practice when I need them. Monkey or cobra poses for back problem and a frog pose for diabetes.

The Markat Asana. (The monkey posture). Lie down on your stomach, put the elbows on the floor and rest your face with the chin on your palms. Breathe in and out like in Bhastrika.

The Bhujanga Asana (The Cobra posture). Lie down on your stomach, place your palms on the floor, and raise your head like a cobra. Breathe in and out as in Bhastrika.

The Mandook Asana (The Frog Pose).Sit on your legs with knees on the floor, push your thumbs inside your index fingers, place the thumb knuckles on both sides of navel. Take a long breath, move forward to put your chin on the floor, breathe in and out.
Reference: Patanjali yoga Sutra with commentary by Swami Prabhavananda and Christophr Sherwood, Shree Ramakrishna Math, Chennai, India.

By: Chhatradhar Bhatt.

04 Jun

June 4, 2017March 28, 2023yogahealthfoundationadmin Vedic Knowledge, Yoga

Niyamas

This week, we’re continuing our discussion on yoga philosophy— specifically the Eight Limbs of Yoga in honor of the third annual International Day of Yoga this June.

In simple terms, The Eight Limbs of Yoga are eight important steps of a yoga practice that help us live fuller, happier lives. The Eight Limbs were created as universal guidelines by Maharishi Patanjali, who is considered the “father of Yoga”. Patanjali compiled the 195 Yoga Sutras (or primary Yoga talking points) that serve as the foundation of Yoga. Today, we’ll learn about the Niyamas, which are the second of the Eight Limbs of Yoga. The Niyamas are personal practices, rituals and daily activities for wellbeing and spiritual growth.

There are five Niyamas that help us shape our personal behavior.

The first Niyama is Soucha, which is the practice of cleanliness. Soucha not only refers to the cleanliness in personal hygiene, but it also addresses the cleanliness of our internal environment (our bodies) and our living environment.

For example, one way to practice Soucha is by committing to the wellbeing of our environment and taking active measures to care for the Earth. Actively engaging in the internal practice of Soucha includes eating nourishing meals that keep the body running efficiently, and replacing toxic thoughts with those that are more positive, creative and productive. We can also keep our bodies and minds clean by avoiding drugs and alcohol, which prompt us to lose control of our actions and the choices we make when we live drug and alcohol-free lives.

The second Niyama is called Santosha meaning contentment. Santosha refers to surrendering the control of our lives in the present moment, and going with the flow. When we live our lives this way, we’re much more receptive to opportunities and experiences that present themselves when we keep an open mind. The result of practicing Santosha is experiencing increased love and joy in our own lives. When we’re happy and carefree, we can be of even greater service to others, and positively impact more lives around us.

When we’re not practicing Santosha, we tend to be discontent and hold onto resentment towards others. For example, as is the case for many individuals in recovery, it can be difficult to connect with something positive in life- even if it’s only one person, experience or circumstance. But by practicing Santosha and surrendering to all circumstances-good and bad- that have brought us to any given moment, the result is often a deeper sense of gratitude for the respective paths we’re on.

The next Niyama, Tapas, focuses on self-discipline. The word Tapas in Sanskrit is for fire. When we live a life that is simple and organized, aligned with the rhythms of the universe, we allow the light, or fire, of Universal Consciousness into our lives. Some ways we can practice Tapas include waking early in the day, taking time to meditate in the morning and evening, eating well, connecting joyfully with others, and getting plenty of exercise and rest.

It’s important to show up and be responsible for our own well-being. One way we can cultivate Tapas is through Satsang, which is the practice of connecting with individuals who seek to understand the Higher Self. Satsang is especially important for those who walk the path of sobriety. Those who practice Satsang contribute to a community of like-minded individuals, who assist us with creating positive routines that support our wellbeing.

The fourth Niyama is Svadhyaya, or sacred study. When we read literature that enhances our spiritual growth, we shift from looking to our external environment for answers, to turning within and trusting our own divine wisdom. As we reflect on our inner selves, we also begin to understand that everything we need in life can be found by connecting with who we really are, which is Pure Consciousness. Whether you need an answer to one of life’s challenges, or guidance on your personal path, the answers can always be found within the wisdom of your own being— and practicing Svadhyaya can help you discover how to tune in to this innate ability.

The fifth Niyama is called Ishwara-Pranidhana. Ishwara Pranidhana refers to surrendering to the Divine, or a Higher Power. When we have awareness and faith in a Divine Presence greater than ourselves, we begin to see the same presence in everything and everyone around us. This gives us a deeper understanding of the principle that we are all one, or, as is often said: “the divine in me recognizes the divine in you”.

Spending time in nature allows us to practice Ishwara-Pranidhana, by helping us recognize that all things have the same prana, or life energy within them, that is expressed uniquely.

Ishwara-Pranidhana also refers to surrendering to the wisdom of uncertainty, relinquishing our attachment to the past, and trusting that the uncertainty of the present moment holds the key to personal transformation. By focusing on these personal manifestations of Universal Consciousness, we’re also able to let go of what no longer serves us to make room for new experiences and lessons for our growth.

Just like Yamas, Niyamas also create a sold foundation of the Eight Limbs of Yoga and practicing the Niyamas is a journey and process. It is very important to have compassion and come from a place of non-judgment. Niyamas are beneficial tools and by integrating them in our daily lives, one can experience happiness and fulfillment in life.

30 Jan

January 30, 2017March 28, 2023yogahealthfoundationadmin Vedic Knowledge, Yoga

FROM STRESS TO SERENITY

Maitreyi-mug-shot-(5) I was asked in year 2016, by a participant at the International Yoga day, organized by International Yoga Festival & Expo Foundation and sponsored by ICSEA as well as the Indian consulate, about stress.

How does yoga reduce stress?

I have taught many corporations and individuals in different countries on stress management, self mastery and aligning with the highest. I see that many times they perceive asanas and pranayama to be like a pill. Many want three postures to heal blood pressure, one pranayama or a breathing technique for weight loss , some other combination for increasing creativity or one secret manthra or chant for enlightenment. Though all are possible, more than just the tools, the approach to the tool, right attitude as well as lifestyle and paradigm changes are very important. So in a series of articles I will explain how stress can be alleviated by approaching yoga in a holistic manner. We will also see the depth, expansiveness and beauty of the yogic system. It is a system which goes to the root imbalance rather than just getting rid of the symptom and addresses every aspect of the individual. The physical, emotional, mental and spiritual are aligned.

The right approach to yoga will help us deal with stress more efficiently

When I see what is happening to Yoga these days it reminds me of those using an airplane only on the runway. Even worse they are looking at competing with a race car on the runway. The aim of yoga is not an adrenaline high but the journey of building inner stability. So when we actually fly, despite the turbulence we are able to re-stabilise. Despite the high speed of our evolution we do not have the speeding thrill of the race car.

However when we are ignorant, we continue to use yoga only on the runway and even undervalue it because it is not able go faster than a race car or give the same thrills. Or feel proud we have bent yoga to suit our needs for an adrenaline high. The whole purpose of yoga is to change the whole paradigm of where and how the race happens and if at all a race is needed. This discernment and tapping into a higher intelligence is what yoga gives us.

Self reflection and taking responsibility is a necessary step in stress management

That is why in the Arkaya Mindfulness and Healing Teacher Training programs I take only those who have the courage to see themselves clearly and want to shift their underlying physical, emotional and mental patterns and programming. Not just learn some asanas, some pranayama , some chanting, quotes and concepts from the scriptures and prance around looking like teachers. It takes a lot of effort to step away from the busyness and keep time for contemplative time as well as see and release suppressed emotions. However this contemplation and capacity for emotional honesty is not usually valued in a productivity oriented society. It can seem challenging to take responsibility for your well being in the beginning and one might find a lot of resistance. However with practice one can see the messages and insights that come even out of the worst times and darkness. We are so used to giving away responsibility to doctors, therapists and temples that it seems scary to reclaim this power. It does not mean we do not consult them but also work on prevention. Fear is what leads to stress, so let us align with the wisdom to release this fear and empower ourselves.

Wisdom Principle One for Stress management

Start with the simple and start step by step

This means that apart from the tools that you learn , the rhythm of the yoga class you go to is extremely important. Do not go to a class where you are pushing yourself to the point of exhaustion. Yes you will become a great gymnast and if that is what you want then good, however you will still be a stressed and emotionally needy gymnast.

You are again overworking your adrenals and the whole point of rebalancing the adrenal glands is lost. The adrenals are in charge of the stress response and secrete adrenaline or cortisol in high stress situations when you are being attacked or your survival is under threat. When we do high intensity training as well, this stress response is triggered and you are overworking the adrenal glands. So mindful, simple practice with slow deep breathing is better to rebalance the adrenals.

The yoga class is a structure for life, so your approach in class will translate as your approach in life. If your class is paced well , in life also you will learn to pace yourself rather than kill yourself in the rat race.

Also though we are aware of other addictions like alcohol and drug addictions we rarel speak of adrenaline addiction. Many have adrenaline addiction and that is one of the main reasons for this perpetuating cycle of increased stress.

In the next series of articles we will go more into adrenaline addiction and see more principles and tools on how to address stress.

The practice

Till then simplify, be mindful of how you sit, stand and lie down. Are you sitting with back straight yet relaxed, shoulders relaxed yet pushed back and neck in line with shoulders rather than jutting it forward. Have a gentle smile on your face and remember to tap into lightness and play. This awareness and mindfulness in day to day situations is important. Breathe deep and slow and trust you are well and all is well.

It is interesting how a Hindi movie beautifully used this yogic concept of “all is well” and popularised it 🙂

Yogacharini Maitreyi is a practical mystic. She trains Arkaya yoga teachers& healers and creates conscious community around the world. She also runs a foundation for children living in slums in Chennai E-mail: maitreyi9@hotmail.com; www.arkaya.net

Fb Arkaya Vancouver/Conscious Living group

Dates for Arkaya Mindfulness & Healing Teacher Training in Vancouver, 2017 will be announced soon. It starts in July.