Namaskar oct 2015s

namaskar A VOICE FOR THE YOGA COMMUNITY OF ASIA

YOGA INSPIRES THEATRE HK director draws on his yoga background for latest play.......................................................p25

Photograph courtesy of Eric R. Ward

DEPRESSION Ayurvedic doctor explains how a build up of toxin can contribute to our mood............................p29

October 2015 THE TRAVELLING YOGI Impact and implications on being on the road & in the air all the time......................................p34

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NAMASKAR

NAMASKAR - OCTOBER 2015

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR The Universe gives us what we need, not what we want.

I experienced this recently on a flight back from Scotland. An hour-long flight delay resulted in my missing my connection to Hong Kong.

Overbooked flights meant I had to stay overnight in London, then take a flight to Paris the next morning to catch another home. Definitely not what I wanted! However on the trip to France I happened to sit next to a spiritual teacher, Ernesto Ortiz, who spends over 200 days a year on the road. This just as our dristi for this issue is The Travelling Yogi! Surely this was the flight I needed to be on!

Three contributors share their experiences and suggestions. Very different perspectives: Ana gives her tips for staying healthy and grounded while travelling away from home; Liza shares her thoughts on how yoga connects us and; Inna offers a student’s perspective.

Special features herein are diverse: Donald writes about the similarity between yoga and scuba diving; Chloe finds out how yoga and Steve Jobs inspired a Hong Kong director to produce a play about contemplation and personal growth; Clayton introduces us to the tireless work of one dedicated yogini bringing yoga and much-needed aid to a small Philippine town and; Gaelle interviews senior Iyengar teacher Carrie Owerko about the importance of play in our practice.

We welcome a new contributor to Namaskar, Dr Harsh, an Ayurvedic doctor in India. He talks about a possible cause of depression being the build up of ama (mucous) in our systems.

Thanks as always to the contributors of our regular features, and to Namaskar’s tireless volunteers Wai-Ling, Carol and Angela for this issue and this year.

As distribution is our largest cost, next year Namaskar advertising rates will increase to keep pace with the 6.5% increase in postage announced by Hongkong Post recently. We hope individual teachers and smaller studios will still find Namaskar a competitive option for your communication needs.

And I hope even more of you will make time to share your yogic experiences and observations through these pages in 2016. I know I’ve learned as much from my friends on the yogic path as I have from teachers. If you have learned something, if you have grown as a result, chances are someone else out there can too.

Finally, I wish you all very happy end to 2015 and look forward to connecting with you again in the new year.

ABOUT NAMASKAR ADMINISTRATION Carol Adams, carol@caroladams.hk NEWS EDITOR Wai-Ling Tse, wailing.tse@gmail.com CIRCULATION Angela Sun, angela.sun@gmail.com

On the cover - Slackline & AcroYoga teachers Raquel Hernández-Cruz (top) and Sam Salwei (above) are coming to Flex Hong Kong in November.

In This Issue DRISTI - TRAVELLING YOGI ON THE ROAD AGAIN 32 Taking care of yourself while travelling INSTANT CONNECTION 35 Yoga unites travellers PROS & CONS 36 What does it mean for the student of the travelling yoga teacher SPECIAL FEATURES POST-TYPHOON PHILIPPINES 17 One yoga teacher’s efforts to keep helping a small Philippine community PLAY FOR TAPAS 19 Iyengar teacher Carrie Owerko talks about the importance of play in yoga YOGA & DIVING 23 More similar than different WHY AREN’t YOU STEVE JOBS? 25 Hong Kong theatre performance inspired by yoga and Apple’s founder

REGULAR CONTRIBUTIONS KULA UPDATES, WORKSHOPS, RETREATS, TEACHER TRAININGS PHOTO ESSAY AYURVEDA MUDRAS IN BRIEF MYTHOLOGY BOOK REVIEW RETREAT REVIEW RECIPE DIRECTORY

6 14 28 39 39 40 43 47 48

Namaskar provides a voice for the yoga community in Asia and around the world. The publication is an opportunity for practitioners on a yogic path to selflessly offer their knowledge, learnings and experiences with others.

Articles and photographs in Namaskar are contributed at no charge. Advertising income covers production, distribution, administrative costs and discretionary contributions to selected charities and causes.

We welcome unsolicited submissions, therefore the opinions expressed within these pages are not necessarily those of Namaskar or its volunteers.

Namaskar, is published quarterly in January, April, July and October.

About 5,000 copies are printed and distributed for free to yoga studios, teachers, fitness centres, retail outlets, cafes and yogafriendly outlets. Mostly distributed in Hong Kong, with 1,500 copies mailed to readers in 32 other countries.

EDITOR & PUBLISHER Frances Gairns, fgairns@netvigator.com

October 2015

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CONTRIBUTORS ANA FORREST

CAROL ADAMS

Kong to work after university. She currently teaches ballet and yoga to children. chloe.yy.yates@gmail.com

GAELLE FOULON DAFFNER

CONI HORLER

Medicine woman, creatrix of Forrest Yoga and author of Fierce Medicine, Ana has been teaching for 40 years. ww.forrestyoga.com ANGELA SUN

Gaelle practices and teaches Iyengar Yoga in Hong Kong. gaelleinla@yahoo.com Carol takes care of Namaskar advertising, administration and billing. She works from home which gives her the freedom to homeschool her 10-year-old son. carol@caroladams.hk CLAYTON HORTON

HARSH AGARWAL

Coni is a traveling photographer and artist, based in Bangalore, India. www.chphotography.ch, www.yoga.in DONALD DAY

Dr. Harsh comes from a family of doctors. He carries a rich experience of over 10 years in the field of chronic disorders and their treatment through Ayurveda. harsh_ayurved@yahoo.co.in

Angela takes care of the distribution and circulation of Namaskar. Originally from New York, she has been practicing yoga for 10 years. She currently teaches privately. asunwellness@gmail.com

Clayton teaches Ashtanga yoga at Pure Yoga in Hong Kong. clayton.horton@pure-yoga.com

BARBIE FU

CHLOE YATES

Barbie is the founder of More Yoga and a behavioural therapist. She completed RYT500 in India and is now teaching privately, for small groups and for corporate classes. www.moreyogahk.com

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INNA CONSTANTINI

Donald has worked as a management consultant, equities strategist, trader and index trader in Europe and Asia. He is currently a Master Dive instructor and loves to share his experience of trips around Asia. donday88@gmail.com

Chloe was born in Hong Kong and moved to Australia, then the UK at a young age. She returned to Hong NAMASKAR

Inna is a yoga teacher and freelance writer based in London. With a background in media and public relations, she experimented with various yoga styles before trading

her desk for a yoga mat. innayoga@gmail.com

MOOSA AL-ISSA

IRENE THONG

Irene lives and practices in Hong Kong.

KRISHNAA KINKARIDAS

Moosa is Executive Director of Life Cafe and Director of Just Green Organic Convenience Stores in HK. Moosaalissa@gmail.com

namaskar

TIA SINHA

Now on-line at: www.issuu.com/namaskarasia Back issues still at: www.issuu.com/caroladams Krishnaa lives in London. She studied with B.K.S. Iyengar in Mumbai and Pune and now runs classes in London and teaches ‘Sanskrit and Mudras for Yoga’ for Yoga Alliance and British wheel of Yoga trainee teachers. She has written nine books on Bhakti Yoga. kinkaridasi@hotmail.com

Tia spends most of her time in retreat in Himachal, teaching yoga asana, philosophy and Tibetan Buddhist techniques of meditation and translating and editing for Lamas. onlytia2@yahoo.co.in

LISA KAZMER? WAI-LING TSE

January’s dristi: Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras Ideas include: • How are the Yoga Sutras relevant today • Which Sutras are the most important • How to weave the Sutras into an yoga asana class • Which translations are best for beginners If you would like to contribute an article on this subject, or others, to Namaskar, please email Frances at fgairns@netvigator.com with your thoughts first. That way we can let you know if another contributor is already covering that angle. Final articles are welcome before December 10.

Lisa is a yoga teacher, birth doula, and writer. Originally from the US she now lives in Singapore and specializes in teaching prenatal yoga, beginners, and seniors. www.lisadevi.com

Wai-Ling teaches and practices yoga and mindfulness, therapy and is Kula editor of Namaskar. yogawithling@gmail.com October 2015

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KULA

Updates

“Thank You Mother India” Global Campaign Non-profit Yoga Gives Back (YGB) invites all the Yoga communities in the world to host just one fundraiser class between now to 31 January 2016 to help more mothers and children in India. This annual global campaign raises the majority of the funds for YGB’s programs in India, which is now funding more than 500 mothers and children with micro loans and education funds.

For more information yogagivesback.org/tymi AUSTRALIA

Want to teach & study abroad?

Byron Yoga Centre has just been approved to offer a part time 12month 800-hour Yoga Teacher Training Course that qualifies international students for a 12 month student visa. You get to live in beautiful Byron Bay, study yoga 2 days a week and are allowed to work for up to 20 hours each week. There is also holiday time to travel around Australia. At the end of the 12 months you are certified as a 500 hour RYT plus benefit from the additional 300 hours of units that cover subjects such as marketing and first aid. This Certificate IV represents one of the highest qualifications in yoga teaching recognised in Australia and internationally – ideal for those considering teaching abroad.

For more information email Becky at marketing@byronyoga.com 6

Evolve Yoga Festival

New Monthly Kirtan

25 January 2016 Byron Bay Presented by Byron Yoga Centre this event brings together the yoga community for classes, sessions and workshops. Ticket prices are kept affordable to encourage attendance and along with Yoga, there is dance, music and a vibrant market place. Come and explore yoga styles, deepen your knowledge, boost your wellness and connect to likeminded people. (Byron Yoga Centre has an eight day retreat starting 23 January, so you could combine coming to Evolve Byron Bay with a yoga and wellness retreat.

7:30 - 8:45 pm Third Monday of the month Alive Wellness, Central Monthly devotional Kirtan sessions where voices unite for powerful healing to take place.

Led by Cristina Rodenbeck of Manipura Wellness. Cost $120.

For more information www.evolveyogafestival.com.au HONG KONG

Complimentary Yoga Workshop for Busy Executives Life Management Yoga Centre Tsimshatsui LMYC is offering a complimentary Yoga for Busy Executives workshop on the third Sunday of every month for the community. Executives will be taught reflection techniques, relaxation, physical and mental purification, and concentration exercises to improve creativity and production. Executives will be trained to maintain an independent personal practice.

For more information life@yoga.org.hk / (852) 2191 9651

For more information info@alivewellness.hk or +852 2541 8600

Free Meditation Course Brahma Kumaris Raja Yoga Centre, Kowloon BK Raja Yoga Centre offers free 7-day courses on meditation and positive thinking for beginners.

Meditate to create new attitudes and responses to life by exploring spiritual understanding of yourself. A new course starts on the first Monday of every month.

For more information (852) 2368 4693 / 3541 4340 / kowloon@hk.brahmakumaris.org / www.rajayoga.com.hk

Silent Disco Yoga Class with The Yoga Room 1 November Sun Yat Sen Memorial Park This class will be led with music and instructions heard through wireless illuminated disco headsets. Cost HK$150; please bring your own yoga mat.

For more information www.yogaroomhk.com/ (852) 2544 8398

NAMASKAR

Hiking &Yoga with The Yoga Room 8 November Join the Yoga Room for a hike and yoga class to enjoy the views, fresh air and the winds and smells of nature. Hike together to the peak and enjoy an outdoor yoga class at Victoria Peak Garden. Cost HK$150; please bring your own yoga mat.

For more information www.yogaroomhk.com/ (852) 2544 8398

New Kundalini Yoga & Mindful Meditation Class SOL Wellness, Central Every Saturday 10:3011:30am. Private sessions available.

For more information (852) 2581 9699 / info@sol-wellness.com

Flex Festival with the YogaSlackers 14 November (9am-6pm) Cyberport In honour of Flex Studio’s tenyear anniversary, they are hosting a Yoga and wellness festival with special guests the YogaSlackers’, Sam Salwei and Raquel Hernández-Cruz from the USA. This event will be in support of the Hong Kong Adventist Hospital Foundation. Yoga slack lining and acroyoga classes will be offered all day, as well as adult and children’s yoga classes, kids’ dance and fitness classes. Over 30 vendors will join the celebration with healthy food and

Open National Yoga Competition 27-28 December Kolkata, India Sponsored by Indian Yogis in Vietnam and attended by Yoga masters from different countries such s Vietnam, Australia, China, Singapore,Thailand and Cambodia with the aim to spread Yoga not only in Asian Countries but also all over the Wold.

For more information yogasoumen@gmail.com / (84) 1267666504 / (91) 9433379505

YogaSlacker Raquel Hernández-Cruz will be leading workshops and retreats in Hong Kong and Thailand

beverages, as well as shopping for wellness-related goodies. Free admission to the festival; fees charged for classes.

For more information (852) 2813 2212/ info@flexhk.com

Kundalini Yoga Festival 2015 21 November (11am-4pm) Learn to be the master of your own self, your psyche, and your body. HK$400 per person.

For more information (852) 2581 9699 / info@sol-wellness.com

Tibetan Singing Bowls Group Healing This healing group takes place on the New Moon and Full Moon night every month. Offering both day time and evening group sessions. By donation only.

For more information sol-wellness.com/ events-calendar/

Seeking Yoga/ Pilates Instructors Yoga Privates is an exclusive provider of private Yoga and Pilates sessions across Asia since 2008. They are seeking registered, experienced instructors to join their team.

For more information www.yoga-privates.com / info@yoga-privates.com / (852) 65044280

INDIA

International Yoga Festival

Charitable Donations as Christmas Presents?

With Christmas soon upon us, how do we make the holiday season less about overindulgence and more about goodwill and kindness to all. Charitable gifts help to demonstrate to our younger generation that real happiness does not come from having things, but from giving and sharing, and not from being afraid of people across the city, or country, or planet. In honour of your loved one’s next birthday, anniversary or Christmas, why not make a donation to charity in the name of your intended recipient?

Namaskar regularly supports Yogi Yum Yums, a small social enterprise based in Rishikesk, India. They make sweets and treats without white sugar or white flour. They make them fresh, with simple ingredients, no added chemicals and as natural or organic as possible. The sweets are sold at ashrams around town.

All Yogi Yum Yums profits go towards the secondary and tertiary education of orphans and underprivileged children. Yogi Yum Yums will send a gift appreciation post card to your honouree advising them of your generous gift.

29 January-2 February 2016 Yoga Vidya Gurukul, Trimbak, Nasik Organised by Yoga Vidya Gurukul which was founded in 1978 as a non-profit organization.

Individual - US$200 per person.

The price includes accommodation, food, conference material and training (on all sessions). A yoga teacher can bring their students or those interested in yoga and yogic lifestyle: 10 people - US$180 per person; 25 people - US$160 per person.

For more information gandhar@yogapoint.com/ yoga@yogapoint.com/ www.yogapoint.com/ yoga-festival SINGAPORE

Singapore Yoga Teacher Sangha Ongoing

Immerse yourself in a supportive, inclusive, respectful, and collaborative space for yoga teachers of various styles who are based in Singapore to gather, share, and learn from one another. The meetings are an open forum to discuss the many facets of teaching yoga, a place to share resources, ask questions, give answers, and build community.

These events are free but RSVP is essential.

For more information www.LisaDevi.com/Sangha

Karma Master Class with Vikas Malkani 21-22 November Soulcentre The mysteries of Karma will be shared by Vikas.

For more information (65) 8128 7418/ (65) 9875 2372/ www.soulcentre.org THAILAND

Asian Yoga Sports Championship 19-21 June Bangkok Congratulations to Amrita Halder of Bengal, India for coming second in her category at the Fifth Asian Yoga Sports Championships earlier this year. The event includes Women’s and Men’s events in Artistic Yoga, Rhythmic Yoga Pairs, Yoga Dance and Yogasana, and is categorised into under 12, under 18 and above 18.

For more information www.asianyogafederation.com

For more information www.yogiyumyums.com

Amrita Halder (second from right) with her medal at the Asian Yoga Sports Championship

October 2015

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Workshops

HONG KONG

Yoga Hormone Therapy with Harimandir Kaur 31 October-1 November (10am6pm) SOL Wellness, Central Learn how to reduce and remove the undesirable effects of hormonal imbalance for women of all ages. From irregular cycles, PMS, infertility, menopause to fibroids and persistent cysts.

Women have regained control of their health issues by learning this amazing series of exercises, breathing and postures. YHT, created by Dinah Rodriguez of Brazil is a yogic technique which combines Kundalini yoga, Hatha yoga and Tibetan method of energy movement. Fee: HK$2,800 per person or HK$5,000 for 2 people.

For more information (852) 2581 9699 / info@sol-wellness.com

Yoga of SelfRealization Immersion with Andrei Ram 4-8 November Pure Yoga Andrei Ram has become one of the most sought after international guest teachers among the Pure Yoga community.

For the seventh year in a row Andrei is coming back to Pure to share his knowledge of Yoga.

For more information www.pure-yoga.com/ events@pure-yoga.com

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Yoga Therapy: From Hamstrings to Ankles 8 November (11am-12:30pm) Alive Wellness, Central This workshop will start with a brief overview of anatomy provided by Alice Yuen, Founder of Alive Wellness, helping you to have a better understanding on how to solve leg and hip muscle issues. Followed by Iyenger and Yin style yoga poses by Nasci Nobo, that offer physical therapeutic effects allowing the muscles and mind to relax.

Especially beneficial to athletes and elderly. Cost: HK$150.

Hamstrings and ankles are the focus of a workshop at Alive Wellness, Hong Kong

For more information info@alivewellness.hk

Therapeutic Workshops and Yoga Wall Level 1 with Bryan Legere 10-15 November Pure Yoga Workshop topics include knees and hips, lower back, neck and shoulders.

For more information www.pure-yoga.com/ events@pure-yoga.com

Know Your Body; Know Your Pose Workshop with Janet Lau 15 November The Yoga Room, Sheung Wan If you want to learn more about your body, or if you have ever wondered why certain poses are always a challenge for you, you will have your mysteries solved in this workshop. Even if you are

just starting your yoga practice, it is always good to understand your body so you learn more about your potential.

For more information www.yogaroomhk.com/ (852) 2544 8398

Tricara Yoga 5-Day Immersion with Ross Rayburn 18-22 November Pure Yoga Join internationally renowned teacher Ross Rayburn for a week of fun, enlightening and inspiring yoga studies. If you are someone who loves information and the “how to’s” of asanas, meditation and even life skills, do not miss this experience!

For more information www.pure-yoga.com/ events@pure-yoga.com

NAMASKAR

Enhance your Meditative Practice with Essential oils & the Ajna Light with Chan Cudennec 19 November (6:30-8pm) SOL Wellness, Central Chan will share the Ajna Light and essential oils that can help one get into a deeper sense of awareness followed by group meditation. HK$150 per person.

For more information (852) 2581 9699 / info@sol-wellness.com

AcroYoga Workshops with Sam Salwei & Raquel Hernández-Cruz 20-21 November Flex

to review the anatomy of the low back and common causes of low back pain. You will also be led through a sequence of asanas with guidance on correct technique to avoid lower back problems and poses that will improve the health of your spine.

For more information trish@newangleyoga.com

Yoga of SelfRealization Immersion with Andrei Ram

Janet Lau will be teaching at Yoga Room, Hong Kong

In 2005, Sam co-created the company “Yoga Slackers”, specializing in combining Yoga poses on a Slackline as well as integrating other body awareness practices such as partner acrobatics. Despite the misleading nature of the name, the “slackers” are accomplished athletes gaining the support of over 20 different sponsors, who share in the desire to promote ecologically sustainable living.

Raquel is a certified AcroYoga and YogaSlackers teacher. She found that through both practices she could inspire others to learn and grow through play. This workshop is suitable for all levels ranging from beginner to advanced.

eligible to become certified Yoga Bou Instructors and can further their training to become Yoga Bou Master Trainers after 100 hours of Yoga Bou classes. Ideal for yoga instructors who teach hatha, therapeutic, senior, or vinyasa styles.

For more information www.pure-yoga.com/ events@pure-yoga.com

For more information www.yogaroomhk.com/ (852) 2544 8398 SINGAPORE

20-22 November Pure Yoga This workshop aims at developing basic skills for yoga lovers and instructors of all styles focusing primarily on safely and effectively using Yoga Bou. Participants who complete all seven workshops will be

For more information www.pure-yoga.com/ events@pure-yoga.com

Therapeutic Workshops and Yoga Wall Level 1 with Bryan Legere 20-22 November Pure Yoga Workshop topics include knees and hips, lower back, neck and shoulders.

For more information www.pure-yoga.com/ events@pure-yoga.com

Mind Your Low Back: Yoga for a TAIWAN Healthy Spine Therapeutic Anatomy Focused Workshops and 24 October (1:30-4pm) Yoga Wall Level 1 Led by Trish Corley, Director of New Angle Wellness, she is also a with Bryan Legere

For more information (852) 2813 2212/ info@flexhk.com

Yoga Bou Intensive: Art of Letting Go with Michiko Minegishi

aspects of traditional yoga and ayurveda combined with modern medicine with specific guidelines for different conditions and general treatment principles, empowering you to safely and effectively address disabilities and ill-health through yoga. The program is delivered in 7 intensive modules. Each module may be attended independently. Cost: Early bird HK$6,500 until 4 November; full cost: HK$6,900.

11-15 November Pure Yoga Andrei Ram has become one of the most sought after international guest teachers among the Pure Yoga community.

For the seventh year in a row Andrei is coming back to Pure to share his knowledge of yoga.

Ganesh Mohan returns to Hong Kong

Svastha Yoga of Krishnamacharya: Therapy Program Module 6: Yoga Psychology & Psychiatry/Mind: Stress, Anxiety with Ganesh Mohan 4-8 December The Yoga Room, Sheung Wan Bringing you the most effective

doctor of physical therapy, professor of functional anatomy, and a Baptiste certified Yoga teacher. Trish excels in making it easy and fun to learn anatomy as it applies to yoga. At least 80% of the population will at some time suffer from low back pain. A healthy yoga practice can help you prevent and minimize many pains including those of the back. This workshop will utilize an interactive lecture with anatomical models and handouts

October 2015

3-8 November Pure Yoga Taipei Workshop topics include knees and hips, lower back, neck and shoulders.

For more information www.pure-yoga.com/ events@pure-yoga.com

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Teacher Trainings

CHINA

103-hr Conscious Pregnancy Kundalini Yoga TT - The Journey from Woman to Mother 4-12 December Xiamen A specialty training for Kundalini Yoga teachers and all interested women. Led by Tarn Taran Kaur Khalsa who is the creator of the Conscious Pregnancy training and has been teaching since 1972. She will be joined by Siri Ram, an experienced Kundalini Yoga teacher trainer and also specialises in Naad Yoga (sound and mantra) and numerology.

For more information ky.pregnancy.yoga@gmail.com HONG KONG

Level II: Advanced Prenatal & Postnatal Yoga TT with Ann da Silva 28-30 October The Yoga Room, Sheung Wan Suitable for yoga teachers, midwives, doulas and other health professionals who are interested in teaching yoga to pregnant mothers safely and effectively. All participants must have completed a 200-hour basic teacher training or have at least three years of yoga practice.

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For more information www.yogaroomhk.com/ (852) 2544 8398

For more information www.pure-yoga.com/ events@pure-yoga.com

50-hr Yin TT with The Forrest Yoga Victor Chng Advanced TT with 30 October - 4 November Ana Forrest Bliss Yoga Yin teacher Victor Chng will be in Hong Kong to lead a basic Yin yoga teacher training.

For more information info@studio-bliss-hk.com

Pre & Post-natal Yoga TT with Samantha Chan 9-18 November Pure Yoga This training is dedicated to nurturing physically, emotionally and spiritually expectant mothers, birth partners and their unborn children and encouraging practitioners to unfold the mindbody-spirit connection that is vital to the practice of yoga and to pass on these experiences to future mothers, parents & their unborn children.

For more information www.pure-yoga.com/ events@pure-yoga.com

Upeksha Yoga: Taking the Seat of the Teacher 2-6 December Pure Yoga Get into the heart of teaching in this 40-Hour programme with Lawrence Pradhan.

5-13 December Pure Yoga This training allows teachers from other yoga schools and lineages to join the Forrest Yoga education programme to learn and understand the art of sequencing, to practise and teach intermediate and advanced asanas to different levels and to prioritise the needs of students with special needs and injuries.

The Spirit of Teaching with Samrat Dasgupta 25 March-8 May 2016 Pure Yoga This programme enables students to build a strong foundation in the philosophy of Yoga, skills in adjusting postures, an ability to articulate instructions clearly, and have the confidence to uplift themselves and inspire others through their knowledge and teachings.

For more information www.pure-yoga.com/ events@pure-yoga.com SINGAPORE

For more information www.pure-yoga.com/ events@pure-yoga.com

Universal Yoga TT with Andrey Lappa 2-13 January 2016 Pure Yoga This programme is designed for all yoga practitioners who seek a deeper understanding of the ancient path of Yoga, regardless of their background or practice style. Participants will come away with a profound understanding of their personal practice, as well as the skills required to effectively teach a wide array of students through Asanas, Vinyasa and Pranayama sequences.

For more information www.pure-yoga.com/ events@pure-yoga.com

NAMASKAR

Universal Yoga TT with Andrey Lappa 13 January-5 February 2016 Pure Yoga This programme is designed for all yoga practitioners who seek a deeper understanding of the ancient path of yoga, regardless of their background or practice style. Participants will come away with a profound understanding of their personal practice, as well as the skills required to effectively teach a wide array of students through Asanas, Vinyasa and Pranayama sequences.

For more information www.pure-yoga.com/ events@pure-yoga.com

The Energetics of Excellence with Patrick Creelman 7-17 January 2016 Pure Yoga This training will empower and educate experienced teachers to the next level of their own teaching. Learn how to own the space of each classroom, empower your voice when speaking in front of an audience, and find your deeper purpose of being in the seat of the teacher.

For more information www.pure-yoga.com/ events@pure-yoga.com

ancient path of yoga, regardless of their background or practice style. Participants will come away with a profound understanding of their personal practice, as well as the skills required to effectively teach a wide array of students through Asanas, Vinyasa and Pranayama sequences.

For more information www.pure-yoga.com/ events@pure-yoga.com

2016 Kaomailanna Resort, Chiang Mai Designed for committed yogins with a strong desire to deepen their practice, the Immersion Program offers a comprehensive yoga curriculum of 100 hours.

This is followed by the 100 hour “Art of Teaching Program” where the effective methodology of powerful and heart-oriented yoga teaching is transmitted.

For more information www.shantaya.org

FOR BUDDING TEACHERS

THAILAND

200-hr Yoga TT Wise Living Yoga Academy, Chiang Mai 29 November-25 December; 3-29 January and 7 February-4 March 2016

READY TO BE A YOGA TEACHER? Some basic questions

BY BARBIE FU “I have been practicing consistently for one year but still cannot do advanced postures. Can I still pursue the teacher training course?”

One of my students asked lately.

In fact, every regular practitioner can take teacher training course.

Most courses are not limited to aspiring yoga teachers; they are indeed open to everyone who is interested in learning about the fascinating history, origin, and philosophy of Yoga. The point is, we need to clarify what’s our aim going forwards.

“I am just in love with yoga and really want to deepen my study.”

Do you really want to be a yoga teacher? Or do you want to achieve a goal in life? If your answer is the latter, go ahead. It is a very good opportunity to step further in yoga and you will find what you have learned is just tip of the iceberg. If your answer is the former, then you need to know some facts about being a yoga teacher.

Yin teachers Jo Phee & Joe Barnett lead a TT in Bali

INDONESIA

Yin Yoga 200-hrs TT with Jo Phee and Joe Barnett 1-27 November Ubud, Bali Join senior Yin trainers and the primary assistants for Paul Grilley in this Yoga Alliance accredited training program.

Topics include Chinese Medicine, Anatomy, Fascia Study, Yin Yoga Theory and Practice.

For more information www.yinspiration.org/ info@yinspiration.org TAIWAN

Universal Yoga TT with Andrey Lappa 7-30 December Pure Yoga, Taipei This programme is designed for all yoga practitioners who seek a deeper understanding of the

Wise Living provides an “Ashram-like” environment, ideal for the full immersion experience in traditional Yoga studies. Providing a foundation on Yoga philosophy and practices, including meditation, asanas (postural training), pranayamas (breathing techniques) and simple kriyas (cleansing techniques). All programs are residential and include vegetarian meals.

THEN HOW WILL I PRACTICE TEACHING? Students look for good teachers. There are numerous teachers in town already, which is not beneficial for newbies. To gain teaching experience, try to volunteer yourself to your neighborhood, friends or family, they may be your first students. Once again, it’s not as easy as you think it is.

CAN I BE A FULL TIME YOGA TEACHER? As I mentioned before, there are many good teachers out there and competition is strong. It usually takes a few years to build your confidence. Teaching yoga isn’t about making big money, so it’s better to have a full-time job as back up.

For more information (66) 825467995 info@wiselivingyoga.com/ www.teachertraining. wiselivingyoga.com

Anusara Yoga Immersion & 200-hr TT with Jonas Westring & Team Shantaya Immersion A: 21-28 January| Immersion B: 30 January-6 February; TT: 11-25 February

IS IT EASY TO GET A JOB AFTER THE COURSE? Getting a teacher training certificate is important, but it’s experience that counts. You will need to teach as many hours as you can, at the same time, you are learning how to teach. So, ditch the idea of getting a job offer after finishing your teacher training! Search around the community for any opportunity to teach, even if it is a voluntary class.

HOW SHOULD I CHOOSE THE TEACHER TRAINING COURSE? Research courses out there and narrow your choices from there. Go through the course details and look into the course philosophies and practice. It is helpful to have comments, feedback or testimonials from previous graduates of the course.

OTHER THAN TEACHER TRAINING COURSES, ARE THERE ANY ALTERNATIVES TO GO DEEPER INTO YOGA? Why not try workshops or yoga retreats on a variety of topics before a teacher training? There are many at different locations around the world. Enjoy learning about yoga instead of thinking about the job, it’s more fun!

October 2015

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Retreats

AUSTRALIA

Byron Bay Retreats Byron Bay is an ideal destination for retreating and the sustainable Byron Yoga Retreat Centre is an affordable and comfortable option. Along with the signature 3 and 8-day yoga and wellness retreats, there are special retreats planned for expecting mums and an AcroYoga Immersion in October.

In November, the centre has an Ayurvedic Cleanse with Jacinta McEwen plus options for retreat programs on the upcoming trainings: Yoga Therapy with Maria Kirsten and the Meditation with Swami Pujan.

For more information www.byronyoga.com HONG KONG

Yoga & Meditation Retreat with Charlotte Douglas of LoveLifeHK 20-22 November Kadoorie Centre, New Byron Retreat Center in Byron Bay, Australia Territories A weekend Yoga retreat that www.lovelifehk.com/ starts with a morning meditation www.facebook.com/lovelifehk and moving gently into an invigorating yoga practice. As THAILAND well as nourishing the body with delicious Ayurvedic food, rest the mind and soul in the surroundings of nature and to 25-31 October; 29 November-5 finish the day with a deeply December; 3-9 January and 7-13 restorative Yoga practice.

February 2016 Wise Living Yoga Academy, For information Chiang Mai charlotte@lovelifehk.com / People speak about yoga without (852) 6680 0340 / realizing that it forms an integral

50-hr Samkhya Yoga Intensive

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part of a composite SamkhyaYoga Philosophy, the oldest philosophical system in the world. This is a residential program that includes theory and practice of Yoga techniques, and vegetarian meals.

For more information (66) 825467995/ info@wiselivingyoga.com/ www.retreats.wiselivingyoga.com

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100-hr Samkhya & Bhagavad Gita Intensive 25 October-7 November; 29 November-12 December; 3-16 January and 7-20 February 2016 Wise Living Yoga Academy, Chiang Mai Besides the study of Samkhya and many traditional practices and techniques, we will dive deeper into the Bhagavad Gita explaining

the four paths of Yoga, namely Raja Yoga, Jnana Yoga, Bhakti Yoga and Karma Yoga. This is a residential program that Includes theory and practice, and vegetarian meals.

For more information (66) 825467995 / info@wiselivingyoga.com/ www.retreats.wiselivingyoga.com

The Spa Resort, Chiang Mai Join Carlos and Andy for a body, mind and spirit Yoga retreat at the stunning Spa Resort Chiang Mai nestled in the lush valley of Mae Ann Valley. This is a unique opportunity to deepen your understanding of the roots of the yoga tradition and to take your practice to a higher level physically, mentally and spiritually, as well as to enjoy the beauty and culture of Chiang Mai.

Flex Studio Yoga & Pilates For more information www.pure-yoga.com/ Retreat: Cleanse events@pure-yoga.com & Energize with Heather Shalabi & Gateway to Michelle Ricaille Freedom: A 27 October-1 November SpiritDance Kamalana Wellness Sanctuary, SoulSong & Core Koh Samui Join Heather and Michelle on an Awakening Yoga journey to detox your body and Retreat deepen your practice of yoga & Pilates. Start your day with an energizing yoga practice, then experience the healing properties of Kamalaya’s spa, followed by an in-depth Pilates session. The retreat focuses on the synergy between yoga & Pilates, the role of detox food and nutrition, and healing therapies to combat fatigue and burnout.

For more information min@flexhk.com

Living a Life of Joy Retreat with Carlos Pomeda & Andy Willner

28 November-5 December Samahita Retreat, Koh Samui Join Daphne Tse, Ellen Watson and Cristi Christensen for a Yoga, dance, mantra, singing and meditation retreat. With their expertise and gifts of SpiritDance SoulSong and Core Awakening, they will guide you in daily practices that will tune your whole instrument through chakra based techniques. Whether you are a teacher or a student, this retreat aims to inspire you to reclaim your self expression!

YogaSlackers’ Thailand SlacklineYoga & AcroYoga Retreat 1-8 December Kaomai Lanna Resort, Chiang Mai Join the YogaSlackers, a trio of modern day nomads for an exploration of your human potential. Focused on the dualities of a nomadic life, several acrobatic practices and active recovery, they will explore the edges of your perceived limits and will teach you how to surpass them. Through thoughtful exploration on the importance of stillness in movement, the softness found in strength and the art of silent communication, they will facilitate a personal rediscovery like no other. The all inclusive price of USD $1,300 includes: morning Yoga practice, Slackline Yoga, AcroYoga, Slackro, Dutch acrobatics, water acrobatics, Thai massage and flying therapeutics.

For more information plc@yogaslackers.com

For more information www.samahitaretreat.com/ www.spiritdancesoulsong.com

12-17 November

Carlos Pomeda is joined by Andy Willner in

Daphne Tse will be co-teaching with Ellen

YogaSlacker Sam Salwei bring his unique

Chiang Mai, Thailand

Watson and Cristi Christensen at

platform for yogasana to Chiang Mai,

Samahita Retreat

Thailand

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PHOTO ESSAY

YOGA IN INDIA

It’s all around

BY CONI HĂśrLER My yoga happens in daily encounters with the ordinary, which are rendered beautiful through my lens, and in the extraordinary experiences throughout my travels, where I am in constant discovery of the simple beauty of India, nature and people.

I seek perfection in the aesthetic of the imagery and in shooting people in special settings.

These photos are taken from my second travel photography book project. Yogis are placed in their own environment, intriguing and beautiful, each in a unique manner.

These images highlight a journey through India and Yoga....

From the Himalayas, Ganges river, Mysore Palace, Goa skyline, paddy fields and old monuments. I have attempted to capture a glimpse of people doing asana in some intriguing and interesting locations.

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KARMA YOGA

YOGA & HEALTH IN TYPHOONDEVASTATED PHILIPPINES

One Block for Batug

BY CLAYTON HORTON

In 2011, longtime Hong Kong resident Ambikha Buco founded One Block for Batug, a Non-Profit organisation as a response to rebuild Barangay Batug Elementary School in Leyte Province Philippines. Excessive flooding from heavy typhoons destroyed the old elementary school. With the help of many communities, schools, organisations, friends and families in Hong Kong and in the Philippines, OBB (One Block For Batug) raised enough funds to buy a new safer location where the new school has been constructed. This gave new hope and opportunity for the students of Batug to continue to dream and be motivated with their studies.

On the morning of November 8, 2013, the Philippines experienced the strongest typhoon ever recorded in history with the epicenter of the Typhoon Yolanda (aka Haiyan) in Leyte. It destroyed everything in its path and Andrea’s village; Barangay Batug did not stand a chance. Most of the houses were 90% damaged. The new school that was built was 50% damaged. The roof come off, but the foundation of the building remained standing. During Typhoon Yolanda, the community was able to use the school as shelter and many lives were saved.

families’ whose houses has been totally damage by the typhoon on her town of Batug in Leyte province.

domestic helpers, restaurant staff or, the unlucky ones end up dealing with drugs or prostitution.

Ambikha has collaborated with many healing communities in the Philippines that promote yoga, vegetarian diet, raw food, and sustainable natural housing. Together, they have created a housing program to Batug, which constructs homes with local, natural materials: mud, soil, coco lumber, and rice husk. They also have created a home gardening program to help the community to grow their own food to encourage the community to be less dependant on meat consumption. In 2013, One Block for Batug built a small Yoga Shala (a small Yoga space) in Batug village to provide a space for health and wellness activities in the area.

OBB believes the children are our future and wish to give the youth of the village the opportunities of eduation. The scholarship programmes aims to build an environment in which youth can thrive and have positive dreams for their future.

WHAT YOU CAN DO TO HELP Housing - Since Typhoon Yolanda, One Block For Batug has provided funds, labor and materials 17 new homes with our Mud House Project. With your help and support there will be many more safe and happy families who will be awarded a new home this Holiday Season and the next years to come.

Education Sponsorship - In 2015, OBB began

Jason’s university education has been sponsored by OBB

One Block for Batug was one of the first on the scene to help rebuild people’s lives in Batug. With the support of community around the world, OBB was able to raise funds for the donation of food, clothing, housing materials, and gardening tools. OBB also provided psychosocial support to raise community spirit. Ambikha continues to visit Batug and work with the school children, offering Yoga and Healing Breathwork.

Two years after Typhoon Yolanda, aid and donations are unfortunately no longer being delivered. The community is still in need of continued support. Although it has been two years since the typhoon, the suffering and need for relief is immense in the small towns and villages along the eastern coast of Leyte Province. Poverty is an issue as the town is still in recovery mode. Livelihood, Housing, Health and Food are the main areas that need support. One Block For Batug has established a housing program benefitting

To date, one student has been supported financially to become a school teacher. OBB hopes to get more support in the future so they can help more youths to attend University and inspire their future.

Yoga Mats - As part of Ambikha’s campaign to promote Yoga and Health in the community, they would like to provide the kids with their own Yoga mats. In the past, Ambikha has been conducting Yoga classes on the grass field within the school ground.

If you have an old mat you no longer use and is still in acceptable condition, we would appreciate if you can donate them for the kids in Batug village. Your old mats can go a long way.

One of the 17 new mud homes built in Batug

its Education Sponsorship Program by sponsoring students for their university education. Often in this area of the Philippines, when a student from primary and secondary finishes their studies, their family can no longer afford to send them to University. They often end up working as October 2015

To date, Pure Yoga in Hong Kong has donated several used Yoga mats that have been delivered to the Primary school of Batug Dulag Leyte. The students have been gifted with an opportunity to be exposed to yoga at a very early age.

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community from the disaster they have just experienced. If you like teaching yoga for kids, Batug Primary school is always welcoming travelling teacher to share their skills to this tiny village in Leyte. Batug is on the banks of the lovely Daguitan river and the beach is just moments away.

Ambikha brings the Pure Yoga donated mats to the Philippines

Volunteers - If you have spare time and you’re looking for something to do that involves selfless service (Karma Yoga) then we welcome those who are interested to volunteer to build houses for the typhoon victims to come and visit Batug village in Leyte province Philippines. You will have the opportunity to connect with the community, exchange cultures ideas and experience living in simplicity with the local villagers. Your stay can help raise the spirit of the

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Ambikha leading the kids through some AcroYoga

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If you are inspired to volunteer for the Mud House Project, teach yoga for kids or if you would like to donate money or yoga mats please contact Ambikha at: ambikhadevi@yahoo.com www.oneblockforbatug.org Facebook: Ambikha Devi Karma Yoga, One Block for Batug

INTERVIEW

PLAY AS THE SOURCE FOR TAPAS

Interview with Carrie Owerko

BY GAELLE FOULON DAFFNER

Her sold out workshops bear whimsical titles such as “Permission to Play” or “The Careful Farmer”. She amassed an international fan base to make a rock star pale and she once performed live for BKS Iyengar at the New York City Center, during his 2005 national book tour.

Carrie Owerko, New York based senior Iyengar teacher talks about her practice, her inspiration and how we can all have more fun following a workshop at Yoga Central in Hong Kong earlier this year.

WHEN DID YOU START YOGA? WHY IYENGAR YOGA AND WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO FOCUS ON PLAY IN YOUR PRACTICE? I did it a little bit in College but really started in 1990. I was curious about Indian culture so I started going to Jivamukti classes. I was also working at the Laban Institute (analytical movement) which was more mental than physical work so I went to yoga to relax my mind and tune into my body. With my background in movement I got very curious about the structure of the pose and it was actually my Jivamukti teacher who recommended Iyengar as I kept asking questions about form and alignment. Iyengar reveals the deep patterns of yoga and our embodiment. I love the observation of patterns so I got hooked!

New York-based Iyengar teacher, Carrie Owerko

As for play, it was a big part of my education. My parents would always teach me though play and experiment. Play became a way to understand the world. Later, in my theatre work I continued to play through improvisation. One of the rules of improvisation is to say “yes, and” to anything that gets thrown at you. And, when something is challenging we think how can I play with this. Play is a way into things, a way forward, play loosens the grip of fear.

At one point I felt I was becoming too caught in the form of the asana so to free my practice I reverted to what I know well: Play!

HOW DO YOU STAY TRUE TO THE GURU AND YET BE YOUR OWN SELF? Iyengar teaching is our canvas, the discipline, a frame. But we need to be the crayons and the color in our practice. Since everything is affected by context, we cannot practice or teach through dogma. We need to understand the when, what and why of any given situation, accept and adapt to the complex and fluid nature of it. If not, our approach might become fixated, hard, and stagnant.

BKS Iyengar transmission was multi-faceted, he threw things at us and expected us to explore in our practice. When he practiced, he explored, he played too! It was obvious! He wanted us to deeply question everything including our own approach. And I do not think he was afraid of other’s perspectives. I attempt to teach what touched me about Guruji: his smile, the light in his eyes, and his enthusiasm. I attempt to teach from a place of clarity.

HOW DO YOU BRING PLAYFULNESS IN CLASS? First of all we have to bring play in our practice. Play through challenges for example: some day I tell myself to use two blocks for everything, some days chairs only, some days rope, I throw things at

myself and I say yes to it, I give myself playful assignments to push myself out of habitual pattern and move into new territories. Through this I get organic directions or internal direction. I trust this process.

I trust that it is ok “not to know” and from the practice of playing I know that it Yes— I can relax into the unknown.

Another value I try to bring to class is of treating everybody as an equal. I am not above my students in any real sense and teaching for this perspective, allows my students to connect to their own intelligence. I encourage the process of trial and error that I cultivate in my own practice. I listen to my students, I engage them in a type of dialogue. I find they teach me so much, and by listening to their take of things teaches me other ways of saying things, of looking at things, of trying things, and then it becomes an amazing exchange. They also become confident, confident to play too!

YOU ARE SO FLEXIBLE, ANYTHING LOOKS EFFORTLESS ON YOU! DO YOU FIND ANY ASANA CHALLENGING? Any binding pose is challenging due to my morphology. Poses like full pasasana, and full malasana.

But I see my physical limitations as an opportunities to play again! We must befriend our body as it is, and work with affection, because the poses that are harder pour light on our process and they can teach us so much about ourselves and the way we handle life. The is important because it is is the process that continues while the form dissolves (age). We must be honest in our approach, and give ourselves permission to be enough just as we are. We are enough, we must practice from the ground of this understanding. Then ask ourselves what we have to contribute. We must come back to the following question for teaching, for practicing and even for life: what is my deepest intention. Stay true to it and have fun on the way.

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SPORTS

YOGA & SCUBA DIVING?

More similar than different

BY DONALD DAY

At first glance, it seems to be an odd combination - Yoga, the physical, mental, and spiritual practice to exercise, boost health and reduce stress, seems far removed from donning a scuba tank and descending into the open ocean.

However, when you look more closely, the effects of both are not very different. Both yoga and diving are very relaxing and meditative. Both have a similarly strong focus on breathing. Ideal breathing in both activities is slow, deep and relaxed. We know from meditation practice that slow and deep breathing helps calm down the body and the mind – particularly useful when stressed.

group will try and ensure everyone sees the amazing things that wait to be discovered.

Neither is about winning, but to experience something amazing and share this experience. Everybody wins. In today’s competitive world, this is rejuvenating, calming and refreshing.

Yoga and diving are also very complimentary, which explains the recent surge in combined offerings. People passionate about diving are usually balanced and relaxed, aware of the nature that surrounds them and are naturally curious – very similar to yogis. Benefits of yoga for the diver include better buoyancy control, reduced air consumption (and

breath, but even fit divers can find themselves breathing too fast or too shallow from the stress of diving.

That’s where yoga comes in. Like scuba, yoga places emphasis on proper inhalation and exhalation, as breathing is considered the essential connection between body and mind.

Practiced regularly, yoga promotes deep, slow breathing, and teaches you how to calm your mind. Yoga also strengthens and stretches muscles that are important in diving. After a dive, yoga can help to stretch and relief stiff muscles (if done lightly, as the diver should never engage in strenuous exercise after diving).

To appreciate yoga’s breathing benefits, it helps to understand what happens when you breathe. The primary function of your lungs is to draw in oxygen-rich air and expel the carbon dioxide waste your cells generate.

That oxygen/carbon dioxide exchange happens in the alveoli, microscopic, grapelike sacs that line your lungs. On land, we use just a fraction of our lung space, leaving scores of alveoli untouched. At depth some, especially new divers, use even fewer alveoli per breath, taking shallower, rapid breaths.

Another similarity is focus – in yoga and scuba diving, the practitioner is required to focus entirely on the task at hand. In yoga, you focus on the posture, the alignment, the depth of the posture and the breathing. In diving, you focus on your surroundings, your buoyancy, your depth– and your breathing.

Finally – both activities are non-competitive.

In yoga it doesn’t really matter if the person next to you seems to have a background in Olympic-level gymnastics or somehow does not seem to have bones. You only compete with yourself and what you and your body can do on the day. Similarly, in diving buddies take care of each other and people in a dive

therefore longer dive times), relaxation both on land and underwater, and improved physical fitness for diving.

The average diver sightseeing at 30 feet in warm, calm seas can expect an average tank of air to last about an hour. But as any diver can tell you, the sport is anything but average.

Deeper dives, stronger currents and chilly water can drastically reduce bottom time.

New divers, a little nervous and prone to “panting” rather than easy breathing, have been known to empty a tank in less than 30 minutes. Obviously, increasing your physical fitness is one way to get more out of every October 2015

The solution is breathing slowly, deeply and fully, especially on exhalation. Your impulse to breathe is triggered by the build-up of carbon dioxide, so by learning to exhale fully, you clear more carbon dioxide and automatically breathe more slowly. Slower breathing also improves your concentration and focus. Deep breathing exercises such as those used in yoga training help keep blood gases normal and are very beneficial as a relaxing technique.

So where can you combine these activities?

There are several resorts as well as specialized trips that not only offer yoga classes, but have integrated programs, sometimes even offer retreats. Here the combined offering of yoga, diving and often healthy nutrition is carefully coordinated and delivers a meaningful time with lasting impact. Get in touch for a recommendation, or if you want to know more about combining yoga, meditation and diving.

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COMMUNITY

STEVE JOBS & YOGA?

Local stage director connects the two in an original play

BY CHLOE YATES

A scene from Tang Shu Wing’s play “Why aren’t you Steve Jobs?” which will be on 12 - 22 November in Hong Kong

Tang Shu Wing, actor and notable stage director. Born in Hong Kong, Tang studied and practiced law before moving to Paris to pursue his true calling: acting. For the last 20 years,Tang has headed his own theatre company dedicated to minimalism and physical theatre. A firm believer in the body as a primary means of expression and a form of creation, Tang uses meditation and pranayama as part of his actors’ training, also challenging his actors in physically and psychologically demanding asanas. First introduced to yoga in the US, Tang journeyed to India in 2004 to receive his formal yoga teacher training. His latest production titled ‘Why Aren’t You Steve Jobs’ is a direct result of his continuing research with his actors.

Tang sits down with us to discuss this fascinating new piece, life and his experience with meditation and contemplation.

PLEASE TELL US ABOUT YOUR PLAY It’s about creativity, using Steve Jobs as a starting point. Life, problems in life, how we

see these problems and how people believe they can find solutions to solve these problems are some of the major themes.

employing my physical theatre approach and minimalist aesthetics, I became convinced this was the direction I wanted to lead.

Intuitively, I constructed the set up in a yoga studio, the stories of four students and their communication while waiting for their teacher who is running late. The story revolves around a group of characters in their early to mid 30’s. It’s a story of selfrealization, the discovery of your own journey using ordinary problems to involve the audience in the process. Religion, sexuality, love, money, death, the way people are drawn together; all these aspects implicate the audience.

I believe creation has to be balanced with sincere research, so we worked everyday at a systematic approach to training, trying to discover how the actors could improve themselves both physically and mentally. I put the actors in to different scenarios and recorded them as they improvised. I then wrote the script around these interactions.

WHAT WAS YOUR INSPIRATION BEHIND CREATING THIS PLAY? The production is the fruit of my research with my actors; it’s a devised piece. After using many classical plays such as Hamlet and Titus Andronicus as a platform for my actors to explore themselves and improvise, October 2015

It is also the result of my yogi training. I recall studying pranayama in the Himalayas, witnessing my teacher die. I wanted to recall this difficult experience in the play and confront the notion of death.

Grotowski, the Polish theatre director is also an inspiration. In an age of TV and film, he was convinced theatre still has value. He had an auto revelation of the actors being an organic human being, his discovery of thisis 25

very deep and can reach the subconscious of anyone, even if it is not known to that person.

When the audience witnesses this, they too may be moved by it. Grotowoski called this ‘poor theatre’; it adhered to the notion of negation not objection, removing obstacles and taking away rather than adding to reveal something pure.

After journeying to India, I began to see a link with Grotwoski’s style of theatre and yoga; it’s all about the discovery of one’s self. Yoga is not about expression but about selfdiscovery and realization. Theatre is the opposite, so I wanted to place more significance on self-discovery.

WHAT MESSAGES DO YOU HOPE TO COMMUNICATE? I wanted to comment on the current state of society, humans and the problems we encounter. I also wanted to explore creativity, using Jobs as a platform. For me, Steve Jobs is not just concerned with commercial issues, he was asking some very serious questions like ‘how can I combine art and technology?’ eventually revolutionizing the industry. He also had to deal with huge personal problems.

Similar to the characters in the play, he is concerned with making things less complicated and simpler.

Tang Shu Wing

a story of selfrealization, the discovery of your own journey

For my actors it’s imperative and a very fundamental part of their training.

Meditation is a channel not only for concentration but also as a means to get in touch with the unknown, both in your mind and body. Most of them after learning the basics find it rewarding and enjoyable to do in their own time. This fantastic experience also allows them to enter in to the process of creation and become more focused and balanced in their movement and behavior.

I’ve even worked with actors who are devoutly Christian, believing meditation should be focused solely on God. For them, they believe clearing the mind of thoughts can be dangerous, essentially clearing the space for devils to enter. This is also a very interesting angle to look at meditation.

Contemplation and self-realization are about your own discovery, your personal journey.

By using contemporary problems people are facing, I hope to get the audience more involved in the process.Characters are placed in the yoga studio to do asanas while talking about some very serious issues creating a surreal picture. It’s a metamorphosis of the yoga teacher. In the end there is no answer, it’s up to you. If you are focused enough you may discover something inside yourself.

HOW DO YOU FEEL YOUR YOGA BACKGROUND GUIDED THIS CREATION? Quite a lot. For me, this production is not just a play but also a manifestation of my personal experience, or how my personal experience withyoga is communicated in the form of theatrical art. So you could almost say the audience is experiencing their own yoga lesson by watching the play! Pranayama was also crucial as breathing is fundamental for an actor.

WHAT SORT OF CHALLENGES DID YOU HAVE TO OVERCOME TO PRODUCE THIS PLAY? Generating publicity! People don’t necessarily know the deeper meaning behind the production before they see the show, only the synopsis. It’s only during or after that people may begin to experience their own transcendental journey.

Similar to the Bhagavad Gita, it’s about dialogues and interactions between characters. In the end, it’s not just about the yoga teachings but also about the human stories and common experience viewed in this particular way, that we can talk about in a theatrical setting. These issuescan be difficult to talk about in daily life, although the play is very down to earth.

For my actors, not all of them have experience in yoga. Teaching them challenging poses, asanas, whilst talking about certain topics would correspond to the theatrical aura can be a difficult and interesting process.There is an intuition to selecting what poses should be done, but I feel I have chosen them appropriately.

Also creating a central idea from nothing, only Steve Jobs. Then in turn developing that in to greater themes. The process has been challenging but ultimately very rewarding.

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IN YOUR EXPERIENCE, HOW DO YOU THINK PEOPLE VIEW MEDITATION AND CONTEMPLATION? It depends. Some people can’t meditate because they find it difficult to calm down or to think of nothing. Their minds are so agitated they have thoughts and images all the time. For others, they might ask‘what is the use of meditation?’ from a very pragmatic standpoint, because it consumes time. When I encounter such people, after a few conversations I realize there is no use in pursuing the topic any further and I let it go.

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‘Why Aren’t You Steve Jobs’ will run 12- 22 November 2015 at Black Box, Hong Kong Repertory Theatre, Hong Kong. For more information: http://tswtheatre.com/en/ portfolio-index/why-arent-you-steve-jobs/

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AYURVEDA

WHAT CAUSES DEPRESSION?

Toxic build-up of Ama, for one

BY DR. HARSH AGARWAL

Most of us have probably experienced depression ourselves or known someone who suffers from this debilitating illness. It affects our entire being: body, mind and soul.

The body and mind become sluggish, congested and morose. The soul, strictly speaking, is affected by nothing, but it becomes even more veiled, and our everpresent joy, which is the soul, becomes totally impossible to experience.

What causes depression? In the West, we say traumatic experiences and chemical imbalances. According to Ayurveda, it might be known as imbalances in vata or kapha.

But there is another possibility within the realm of Ayurveda which says that ama, or an over abundance of toxins, is the problem.

toxifying organs: the liver, kidneys, skin and lungs. The toxins build up and this becomes ama. Ama is sticky and congesting, so you can see how this would affect all the organs and tissues in the body making them heavy and sluggish. And its effect on the mind is the same.

Ama can sometimes be seen as whitish sludge that comes out of the body with the stools, entwined in the faeces itself. But it is also energetic and this sludge clogs up the micro channels that normally allow prana, or energy, to flow freely and keep us healthy, in body and mind. It is quite easy to understand how this build up of ama would create all the symptoms of depression.

Toxins: deplete our systems, overloading the detoxifying organs, causing malfunction and decay and reducing energy.

Toxins come in many forms: polluted air, chemical skin lotions, pharmaceutical medications, stress, chlorinated water, harsh sounds, stale, burnt, chemicallyinfused or hard-to-digest foods, etc. All of these things and more will overload the de-

Two weeks later, the student had returned to the joyful, playful, happy personality that had disappeared for four years! He continued the herbs for a little while longer and followed that up with some rejuvenating herbs. The shift in his mind and mood was spectacular. Now he feels ‘fabulous’. Not long before, he would cry at night and get angry for no reason and get more depressed, frustrated and scared for not knowing why all this was happening.

Of course, strictly allopathic doctors might not be open to this approach and the pharmaceutical companies, as well, would fight it fiercely. There is, after all, a multibillion-dollar industry in anti-depressants.

And it is certainly understandable that someone who feels reasonable most of his life due to allopathy, would be concerned about trying something else. But by keeping the door of possibility open and considering other ideas, it may be possible to eliminate the depression for good.

Toxins are all around us, and can build up in our body becoming ama

There are two things we can put in our bodies: Food: help us grow, maintain healthy systems, rejuvenate, regenerate and build energy.

One student experiencing all the signs of depression over a number of years finally went to visit an Ayurvedic specialist who checked his pulse and tongue. Ama was clearly present; hence the digestive and immune system and mental troubles over the years. The doctor prescribed two kinds of herbs: Aampackak, which melts or digests the ama, and Srotoshodhan, which opens the micro channels. (These are two categories of herbs, not the specific names of the herbs. It is important to see a proper specialist to obtain the correct herbs for your situation).

From an Ayurvedic perspective, ama is the opposite of agni, or fire. Fire burns up the toxins and is responsible for healthy digestion. There are 13 types of agni in Ayurveda. The four most important relate to our natural constitutions. For more details of what these constitutions imply, it is good to do a little research into Ayurveda. Suffice for this article, a variable, inconsistent vata agni, an overly strong and dominant pitta agni or a sluggish kapha agni all create more ama, while a balanced digestive fire will help to prevent and eliminate toxic build up.

Eating according to one’s constitution and seasonal panchkarma cleansing will also help to prevent and eliminate toxins.

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It is important to state clearly ama is not the cause of all depression, but checking for its presence with a qualified Ayurvedic doctor may give one pause to consider this as the origin of the trouble. Treatment of ama can be taken at the same time as allopathy and if the patient is feeling better, she could then speak with her regular doctor about reducing the previous medications. Allopathy itself is a cause of toxins and a good cleanse could be considered once the anti-depressants are no longer taken.

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DRISTI - TRAVELLING YOGI

ON THE ROAD, AGAIN How to stay on track

BY ANA FORREST?

INSTANT CONNECTION Yoga connects travellers where ever they may be ................................35 32

TRAVELLING TEACHER What it means to the student... ............................................................36

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Inna Constantini in Headstand variation, photo by Coni Horler

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get a window seat and marvel that you get to traverse the skies I travel a lot. I’m on tour for most of the year running workshops and teacher trainings, so when I was asked to suggest some tips for the traveling yogi(ni), I knew exactly what to share.

BEFORE YOU LEAVE Carve out a minimum of 5 to 10 mins of yoga before leaving your home or the hotel. They make a difference. Especially to ease your back through the rigors of travel. Everyone can make 5-10 minutes of time. I use these Forrest Yoga poses: Elbow to Knee, Dolphin and a few Sun Salutations. Do them, feel centred, energized and go.

FLYING 1. Pack food that has a high water content grapes and celery are good. If you can cook before you leave, pack a meal that you really like. For example, Jose (my husband) cooks up for us cauliflower, butternut squash, potato, avocado & lightly applied olive or flax oil, all mashed together, delicious & easy to digest. That’s a lovely nourishing alternative to the prepackaged meals that get served up on the plane.

2. On flights make sure you hydrate. It is annoying to get up and pee, but worth it.

Hydrating reduces the chances of swelling, headaches etc. Also, the walk to the restroom improves your circulation and moves your blood.

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3. Another great tip is to take extra magnesium. If you fly on a regular basis, constipation is a real issue - altitude, dehydration and sitting still for so long all mess with your natural cycle. Readers should check with their doctor or naturopath before taking any form of supplement.

4. In the seat: Move your body. Do Shoulder Shrugs, Spinal Twist, Back Release, Neck Release. Grab handle/back of seat for the twist. To do Back Release Pose while seated, place your left ankle over the right thigh, bend forward, and hang head by shin (keep your head safe from the seat in front of you).

5. Get up and go to the back galley and do some standing poses, like Warriors.

6. Bring a yoga towel or travel mat with you for ‘waiting around’ moments in between flights. Put it in a corner, do a few poses, and arrive at your destination feeling much better.

7. I recommend doing some yoga poses before landing too, so that you don’t tweak yourself wrestling with luggage. I’ve done that before! It’s important to be conscious o f how you move your luggage because you’re moving 50lbs of awkward box after hours of doing nothing.

8. Finally, and importantly, get a window seat and marvel that you get to traverse through NAMASKAR

the skies where only Shamans and Medicine People got to go 100 years earlier. Take advantage of being up that high and soak in the beauty and wonder of earth and sky.

HOME AWAY FROM HOME Wherever I stay in a hotel or apartment, which is a lot, I like to feel at home. Here are my tips: 1. Pack items that are precious to you. I have a small traveling altar: ~ Small altar cloths, Native American and Australian Aboriginal ~ Quillwork of 4 Directions symbol & beaded Thunderbird pouch ~ Sweet grass braids & sage ~ Kookaburra finger puppet ~ Clapsticks & boomerang ~ Picture of Uluru ~ Jose’s ‘Creation’ album 2. Carry Cedar Mist spray to freshen the room to smell like a cedar forest (instead of hotel funk) 3. Pack some beautiful scarves — you can wear them and they double-up as pieces to brighten up a sterile feeling room. Lay them over the chairs, bed and (my favourite), to cover up the ugly TV. Ana will be setting up her temporary home in Hong Kong this December. Booking and info at www.forrestyoga.com/events

DRISTI

INSTANT CONNECTION, JUST ADD YOGA

Travel out, travel in

BY LISA KAZMER?

We fold a few blankets to sit upon and close our eyes. The teacher prompts us to root the pelvis and lengthen the spine and guides us to place our attention on the breath. It’s all so familiar but I can’t help noticing the sounds filtering in from the street outside are anything but average; a mixture of foreign tones and trills, expressed in a melodic singsong. The excitement of being in a new place distracts my focus for a moment.

After a few OMs to welcome in the practice, we come to Downward Facing Dog and then fold ourselves forward into Utanasana. By the time I am standing upright on my own two feet in Tadasana, my breathing has slowed down and my body has shaken off some travel induced tension. The variations begin from there but the language is always the same — yoga.

We all have our habits and rituals that help us feel comfortable and at ease in a new place while traveling. A friend of mine loves to attend a Mass at a local church. It’s not that she is all that religious but she values the sense of community with which she is able to connect almost instantly. I feel the same, but in my case would rather find my way onto a sticky mat rather than into a church pew.

As I sooth my travel-tired bones and stretch out my plane-smushed muscles alongside those who call this foreign land home I have the opportunity to fall into the rhythm of this new place by breathing it’s air, grounding my body into this patch of earth, and sweating alongside strangers who share my belief in the benefit of jumping around on a rubber yoga mat for 90 minutes, give or take.

I’ve taken my place in the room; a spot where I can see the teacher and those around me yet not attract too much attention. As an outsider in the class I try to acclimatize to it’s

energy while still feeling free to be myself.

Teaching and learning styles as well as classroom behavior vary considerably from country to country, and particularly from West to East, so “going with the flow” in a new country as one participates in a class can be helpful to learning its ways.

With reverence for ancestors, their elders, and educators ingrained in their culture, students in the East treat teachers with great respect. Discipline is expressed through openness, acceptance, and quiet contemplation of the teachings. The typical practice of taking shoes off upon entering a yoga studio as well as keeping the soles of one’s feet pointed away from the teacher or the altar, are a natural extension of everyday behavior in the East.

journeys we go on in the physical world are not so different from the journeys of selfdiscovery

The independent spirit of Westerners shows in the way they learn. They ask questions more freely, and readily speak up when they don’t understand or don’t agree with something. They think creatively about the concepts presented and are more comfortable with taking risks and making mistakes. Teachers in the West generally encourage students to find their own way through the teachings as a way to develop deeper understanding.

There are many things to learn by watching others learn. The newness of a place and its people has the ability to snap us into that vulnerable, raw, receptive and open “beginners mind” and enables us to see with a wider eye — like an artist seeing beyond the mundane into something a little larger than our everyday existence. Perhaps this is why travel is so appealing to many in the Yoga world — we know the journeys we go on in the physical world are not so different from the journeys of self-discovery that our practice can offer.

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STUDENT OF A TRAVELING TEACHER

From the perspective of a student INNA CONSTANTINI

We frequently investigate and discuss issues from the teacher’s perspective. In this case, as we look at the “Traveling Yogi,” let’s step back and see how a student feels when his/ her teacher is not around on a permanent basis.

As we focus on the excitement, joys and challenges of being a traveling yogi, what happens to students or seekers who they meet along the way? How is it for them to practice with someone who is not available on a regular basis, offering daily guidance so many feel they need?

THE PROS Joy and excitement: The joy from meeting one’s teacher again after his/her time away traveling The joy in meeting new teachers, connecting with new people and discovering fresh experiences - perhaps this is experienced on a simple physical level, through the practice of asana, developing technique, or on a deeper level of linking with the outer/inner world.

Independence: Time to absorb, develop and practice the teachings on your own once the teacher is no longer there...

Devotion: Feeling a greater sense of connection with the universal world of Yoga - the teacher does not need to be forever present, but the bond between teacher and student remains strong, transcending time and space, revealing a deeper meaning and layers of Yoga.

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Appreciation: Being grateful of the present and treasuring those moments with the teacher when he or she is close by THE CONS Wavering emotions: Due to dealing with emotions such as sadness and emptiness Due to not having a teacher there on a regular or daily basis, someone that the student can turn to for advice and support in their practice Lack of Stability: The traveling teacher can never be fully there for students. That daily connection is missing and the regular guidance may lack in such a teacher/student relationship.

Most would agree the teacher has a responsibility to offer guidance and support to students. The details of which, however, are entirely up to each individual and their understanding of the word guidance. A simple virtual contact (thanks to the internet and high speed communications) or the knowledge one is available, may often transcend the actual physical presence of the teacher.

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MYTHOLOGY

KUMBHAKARNA What you can learn from a big bully

BY TIA SINHA One of the greatest bullies in Hindu mythology was the asura (demi-god) Kumbhakarna. A giant often compared to a mountain, he was the brother of the tenheaded Lord of Lanka, Ravana, in the epic, Ramayana.

Kumbhakarna resorted to more and more cruelty day after day, delighting in and revelling in his wicked ways.

Not satisfied by the enormity of their evil deeds, Ravana and Kumbhakarna (along with their brother, Vibheeshan, who was an oddball of a demi-god, being rather sage-like) resorted to severe penance atop high mountains in order to win the favour of Brahma (the creator god) and acquire even more power. Brahma’s favour was won. He granted Ravana’s wish to become the lord of the three worlds. When Indra, the Lord of the Gods learnt of this boon, he had every

him if he slept night and day, twenty four seven for the rest of his life. Brahma relented and granted Kumbhakarna a reprieve. For one whole day, every six months, Kumbhakarna would wake up. But if he was woken up before the six months were up, Kumbhakarna’s life would be in danger.

Having been granted his boon and his reprieve, Kumbhakarna promptly fell asleep and had to be lifted and carried home horizontal by his two brothers. Ravana was unfazed by Kumbhakarna’s plight, who slept with all his might, convinced that on the day that he woke up, the poor giant would make up for lost time, wreaking more havoc than others who were no match for him in strength or size, could wreak in a hundred years.

While Kumbhakarna slept his deep, devilish sleep, Ravana indulged in his own demonic deeds. He abducted the exiled prince of Ayodhya, Rama’s wife, Sita from their hermitage in a forest and in his flying chariot, brought her across high seas to his kingdom, Lanka. While a heartbroken and resolute Sita resisted Ravana’s charms and threats, his dark ruses and stratagems to make her his wife, Rama, with the help of Sugreeva, the king of Vanaras (a part-monkey, part-human species) and the loyal, utterly devoted and immensely powerful minister, Hanuman, amassed a powerful army of Vanaras and bears and marching them over to Lanka on a bridge of rocks that was not rocky but steady, parked them outside Ravana’s fortified city.

One giant bully, Kumbhakarna

The name Kumbhakarna derives from two Sanskrit words. ‘Kumbha’ means ‘pot’ and ‘Karna’ means ‘ear’. So, Kumbhakarna means one with pot-shaped ears.

Not only was Kumbhakarna gargantuan and strong, he was a villain of the first order.

Scaring and torturing those unfortunate enough to be physically weaker than him (this number being the rule rather than the exception), was imminently pleasurable to Kumbhakarna. Even gods, ascetics and sages found little respite from Kumbhakarna’s shenanigans. Goaded and lauded by Ravana,

reason to shake with fear on his royal, bejewelled throne. Indra appealed to Goddess Saraswati to influence Kumbhakarna’s speech when it was his turn to ask Brahma for a boon. And so she did.

When Brahma asked Kumbhakarna his heart’s desire, he replied, much to Ravana’s consternation, “Lord! Grant that I sleep all the time.” And Brahma replied, “So be it.

Night and day, twenty four seven, you shall sleep for the rest of your life.” An aghast Ravana appealed to Brahma to revoke his boon on grounds of clemency as Kumbhakarna’s enemies were likely to slay October 2015

One after the other, Ravana’s trusted followers, each demon more devious and wicked than the previous, fell in the battle with Rama and his allies. When even the Lord of Lanka was sent scurrying off to his city in his chariot minus his ten crowns that were toppled by a crescent-shaped arrow shot by Rama, Ravana remembered Kumbhakarna. A veritable army of demi-gods was sent off to awaken the sleeping giant before his six months of hibernation were up. But neither drum nor trumpet, neither cold sandalwood paste on tummy nor blaring conch at ear, neither heavy logs of stout trees nor giant rocks flung on the snoring giant’s mammoth body, neither rampaging elephants marching over his supine form nor spears jabbing at his flesh could disturb the slumber of the mighty slumberer. When all such ruses had failed, only one worked - the aroma of mountainous amounts of food!

Having eaten his fill, Kumbhakarna proceeded to march to the battlefield and carry out his brother’s command, only to be slain that very day by a special arrow shot by Rama. In his despair and haste, Ravana had forgotten the caveat to Brahma’s boon, that if the sleeping giant was woken up before his six months of slumber were up, his life would be in danger.

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Bullies, beware! Kumbhakarna’s sorry plight despite all his might is a warning that a fearful fate awaits those who use spiritual practices to enhance personal power and then use that power to control, intimidate and abuse instead of becoming a source of comfort to and serving those weaker than them. Meditators, beware! The task of plumbing the depths of one’s psyche is long and arduous. There are no shortcuts and no quick-fixes. Many a sleeping giant slumbers away in the dark recesses of the mind. Do you have the courage to keep on looking in and facing and transforming the illusory demons of your mind no matter how dark and devious, twisted and terrible they may seem?

IN BRIEF

MUDRAS Three mudras for the Travelling Yogi

BY KRISHNAA KINKARI There are, nowadays, many teachers of yoga traveling all over the world to benefit keen students. Their yoga practice needs to be particularly strong and regular so the demands of the travel itself and the change of climate and diet in the destination venues do not deplete their energies nor confuse their minds even with the most serious ‘jet lag’!

When traveling, situations like airport lounges or any waiting area and then on the vehicle itself, are often confined and very public. However, for the true yogis who are ever alert to their sadhana, mudras offer the perfect solution. The circumstances thus might be unfavorable, but the opportunity to remain calmly determined in every situation is excellent and also, in this case, delightfully simple, needing no special equipment and perfectly suited to any chair or enough room to plant the body, standing, sitting or lying.

Mudras are the most versatile practice, are always ones best friend on a trip. Their practice will help one to be a yogi first, before becoming a teacher. A yoga teacher must fulfill the qualifications of a Yogi before trying to convey that to others.

Constant traveling unbalances the tatvas[elements] which leads to disease.

Balance and harmony can restore the ideal balance just through the juxtaposition of the fingers which lead to Dharana and Dhyana with sequential ease.

a consequence. It is simple, pleasant ,immediately fruitful, private, enjoyable and much more effective than many brain-cell destroying painkillers or any form of intoxicating self medication!

Enough said !Let’s take three new mudras aimed at this purpose.

PRITHIVI MUDRA Prithivi means Earth. This mudra helps one to ground oneself, bring oneself down to earth. A compliment is often given that a person is very ‘down to earth’. Such a person appreciates basic values and is a support to all around them. It brings back luster and brightness to the face and installs qualities of mercy, compassion and love as well as tolerance and patience. Helps in queues and delays!

Method: Tip of the thumb touches the tip of the ring finger [earth finger] and the other three fingers remain extended. Do with both hands.15 minutes ideal.

Method: Touch the tip of the ring finger to the root of the thumb. The thumb then rests across the ring finger. The other three fingers extend. It helps with headache or sense of heaviness in the brain. Minimum 15 minutes with both hands.

Have a good trip! May your travelling enlighten you and bring you back safe and sound!

BOOK REVIEW

AMAR CHITRA KATHA COMICS Immortal Stories for all Ages VYAN MUDRA Mudra for clearness which can control high blood pressure, thus useful in times of stress, tension , irregularity, unbalanced diet, vertigo and pollution.

Method: Touch the tips of the index and the middle fingers with the front portion of the thumb. Ring and little fingers are relaxed and extended. The wind and ether elements are stabilized so that blood pressure is controlled and confined within normal limits

BY TIA SINHA Amar Chitra Katha in Hindi means ‘Immortal Picture Story’. Amar Chitra Katha comic books have captured the hearts of children in India for decades. These comics have been around since 1969. The heart and brain behind Amar Chitra Katha comics was the late Anant Pai who wanted to make children in India aware of their own culture. He sought to do this in a fun way rather than in a preachy and didactic manner. With the help of his stories, Uncle Pai, as he was commonly known, succeeded in bringing joy to his young readers.

Well written, in simple English, often humorous and always beautifully illustrated, Amar Chitra Katha comics cover a wide range of topics. Recently published issues have a band of a particular colour on their cover.

Therefore travel need not be a task with an unfavourable end needing days of recovery as

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SURYA MUDRA Surya means Sun. Here fire and earth elements unite to produce brilliant energy comparable to solar energy.

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to their name. They are immortal. Amar Chitra Katha comics can be relished over and over again, over the years by children and by those who have never grown up or refuse to!

RETREAT REVIEW

VILLA FLOW, BALI Yoga brings us into the Present

BY IRENE THONG

Orange bands are for epics and mythology, beige for Sanskrit classics, green for fables and humour, red for bravehearts, yellow for contemporary classics and blue for visionaries. Fables from the Hitopadesha, Panchatantra and the Jatakas and the exploits of Birbal and Raman of Tenali are forever delightful.

There are about 450 tales translated into over 20 languages. However, there are over a thousand titles of Amar Chitra Katha comics as there are also collections of comics (e.g., 3-in-1 and 5-in-1 combos, mega theme-based collections) and longer special issues like the ones on Mahatma Gandhi, Jesus Christ, Dasavatar, Valmiki Ramayana, Ram Charit Manas by Tulsidas, the colossal Mahabharat in three volumes and the Bhagawat Purana.

In an age where the internet, television and fancy phones with fancier and fancier applications and games vie for a child’s attention, Amar Chitra Katha comics are a wonderful way of inculcating the reading habit in children and presenting to them in an engaging manner, the lives of great men and women through the ages.

The comic books on visionaries, extolling the lives of prophets and saints, nation builders and social reformers, poets and scientists, inspire and offer examples to emulate. The story of Angulimala, a brilliant and erudite lad who, when hated, gave way to hating and his transformation from sinner to saint due to the affection shown to him by the Buddha, is depicted thoughtfully and with great sensitivity, as are the lives of Ramana Maharshi, Ramakrishna Paramahansa, Mirabai, Kabir, Mother Teresa, Babasaheb Ambedkar, JRD Tata, Rabindranath Tagore, Einstein, Marie and Pierre Curie, Jim Corbett and Salim Ali to name a few.

Have you ever considered yourself living in the moment? We are always thinking, dreaming, talking, judging, identifying and analysing everything what we say or do each moment of the day. Every single word people say may influence our unconscious mind to create judgements, images of words, labels (mad, angry, happy, sad, resentment, etc).

Before I left for my retreat to Bali, my mind was preoccupied with my new job and news from friends far away. Going to Bali was the best solution for some peace and calmness.

Villa Flow is the town of Seraya Barat in Eastern Bali. Located up on a hill with amazing views over the sea with additional private beachfront land where one can really lounge and relax. It’s a place of tranquillity and eco-awareness, as they use organic home-grown food from the surrounding community.

When I was there, my mind was so preoccupied I did not even really see how beautiful the place was and how friendly the people were.

My Balinese yoga teacher, Kawi, a very humble and soft-spoken guy who taught us his kind of yoga (Balinese way) told us he learnt yoga from his dad when he was very young. And in those days he said, “Yoga, is just called yoga. But now yoga has expanded to many different types, styles and names for every postures”, we have the Vinyasa, Ashtanga, Bikram, Iyengar and so on.

He said, “when we do yoga, our minds must be connected to our hearts. It is not a flow of movements where we just move or follow,

without sensing.” And by sensing, he managed to incorporate every movement with our daily life and the environment around us, where we always see but ignore back into our daily life.

How often do we go into our yoga classes and really empty our minds to observe and sense our surrounding, our breathing, our movement? How often do we stop for the moment from interpreting those movements with our own meaning and sense our inner self or the quietness around you?

At that time, I was reading a book given to me by a very dear friend in US, called “The Power of Now”. It’s true that in life, we are always think too much. We always keep thinking (consciously or unconsciously) of our pasts, as we do not want to repeat what we did in the past. And we hope for the better future because the future is better and brighter from what we hope and dream to be.

We always strive to have a better future. And yet we know it is from our past that forms our future. But the future has not arrived.

Thus, the more we think of our past and our future, we forget the present. Ever really stop for the moment from all your thoughts to appreciate now? Because now is here and we are living it as we speak.

My retreat at Villa Flow inspired me to use my senses fully, to be more aware of where I am (not day dreaming of work or some other places or someone when I am already here), look around me (the breathtaking view from Villa Flow, the friendliness of the Balinese people), the delicious organic meals they serve three times a day from the organic farm, the lessons my Balinese yoga teacher taught me, the silence of the night. Without trying to interpret everything I see, touch, smell and observe, I finally put a smile onto my face. Like what we always are asked to do in yoga, “Observe the rhythm of your breathing, feel the air flowing in and out, feel the life energy inside your body and allow everything to be, within and without”. Allow yourself to be in the moment, to move yourself back into now.

Finally I share with two favourite quotes from my retreat: “Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony” by Mahatma Ghandi and “A journey if a thousand miles begins with a single step” by Lao-Tsu.

Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony

Amar Chitra Katha comics are hard to put down. Amar Chitra Katha comics are addictive. Amar Chitra Katha comics live up October 2015

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RECIPE

BLACKENED CAULIFLOWER WITH LEMON CAPER SAUCE

Zest up your vegies

BY MOOSA AL-ISSA

I admit it; like a lot of people I have had a prejudice against cauliflower.

As a kid I ate it boiled with a couple of processed cheese slices melted on top. The cheese was ok, but the cauliflower was pretty bland and boring.

Fast forward to the present, and by changing the cooking method, cauliflower becomes something great. This recipe is a particular favourite of mine.

INGREDIENTS 1 head cauliflower, center portion, cut into three vertical 1 inch thick slices 1 tablespoon finely diced shallot 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic 3 tablespoons butter 3 tablespoons fresh squeezed lemon juice Zest of 1 lemon finely diced 3 tablespoons of capers (if in vinegar rinse and dry, if in salt, soak for 15 minute then dry) 3 tablespoons Old Bay seasoning or other herb/spice based seasoning 3 tablespoons olive oil PROCEDURE Pre-heat the oven to 170 degrees Coat each side of the cauliflower slices with olive oil and then the Old Bay seasoning Heat a large frying pan to medium high heat and cook the cauliflower on each side until it is nicely blackened (about 2 minutes per side) Place the slices on a baking sheet and cook in the oven for 10 minutes While the cauliflower is in the oven, place a small saucepan on the stove on medium heat Add the butter, and when it is melted, add the garlic and shallot. Cook for one minute Add the lemon zest, capers and lemon juice, lower the heat to low, stir and cook for one minute.

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DIRECTORY

Guide to yoga studios & teachers

Alice Moulimois Personalized Yoga Instruction d: Hong Kong s: Traditional Ashtanga Vinyasa, Hatha, Mellow Flow, All levels, private and small group sessions, intuitive bodywork , Ayurvedic Lifestyle Consulting l: English, French t: +852 9822 6500 e: amoulimois@gmail.com w: www.alicemoulimois.com ANAHATA VILLAS & SPA RESORT Ubud, Bali, Indonesia s: group retreats, yoga for private & corporates. Yoga studio available for rent. l: Indonesian & English t: +62 361 8987 991/ 8987 992 / +62 21 70743366 f: +62 361 8987 804 e: sm@anahataresort.com / info@anahataresort.com w: www.anahataresort.com ANAHATA YOGA 18/F Lyndhurst Tower, 1 Lyndhurst Terrace, Central, Hong Kong s: Hatha, Ashtanga, Yoga therapy, Yin and more. Groups & privates t: +852 2905 1922 e: enquiry@anahatayoga.com.hk w: www.anahatayoga.com.hk ANANDA YOGA 33 & 34/F, 69 Jervois Street Sheung Wan, Hong Kong s: Private and Group Classes : Yoga Therapy (neck, shoulder, back, hip, knee and joints), Hatha, Power, Ashtanga, Vinyasa, Detox, Yin Yang, Kundalini, Chakra Balancing, Pranayama, Meditation l: English t: (825)35639371 e: adm.anandayoga.hk@gmail.com w: www.anandayoga.hk Anna Ng Privates d: Hong Kong s: Hatha yoga l: Cantonese 48

t: (852) 9483 1167 e: gazebofl@netvigator.com David Kim Yoga E-RYT 500+, Senior YogaWorks and Yin Yoga Teacher Trainer; International TTs, Workshops & Retreats d: Korea, Japan, Vietnam, Philippines, Sweden, Norway, USA s: Yin Yoga, YogaWorks, Vinyasa Flow l: English, limited Korean t: +1 310 480 5277 e: david@davidkimyoga.com w: www.davidkimyoga.com BEING IN YOGA SINGAPORE 2 Turf Club Rd # 02-01(Turf Ciy, Singapore s: yoga therapy (customized personal practice), teacher training (Yoga Alliance RYS 500 hours+), in-depth yoga studies, small group classes for children and adults, workshops, sound meditation, Vedic chanting, continuing education for yoga teachers t: +65 9830 3808 e valerie@beinginyoga.com w: wwwbeinginyoga.com B.K.S. IYENGAR YOGA ASSOCIATION OF MACAU 174, Rua de Pequim, Edif Centro Com. Kong Fat, 7A, Macau s: Iyengar t:(853)2882 3210/6662 0386 e:yoga@macau.ctm.net w:www.iyengar-yoga-macauchina.com FLEX STUDIO ISLAND SOUTH Shops 308-310 One Island South, 2 Heung Yip Road, Aberdeen, Hong Kong s: Vinyasa, Power, Detox, Hatha, Pre-Natal, Kids Yoga t: + 852 2813 2212 f: + 852 2813 2281 e: info@flexhk.com CENTRAL 3/F Man Cheung Building, 15- 17 Wyndham Street, Central, Hong

Kong s: Detox, Power, Pre-Natal Yoga t: + 852 2813-2399 f: + 852 2812 6708 e: central@flexhk.com www.flexhk.com Kathy Cook Retreats, workshops, privates d: Hong Kong, Bali & Thailand s: Iyengar (Junior Intermediate 2) l: English t: +852 6292 5440 / +62 811 387781 e:kcinasia@gmail.com w: www.yogawithkathy.com KUNDALINI AT SHAKTI 7/F Glenealy Tower, 1 Glenealy, Central, Hong Kong. s: Kundalini Yoga, Reiki healing, Coaching, Angel Cards. Also studio rental by day or hour t: +852 2521 5099 e: info@shaktihealingcircle.com w: www.shaktihealingcircle.com KUNDALINI @ SOL 16/F Tin On Sing Commercial Building, 41-43 Graham St. Central, Hong Kong s: Kundalini, Yin-Yang, Hatha, Men’s, Mindfulness, Yin destress yoga, meditation, holographic healing, cancer coaching, stress/insomnia relief, detox/weight management, complete mind-body-soul services. t: +852 2581 9699 e: info@sol-wellness.com w: www.sol-wellness.com Ling Yoga and Wellbeing Private Yoga Teacher Privates, Groups, Corporates, Free Yoga Community Event: Yoga in the Park with Ling www.meetup.com/ yogaintheparkhk d: Hong Kong, China s: Yoga Therapy, Sivananda, Hatha, Svastha, Mindfulness, Yin, Breathing (Pranayama), Guided Meditation, Total Relaxation (Yoga Nidra) l: English, Cantonese, Mandarin t: +852 9465 6461

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e: yogawithling@gmail.com w: www.facebook.com/ yogawithling PAUSE STUDIO MUI WO S. Hatha, Yin, Yin-Yang, Aerial Yoga, Pilates, TRX, Regular Public classes, Private Tuition availale t: +852 9427 8647 e: pausemw@gmail.com w: www.pausemuiwo.com PURE YOGA Hong Kong 16/F The Centrium, 60 Wyndham Street, Central t: +852 2971 0055 25/F Soundwill Plaza, 38 Russell St, Causeway Bay t: +852 2970 2299 14/F Peninsula Office Tower, 18 Middle Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon t: +852 8129 8800 9/F Langham Place Office Tower, 8 Argyle Street, Kowloon t: +852 3691 3691 4/F Lincoln House, TaiKoo Place, 979 King’s Rd, Quarry Bay t: +852 8129 1188 2/F Asia Standard Tower, 59 Queen’s Road, Central t: + 852 3524 7108 Singapore 391A Orchard Road, #18-00 Ngee Ann City Tower A t: +65 6733 8863 30 Raffles Place, 04-00 Chevron House t: +65 6304 2257 Taiwan 151 Chung Hsiao East Road, Sec 4, Taipei t: +886 02 8161 7888 4/f Urban One, 1 Qingcheng St, Taipei t: +886 02 8161 7868 SADHANA SANCTUARY YOGA STUDIO 103 Penang Road Visioncrest Commercial, #05-01 / 03 Singapore 238467

t: +65 6238 9320 e: namaste@sadhanasanctuary.com w: www.sadhanasanctuary.com Facebook.com/ SadhanaSanctuaryYogaStudio/ SOULMADE YOGA & TEAROOM 40, Soi Chareonjai (Ekamai 12), Klongton-Nua, Wattana Bangkok 10110, Thailand s. Kripalu, Hatha, Prenatal, Workshops, Healing Arts (AuraSoma, Bodytalk, EFT) l. English, Thai, French t. +66 2 3814645 e. soulmadeyoga@gmail.com w: www.facebook.com/ soulmade SPACE YOGA s: Hatha, Ashtanga, Advanced, Flow, Yin, Yin Yang, Restorative, Hot, Yin/Meditation, Pranayama, Mat Pilates, Jivamukti, Universal, Myo-fascial Release Yoga and Yoga Nidra l: English, Mandarin w: www.withinspace.com An-Ho Studio 16 /f, 27 An-Ho Road, Section 1 Taipei, Taiwan t: +886 2 2773 8108 Tien-Mu Studio 5 Lane 43, Tian-Mu E. Road, Taipei, Taiwan t: +886 2 2877 2108 THE COLLECTIVE, DESA SENI SCHOOLOF YOGA Jl. Subak Sari, #13, Canggu, Bali, Indonesia s: Full service resort. Ashtanga, Anusara, Embodied Flow, Hatha, Kundalini, Tantra, Therapeutics, Yin and Yang, Vinyasa, Buddhist Meditation, Vedic Meditation classes on a regular basis.

Teacher Trainings, privates, Intensives, workshops.

Specialize at hosting retreats. t: +62 844 6392 e: info@desaseni.com w: www.desaseni.com THE YOGA ROOM 3, 4, 6/F (Studios) & 15/F (Office) Xiu Ping Commercial Bldg, 104 Jervois St, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong s: Hatha, Ashtanga, Vinyasa, Candlelight Yin, Yoga Therapy, Baptist Inspired, Mindfulness Yoga, Detox Flow, Pre-natal Yoga, Pre-natal Pilates, Mat Pilates and Kids yoga t: +852 25448398 e: info@yogaroomhk.com w: www.yogaroomhk.com TRUE YOGA Singapore 9 Scotts Road, Level 4, Pacific Plaza 228210 t: +65 6733 9555 10 Collyer Quay, Level 4, Ocean

Financial Centre 049315 t: +65 6536 3390 Taiwan 563 Chung Hsiao East Road, Section 4, 1st & 2nd floor Taipei t :+886 22764 8888 337 Nanking East Road Section 3, 9 & 10/F, Taipei t: +886 22716 1234 68 Gongyi Road, West District 12 & 13 /F, Taichung t: +886 43700 0000 s: Hatha, Power, Ashtanga, Vinyasa, Yin, Gentle, Flow, Yoga Dance, Pre-natal e: operations@trueyoga.com.sg w: www.trueyoga.com.sg / www.trueyoga.com.tw Ursula Moser The Iyengar Yoga Centre of Hong Kong d: Central s: Iyengar Certified (Junior Intermediate III) l: English t: +852 2918 1798 / 9456 2149 e: uschi.moser51@gmail.com

namaskar 4 times a year 6,000 yoga practitioners 32 countries

WISE LIVING YOGA ACADEMY 198 Moo 2, Luang Nuea, Doi Saket, Chiang Mai, Thailand s: Classical Yoga, Hatha Yoga, Yoga Therapy t: +66 8254 67995 e: info@wiselivingyoga.com w: www.wiselivingyoga.com YOGA ALOHA 1/F, Fu Tak Building, 367 Hennessy Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong s: Hatha, Power Vinyasa, Gentle Flow, Core & Arm, Candlelight Yin, Yin Yang, Pre-natal, Kids, Restorative, small classes I: Cantonese & English t: 2565 7088 e: info@yoga-aloha.com w: www.yoga-aloha.com YOGA CENTRAL - IYENGAR CENTRAL 2C Welley Bldg. 97 Wellington St. Central, Hong Kong s: Iyengar Yoga classes only, suitable for privates, small groups & corporate wellness programs t: +852 2982 4308 e: yogacentralhk@gmail.com w: www.yogacentral.com.hk

DISPLAY ADVERTISING RATES & SIZES Outside back cover HK$24,300 210 mm x 297 mm Inside front cover HK$3,400 210 mm x 297 mm Inside back cover HK$2,600 210 mm x 297 mm Full page HK$2,100 210 mm x 297 mm 1/2 page (horizontal) HK$1,400 180 mm x 133.5 mm 1/2 page (vertical) HK$1,400 88 mm x 275 mm 1/4 page HK$690 88 mm X 133.5 mm 1/8 page HK$420 88 mm x 66 mm LISTINGS Individual listing Studio listing

HK$610 HK$1,270

for full or partial year for full or partial year

PUBLICATION DATES, BOOKING & MATERIAL DEADLINES Publication date Booking Deadline Material Deadline January December 1 December 10 April March 1 March 10 July June 1 June 10 October September 1 September 10 NOTES Advertising materials should in black & white and submitted as 300 dpi high resolution .tif files (no pdf or ai files please) Listings should be submitted as text only (approx 35 words) PAYMENT Payments should be made in Hong Kong dollars to: Namaskar c/o Carol Adams, Flat 101, Block L, Telford Gardens, Kowloon, Hong Kong INFORMATION Carol +44 75432 55886 / carol@caroladams.hk Frances +852 9460 1967 / fgairns@netvigator.com October 2015

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October 2015

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