namaskar Oct 2010

namaskar A VOICE FOR THE YOGA COMMUNITY OF ASIA

Aparigraha Anusara Lady Niguma

OCTOBER 2010

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Inside OCTOBER 2010

Dristi Aparigraha

Special Features

Art of what is Needed, 10

Planting Dreams, 17 Angelo leads a

Paul explains aparigraha and how to practice and apply it in our lives.

team of volunteers helping minority Chinese children realise their dreams.

Supersize me down, 10

My Naga Sadhu, 19 Sanjukta meets

Clayton explains this yama in simple terms.

her extreme yogi in India.

Feeding the Hungry Hungry,, 12

Designer Yoga, 21 Kim wonders if

For new yoga teachers in Cambodia, dealing with greed is one of the biggest challenges of yoga.

brand names and fashion lines are detracting from the essence of yoga.

In La w, 43 Law Inge, a yogin and lawyer, shares her own challenge against greed in a greed-filled field.

Regular Contributions NEWS, WORKSHOPS, RETREATS & TEACHER TRAININGS, 5 PRACTICE SPACE, 22 TEACHER’S VOICE, 27 SPIRITUAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION, 38 RETREAT REVIEW, 41 TEACHER TRAINING REVIEW, 42 RECIPE, 45 CROSSWORD, 46 HATHI YOGI, 46 TEACHER & STUDIO LISTINGS, 47

Dedication, 23 How does yoga enliven you? For Daniel it’s dedication, devotion and discipline.

Anusara Yoga, 28 Long-time Anusara yogi, Jonas, introduces his preferred style of yoga.

Dharma Mittra, 33 Leah met and interviewed (albeit nervously) this light of modern yoga.

Detox, 35 Tiana is Candida-free thanks

About Namaskar Namaskar provides a voice for the yoga community around Asia. The publication is a vehicle for practitioners on a yogic path to share their own knowledge, learnings and experiences with others.

to a five-day programme at Samahita Wellness.

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

Lady Niguma Series, 38 The

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

oldest written yoga asana sequence discovered is being taught in Hong Kong, thanks to Geshe Michael Roach.

Namaskar is distributed at no charge through yoga studios, fitness centres, retail outlets, food & beverage outlets and other yoga-friendly locations throughout Hong Kong and elsewhere.

For more information, to contribute or to order Namaskar, please contact:: Carol, Administration carol@caroladams.hk Wai-Ling, News Editor & Copy Editor wailing.tse@gmail.com Joanna, Copy Editor & Writer jomwilliams@hotmail.com Frances, Editor & Publisher fgairns@netvigator.com /+ 852 9460 1967

Deadline for January 2011 issue: January 15, 2011 3

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s the weather cools down (in Hong Kong at least), I am amazed how quickly this year has gone by. Summer seems so long ago already. I was extremely fortunate to have spent two months with family in Whistler, Canada, enjoying the beautiful mountains, simple life, clean air and daily yoga. For the latter I extend my thanks particularly to three dedicated, genuine and generous teachers: Tina James at Yoga Lounge and; Kristen Campbell and Julia McCabe at YYoga Neoalpine. If you are ever in Whistler, I can highly recommend both these studios and all their teachers.

namaskar

Returning to the city after a long break, I am acutely aware of how much this is a city of excess. People here love luxury brand merchandise; visitors from the Mainland spend HK$30,000 on weekend shopping sprees; I’ve even met someone who can’t remember how many cars they have! The wave of plenty is so powerful and pervasive, it’s hard to feel where need stops and greed starts.

Do I, for example, need to do some renovations at home? Or am I being greedy? As I’m not much of a shopper, I never really thought of myself as greedy, though the dristi articles herein are making me re-examine myself more closely. Aparigraha, usually translated as abstention from greed, is presented from four very different perspectives by Paul, Clayton, Isabelle and Inge.

We have included several other thought-provoking and interesting articles: Kim’s frank opinions on the direction of Ashtanga vinyasa yoga and how it’s affecting her; Daniel shares the reasons he practices (and sometimes plays) yoga; Sanjukta’s experience with a dreadlocked Naga Sadhu; Jonas’ introduction to Anusara; Vicky’s report of the oldest written asana sequence discovered; Tiana’s Candida detox and; meeting Dharma Mittra thought Leah’s eyes.

I extend thanks to these and all the other contributors to this issue: Tia, Wai-Ling, Don, Mauro, Moosa, Angelo, Ursula, Sean and Nigel for the cover image, which was taken at Yoga Thailand. We thank and bid a loving farewell to Joanna, our copy editor and writer, who is relocating to India. She has been working tirelessly behind the scenes editing articles and writing for the past year.

Frances Gairns EDITOR

SOMETHING TO SHARE? If you have something to share with the yoga community in Asia and elsewhere (we distribute around the World), please email fgairns@netvigator.com

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NEWS

DANCING FOR SIGHT Hong Kong dance teacher Hari Om organized a dance show and fund raiser, “Vision of India” at the Diocesan Boys’ school in Hong Kong in July.

All HK$170,000 collected through ticket sales and donations went to ORBIS, a non-profit organization devoted to preventing and treating blindness in developing countries.

The show featured Indian classical dance, Bollywood, Hip Hop and Yoga demonstrations

by Hari Om, Deva, Gopal, Samrat, Jagan, Praveen, Ram, Yesh, Mahesh, Jeet, Sumit, Shri, Ravi and their students.

The event was a opportunity for students of the various dance styles to perform on stage before a live audience, as well as to benefit a very worthwhile cause.

STUDIOS CLOSE IN HONG KONG One of the most high profile yoga studios in Hong Kong, Planet Yoga, unexpectedly closed its doors in May. The company had three locations.

The company cited financial difficulties as the cause of the closure which left some 13,000 members with no where to practice. Members say they had paid up front for several year memberships. This is the third major studio to close in recent months, Yoga Yoga and Beauty Yoga closed their doors this year as well.

NEW STUDIO IN HONG KONG From the ashes of Planet Yoga

by Master Kamal rises a new kind of yoga studio. Karma Yoga, says it will be completely transparent with its members and will not charge any prepayment fees. Many of its teachers are former Planet Yoga teachers, and it is located in the premises of Planet Yoga’s Central studio in 20 – 24/F

Silver Fortune Plaza.

The owners are yoga lovers Rajesh ‘Jay’ Nair and Prity Vazdani, a businessman from Singapore and an executive search professional.

For more information www.karmayoga.com.hk MONTHLY KIRTAN Pure Yoga, Hong Kong Kirtan is a Bhakti Yoga practice of chanting Sanskrit mantras with music. Mantras carry sound vibrations that have a powerful healing effect on all levels of our being.

Chant and unite with others in yoga for the heart - a musical meditation journey held on every last Friday evening of the month. It’s a complimentary event open to all.

For more information +852 2971 0055.

SUNSET YOGA FOR CHARITY 23 October Repulse Bay, Hong Kong Join this free monthly yoga class for charity on the beach held from 5:30 - 6:30pm on the second or third Saturday of the month at Repulse Bay Beach.

The class is led by volunteer teachers and attendance is by donation only, all proceeds collected will be donated to a local charity. Just bring your mat and practise in the great outdoors.

For more information visit Facebook “Sunset Yoga” or to be a volunteer teacher; contact Wai-Ling wltse11@yahoo.com or Frankie befrankiechan@yahoo.com MORNING KUNDALINI YOGA Shakti Healing Circle, Hong Kong Taught by Eve Chan (Charanpal Kaur) every Wednesday 7:30 - 8:30am

through Fitness Compass starting 1 September at Shakti Healing Circle, Central, Hong Kong.

First timers can join for a free trial class. To register info@fitnesscompass.com.hk or Eve evewaiyu@hotmail.com REGULAR SVASTHA YOGA Hong Kong Svastha in Sanskrit refers to the state of complete health and balance. Svastha Yoga is yoga in its complete authentic form, a system which helps increase overall strength and flexibility, mental balance, concentration and inner peace.

Taught by Wai-Ling Tse, a certified Svastha Yoga teacher trained by Dr. Ganesh Mohan; held every Tuesday and Wednesday morning 9 - 10:15 am at the Club Royal, Dynasty Court in Mid-Levels, Hong Kong. HK$150 per class.

For more information contact Wai-Ling at wltse11@yahoo.com Wai-Ling also teaches a weekly Svastha Yoga class at The Yoga Room, Sheung Wan on Mondays 11 am - noon.

To register contact Eunice on +852 2544 8398 or visit www.yogaroomhk.com GIFT OF LOVE: MOM & BUB YOGA Yoga Room, Hong Kong Peggy Chiu has started a mother and baby yoga class designed to be much more than playtime together.

Mothers can expect to realign their skeletal structure after pregnancy and childbirth, strengthen abdominal, upper back and pelvic floor muscles and learn to relax. While babies benefit from increases in feelgood and sleep-enhancing hormones as well as improved digestion and immunity.

Peggy’s leading Mum & Bub yoga in Hong Kong

peggy@chiuonit.com www.yogaroomhk.com.

FREE KUNDALINI YOGA CLASS FOR CANCER PATIENTS AND SURVIVORS Eve Chan (Charanpal Kaur) will hold free kundalini yoga classes for cancer patients, survivors and family members starting 11 September, every Saturday 8 - 9 am (except for public holidays) at Shakti Healing Circle, Central, Hong Kong.

To register contact Eve evewaiyu@hotmail.com or +852 6449 3455 YOGA FOR GOOD COMO Shambhala, Singapore Following its success last year, COMO Shambhala Urban Escape (CSUE) is working again with the Mainly I Love Kids (MILK) Fund to reprise its Yoga For Good series for charity. Yoga For Good will feature lunchtime yoga classes every weekday (Monday to Friday) from 25 October to 19 December. COMO Shambhala’s instructors will teach in rotation on a pro bono basis. Fees for a single lunchtime class remains at S$30, but enthusiasts can also purchase a special 10-session package at $150. All proceeds will go to the MILK Fund.

For more information, 5

The Yoga For Good lunchtime classes will be held at CSUE 583 Orchard Road #06-05, Forum Shopping Mall. The classes are open to everyone.

To register +65 6735 2163 or www.singapore.comoshambhala.bz YOGA FOR YOUTH Hong Kong In our fast-paced city, children get stressed out just like we do.

Yoga helps with concentration, discipline and overall wellness, not to mention posture, balance and strength. Tasha has been practicing yoga since she was 10, and was one of the first yoga teachers in Hong Kong to focus on children.

After a sabatical from teaching to have her son, Tasha Lalvani resumes teaching from November. The class will be on Mondays, 4 pm at Strawberry Hill Clubhouse, The Peak.

For more information, tasha@lalvani.com or +852 9190 9658.

NEW HOME FOR FLEX Hong Kong Flex Yoga & Pilates Studio opens in a new location in the Regency Centre, Wong Chuk Hang. The 4,500 square foot space provides three studios, fully equipped washrooms, a snack bar, a kids’ corner, and a retail space. The studio is just three minutes from the Aberdeen Tunnel.

Flex offers a full yoga programme including Vinyasa Flow, Introductory Hatha, PreNatal, and Restorative, and a 7 am Early Bird Flow. Tara Chellaram returns to lead YogaEd© Children’s Yoga and Yoga for Teens.

Running Flex’s new yoga programme is Leah Kim. She is joined by KookHee Andersson, both of whom are the primary teachers at Flex.

For more information, call 6

+852 2813 2212; email info@flexhk.com or visit www.flexhk.com/schedule.htm NEW STUDIO AT THE YOGA ROOM Hong Kong The Yoga Room in Sheung Wan is expanding with an additional studio in September.

The Yoga Room will host a free yoga class on the beach on 31 October and 28 November.

For more information +852 2544 8398 or www.yogaroomhk.com THAILAND YOGA JOURNAL WORKSHOP BY THE SEA Yoga Journal Thailand organised the Thailand Yoga Journal Workshop by the sea from 20 - 22 August at Holiday Inn Resort, Cha-Am. It was led by Suchavadee C. (Sasha), the first Thai to be authorised to teach Ashtanga Yoga.

THAI YOGA FESTIVAL 30 - 31 October Yoga Journal Thailand is organising the 4th Thailand Yoga Festival from 30 - 31 October at Bangkok Prep International School (BTS, Thonglor Station).

For more information www.yogajournalthailand.com KARMA CLASS AT YOGA CENTRAL Hong Kong Karma Yoga at Yoga Central is a free class every Sunday 5 - 6:30 pm from October to December. Taught by Charles Tse, a certified yoga instructor who studied in Krishnamacharya’s Yoga Mandiram in India with 13 years of yoga experience. He will focus on safety in yoga during the first month. Then proper breathing techniques in the second month, followed by an introduction to advance practices during the last month.

Donations are optional.

Three of the beneficiaries of the MILK Fund, supported by COMO Shambhala in Singapore

For more information contact Charles on +852 6893 8231 or charlestky@gmail.com BALISPIRIT FESTIVAL 2011 23 - 27 March 2011 The BaliSpirit Festival is a spiritually charged event that celebrates yoga, dance and music and the synergy of global cultural collaboration through the arts. Early bird tickets are available now, the 2011 line up will be announced in December. Held over five days, this annual celebration brings a wealth of talented and respected creative masters from around the world, merging the indigenous and rich cultures of Indonesia.

Flex’s Kook Hee Andersson

For more information www.balispiritfestival.com CHARITY CLASS FOR HONG KONG BREAST CANCER FUND 30 October Zobha and Pure Yoga will sponsor the 3rd annual Karma Yoga: Vinyasa Flow with Wendy Wyvill Charity Class for Hong Kong Breast Cancer Fund on 30 October. This class is sold out every year and is open to the public. All levels are welcome and a minimum of HK$300 is required upon registration. Each registered participant will be gifted a yoga tank top donated by Zobha as well as a breast health gift set from the Hong Kong Breast Cancer Federation.

For information www.pureyoga.com

Leah Kim is yoga programme director at Flex

Thailand Yoga Journal Workshop teacher, Sasha

WORKSHOPS Body of Liberation: Lady Niguma’s Yoga A 5-week Series from 9 October Each series introduces the practitioner to a new practice, and illuminates the science behind the poses and principles. Classes are fun and physically invigorating.

Weekend intensives combine purifying practices with indepth exploration of body awareness and spiritual understanding.

ZOBHA LAUNCHES AT PURE YOGA On 9 September, Pure Yoga launched Zobha in all its yoga studios in Hong Kong and Singapore. Pure held two launch events where ZOBHA’s new Fall 2010 Collection including new ZOBHA MEN were showcased and all purchases received a free gift.

Plus demos by Wendy Wyvill, Zobha Circle of Grace member and Pure Yoga teacher along with colleague Samantha Chan.

YOGA NIDRA AT SPACE YOGA Taipei, Taiwan Yoga Nidra classes will be offered for the first time in Taiwan. Yoga Nidra (Yogic Sleep) is a meditative practice and self-inquiry in which we learn to relax on every level of our being in a state of conscious deep sleep, thus releasing blocks and tension from our body and unconscious mind. The classes are taught by Ann Lu, a RYT and Lifeforce Yoga teacher.

Alex Medin will be at Yoga Mala in October

For more information www.withinspace.com

MEDITATION COURSE AND LADY NIGUMA YOGA SERIES Harmonium, Hong Kong How Karma Works: Meditation Course with Edward Sczudlo & Kristina Pao Cheng Starting 7 October till end of November, Harmonium offers a new 8-week course based on classic teachings. Each class will include long guided meditation on a weekly topic, in-depth presentation of material and group learning on how to apply these teachings to our daily lives for new insight and increased wisdom. This class is designed to create strong meditators and foster a space of peace and realignment in Hong Kong. There will be homework, readings and journaling in between classes.

NEW TEACHER AT SPACE YOGA Taipei, Taiwan SPACE Yoga welcomes Adarsh Williams, an authorized Ashtanga teacher from Palo Alto, California. Adarsh has received certifications in therapeutic massage and active isolated stretching (AIS).

Adarsh will be leading the morning mysore sessions and teaching Ashtanga, Hatha, and AIS classes, as well as special courses and workshops.

SEEKING PRIVATE YOGA TEACHERS IN ASIA If you are a registered, experienced yoga teacher, based in Hong Kong, Singapore or Tokyo and would like to teach privates one-on-one or groups, email your CV to yogaprivate@gmail.com or call +852 6504 4280.

ASHTANGA WORKSHOP & MYSORE PRACTICE WITH ALEX MEDIN Yoga Mala, Hong Kong 29 - 31 October - Workshop Yoga Practice vs. Yoga Philosophy 1 - 5 November - Mysore and Pranayama To register info@yogamala.com.hk or www.yogamala.com.hk

This class is open to all levels.

7:30 - 9:30pm on Thursdays.

Drop in rate at HK$180; whole course at HK$1,200

Series One : Lady Niguma’s Yoga This series is based on principles and yoga poses taught by Lady Niguma. Lady Niguma’s unique and accessible series targets each chakra from bottom up with four principle steps. Open to all levels.

Classes Saturdays 10 am - noon / in October and 13 November Tuesdays 7 - 8:30 pm / in October and 2, 9 November Class Pack: HKD$1,500 or Drop in Class: HKD$180

Workshop with Certified Yoga Therapist Balli 30 October, 4 - 6 pm. Cost: HK$400 for Yoga Room members, HK$450 for nonmembers.

For more information and registration call +852 2544 8398 or www.yogaroomhk.com CLAYTON HORTON WORKSHOPS 6 - 13 November with David Lurey, Lao Liang Island, Thailand www.leelatravel.com 19 November Kirtan and Ashtanga Yoga workshop, Bangkok Thailand www.yogaelements.com 27 November - 10 December Purple Valley Retreat Center, Goa India www.yogagoa.com 26 December - 9 January 2011 Boracay Island, Philippines www.boracayyoga.org

Location for both courses: Kecele True Love Center, 14A, Fui Nam Bldg, 212-216 Wing Lok St, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong.

THE YOGA OF TANTRA WORKSHOP SPACE Yoga, Taipei, Taiwan 16 – 20 November Delve into the rich, multifaceted spiritual tradition of Tantra with Stephen Thomas and Rachel Tsai in this intensive workshop. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned practitioner, this course will help elevate your practice by expanding the scope, deepening awareness and initiating the transformative force that is within you.

For more information info@harmonium.com.hk

For more information www.withinspace.com

Lady Niguma’s Yoga Weekend Intensive Training 30 -31 October, 10 am - 6 pm Weekend Pass: HKD$1,150 or One Day: HKD$650

KUNDALINI AND BACK & NECK CARE WORKSHOPS The Yoga Room, Hong Kong Full Moon Kundalini Series: Yoga for grounding & steadiness with Neil Irwin 24 October , 2 - 6 pm Cost: HK$450 for Yoga Room members, HK$500 for nonmembers.

Yoga for Back and Neck 7

TEACHER TRAININGS

RETREATS YOGA THAILAND RETREATS Koh Samui, Thailand 16 - 23 October Yoga Sustainable Practice with Clayton Horton 23 - 30 October Insight into Practice & 11-18 December Yoga and Sound with Elonne Stockton 30 October - 6 November and 4 - 11 December Wellness & Detox with Claudia Jones 19 December - 8 January 2011 Annual Christmas & New Year’s Celebration with Paul Dallaghan 8 - 15 January 2011 The Art and Soul of Ashtanga Yoga with Ron Reid & Meenakshi Joy 22 - 29 January 2011 PHD Ashtanga Yoga, Practice and Theory with John Campbell For more information www.yoga-thailand.com LIVING CONSCIOUSLY RETREAT 15 - 17 October Mary Knoll House, Stanley, Hong Kong A refreshing and inspiring retreat of simple yogic and ashram living in Hong Kong with Pure Yoga teachers Yoganidhi and Shyam. A weekend break to recharge and unwind, relax and take your practice a little deeper and wider. Includes yoga practice, cleansing practices, philosophy talks and discussions, meditation, pranayama, kirtan, yoga nidra relaxation, and silent reflection times.

To register contact +852 3691 3843 or retreats@pureyoga.com GORGE YOURSELF: 5-DAY ANUSARA YOGA RETREAT 21 – 25 October Pure Yoga, Taiwan To experience what yoga truly is, join Philip Yeung for five

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Indra & A.G. Mohan will lead a two week psychology for personal transformation retreat in Chennai, India next February

Amanda Reid offers a yoga for pregancy teacher training

days in beautiful Taroko Gorge.

Connect with Mother Nature by practicing with your feet on the ground, surrounded by gorgeous mountains. What better way to harness the power of your physical body, mind and inner spirit? Give yourself the gift of five days of Anusara yoga, surrounded by Taiwan’s most-beautiful scenery.

KIDZYOGA IN SCHOOLS INTENSIVE TEACHER TRAINING 18 - 21 October, Hong Kong The KidzYoga way, 4-day intensive experiential training will equip anyone who wants to bring yoga to students of all ages in schools. With educational-based yoga tools and techniques, participants will learn how to seamlessly integrate yoga in the classroom, PE, and start a Yoga Club, that will foster beautiful minds, healthy bodies and compassionate students. This teacher training is perfect for parents, school teachers, yoga teachers, nurses, OTs, PTs, and child-focused professionals. Yoga experience is beneficial, but not a requirement for this training.

Course fee is HK$8,500 at the Prince Hotel, Gateway, TST, Hong Kong.

For more information www.pure-yoga.com or retreats@pure-yoga.com PILATES AND ROLFING RETREAT 13 - 18 November The Farm, Philippines A 6-day ‘Pilates Connect’ retreat which combines the healing power of Rolfing with the energizing effects of Pilates taught by Mareile Paley, Kishan Shah and Ea Holm.

For more information visit www.pilatesretreatasia.com YOGA/DETOX RETREAT WITH LILY DIZON AND JONAS RADAHL 21-28 November Ubud, Bali, Indonesia Pranayama/Mysore morning practice; restorative/ meditation/workshop practicum in the evening.

Gentle detox through vegetarian meals and essential supplements.

For more information visit www.lilygolightly.com, events page YOGA FOR SVASTHA RETREAT WITH A.G. AND INDRA MOHAN YOGA PSYCHOLOGY FOR PERSONAL TRANSFORMATION 7 - 18 February 2011 Chennai, India A two-week retreat focusing on some of the in-depth teachings of Krishnamacharya and the classical yoga of Patanjali. The program is oriented toward the application of asana, pranayama, meditation, study, and reflection toward the goal of Svastha, the state of physical and mental well-being. Sessions will include the practice of asana, pranayama and meditation, as well as lectures, group discussion, and interactive presentations. All participants will have a private session with the Mohans.

7.30 - 8.30 am: Morning practice 9.30 am - 1 pm: Session 5 - 6.30 pm: Lecture and evening meditation Course fee US$600 per person.

For information on accommodation contact Rajeev (rajiv@mamallaresort.com).

For registration visit www.svastha.com.

For more information contact Grace Hetherington +852 9861 6227, grace@kidzyoga-asia.com or www.kidzyoga-asia.com MYSORE ASSIST LEARNING PROGRAMME WITH CHEUK NA Yoga Mala, Hong Kong A new programme for all teachers with a 200 hours TT certification and a 1-year Ashtanga background. This 6month programme is to facilitate and improve one’s

teaching and adjusting skill in a regular Mysore Class. Intake of student will be at Cheuk Na’s discretion, after completion of the learning programme, chance of teaching with Yoga Mala will be considered.

For more information and registration email info@yogamala.com.hk or visit www.yogamala.com.hk ASHTANGA-BASED TEACHER TRAINING WITH DYLAN BERNSTEIN 31 October – 21 November Pure Yoga, Hong Kong This comprehensive training roots its curriculum in Ashtanga Vinyasa in the tradition of Sri K. Pattabhi Jois of Mysore, South India.

For more information www.pure-yoga.com or email teachertraining@pure-yoga.com YOGA FOR PREGNANCY AND BIRTH TEACHER TRAINING WITH AMANDA REID 5 - 7 November Shakti Healing Circle, Hong Kong This intensive and comprehensive yoga teacher training course will cover Yoga for pregnancy and birth. You will learn techniques to support and empower pregnant women. The course is suitable for Yoga teachers, trainee teachers and those working with pregnant women, who have an established Yoga practice. The course covers: • A conscious approach to conception, pregnancy, labour, and delivery • Breath awareness and breathing to bridge body and mind • Appropriate physical practices including modifications • Physical and emotional considerations • Pelvic floor • Yoga nidra (deep relaxation)

and meditation for stress release and deep connection • Vocal toning • Yoga philosophy and teacher ethics • Ayurvedic self-care • Understanding the impact of the birth experience • Class planning and sequencing

Forrest Yoga’s Foundation teacher training course.

Instructors of all yoga traditions are welcome.

Participants must have a regular personal practice and be ready to move deeper within themselves and assist students in the discovery of the physical, emotional and spiritual benefits of yoga.

The course qualifies as 20 credit hours for RYT 200 and continuing education credits through Yoga Alliance. Course fee: HK$3,300.

For more information www.pure-yoga.com or email teachertraining@pureyoga.com

For more information www.shaktihealingcircle.com or call +852 2521 5099 VISION OF YOGA - THE ART OF TEACHING WITH SUDHAKAR DHEENAN 1 - 20 November Pure Yoga, Singapore This 200-hr Yoga Alliance Certified Programme is a foundation in Hatha Yoga inspired (Dheesan Yoga) training. This course is the first step in equipping yourself with the essential knowledge of yogic traditions, the history of yoga and the know-how of designing a class and a sequence.

It will open students to a greater depth in the spiritual and philosophical aspects of yoga, and in understanding their challenges in life, their practice and the path of growth.

For more information www.pure-yoga.com or email teachertraining@pure-yoga.com 9-DAY ADVANCED TEACHERS TRAINING WITH ANA FORREST 20 – 28 November Pure Yoga, Hong Kong Offered once in the US at Kripalu and once in Hong Kong at Pure Yoga, this is a hands-on course taught over 9 days. It is open to yoga instructors who have taught for at least 3 years or participated in

ANUSARA TEACHER TRAINING WITH DESIREE RUMBAUGH 30 November – 5 December SPACE Yoga, Taipei Specially designed for those wanting to teach in the Anusara tradition, this is Desiree’s only full Anusara teacher training in Asia.

Together with the 100-hour Anusara Immersion course, this 100-hour training is Anusara Inspired teacher requirement and is registered with the Yoga Alliance under 200-hour level. The training is offered in two 50-hour sessions.

For more information www.withinspace.com UNIVERSAL YOGA IN-DEPTH STUDY PROGRAMME WITH ANDREY LAPPA AND COPPER CROW 1 – 12 December Pure Yoga, Singapore This programme is a full yogic path of development, designed for dedicated practitioners interested in deepening their understanding, knowledge, and wisdom of yoga traditions. Develop the skills necessary to teach multiple styles of yoga.

For more information www.pure-yoga.com or email teachertraining@pureyoga.com

CENTERED YOGA TRAINING WITH PAUL DALLAGHAN 8 - 15 December SPACE Yoga, Taipei Asia’s most respected and longest running Yoga Alliance registered course offers a bilingual program with study material and classes in English and Chinese. The course is conducted in three separate sessions with this being the first session.

For more information www.withinspace.com AHIMSA AND THE ART OF HANDSON ADJUSTMENT WITH RON REID AND MEENAKSHI JOY 15 - 22 January 2011 Yoga Thailand, Koh Samui This advanced 100-hour training is hosted by Ron & Meenakshi from Downward Dog Yoga, Toronto For more information www.yoga-thailand.com TEACHER TRAININGS WITH CLAYTON HORTON Boracay, Philippines 13 - 26 February 2011 - Level Two, 100-Hour Yoga Teacher Training 1 - 31 May 2011 200-Hour Yoga Teacher Training For more information www.greenpathyoga.org CENTERED YOGA TRAINING BY PAUL DALLAGHAN March 2011 Yoga Thailand, Koh Samui Led by Paul Dallaghan for the eleventh year. Foundation and Advanced Training courses are Asia’s most respected and longest running Yoga Alliance Registered program at 200 and 500 hour levels. Now accepting applications for Foundation Level March 2011 course.

For more information www.centeredyoga.com 9

Dristi Aparigraha

The Art of What is Needed Paul Dallaghan

“IT IS NOT THE RECEIVER WHO IS blessed but rather the giver.” This inspiring quote by Swami Vivekananda is the heart of aparigraha. By giving freely, especially of things of value to us, we unravel a pattern formed over millennia that holds us back from our own development. When you do so now as a new habit, you can actually feel the shift in your nervous system.

Taken literally aparigraha comprises “graha” which means to grab or take, “pari” which means from all sides and “a” which is the same as adding a “non”. So the word means not taking more than is needed, non-accumulation.

By its nature aparigraha is a remedy for greed, but so are the other yamas. More than just managing greed, it is about respect for oneself, others and nature. Once the shackles of material bondage have been removed, the spirit reveals itself.

So aparigraha is the art of what is needed. It

offers great freedom for the practitioner as it distills our material and psychological possessions to what we need.

First we need clarity of mind to distinguish need from desire. As this can be confusing we need the help of the previous four yamas. These are promises we have already made to ourselves: ahimsa; to be respectful and not hurt, satya; to be honest, asteya; to use or take what has been earned and, bramacharya; to be non-indulgent with the senses but rather respect the power behind them. Combined with the essence of aparigraha, which is taking only what is needed, brings a refinement of this virtue.

Applying aparigraha can be very healing and is certainly in vogue today in self-help circles. Give away all things you do not use or need anymore. Now see how light you feel. Even more effective in healing, but perhaps harder to achieve, is letting go of the ideas, prejudices and past hurts we hold on to. Forgiveness is a powerful tool. Clear

Supersize Me Down - Less is More Clayton Horton

Aparigraha is one of the five Yamas mentioned in the Ashtanga Yoga of Patanjali. The Yamas are the first of the Eight Limbs of Ashtanga Yoga which have been formulated, along with the Niyamas (the second limb) to help reduce suffering and guide individuals on the path towards correct living and Self-realization. Aparigraha is generally defined as non-greediness.

Aparigraha is generally defined as non-greediness

Deconstructing the Sanskrit word, A means to negate or not, Pari around, graha means to grab or seize. Literally, aparigraha means not grabbing or hoarding for one’s self - as if not to grab your arms around too much. Often in yogic texts, aparigraha is regarded as not being possessed by the spirit greediness and not consuming, collecting, buying, taking more than an individual needs for basic sustainability.

Corporate mass agendas have cultivated a belief that more is better and we need more and new things to make us happy and complete. Emotional retail therapy coupled with fear of scarcity instincts often send us running to the mall and online shopping sites like squirrels collecting nuts for the Winter ahead.

Eyes bigger than our stomachs at buffet lines; moving into a new house and clearing out the attic; traveling with heavy baggage…such situations teach us by rough example that less is more.

It is a well known fact that the majority of the world’s wealth is possessed by a tiny percentile of the world’s population. Issues like poverty and world hunger could be minimized, and perhaps someday eradicated, with a global communal attitude of aparigraha. There is enough for all of us here on Earth, if we share.

Clayton is director of Greenpath Yoga. www.greenpathyoga.com

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the space between you and the other. Even if you don’t reignite the relationship, you can feel clearer and lighter by directly letting go of that “story”.

When performing an offering we can follow it with these beautiful Sanskrit words “idam na mam,” which means “this is not mine”. It conveys a sense of giving back and an understanding this is not mine anyway: I have received all from You (Divine, Nature) and I gladly and respectfully return. Doing this consciously refines the spirit of non-acceptance and non-hoarding.

From a yoga practice aparigraha is a tremendous help. The Bhagavad Gita (VI.10) says a Yogi should abandon all possessions which work as a hindrance in the path of yoga. Being free to give, and not dependent on things, frees the practitioner from bodily and sensual demands. All worldly possessions and the memories we hold on to, have to do with our present life. We can neither bring them with us nor carry them to our next life. In the Yoga Sutras Patanjali does not define aparigraha but gives an explanation of its outcome in II.39: “On attaining perfection in non-acceptance, knowledge of past and future existence arises.”

The less importance we put on having, the freer we become from psychological burdens others place on us. Having possessions requires a resource of prana which now is freed to harness the potential within. Our consciousness can experience our true nature at a deeper level.

When someone offers you something, be respectful and accept it. You can choose to share it with others or pass on to one more in need than yourself. The more neutral you are about this, the clearer you will remain. The majority of what is given comes attached with the hopes, desires and agenda of the giver. In other words you receive the psychological burden along with the material element. This is of paramount importance for a yoga practitioner to understand.

Further, the impression of them leaves a longing which causes further unhappiness in the future. To know this can help immensely in freeing oneself from the burden of unnecessary possession. Just take what is needed. Likewise, do not preserve wealth without using it for the good of others.

Once the shackles of material bondage have been removed, the spirit reveals itself Most of us like to shop. What would modern society be like without it? Just decide how much time and energy is needed for it. Get nice things if you like, we don’t need to live like monks! We just need to be balanced and judicious in what we have, use and keep.

To progress in yoga it is essential we maintain our bodies and an environment for practice. We have to earn a living that supplies food, clothing and shelter. The level of this will vary at different stages of life. A new graduate who’s just started a yoga practice needs little beyond clothes and a cheery attitude. Another with a family and bills has a different level of responsibility to fulfill. Then an older person who has completed their work and family duties, might require much a simpler level of personal possession. Although she may be wealthy and powerful by this stage, she is more of a steward of the wealth. An outer display of aparigraha is of no value without the inner attitude of freedom from ownership and possession.

Having or not having should not cause you to be angry and hurtful, dishonest and greedy, self-indulgent and selfish. Please, see what you need and apply that in your life, always with an inwardly detached attitude.

Paul is director of Centered Yoga and Yoga Thailand in Koh Samui. www.yoga-thailand.com & www.centeredyoga.com

There is a nice phrase which goes: whatever you own really owns you. There is trouble in acquiring possessions for pleasure and enjoyment. We use up valuable nervous mental energy to get it, worry about keeping it and grieve when losing it.

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Dristi Aparigraha

Feeding the Hungry Gho Ghosst Isabelle Skaburskis

EVERY MONTH JUNIOR TEACHERS at my studio in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, get their salary. Sometimes they hold onto it for a week, sometimes it is gone by the next day, and sometimes it is spent before they get it. They come into the studio with a new watch the next day or sometimes they do not come in at all, exhausted from a night on the town with their friends.

They know they have to support their families with that income, and that they will have to buy food and pay rent, and sometimes there is a wedding or birthday party to attend; and when those issues come up, they ask for an advance. And every month they get a lecture and budgeting lesson in return.

When I go to the Cambodian markets, I see piles of fruit, polyester t-shirts with faulty English slogans, cheap designer knock-offs and plastic jewellery. I see colour and clutter and endless rows of objects that will never biodegrade.

When they go to the market, however, they see temptation; they get hungry, excited, starving. They see riches, success, the envy of others and the power of visible wealth, or at least glitter, seducing them from the shelf. Although they do not have a lot of money, they have some, and some is all they need to buy what dazzles them.

Before higher order thinking kicks in, they have a fourth $2 watch to add to their collection and an adrenaline buzz from the pursuit and capture.

Rattana says, “when I don’t have any money, I can control my mind, I do not want so much stuff. But when I have $5 and I go to market, I want everything, and I cannot control my mind.”

In every other way besides money management, the young people who joined the Krama Yoga apprenticeship programme two years ago have matured into responsible adults and competent yoga teachers. Their students are children and teens who suffer from trauma and all the disadvantages of being poor in a poor country, like the teachers themselves.

The Krama Yoga team shares songs, games, asana and philosophy with their students.

They also understand yoga is about more than physical activities; it is about leading an ethical life, about coming to understand oneself and finding an honest basis for the choices one makes; and they know that their job is to impart love and the wisdom of the practice by example. This team of eight 20-somethings are not quite gurus yet, but they are good teachers and sound practitioners. But they cannot shake the feeling of being poor, and always wanting more than they can have, even after they’ve gotten what they want.

They tell me in this month’s budgeting discussion that aparigraha is how we deal with the hungry ghost, the soul cursed with a tiny mouth and huge belly who is always starving and always eating and never satisfied. Aparigraha is learning to control your mind so you do not want everything you see. But Pich agrees with Rattana, “when I am alone, I have no problems. But when someone tells me about the new phone, or a new hairstyle, I must have it and I cannot stop myself. It is like I am crazy.”

I find an angle where I can relate to what they might be experiencing. “Do you know the feeling when you are very hungry and there is a small amount of food you know that it will not be enough?” I’m thinking about those mornings where you run to the studio and miss breakfast and then run to your private classes and miss lunch and then meet a very delicate friend for dinner who eats two slices of tomato and sighs with her hands on her belly while you’re trying not to inhale your dinner and that of the guy next to you. The less on offer when you’re really hungry, the more you feel you need.

They look at me, they look away, they pick at dead skin on their toes. And so I repeat, “has anyone ever had that feeling?”

Suchetta finally responds. “When there is not enough food, you stop thinking, you just try to take as much as you can and you cannot think about anyone else and you do not think of anything except how you will get more food.” The way she speaks communicates she knows more about hunger than I do.

Vannac shares, “when I was very young, maybe 7 or 8, my parents were fighting and they forget about the kids. Nobody make food for us, and we did not eat, maybe one or two days we were very hungry. It happened many time, and I know only maybe this year or last year, I start to understand why I get so scared about food now.

Before I used to get very afraid when I might not have food to eat.”

stop looking outward for what we want, and start looking inward at what we have

I took Vannac to Australia in 2008 for a teacher training and saw how he amassed food, and how anxious he was when he would not have the right fish sauce, or the right kind of rice. He would buy so much food it would go bad in the fridge.

“Whenever I go away, I worry very much I will not have enough food or the right food.

Especially rice.” And he laughs, “oh and then, when I am hungry and I find food, oh I take so much! I buy more food even if I eat all night, I cannot eat all!” He shakes he head 12

and laughs at himself. “Oh I am so silly, but I get so scared about food, and maybe one year ago I know it is because of when I was young.”

Thida joins the conversation. “I know that feeling very well,” she chuckles. “At the orphanage center there was never enough to eat and you are never full after the rice. For me, when I am like this, my mind makes me work; I say if I work harder, in the future, I will have enough to eat; if I study hard then I will have a good job and I will have enough to eat later and will not live like this. So I work so hard.” Thida has been living at the studio for three years since she left the orphanage center, and has chronic anxiety that keeps her from sleeping and strains her relationship with the others. Even though now she has a safe place to live, a good salary from teaching, and a sponsor who sends her to school, she still works and worries like she will die if she stops. She is an exceptional student and very hard worker, but there is a price she pays for her ambition.

Our discussion on aparigraha turned to a discussion on food deprivation; but to understand why the principle was challenging we did not need to explore love, shelter, social respectability, or any of the other essentials the Krama Yoga teachers have been deprived of their whole life. The lesson on managing shopping impulses was sufficiently exposed.

Yoga values are simply stated: five yamas, five niyamas, practice them and be free of suffering. Aparigraha, do not hoard or covet more than you need. To be a yogi, do not buy four $2 watches when you only need one, or, like some of us, none.

Telling people not do something or that they should be satisfied with less, when they have had to do without stuff, food and security or love from the day they were born, is counterproductive. They are used to not having; they are so used to not having that when they can have, they chomp down on the opportunity to consume before they even think.

It is the same impulse we all have when we get very hungry and eat too much; but with watches and t-shirts you never get the belly ache that might cue you to stop. Your money may run out, but you are still wanting; or you are full but then someone waves a new phone at you and again you are starving.

And it is the same impulse we see every day in Phnom Penh among rich politicians who grew up as Khmer Rouge soldiers, suffering in the jungle from political persecution and under sadistic leaders, and find themselves now living in a free Cambodia in positions of power. They cannot let aid money come into the country without taking a meaty chunk off the top: if there is a fancy car to buy, they will need it no matter how many Lexus’ are already in their garage; and no matter how many villas they own or how many diamonds stud their toothbrushes - they will never have enough. There will always be more to get, and when they are full, their children will inherit the hunger.

Pich giggles and says, “when I see what someone else has, I feel inside like I am nothing, I feel very cold, and my mind gets very busy and I feel angry. Then, when I can buy what I want, I feel warm.” She looks embarrassed. “Aparigraha is the most hard part of yoga!”

They all nod. They all know the same thing: they strive to save their money but they

cannot stop wanting disproportionately to what they need. I also know creating more restrictions—do not want—is not what will help them move beyond this obstacle.

“Aparigraha,” I suggest instead, “is understanding what it means to have something already. It comes from a feeling of security; if you cannot trust your basic needs will be met, then you will always be looking to get more in order to survive.

And many people live like this, even when they haven’t been hungry or without a house. Many people have been deprived of something their body or their sense of self needs to grow full; and so they spend their lives trying to get whatever it is they feel they are missing, and even when they already have what they want, they do not know how to see it in themselves, and so they keep looking. They do not know how to have and to trust with openness what they need is already here; they only know how to want. Aparigraha is yoga because it is a way of helping our minds stop looking outward for what we want, and start looking inward at what we have.”

It will be a while before the junior teachers can come home from market with money still in their wallets, or walk past a shirt they like without the ingrained feeling of deprivation pulling at their heels, and the idea they would be more loved if they had those earrings, or they can erase the memories of their past by buying a new set of clothes. We practice together, taking the time to be thankful for the food we have, the nice things we wear, the solid team we work with, and how valuable each person is simply because they are human.

“And Pich, yoga is a journey for everyone.

You should see what foreigners are like when you show them an iPhone.”

Isabelle is founder of NataRaj Yoga, Cambodia’s first yoga studio, and her students have gone on to form Krama Yoga, a Cambodian yoga therapy NGO. Isabelle specialises in trauma therapy yoga. www.yogacambodia.com & www. Transitionsglobal.org or natarajyoga@gmail.com

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Dristi Aparigraha

Aparigraha in Law Inge Santoso

AS A YOGI AND A MEDITATOR WHO has practiced law in San Francisco and Jakarta, I have often pondered aparigraha, abstaining from greed. In this field, where greed flourishes like uncut grass in rainy season, aparigraha can be a very tricky and treacherous endeavor.

As a graduate student studying international business, finance and law, I had aspirations of helping developing countries like Indonesia by working out fair bargains to obtain foreign investment projects for the country.

Initially, I was lured by the prestige and salary that comes from working in a large international law firm.

Throughout my days in and out of court, associating with judges, lawyers and clients, I kept wondering whether money is the ultimate solutions for my clients’ problems. I, like many of my lawyer associates, have also suffered depression.

I often found myself feeling overwhelmed by the strong presence of negative emotions in courtroom situations, especially domestic violence. All my formal studies never really equipped me to deal with working under pressure in such adversarial situations. There is always a battle within when dealing with cases that involve extremely violent emotions.

The issue of aparigraha became even trickier when I relocated to Jakarta, Indonesia. I had the opportunity to work as a corporate lawyer in international business transactions. As a graduate student, I

it is better to develop a good heart, than to go after self-enrichment at the expense of others However, as I was searching for jobs, the universe led me into practicing public interest law and I served low-income clients in the city of San Francisco.

After I finished law school, I began yoga classes as well as meditation sessions with the Zen and Tibetan Buddhists in the Bay Area. Slowly, the Yogic and Buddhist philosophies started to seep into me. My business logic began to be influenced by Yoga and Buddhism. I started to view my job in public interest law as ‘seva,’ instead of resenting the low income of it, perhaps to the dismay of my family.

Life was hard in San Francisco as a public interest lawyer. I was always trying to scrape money from here and there, having only a sandwich for lunch.

I also served as a pro bono lawyer for illegal immigrants with HIV, advising them of the rights and resources available. After meeting them, I sometimes meditated on their sadness and hopelessness. Beyond all rights and rules of the law, which these illegal immigrants did not have much of, there is always the assurance of peace in the illumination of the Divine.

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dreamt I could help the people of a developing country by helping inject international business investments into the country based on fair bargaining deals. The collapse of the Asian economies in 1998 totally changed my course of action.

I felt human greed was the cause of the downfall of all parties involved. This resulted in tremendous and unbearable suffering for many people. At that time, I was serving as a legal interpreter in the US courts helping Chinese-Indonesian clients obtain political asylum based on acts of atrocities and genocide at the end of Suharto regime. After listening to extremely violent facts in case after case, I felt utter confusion in my mind and came to the conclusion that power struggles are completely senseless. Ever since, I cannot bring myself to work on massive projects of borrowing and lending of funds or massive excavation of mineral resources.

Some projects have accelerated into such deep and troubling conflicts of interest between the governments, the foreign parties and the local people, that it is just within my principle of sanity to withdraw and practice aparigraha. I must submit to

my faith that I will not become rich in this lifetime by practicing corporate law.

My principles pertaining to economic development policies have taken a pivotal point that is more aligned to the aparigraha of the old Asian tradition: one should always save, spend frugally and never borrow any money. Resources of any kind will not last forever.

The massive excavation of natural resources will eventually lead to exhaustion and bankruptcy. Nothing will be left for the future generations and as one country’s economy is intertwined with the others, I often fear contemplating the repercussions of massive spending and usages of natural resources worldwide.

On the emotional side, there are many bantering arguments in the legal world.

The intellect, if not purified, is sometimes likened to a very fast cobra. I often wonder what it will take to make people more aware of the implications of ego clashes in the upper echelon of the legal fields where important decisions are made.

I decided to bow down and release all intellectual battles to the Silent Mountain, preferring less and less involvement in legal matters for self-enrichment. Hopefully, I will awaken in myself a stronger motivation to practice the art of peace in boddhichita for the common good of all.

This is quite challenging for me, for the brain can get overheated from being overused in analytical thinking, constantly grappling with right and wrong judgments all the time.

In short, I use the motto: “Live simply, so others can enjoy.” I follow the advice of my spiritual masters that it is better to develop a good heart than to go after selfenrichment at the expense of others. Yes, life was hard and full of struggles as a poor lawyer but I should say “Hi, Arigato Gozai Maz” to any difficult life situation. The love for Lady Tara with all consciousness, I think, is such that it is unbearable for me to tolerate my participation in the grand scale of the politics of destruction of Mother Earth.

Inge can be contacted at inge_kunarsih@yahoo.com

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Karma Yoga HOW DO YOU GET 100 YOUNG children interested again, when they are obviously bored from our lecture? We hit play and Diego Torres’ song “Dreams” came blaring out. Soon our 20 volunteers were making a human train, dancing to the music. The children, though, were sitting tight like stone buddhas. Trying to pull the first three students out to join the train was the hardest thing. However, with the first three , we got 10. And with 10, we soon made a train of 100 Yao minority students before the song ended on a high note. In the school’s small cafeteria, we were all sweating, laughing, and feeling exhilarated.

Getting those shy students to dance in a human train was one of my proudest memories of the two-day Summer Camp we organized for the Yao minority students of Luokeng, a small town four hours drive from the large southern capital city of Guangzhou, China. It’s more of a village really, with just two cross streets.

My work with these children started on a Children’s Day visit in 2008. On that visit, 60 volunteers travelled from Guangzhou to Luokeng. There we organized an event to bring joy to the students. Before our visit, we asked what they would like to receive for Children’s Day. Not one child mentioned Nintendo or MP3 players….all they wished for were simple things like school bags, basketballs, or reference books. On that day, we just played simple games with them, and laughter was heard everywhere. We bought a load of books at a bargain price from the wholesale market and donated them to the school library. We also collected donations to be used for the improvement of their dormitories and cafeteria. That was the first time I learned how joyful volunteering my energy towards bettering their education could be. Over the next two years, I have been running a grass-root program to raise money and awareness for the school children of rural Guangdong.

Through various visits, I learned that the Yao minority group are underprivileged due to their low income – they live in the hillier side of the region and hence have to rely on less profitable crops like tea, mushrooms, etc. Since the parents are less educated than their Han counterparts it forms a vicious circle of less education hence less income and hence less education.

The objective of this program is to provide

more favorable conditions for the students to enter into higher education (Grade 9 – 12). Completing higher education, they have a better chance of finding a higher paid job thus helping to improve the life of their families and their future generations. Most Yao minority children barely complete their compulsory 9-year education and end up working in a low-paid labour intensive job.

Their high school entrance ratio is about one-third of their Han counterparts. We are trying to change that by assisting a few students at a time.

Planting One Dre Dr eam at a Time Angelo Chiu

Besides providing financial assistance for their studies, we believe that our care and encouragement is just as important. The majority of students have never left their village, so they are shy and have limited exposure to the current development of society. They lack confidence and often hesitate to pursue what they want. Many of them have limited views about the importance and use of their own education.

Our visits focuses on interaction with them.

We try not only to build trust amongst them, but also encourage them to dream and work hard for their goals.

Through this experience with our program, we have gained much more than what we have given. We learned a lot from the children through their purity, simple joy, innocent laughter, and their tenacity to adversity. They also gave us an opportunity to see a world that is very different from

Two Yao minority girls who benefitted from the Plant a Dream Foundation in China

grass-root program to raise money and awareness for the children of rural Guangdong ours. At the same time, we have made many kind, like-minded friends who joined us on this meaningful journey. Organizing the program sounds like a full time job, but it is not. Anyone can do it in their free time, at their own pace, and in a scale they are comfortable with. I encourage everyone to try it at least once - giving someone an opportunity to dream.

Angelo is an entrepreneur running a product sourcing business in Guangzhou, China. Since 2008, he has teamed up with friends on the charity “Plant A Dream Foundation” to help rural Chinese children fulfill their dreams. angelochiu@gmail.com

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18

Culture

My Journey into the Sacred Sanjukta Sharma

HE WAS MY NAGA SADHU. I JUST KNEW IT, THAT VERY instant he appeared before me as I walked along the banks of Maa Ganga in Haridwar, India. Right there before my eyes, balancing on the red railing along Maa Ganga completely absorbed in his own rituals. Yet I knew his sudden display of unfurling his jata (matted dreadlocks), drawing slowly on his chillum and then only washing his hands from a pot brought to him by one of his devotees were all attention seeking. I watched him as he slowly made his way back to his seat under a tree a few metres away.

Going to the MahaKumbh Mela this year for just a day was one of those random decisions, listening to some inner guidance resonating within and not knowing what significance it really had.

Funnily, circumstances aligned very easily and I soon found myself flying to India and then the journey to Haridwar via New Delhi. I was keen on seeing the Naga sadhus. One spots them in hordes on the days of the Shahi Snan (Royal Bath ) as they make their way to the Holy Ganga, but I had travelled on another day. I had set my intention and therefore He appeared. I made my way towards him to unravel the reasons of his kind of life.

The Naga Sadhus are the warrior ascetics and followers of Shiva. It is believed they have existed since prehistoric times. They belong to different akharas, camps, with each akhara having its’ own set of Naga Sadhus who live life unconventionally. They are identified by their naked bodies, long matted hair and having their whole bodies smeared with cremation ashes. They smoke chillums of marijuana.

They are the main attractions of the Kumbha Mela. Held every 12 years, this is the largest spiritual gathering in the world, a spectacle of faith. They carry tridents, swords, sticks, conch shells, and musical instruments all symbolising their warrior status.

Many live in icy retreats of the Himalayas and perform very austere yogic practices and asanas. They do not care about the material world and their only aim is to attain moksha or to merge with the “Brahman”, the ultimate Reality, this lifetime. They are the epitome of renunciation and believe they represent human beings in purity.

Naga Sadhus like this, are the warrior ascetics and followers of Shiva

When I asked him whether he felt the cold in his icy home, he replied “my body is really not my body. It is the Parmatma [the Supreme Universal Spirit].”

I flew back to Hong Kong thinking wow! He identifies his body with the spirit while the world I live in identifies it with brands. My senses gathered inwards as I closed my eyes and prepared mentally for my spiritual journey ahead.

Sanjukta is a Special Education teacher at South Island School in Hong Kong and also teaches yoga to special needs children.

Sanjukta talks to “her” Naga Sadhu at MahaKumbh Mela in India

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Opinion

De signer Y oga ?

Designer Yoga oga?

Kim Roberts

APPARENTLY THERE IS A NEW phenomenon in the world of yoga: designer yoga. Recently it was John Friend’s Anusara Yoga in the New York Times Magazine, the biggest yoga story by a mainstream publication, ever. Now suddenly there is a new contender: Jois Yoga. As in Pattabhi Jois of Ashtanga Yoga fame. The new brand of yoga seems to be characterized by a clothing line, as this is the first section we come to on the new website. And this makes sense, as we are informed the founder was a fashion model before designing a new style of yoga.

So I’m a bit confused. When I studied Ashtanga with Pattabhi Jois and Sharath and Richard Freeman, I learned that this system is all about practice: 99%practice, 1% theory. I don’t remember the bit about marketing. I must have been absent that day. Suddenly Yoga Brand-Name Wars are the focus of much “theorizing” and my guess is it’s become more than the recommended 1%. This phenomena comes just after the era of the Teaching Authorization Wars when Ashtanga teachers were asked to re-think their commitment to the system and its regulations. What I’d like to know is: what does any of this have to do with practice?

When I get on my mat each day I focus on breath, movement, awareness of mind and body. I try to let go of the distractions for the moment and tune in to the spacious mindstream of primordial purity. I’m digesting yesterday’s experience and opening to the new day’s adventures. I’m settling and centering and listening for any wisdom that may reveal itself. Afterward, I feel more connected: to myself, to others. I feel more available to life.

Please tell me: how will a new brand-name and fashion line and growing numbers of fans on Facebook augment my experience?

How is this related to yoga?

Ok, I admit it. I do not practice yoga naked.

Each day before stepping onto the mat, I confess, I (gasp!) dress myself. I contribute to the yoga fashion industry, minimally, but it’s true. Clothing is useful for certain

activities. But what I wear when I practice has nothing to do with how I practice.

What is becoming apparent to me with the Yoga Brand-Name Wars is that somewhere, somehow, we are missing the point.

Yoga is a 5,000 year old tradition (give or take a few centuries) designed to lead us out of samsara: a menu of practices to help

how will a new brand-name and fashion line augment my yoga experience?

Steve Merkley us transcend our attachment to the phenomena of this worldly life, enabling us to taste happiness. I can assure you that if you practice regularly, and authentically, your relationship to samsara, the endless wheel of conditioned existence that we call life, will change. But there is no fooling Mother Nature. The practice only works if you are being honest with yourself. If you use the practice for self enhancement or strive only for worldly fruits, then, in my mind, it is no longer yoga practice.

Yoga is the dialogue between me and my guru, both the outer guru, who is now but a memory after passing last year, and the inner guru, which is the voice of my heart.

Most days it’s just me and my inner guru on the mat.

And my inner heart guru is somewhat disillusioned. Recently I’ve seen deep friendships broken over greed and grasping, teachers striving for fame and cutting ties with one’s lineage. Lineage in the tantric tradition is the source. The roots. And yoga is a tantric tradition.

Without lineage, a practice is some person’s creation, a hybrid, and this sacrifices the integrity of the situation because suddenly there is someone who demands recognition for their creation. So the lineage must be kept pure if we are to avoid falling into the trap of striving for recognition.

So where does this leave us practitioners of Ashtanga yoga? A few years ago I actually found myself doubting the Ashtanga

system. Because (I now realize) the system was losing its roots. But I now know more strongly than ever that Ashtanga is my home. My root practice. Not because of any media stunts or political standing, not because I want to honor my guru’s name or take sides, but because every day practice of the 8 limbs of yoga, with particular emphasis on breath, asana, bandha and dristi, feeds and informs my life. And because if nothing else, it helps keep me honest with myself.

When not on pilgrimage or retreat in Crestone, Colorado, Kim leads yoga and meditation retreats in Bhutan. Visit her website, www.papayayoga.com, or follow her travels on the blog, Diary of a Pilgrim: http:// papayayoga.wordpress.com

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Practice Space

A Big Family This is the first in a new section devoted to the special places we practice yoga. Be it a simple palm-thatched yoga shala by the beach, a modern city studio with all the bells and whistles or this multi-disciplinary haven away from home in Taiwan, introduced here by Mauro Sacchi. If you would like to share your place of practice with Namaskar readers, please contact Frances on fgairns@netvigator.com I LOVE TAIWAN WITH A PASSION, BUT IT CAN GET messy: Taipei has its way of feeling at once small-townish and huge, friendly and overwhelming, comfortable and insanely intense. It has everything, an affordable mix of East and West that is haphazard and fascinating. How do you make a life as an expat here, while doing something meaningful for yourself and others?

How do you keep a balance, albeit a constantly shifting, surprising one? How do you overcome your struggles, and truly learn? How do you find the right practice for yourself ? Which community do you tap into for support?

I’ve been blessed to find helpful practices within a supportive community of people who, like me, are interested in meditation, QiGong, Taoism, Buddhism, TaiJi, and delicious tea. We’ve made a “home” for ourselves here in Asia at the center of the East West Culture Project. Under the guidance of the Venerable Kenchen Rinpoche, who is versed in Tibetan and Chan (Zen) Buddhism, Taoism, internal and external martial arts and, well, the art of life.

It is a comfortable, welcoming, powerful place: a place to focus and breathe, to study and share, to unwind from our daily chores and discover the space within and without; to practice making a better life for ourselves and others. The East West Culture Project offers ongoing classes in qi gong, yoga, meditation, classical Chinese and tea culture (among others).

We come from all walks of life (and all continents, except Antarctica), we meet to learn about our mind and about compassion, to understand, that meditation is not just sitting with your legs crossed and your eyes closed: it is in every moment of every day, anywhere, and it begins and ends with a calm awareness of one’s mind and thoughts.

Despite the hectic pace of my life, I’ve been able to incorporate bodily and mental practices I’ve learned at the Center into my daily routine: every day, I experience how these very practices are what help me stay grounded, more healthy, more in touch with myself, more open to others. Try this, now: sit where you are, relax your neck and shoulders, smile, and breathe deeply, softly and consciously into your belly a few times. Then do the same every morning upon waking, with awareness. You’ll soon notice the subtle difference it makes.

And if you’re searching for the right practice for you, if you’re thinking of relocating, you can find us online at www.eastwestcultureproject.org Mauro studies life, dance and theater, writes, performs and teaches workshops in movement, physical theater and contact improvisation. He loves beets, bumblebees, cooking, rhythm and laughter. He is very thankful to his many teachers. maurocsacchi@gmail.com

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Students, under the tutelage of Kenchen Rinpoche, meditate in serene surroundings at the East West Culture Project in Taipei

Opinion

Dedic ation, De votion & Dis cipline Dedication, Dev Discipline Daniel Aaron

THE POPULARITY OF YOGA CONTINUES TO INCREASE. And as more and more people get into yoga, the question that’s been on my mind grows louder and louder. What are we all doing this for? What motivates us and what do we get out of it?

For years, I didn’t like using the word practice to describe what I was experiencing and undergoing in meditation or on the mat.

“Practice” implies a future. And if I was practicing - for something in the future - then surely I couldn’t be in “the now”. And we all know – at least intellectually – “the now” is where it’s at in the realm of spiritual endeavors.

The word practice also implied a getting-ready-for, as if something later was more valuable than what’s happening now, more important. In yogic philosophy, the only moment is “now”, and nothing (no other time) is more important or perfect. Ultimately we don’t even know if there is a later that will ever happen. To live our lives, or pursue yoga, with the projection we will achieve something different and better at some point in the future is a sure set-up for suffering, according to sacred texts and to what we know to be true from our own experience.

So inspired by years of living in Bali, I began to rephrase by using

play instead of practice, as in “It’s time to play yoga.” In several Asian languages, the verb play is used much more than English.

“Play” implies lightness, an air of engaging in the activity for the sake of the activity itself, the process itself – as opposed to the result that might follow. As you can imagine, “playing yoga” didn’t catch on, and eventually I let it go.

Later, I returned, with a new appreciation, to the concept of practice. Indeed we don’t know if tomorrow will ever come. Yet the odds are high enough I find value in practicing today. What follows automatically is – what am I practicing, and what for? To what - for what - am I dedicated, devoted and disciplined.

Yoga is a great word. It’s flexible. It can mean the ultimate state people describe in myriad ways – Samadhi, happiness, equanimity, peace. Or it can mean the methods that help one to that state. So, to keep it simple – we are practicing yoga. For yoga.

I joke with the people in our teacher training, telling them “you can always answer every question correctly by saying ‘yoga.’” It’s the process and the result.

Dedication Giving one’s time, effort or self to a certain purpose.

Definitions for dedication often contain the word commitment.

Inherent in the word dedication is it’s in service to something, to the creation or realization of something.

Ken Blanchard states it well:

“When you’re interested in something, you do it only when it’s convenient. When you’re committed to something, you accept no excuses, only results.”

That’s important for us as yogis. As the first yoga sutra of Patanjali points out, yoga is natural. For most of us, however, it’s not easy.

And given the many challenges involved in practicing yoga (which could be whole separate article), dedication to something that’s truly valuable and motivating is essential.

It’s for this reason Shree Bagwan Rajneesh said yoga can only begin when one hits rock bottom – when is truly motivated for something different.

Devotion Love, loyalty or enthusiasm. Compared to the rigidity 23

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implied by ‘dedication’ and ‘discipline’, devotion carries a bhakti flair, a hint that the devotion is related to our heart. And similar to the concept of ‘dedication’, the important element in this definition is the word that follows. We are devoted to something.

Something that speaks to our heart, that we enjoy, that resonates with our values.

It’s easy to see what anyone is devoted to: simply observe their life.

What we say and what we do indicates what we value. Certainly there are many of us who speak and act in ways, which at times seem to go against what’s important to us. We act unconsciously.

We create results by default rather than intentionally.

Yet to be on a yoga path means we’re moving toward conscious action, creating results that are in-line with our intentions and goals. Yoga practice increases awareness. The clearer a perspective we obtain through our practices, the more obvious is the answer to the question – what are we devoted to?

If we take it a step beyond clarifying what we’re devoted to achieving for ourselves, we reach the realm of yoga’s true power and magic, where real transformation occurs - devotion to something or someone outside of our own self–interests. One could go so far as to say yoga, and true happiness, depends on our ability to devote ourselves to that which is beyond self-interest.

Discipline is often thought of as doing something we don’t

actually want to do. An upgrade might be ‘valuing the results that come from one action over the results that come from another action.’ As in: as good as it would feel to stay in bed this morning, the feeling I’ll get from getting up for yoga will be even better.

Joseph Chilton Pearce, child and human development specialist, reminds us discipline originated from the word disciple, a joyful follower.

Once again, we return to the core question - disciplined for what?

For us to succeed as yogis, we must create a satisfying (compelling, exciting, motivating) reason for why we practice. For ultimate success and power, it even needs to be a response that goes beyond our individual self, something that includes the rest of the world.

The answer to why we practice yoga is uniquely different for each of us. We are lucky - our yoga bible gives us a response that’s likely compelling for nearly everyone – bliss, ecstasy, Samadhi. Jesus described it as ‘the peace that passeth all understanding.’ Stevie Wonder called it ‘being in the groove.’ What do you call it? And more importantly than what you call it – is it enlivening, empowering and inspiring for you?

Daniel, 500 hour E-RYT, is founder of Radiantly Alive and Vibrant Living Yoga School & Teacher Training in Bali. He leads a one-month Yoga intensive teacher training in Bali and retreats and workshops around the world. www.RadiantlyAlive.com

Teacher’s Voice Ursula Moser metatarsal) which happened some time ago. It still hurts and I am having a hard time to place the weight evenly on that foot and then be stable in the pose.

WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED FROM THIS? To practice these challenging poses, I use the support of a wall or a ledge - I learned to accept this weakness, be humble and use the support so that I can do the poses reasonably well. Hopefully, I will be able to practice these asanas without support again soon, but right now, I accept the situation as it is. I guess we all have to deal with restrictions one day, be it because of an injury or age, but this does not mean that we are not good Yoga practitioners.

WHAT IS THE MOST CHALLENGING ASPECT OF YOUR YOGA PRACTICE? I usually like strong, energetic Yoga practices and I guess, I should do more calming poses sometimes. It is difficult for me to hold back, but I started to just do a Restorative sequence once in a while, without feeling guilty of not doing “a real practice”. I realize now how beneficial these calming poses are.

WHAT IS YOUR MOST CHALLENGING ASANA AND WHY? Right now, my most challenging asanas are Standing Poses where I need to balance, especially Utthita Hasta Padangusthasana 1 and 2 and Virabhadrasana 3 because of a foot injury on the left (broken

Ursula has been practicing for more than 20 years. She did Iyengar Yoga teacher training with Linda Shevloff and was certified in 2007.

Currently, she teaches at The Iyengar Yoga Centre of Hong Kong and a few other places in Hong Kong. Recently, she received Intermediate I Iyengar Yoga teacher accreditation.

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Yoga Style

Anus ar aY oga Anusar ara Yoga Jonas Westring

ANUSARA YOGA IS AN INCREASINGLY popular practice around the world. A New York Times feature on Anusara and its founder, John Friend, was one of the highest profiles on modern yoga ever published. Here Jonas Westring, Anusara practitioner since 1999 and Certified Anusara Yoga instructor, introduces this dynamic, graceful style of yoga.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ANUSARA AND OTHER YOGA STYLES? From a Tantric philosophical viewpoint it’s preferable not to compare because this tends to lead to separation instead of towards unity. I would rather point out that for me, Anusara yoga is specific

we look for the beauty and goodness in all things and everybody around us

Jonas in Ardhra Chandrasana variation

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enough to get a clear map of the road, while still being open enough to allow for creativity and spontaneity.

Our whole system is based on clearly outlined principles that are readily approachable. Anusara stand on three pillars that offer 1) a technology that is highly effective and therapeutic 2) a philosophy that is uplifting and inspiring, and 3) dedication to cultivating relationship and community.

The strong emphasis on biomechanics offers a balancing and therapeutic experience for the body. Safety, prevention, and healing of imbalances and problems hold a major focus of the physical part of the practice. Personally, as a licensed physiotherapist who has also worked in the health care field, I feel the high level of biomechanical education and therapeutics offered in Anusara is of exceptional standard and integrity.

The Shiva-Shakti Tantric philosophy that forms the basis of Anusara promotes an uplifting and life-affirming way of seeing and living. First and foremost, we emphasize and look for the beauty and goodness in all things and in everybody around us, including ourselves. Individual self-expression, self-love, and creativity are encouraged as a means to create a positive impact in our lives, in our relationships, and in the community at large. To clearly distinguish what is serving a higher purpose in the world rather than committing purely selfish actions is one of the key guiding principles of this philosophy. The more skillfully we interact and co-

participate with the world, the greater our capacity to make a positive impact.

WHAT ARE THE ALIGNMENT PRINCIPLES IN ANUSARA YOGA? The Five Universal Principles of Alignment™ form the foundation of Anusara yoga. These principles provide a clear and practical framework for how to optimally align the body in any given yoga pose. As these principles apply ‘universally’ the mind is freed from trying to figure out how to align the body in all different categories of poses. Furthermore, these principles do not only guide the body into a place of more balance and vitality, but are also taken beyond the yoga mat into life itself through Anusara’s methodology and heart-oriented, uplifting philosophy. They are a guide for body, mind and heart.

1. Foundation & Opening to Grace The first principle is two-fold and involves a clear awareness of our physical foundation on the yoga mat as well as setting an intention for the practice, Sankalpa, that comes out of the realization that we are deeply connected to something much larger than our individuality, which we can label the Universal or Absolute.

Element: Space 2. Muscular Energy On a purely physical level this involves a full conscious engagement of muscles to create strength, stability and safety by drawing everything into towards the midline and the core of the body. It strengthens our sense of self, feeling of connectedness, and affirms the place from where we interact with the world. Element: Earth 3. Inner Spiral (Expanding) There are many examples of spiraling patterns in nature, and in the human body.

In yoga our spirals, when applied to the hips and shoulders, create optimal alignment and balance between freedom and stability. The Inner Spiral gives an everexpansive, opening quality that creates space for the outer spiral, its counterpart.

Element: Water 4. Outer Spiral (Contracting) Complimentary and exact opposite energy to the Inner Spiral, the Outer Spiral is a downward-moving spiraling force that draws in and down towards the earth.

When the two spirals are balanced they

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stabilize the major joints of the body, minimizing stress in the postures and allowing movement to be taken with ease. Element: Fire 5. Organic Energy Complimentary to Muscular Energy, as it provides the exact opposite action, Organic Energy is the final step that expand and give spaciousness to the yoga pose. By consciously extending through the core-lines of the body, the pose expands fully with a feeling from a place deep inside. Our practice becomes an expression of art and beauty. Element: Air WHY IS ALIGNMENT IMPORTANT? There are many good reasons for creating good alignment of the body. The first principle of yoga is Ahimsa, non-harming. A true and paradoxical fact is that in this modern age where yoga is practiced across the globe in various settings, the incidence of yoga injury has become a major dilemma. There are many reasons this is happening. This can be addressed through looking at organization, education, attitude, intention, etc. and certainly through improved postural alignment.

Through optimal, safe and informed biomechanics students become educated and empowered. When all the parts of the body are placed in proper relationship with one another we return to our natural balanced state; there’s a feeling of security, energy flows, prevention and healing of injury and stress takes place, the mind has an object to focus on and we both feel and look better as our posture is more balanced and harmonious.

TELL US MORE ABOUT MUSCULAR ENERGY AND ORGANIC ENERGY? Muscular and Organic energy are the primary actions used in Anusara to create balance in the body. These two energies in harmony creates ‘balanced energetic action.’ They form a dynamic polarity pair that demonstrates the pulsation of two opposite yet complimentary qualities. This is known as Spanda. Everything in nature pulsates at different levels of vibration, from basic tangible body functions such as our breath and heartbeat to the cycles of the earth’s seasons and the blinking stars at night. By engaging the dual actions of Muscular and Organic energy in our yoga practice we attune to the pulsating qualities within the body, which is all derived from the vital life force Prana, the power behind all life.

When connected to these pulsations we feel more attuned, alive and appreciative of the amazing gift life really is.

On a final note, I must attest that Anusara yoga has transformed my personal practice and my yoga teaching in a profound way. Over the years I have observed so many positive changes in students.

Our all-inclusive approach to yoga provides a method, a philosophy and community connection that supports and guides through the light of yoga. I am not saying it’s the only path, but it’s a delightful and powerful one, and as with all paths it needs to be walked in order to be experienced. If you have enjoyed reading this perhaps we will cross paths one day.

Jonas, originally from Sweden, has spent many years in Asia and Thailand. He began his yoga journey in 1981 at the Scandinavian Yoga School. He is the founder of Shantaya Yoga & Bodywork School, a certified Anusara® yoga instructor, physiotherapist, and E-RYT 500. Jonas has been holding Anusara retreats in northern Thailand for seven years. www.shantaya.org

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Profile

Home is Where the Yoga is Leah Kim

BEFORE SITTING DOWN WITH SRI Dharma Mittra at the Asia Yoga Conference, I was nervous. I’ve taken Dharma’s class a few times in NYC, but that’s the extent of my experience with him. I am aware of his enormous influence and presence in today’s yoga world. In fact, I’ve always perceived a bigness about him that intimidated me.

Just before our meeting, I attended his Purification Sadhana session at AYC. I arrived five minutes prior to start time, and was surprised firstly by how packed it was,

around and on behalf of him. He motioned for all of us to gather close to the stage, as it was a lecture and not an asana practice. In response to that simple invitation, it felt like we all transitioned from protectively claiming our own mat spaces to coming together like a big family.

This, in a nutshell, is the powerful influence Dharma seems to have on all of us. It is his warmth, love, and compassion that envelopes us. The bigness - the celebrity - is more an external perception than anything Dharma himself exudes. For example, Eva explained in her introduction it was she that insisted on trademarking “Dharma Yoga”; he prefers not to be commercial. When I asked him how he defines “Dharma Yoga”, he answered with a laugh that he lets his staff take care of all those kinds of business things.

A couple of students came to my first class.

Then more and more students came everyday, and they never stopped coming.”

Dharma continues to serve selflessly, although his life nowadays looks different from those early days. He goes where he is called, which often involves traveling across oceans (when he would prefer to stay closer to home) and many hotel rooms (which he generally doesn’t leave except to teach). He tirelessly teaches what he feels are the essential components of practice: purification, knowledge, and vegetarianism.

One place he has not been to is India. I’ve always been fascinated by this fact. These days, whether or not you have has been to India seems to play a factor in determining one’s credibility as a yogi. Dharma’s somewhat amused thoughts on this: “What do I need to go to India for?

Everything I need is inside. Self-knowledge is inside. Enlightenment is inside.

Scriptures? Asanas? Pranayams? India?

What for?!” Then he dramatically but playfully added, “And India is too far.”

It was a simple yet completely sensible answer, but I wasn’t ready to let it go just yet (probably because I haven’t been to India myself). I asked what he thought about people who were judgmental about a yoga teacher who wasn’t born Indian, or who hadn’t been “reborn” through a yoga training in India. Ever the sage, Dharma replied, “Then those people can find a teacher who has gone to India. There is a teacher to perfectly fit every student.”

Dharma Mittra (centre) on stage at AYC, assisted by Martina and Joakim

and secondly that everyone had their mats down (I was under the impression it was going to be a lecture). I apologetically squeezed in between two yoginis.

In the foreground, his team, including his wife Eva, a translator, and additional assistants, were bustling around making preparations. There was a big screen playing one of his DVDs and mics were being fitted on everyone.

There was a noticeable air of expectation and seriousness. To be perfectly honest, I felt a bit out of my yoga league.

And then, Dharma took his seat on the stage. He looked patient, relaxed, and unperturbed by the scene unfolding

What most struck me about Dharma was how accessible he is. He radiates a sense of welcome and familiarity. When he looked me in the eye, I felt like he knew and loved me. There was no feeling of otherness. He still seems to be the selfless karma yogi he was during his early days with his guru.

In the 1960s and 70s, Dharma lived with his guru in a NYC brownstone-turnedashram, and completely dedicated himself to serving his guru. In 1974, he left to start his own studio, with no money and no possessions. Dharma recounted, “I did not know how I was going to survive, but instead of being full of fear, I chose to be full of faith. No worries. And then an investor helped me with the space. I charged $1.50 for students to take my class.

I asked a final question to this teacher who perfectly fits countless students around the world: “What is enlightenment?”

His answer: “It is a notion of the mind, when there is no trace of doubt. The mind is enlightened with knowledge. You realize this, and then you reflect upon it. But maybe it is all a trick of the mind! Still, there is an inner peace. So practice asana to be healthy. Practice pranayam for mental power. Practice compassion, gain knowledge, reflect, meditate, and be receptive.” www.dharmayogacenter.com Leah is a California native based in Hong Kong. She teaches at Flex & the Four Seasons. www.leahkim.com

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Health

De or Lif e Dettox ffor Life Tiana Harilela

I RECENTLY PARTICIPATED IN A five-day candida detox program at Samahita Wellness, part of the well-reputed Yoga Thailand. Now, I’ve done a lot of detoxing at various places around the globe, from the extremely high end, to the “do it yourself ” low end, and this has to be, by far, the best experience I have had. Not only was I embarking on a detox that was new to me and very strict but it was a detox I knew had to be done.

For years I knew I had mild Candida, yet brushed it off. I tried every so often to take breaks from wheat and sugar but always jumped back on. Thirty-two days after the detox at Samahita Wellness, I am more focused than ever before. I no longer want to grab a bar of chocolate and shove it down my throat. I feel completely supported in every way. Many detox places give you quick fixes to clean the body up but here it was more.

First of all, you have the environment, which is nurturing and self-contained. You don’t have to walk miles to get your supplements or help. Secondly you have the yoga, which is a great combination for any detox. Yoga Thailand are experts in this field so they know how to take care of the participants on the mat. There is no end to the supply of compassion here - this I can guarantee. Thirdly and most importantly, is the support. Support from the staff, the wonderful Wellness Director (Claudia) and the support after the cleanse, which I think has to be the most important and, which I believe is the reason as to why I am still following a proper Candida diet.

The genius of Samahita Wellness stems from combining knowledge of Ayurvedic, Yogic and Western Detox philosophies.

For example, I would start my morning with various yogic cleanses. All of these were guided and explained in detail by the

I no longer want to grab a bar of chocolate and shove it down my throat staff for those not aware of how to do them. These consisted of sutra neti and jala neti. I was given Ayurvedic herbs to take, along with various other Ayurvedic drinks, probiotics and supplements. Enemas were an integral part of the detox and these were done daily.

After morning asana practice (which was also encouraged as aids the detoxification process) I was given a green juice with raw garlic (garlic helps to remove candida in the body) followed by a cleansing salad for lunch. Throughout the day I enjoyed ‘chi net sang’ (a stomach massage) and colon hydrotherapy. For dinner, I had another cleansing salad or juice with broth. In between, there were several supplements and tonics to help the body detoxify in the correct manner.

I was never hungry and my metabolism was kept in check, unlike some detox programmes which run our metabolism off the chart and make us pile the pounds on afterwards.

After five days I felt I could have gone on, and I actually did in many respects, as I kept a very close eye on what I was eating. I lost weight but just the right amount. I feel lighter and better than I have before and I am flying off my mat daily. A very nice feeling to have! More than anything else, embarking on this detox allowed me to zone in and focus more, which aided my spiritual practice and continues to do so.

Tiana is a traveling teacher but when in Hong Kong she teaches at the Landmark Mandarin Oriental Spa and private classes at the homes of her students.

NAMASKAR LISTING AND DISPLAY ADVERTISING RATES FOR 2011 (IN HK DOLLARS) Outside back cover $20,000 210 mm x 297 mm Inside front cover $2,700 210 mm x 297 mm Inside back cover $2,200 210 mm x 297 mm Full page $1,700 210 mm x 297 mm 1/2 page $1,000 188 mm x 137.5 mm horizontal / 90 mm x 275 mm vertical 1/4 page $550 90 mm x 137.5 mm 1/8 page $350 90 mm x 63 mm Teacher listing $500 (January - October 2011) Studio listing $1,000 (January - October 2011) Advertisements should be submitted as high resolution (300 dpi) tif files (no pdf or ai files please). Advertising fees are payable in Hong Kong dollars only to: Namaskar c/o Carol Adams, 1/F 46 Leung Fai Ting Lower Road, Clearwater Bay, Hong Kong For more information contact Carol on (852) 9137 9992 /kambotan@netvigator.com or Frances (852) 9460 1967 / fgairns@netvigator.com 35

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Spiritual Research Foundation

Yoga Styles

The Key to Happiness Vicky Wong

THE LADY NIGUMA’S YOGA SERIES is the oldest written yoga asanas ever discovered and the only one designed by a woman. It has recently been rediscovered

by Geshe Michael Roach’s Yoga Classics Input Project. This project is dedicated to saving ancient sacred yoga scripts which were written on banana leaves and are rotting away and being eaten by insects in libraries across India and Asia.

Even a ride on a crowded Indian train can teach us something about spirituality

What I love about The Lady Niguma’s Series is all the poses are simple, accessible and effective. The asana follow a logical order designed to unblock each chakra from bottom up, while moving energy from the side channel into the central channel. The great buzz of energy and deep

If the ssttuden ays tte eaching udentt is willing, the Guru is alw alwa Sean Clarke

I WOULD LIKE TO SHARE AN EXPERIENCE ETCHED INDELIBLY IN MY mind that the Guru teaches us through all situations in life, if we are open to learn from it.

This happened in 2002 on a trip to India for spiritual research. Suburban trains are the fastest way to get from South Mumbai to North Mumbai but they are also unbelievably crowded. As I was in a hurry, I decided to hop on to a train during rush hour even though I was carrying expensive video equipment with me. I wondered, “How bad could it be?”

For those of you who have ventured into a Mumbai local during rush hour will probably be saying bad with a capital ‘B’.

At each station more and more people got on the train until we were squashed worse than sardines in an over-packed can. About the time we were finding it difficult to even breathe and I was on one foot as the other foot did not have a place to rest, a passenger tried to get onto the train with an office armchair. Everyone stared at him with disbelief and some even abused him as he jostled his way into the compartment carrying the chair on his head.

The man struggled with the chair holding it above everyone’s head for a few stations. Then at a station, between the crowds rushing in and out, he found a small gap he put down the chair and sat on it right next to the door.

Suddenly from the worst seat in the house he had the best, a plush leather armchair with a headrest and a view of Mumbai going by. From angry stares up to now directed at him, he was suddenly the envy of the train compartment as passengers grudgingly admitted to themselves that that was a pretty good move. It was a moment I will remember for a very long time as the vividness of the sudden change in the man’s fortunes impressed me.

Standing on one foot, very sweaty and squashed, I prayed to the Guru principle to teach me something from this incident. Slowly and steadily as if in a whisper the answer came to me; all our problems in life can be made into opportunities just as the man had done. This incident and learning created a paradigm shift within me and for the rest of the journey I experienced spiritual emotion of having a personal encounter with the Guru principle which no sweaty armpit smell could sabotage.

Sean is the editor of the website www.SSRF.org, which deals with various aspects of the spiritual realm and how it affects our lives.

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Lady Niguma’s yoga series is the oldest written asana discovered and the only one designed by a woman

contentment you feel after the series sets the tone for the whole day. I have been practising the series for a few months now and I feel incredibly light and happy.

Lady Niguma was born over 1,000 years ago and was the spiritual partner of Lord Naropa, a prince. Lady Niguma founded a special yoga school for women on Sosa Island in the Ganges River.

The Lady Niguma Series takes only 45 minutes every morning and is easy and straightforward. It makes your body strong

and your mind happy. Since your reality comes from your mind, when your mind shifts, so will your reality.

Have you noticed how happy you feel after yoga and meditation? That is because the energy has moved from the side channels, Ha (Sun) and Tha (Moon) into the central channel, the sushumna. The Tibetan saying, “lung sem jukpa chikpa” means the thoughts and winds move in tandem like a horse on a rider. Where the prana goes, the thought follow. The prana is like a horse and the thoughts are like a rider.

When the prana is in the sushumna, you are creative, inspired, happy filled with thoughts of love, wisdom and compassion. When prana runs in the Moon channel, you want things or people excessively, you are selfish, greedy, needy; you grasp, crave and cling. When prana runs in the Sun channel, you are angry and jealous. All three channels are connected near the back just below the belly button.

Because there is not enough prana to stay in all three channel, when you are angry, you cannot find any solution to your problem because there is no prana going through the sushumna nadi which is the only place where inspirations, intelligence or good ideas come from. When all the energy is in the side channels, the sushumna gets choked and we get stupid, feel no love and act out of spite.

Hatha Yoga means the joining of the two side channels (Ha and Tha) into the central channel. When all the prana moves into the central channel, the two side channels disappear resulting in a light body, and we reach our highest evolution of being. So what makes us mortal bodies of flesh, blood and bones instead of bodies of light then? It is because our chakras are actually energy blockages. When there is too much energy going through the side channels, the central channel is choked like a bent fire hose from which no water comes out but the bottom gets fatter and fatter to

the point where the energy bursts, it goes sideways and turns into a wheel shape. As Geshe Michael explained “chakras choke and make people old and die; people feel unhappy because of these choke points and you would feel weak and depressed if you have tight knots at your chakras.”

To experience the benefits of the Lady Niguma Series for yourself, try Harmonium’s regular and intensive classes in Hong Kong throughout October and November.

Vicky has been a travel and lifestyle journalist and is now focusing more on dharma and social consciousness as she evolves thanks to her journey into the mesmerizing path of yoga that started only two years ago. Meeting Geshe Michael Roach at his retreat last year was the turning point of her life. www.harmonium.com.hk

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Retreat Review

Peac eful Mind, Open He ar ace Hear artt A 5-day Meditation Retreat with Thich Nhat Hahn Don Peers

“THE MOST IMPORTANT THING YOU can offer a loved one is your presence, how can you love if you are not present” If there is a living example of this thought in action, it is Thich Nhat Hahn as he taught 700 Dharma students in Singapore.

As a yoga teacher and meditator for many years, the retreat was a new and opening experience for me, having practised in silent Vedanta retreats in the Himalayas sitting with a Sufi master, and in South East Asia with Theravada monks; I was used to working on myself in silence and alone.

We begin our journey with Thay (an affectionate Vietnamese name for Teacher) in basic breath meditation; watching the in-breath and out-breath. A simple exercise but so profound that the awareness grows and immerses one in its stillness and silence. As we practice this in many different forms over the next five days, we start to notice the softening and more honest communication among the practitioners; little smiles of warmth and gracious behaviour become the norm and not the exception.

We sit in Dharma families to share our experience; we sing sweet lullabies of joy and wonder together and are sung to by the Nuns and Monks of Plum Village.

“If we allow the heart to manifest within us, it will change us by its natural energy” We learn the lesson of sharing with an open heart.

For many there is rebellion to the teaching and in some surrender is difficult as it challenges our personal and social value systems, but as we learn to sing and share together, self consciousness and embarrassment are replaced with Joy of life.

Ever-present, Thicht Nhat Hahn, at a retreat in Singapore. The Venerable Zen Master will be in Hong Kong 4 - 8 & 14 November. Page 15 for more information

The Kong Meng San Phor Kark See Monastery was the venue for “The Art of Living Happily in the Here and Now,” a 5day Meditation Retreat with the Zen Master.

Every moment he was present with students, touching and opening many hearts, with compassion, a gentle smile, a word of wisdom and love with his very presence.

My first glimpse of him was as he moved slowly and smoothly into the Dharma hall, calming the crowd of fast moving Singaporeans. If first impressions count, mine was of water in a stream: flowing, effortless - a natural occurrence of nature moving with ease in a sea of people.

“When you are present you can only then recognise the presence of the other person.”

“The most important thing is to Enjoy and invite the smile to come.”

Day by day he teaches us a guided meditation practice; we become aware of breath, body, emotions and thoughts. A gentle parable with a soft smile and glimpses of higher practices allowing us to feel and touch the truth of the teaching.

Coming from a practice regime of isolated discipline and studying the Buddha’s Four Noble Truths and Patanjali’s Yoga Sutra, my work has been in solitude or with my teachers, one on one.

Learning how to surrender in a group with loving compassion in the here and now is a new experience in mindfulness for me. To many of us practitioners, the logic is clear but is difficult to apply as a householder. The problem is we live the logic of the Dharma and not live the Dharma. With the Sangha to support us, we feel less alone and the fears that we live with can be let go of. My personal lesson is one of community, joy and laughter; for true joy is a gift of the now.

We can return home to a peaceful mind and open heart. As Thay says “it is only moments away, just let go and be in the Now”.

“Without Joy and Happiness we cannot go far in our Practise” Don has been practicing since 1993. He completed a 3-year teacher training at Yoga Synergy in Australia with Simon Borg-Oliver. He has also undergone teacher training in Vinnie yoga with Sri Desikachar and Astanga Vinyasa with Tim Miller. Don teaches at Yoga Space Singapore. www.akashayoga.asia

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Teacher Training Review

Embracing Change and its Flow Wai-Ling Tse

I ATTENDED GANESH MOHAN’S SVASTHA YOGA TEACHER training in March and his Functional Yoga workshop in July, both in Hong Kong. Despite a knee injury (torn meniscus in my left knee), I decided, after much debate and determination, as well as against doctor’s orders to undergo surgery, to continue with the training. It turned out to be a blessing in disguise, it was the best medicine that could have been prescribed for me! Yoga can truly heal and transform and it came in the form of Ganesh.

For those of you who may not be familiar with Ganesh Mohan, he is the son of A.G. and Indra Mohan. A.G. Mohan was a dedicated personal student of Sri Krishnamacharya for 18 years — from when Krishnamacharya was 82 years old until his passing in 1989 at the grand age of 101. Krishnamacharya, also the teacher of B.K.S. Iyengar and Pattabhi Jois, is widely credited as being the source behind the resurgence of modern-day interest in yoga.

Ganesh’s mother, Indra has been practising and teaching yoga for more than 35 years, specialising in yoga therapy and his sister, Nitya teaches yoga in Singapore and is also well versed in vedic chanting.

Ganesh started his yoga practise at an early age under the guidance of his parents. He is a yoga teacher as well as a doctor, trained in

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both modern Western medicine and Ayurveda and co-authored, with his father, “Yoga Therapy” and the recent book “Krishnamacharya His Life and Teachings” (Shambhala Publications 2010).

Ganesh speaks with tremendous depth, clarity and succinctness. In moments of silence, you can almost see his brain working out precisely the correct information that needs to be delivered in the most efficient way. He oozes calmness, steadiness and a slight boyish charm, despite his mature appearance. Despite his often quiet and serious demeanour, he has a wonderful sense of humour and he often illustrated his points with poignant stories of his father’s days as a student with Krishnamacharya. His wealth of knowledge in all facets of yoga from the minute muscle and bone to Patanjali’s yoga sutras to the vedic chants is deeply impressive. His teachings are powerful and inspiring; you cannot help but be in awe of this down-to-earth, peaceful, humble soul.

It was a pleasure and an honour to learn from him, especially since Ganesh comes from such a rich yoga lineage. You might expect his teachings to be seeped in tradition, but he remarked that tradition may not always be the right method, and what is more important is what works best for you.

He often provided deep insights and fresh perspectives for teachers and students alike. He gave us practical tools to use in our own practise and to introduce to our own students. He reminded us

practise is for yourself, for your own body and mind, does it matter to someone else how flexible you are or not. “Focus on what is useful, not what is traditional.”

As teachers, he told us Krishnamacharya said teachers should teach not what they know, but what the student needs. This is the essence of a personalised approach to teaching and practising yoga.

Setting functional and meaningful goals and challenges for your personal practise is much more rewarding than the assembly line yoga approach.

Every time you step on the mat is different, so ask your own body before practise “how do I feel today”, then choose something relevant and accessible to you on that particular day. Quoting his father, he told us to “ask yourself who is challenging what?” As Ganesh said “it’s easy to make a yoga practise hard, but hard to make the yoga practise optimum.” It was like breathing in a blast of fresh air or having the light turned on within.

He never judges, you feel completely safe in his hands. He guides with a kindness and firmness you might see in a father figure, and with such effortless skill.

We often get carried away or easily impressed by a flexible teacher or student, so it’s always helpful to be reminded not to focus on the form of the asana (posture). At least do not make this your goal, and it is the fundamentals of yoga, such as awareness of the mind and the synchronisation of the breath that is important. If we forget the fundamentals, then we are just doing physical exercise.

He said “alignment is not about perfection.

Alignment is trying to optimize the direction of forces to achieve an intention.”

Ganesh Mohan (right) and assistant Iris Klein

beautiful energy of the whole group. My fellow students were an amazing group of souls, all with a common goal of learning, growing and supporting each other. I felt much love and support during my own healing process and has helped each other on our own paths of discovery. As well his assistant, Iris Klein, who has since returned to Israel, was a guiding light and friend, and I have made some meaningful and life-long friendships, and gained knowledge and tools I carry with me to use when the time is right.

With respect I bow at the feet of the Hindu God Ganesha, the remover of obstacles on the spiritual path, and I offer my gratitude and respect to Ganesh, the remover of my darkness on this path.

Wai-Ling is a student of yoga and freelance yoga teacher currently based in Hong Kong. wltse11@yahoo.com To learn more about the Mohans and their courses visit www.svastha.com

Yoga practitioners should always have a thread - that is to have constant focus and awareness. Ganesh rarely demonstrated asana, but when he did, you saw the steadiness from within, and without a doubt he practises what he preaches. Each session ended with us, or at least me, craving for more!

“Yoga should serve you in your life in whatever you are doing, it is not an important goal in your life to be doing yoga. Whatever you are doing, yoga should be something that supports you.” The knee injury allowed me to slow down and to think what is truly important to me, to my life, to pause and reflect on that which doesn’t make sense or serve me not just physically but mentally, emotionally and spiritually.

teachers should teach not what they know, but what the student needs

I had been blind to my own needs, repeating the same mistakes again and again. After this knee injury, it was the chance for me to start a new leaf, before it was too late! Ganesh so wisely said to me before the training, “road blocks may be but diversions to a more interesting path, and acceptance can be wisdom, and not defeat.”

I feel completely blessed to become his student and to share the 43

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Recipe

The Sweet and the Raw Moosa Al-Issa

Being a gluten-free eater I really miss eating delicious treats like cookies. So I guess it is time to make my own. These cookies are vegan, gluten free, raw and contain no refined sugar. Raw foods are dehydrated at about 40 degrees Celsius leaving all the health benefits of the live enzymes intact. There are three ways to dehydrate: you can buy a dehydrator, try using your oven at the lowest setting, or if you have a roof or patio dehydrate naturally in the sun.

A positive aspect of dehydrating is cooking times are less exact; an hour or two too long and you just get cookies that are a little less chewy and a little more crunchy.

I guess the only real negative is that you can’t just decide you want dehydrated cookies and presto, ready in 30 minutes. It probably would be a good idea to make some baked gluten free cookies to eat while you’re waiting!

Live Moroccan Apricot and Rosewater Cookies INGREDIENTS 2 cups soaked and drained Cashews 1 cup Dried Apricot chopped into small pieces 1 cup Dried pitted dates soaked, drained and finely chopped ½ banana mashed 3 tablespoon minced Ginger 2 tablespoons raw organic cococut oil 2 tablespoons rose water 1 Cardamom pod, seeds crushed ½ tsp ground cinnamon 1 raw vanilla pod, interior flesh only ¼ tsp Sea Salt

METHOD In a medium bowl add the cashews and cover with water.

Soak for 4 hours. Cover the dates with water in a bowl and soak for 2 hours.

In a food processor add the drained soaked cashews, dates, banana, raw coconut oil, vanilla, cinnamon, crushed cardamom, ginger and sea salt and rosewater. Process until the mixture is fairly smooth.

In a medium bowl combine the cashew mixture with the apricot pieces, and mix by hand or with a spatula till thoroughly combined.

Using a small ice cream scoop or soup spoon place portions of the cookie dough on a

dehydrator or cookie sheet about 1 inch apart. Flatten each cookie lightly with the palm of your hand.

Dehydrate for 8-10 hours depending on the method and temperature (35 – 40 degrees) you are using to dehydrate the cookies. Cookies should be a bit crisp on the outside and chewy on the inside.

Store in the refrigerator and enjoy for up to a week.

SOLUTION TO CROSSWORD ON PAGE 46 Across 1. Vriksha, 3. Virabhadra, 9. Hamsa, 10. Tittibha, 13. Mayura, 14.

Garuda, 16. Nataraja, 17. Kukkuta, 18. Sarvanga Down 1. Vrishchika, 2. Ardha Chandra, 3. Vasishtha, 4. Bhuja, 5. Durvasa, 6. Adho, 7. Vishwamitra, 8. Ashtavakra, 11. Pincha, 12. Mukha, 15. Baka

Moosa is Executive Director of Life Cafe and Director of Just Green Organis Convenience Stores.

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Tia’s Crossword This crossword must be attempted while balancing on one leg and one arm. (Just kidding) Enjoy this crossword on balancing poses.

ACROSS 1. Tree. (7) 3. Warrior pose resembling an arrow on one leg! (10) 9. Jumble ‘a sham’ to give a swan. (5) 10. Jumble ‘bat hit it’ to give a butterfly. (8) 13. Peacock (6) 14. Half eagle, half man from jumbling ‘a guard’. (6) 16. Dancing Shiva. (8) 17. A rooster in padma asana, balancing on two arms? (7) 18. ....... asana, a shoulder balance. (8) DOWN 1. Scorpion. (10) 2. Half moon. (5, 7) 3. Asana named after one of the Seven Sages. (9) 4. ....... pida, an arm balance. (5) 5. Asana named after a sage infamous for his short temper. (7) 6, 12 and 1ACROSS – Downward facing tree? (4,5,7) 7. Jumble ‘warm visit ah’ to give another asana named after one of the Seven Sages. (11) 8. Asana named after a sage born crooked in eight places. (10) 11 & 13 ACROSS - Jumble ‘many a chair up’ to give this inverted balance. (6, 6) 12. See 6 DOWN 15. Crane (4)

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Yoga Teachers & Studios Pascale Aline Private & Corporate s: stress, anxiety and trauma with vinyasa, hatha, yoga Therapy l: English, French t: + 852 6770 0241 e: yoga@canterel.com

AMICO STUDIO 2-4/F, 167-169 Hennessy Rd Wanchai, Hong Kong s: Hot, Hatha, Ashtanga l: English, Cantonese t: (852) 2827 9233 e: studio@amico.com.hk w: www.amico.com.hk

ANAHATA VILLA & SPA RESORT Ubud, Bali, Indonesia s: various styles, group retreats, yoga for privates & corporates.

Studio rental available. l: Indonesian and English t: (62) 361 745 3267 f: (62) 361 989 7804 e: promo@ anahataresort.com w: www.anahataresort.com Michel Besnard Yogasana s: Hatha Vinyasa l: English t: (852)2511 8892 / 9527 6691 e: info@yogasana.com.hk Kathy Cook Retreats, workshops, privates d: Hong Kong, Bali &Thailand s: Iyengar (Junior Intermediate) l: English t: (852) 6292 5440 / (62) 811 387781 e: kcinasia@gmail.com w: www.yogawithkathy.com Claire del Rosario Privates and Groups d: Hong Kong, Manila s: Anusara inspired, Ashtanga based, Yoga Therapy and Mantra Meditation l: English t: (852) 2881 0321 e: clairedelrosario@ymail.com

FLEX 1/F Woodleigh House, 80 Stanley Village Road, Stanley, Hong Kong (until 17 July) & 1/F Regency Centre (Phase II), 43 Wong Chuk Hang Road, Aerdeen, Hong Kong (from 16 August) s: Iyengar, Ashtanga, Hatha Vinyasa t: (852) 2813 2212

f: (852) 2813 2281 e: info@flexhk.com w: www.flexhk.com

IYENGAR YOGA CENTRE INDONESIA Ruko Simprug Gallery Jl. Teuku Nyak Arif No 10W Jakarta 12220, Indonesia s: Iyengar t:(62) 21 739 6904 e:info@iyengaryogaindonesia.com w: www.iyengaryogaindonesia.com

IYENGAR YOGA CENTRE OF HONG KONG Room 406 New Victory House, 93- 103 Wing Lok St., Sheung Wan, Hong Kong s: Iyengar t: (852) 2541 0401 e: info@iyengaryoga hongkong.com w: www.iyengaryoga hongkong.com

IYENGAR YOGA CENTRE SINGAPORE 149B Neil Road Singapore 088875 s: Iyengar t:(65) 9052 3102 & 6220 4048 e:info@iyengaryogasingapore.com w: iyengaryogasingapore.com Hari Amrit Kaur (Kaldora) Privates, workshops d: Central, Discovery Bay s: Kundalini, Radiant Child Yoga l: English, Cantonese t: (852) 6428 5168 e: kaldora_lee@hotmail.com w: www.kundaliniyogahk.com Ming Lee Privates, workshops s: Iyengar Certified teacher l: English, Cantonese, Putonghua t: (852) 9188 1277 e: minglee@yogawithming.com

LIFE MANAGEMENT YOGA CENTRE Non-profit Classical Yoga School d: Tsim Sha Tsui s: Patanjali yoga, Kids yoga, Seniors yoga, Corporates l: English, Cantonese t: (852) 2191 9651 t: (852) 6349 0639 (Chinese) e: life@yoga.org.hk w: www.yoga.org.hk

Ursula Moser The Iyengar Yoga Centre of Hong Kong, Yoga Central, LRC d: Central s: Iyengar Certified (Junior Intermediate I) l: English t: (852) 2918 1798 / 9456 2149 e: uschi.moser51@gmail.com Anna Ng Privates d: Hong Kong s: Hatha yoga l: Cantonese t: (852) 9483 1167 e: gazebofl@netvigator.com

PURE YOGA Hong Kong 16/F The Centrium, 60 Wyndham Street 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 Road, Quarry Bay t: (852) 8129 1188 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

REAL YOGA 545 Orchard Road #08-01 Far East Shopping Centre Singapore s: Hatha, Power, Ashtanga and Gentle Yoga l: English t: (65) 6734 2853 e: contactus@realyoga.com.sg

KUNDALINI YOGA @ SHAKTI 3/F Waga Commercial Centre, 99 Wellington Street, Central, Hong Kong s: Kundalini & Svastha Yoga, Kundalini Yoga Meditation, Reiki, Qigong

t: (852) 2521 5099 e: info@shaktihealingcircle.com w: www.shaktihealingcircle.com George Dovas The Iyengar Yoga Centre of Hong Kong d: Sheung Wan s: Iyengar Certified (Junior Intermediate I) t: (852) 2541 0401 e: george@ iyengaryogahongkong.com

SPACE YOGA 26 / F, 27 An-Ho Road, Section 1, Taipei 106, Taiwan s: Hatha, Ashtanga, Anusara Inspired, Flow, Yin, Restorative, Power, Hot, Meditation, Pranayama, Virya Sadhana, and Yoga Dance l: English, Mandarin t: (886) 2 2773.8108 e: info@withinspace.com w: www.withinspace.com

THE YOGA ROOM 3 & 4/F Xiu Ping Commercial Bld, 104 Jervois St, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong s:Hatha, Ashtanga, Yin, Kundalini, Yoga Therapy, Pilates, Pre-natal, Mom & Baby, Yoga Kids, Belly dance & more t: (852) 2544 8398 e: info@yogaroomhk.com w: www.yogaroomhk.com Wai-Ling Tse Freelance, Privates and Groups d: Hong Kong s: Sivananda certified, Hatha, Svastha Yoga, Anusara-inspired, Power, Hot, Yin, Pranayama and Meditation l: English, Cantonese t: (852) 9465 6461 e: wltse11@yahoo.com

YOGA CENTRAL 4/F Kai Kwong House, 13 Wyndham Street, Central, Hong Kong s: Iyengar, Hatha Vinyasa, Acroyoga, Mat-based Pilates, Privates, Corporate and Studio rental available. t: (852) 2982 4308 e: yogacentralhk@yahoo.com w: www.yogacentral.com.hk To list your details here throughout 2011, please contact Frances on fgairns@netvigator.com HK$500 for individual teacher & HK$1,000 for studio for the four issues of 2011.

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