Spring 2014
Spring 2014
yoga CONTENTS
By Diane Booth Gilliam
What are You Manifesting
By Sarah Aller
What’s Hot about Hot Yoga
By Lisa Armstrong
Flying High with Aerial Yoga
By Johanna Björk
Yoga Style
By Kim Snoy
Yoga: The Benefits
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What Are YOU Manifesting? By Diane Booth Gilliam
March 20, 2014 marks the Spring Equinox in the Northern Hemisphere. Equinox means equal: Day and night have the same amount of hours; light and dark are in perfect balance. (Now doesn’t that have a nice ring to it?) After today, the sun graces us with increasingly longer periods of illumination and we, too, are inspired to lighten up. Finally. Whew. In Western astrology, the sun is at zero degrees Aries on the spring equinox, which is the first degree of the entire zodiac. This means that the equinox marks not only the beginning of spring, but also the beginning of the astrological new year. Ah. New beginnings. And what better companion for a fresh start than fire-sign Aries? The planetary ruler of Aries is passionate Mars; March is named after Mars, and the Equinox is Mars’ big day. Mars/Aries packs the punch to deliver us into the season of sparkling streams and fledgling flowers.
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Seed Intentions So what is ready to blossom in your life? Springtime intentions work like magic seeds that get planted in fertile soil. And this year, the astral embrace is very verdant because Venus, the planet of love and money, engages in a scintillating relationship with unpredictable Uranus. When these two celestial bodies hook up, look for surprising windfalls. ’Tis the season for serendipity. Sudden sweepstakes winnings? An unexpected love affair? Whatever it is, it will come out of nowhere. Mix in Venus/Uranus wizardry with Mars/Aries alchemy, and you’ve got a recipe for wild creativity. Here are a few ways to use your practice to make the most of this moment:
Poses for Spring
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The traditional zodiac-body correlation for Aries is the head. To harness equinox energy, do balancing poses and calming practices. As we leave behind the wintery cold and answer the ardent call of the new season, we can use our practices to help us stay strong and feel refreshed. Expect the best. Have a happy spring!
Headstand: While you work on building this asana, think about how equinox means equal, and notice how your body makes subtle shifts to achieve equanimity.
Warrior II Pose: Use this asana to align with Mars, the planet that instills the winning spirit. The Sanskrit name comes from Virabhadra, the mythic warrior who was made from a lock of Shiva’s matted hair.
Child’s Pose: Even as Mars pushes us forward, Venus reminds us that we need time to adjust to the seasonal shifts. Place the forehead on the floor, or a folded blanket, to soothe the body and simultaneously stimulate ajna, the third-eye chakra or energy center located between the eyebrows.
yoga TRENDS
HOT hot YOGA
What’s
about By Sarah Aller
Jenny McCarthy, one of our favorite alpha women, doesn't just successfully balance motherhood and her career, she also finds time to stay enviably fit. What's her secret? Her favorite workout: Bikram yoga. We talked with Kristyn Birrell, manager of Bikram Yoga Bozeman in Montana, to find out what's so hot about hot yoga. Birrell has been a Bikram yoga instructor for five years and manager at the Bozeman yoga studio since 2010. Bikram Yoga Bozeman, owned by Chris and Rebekah Bunting, recently celebrated its 10-year anniversary and has experienced tremendous growth as more and more people see the results and benefits of the practice. Since Bozeman is blanketed in snow much of the year, it's not a surprise that doing yoga in a hot environment is so popular.
What is Bikram yoga? Bikram yoga is also called hot yoga because the yoga workouts are done in a heated room. However, Bikram isn't just any yoga practice. "Bikram Yoga is a 90-minute series of 26 beginning yoga postures (asanas) and 2 breathing exercises (pranayamas) that are done in the same order," Birrell explains. "Most poses are done twice — the first set acts as a diagnostic, and the second set is where you push a little more and create change in the body and the mind."
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The beauty of the Bikram practice is that it works the whole body, with each pose warming you up and preparing you for the next posture and the postures to come. It not only promotes health and strength, it is also very healing, according to Birrell. "A state-of-the-art ventilation system brings fresh pre-heated air into the room throughout class to ensure that there is plenty of fresh oxygen to breathe," she says. "The heat provides many benefits, including increased blood flow throughout the body, and helps detoxify the body through the sweat."
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Benefits of Bikram yoga
Risks of Bikram yoga
Bikram yoga is an intense form of hatha yoga that offers many health benefits, including strength, flexibility, balance and a cardiovascular workout. Birrell got into Bikram after suffering running-related knee injuries. "I thought I would just do the yoga for a few months while training for a marathon, but after experiencing the physical, mental and emotional benefits of the yoga, I became hooked," she recalls. "Many people find that they receive increased healing benefits from Bikram due to the scientific design of the posture series, as well because of as the heat."
Though working out in a 105-degree room seems most suitable for hard-core athletes and yoga enthusiasts, Birrell says Bikram Yoga Bozeman's students range in age from 12 to 74, are from all walks of life and come in with different physical, mental and emotional goals. "Bikram yoga is a beginning yoga class, and new students do not need any experience with yoga to come," she adds.
Bikram for mind-body fitness In addition to gaining strength and flexibility, many students also experience weight loss. But Birrell says Bikram isn't just good for your body. It also gives you an overall sense of well-being. "Many students find that the intensity of the practice helps them get more out of their own mind," she explains. "We call it a '90-minute moving meditation' that is great for stress relief and bringing balance back to the mind-body connection."
However, Bikram is not recommended for pre-pubescent children, says Birrell. "Without developed sweat glands children could overheat in the room. At Bikram Yoga Bozeman we do not allow children under 12 to practice in the hot room."
Just do it Wondering if Bikram yoga is for you? "It's normal to feel a little nervous or scared," Birrell says, "but my best advice is to just try it. I promise you will feel change."
Flying HIGH with Aerial Yoga
By Lisa Armstrong
Would you like to swing on a star? Or maybe (a bit more realistically) on yards of silk suspended in mid-air? This approach to fitness is what more and more women are taking up these days, as aerial yoga is literally lifting them off the floor of gyms and studios across the country. Recent interest has been touched off by professional acts like the Cirque du Soleil, but aerial dance has been around for hundreds of years; an aerialist is someone who performs moves from a joist that hoists them into the air. Aerial yoga is the latest spin on this older type of workout.
What does aerial yoga involve? While specific poses may vary from instructor to instructor, aerial yoga combines the basics of yoga with calisthenics, dance, Pilates and acrobatics. Developed by dancer/choreographer Christopher Harrison, this approach allows you to enjoy the more spiritual benefits of yoga along with the physical exercise, while having fun.
You'll be suspended from the ceiling from silk fabrics tied together to create a "hammock." The hammocks are hung at various heights, allowing you to try different types of yoga postures. The hammocks allow a greater range of motion and a deeper stretch than doing yoga on the floor. "Aerial yoga helps you to move more freely, with less effort, by counteracting gravity," says Heather Schafer of Kaya Wellness and Yoga. "Suspension in the air releases tension on the bones and muscles, increasing flexibility and deepening your practice. Suspended yoga strengthens core muscles, increases spinal and shoulder flexibility, and prevents back strain."
Other health benefits ~ Increased muscular strength ~ Increased endorphin levels ~ Cardiovascular fitness ~ Joint decompression ~ Increased blood flow ~ Positive alignment ~ Sharpened focus ~ Weight loss
Safety first
Ever wanted to move around suspended in the air like P!nk during one of her concerts? Believe it or not, that dream may be just round the corner at your local yoga studio!
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You'll be trained in safety practices and get accustomed to hanging in the air. First on the agenda will be learning to become comfortable with a silk hammock that can actually support more than 1,000 pounds. Once you overcome your initial fear, you'll practice simple moves such as sitting and holding onto the silks, followed by more advanced moves such as hanging upside down.
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"Safety is of the utmost importance. Seek out qualified instructors who registered yoga teacher and will take time to review getting in and out of the silks, as well as how to adjustment to ensure proper alignment and integrity with each pose. Make sure the teacher offers modifications and alternate poses that will best suit your ability level and prevent injuries," says Jessica Matthews.
Final word: Have fun! Play is one of the major principles of aerial yoga. "Fun is an essential part of the classes," says Jessica Lubin of Good Karma Studios, who uses an upbeat playlist and a gentle hand to help guide students into poses they never expected to be in, including handstands and headstands.
yoga STYLE
Taking consciousness off the mat and into your wardrobe. By Johanna Björk
I’ve been a passionate practitioner of yoga for quite some time. There’s no doubt yogis are starting to care more and more about style – I was even street-style photographed at the Tadasana Festival this weekend – but with all the consciousness floating around in wood-floored yoga rooms everywhere, it pains me to see such an abundance of cheap fast fashion there. Especially since there is so much great sustainable yoga wear to choose from. If you don’t already have a regular practice, maybe you’re thinking of adding a couple of yoga classes to your workout routine? It’s certainly a good way to get in shape for the summer. Here’s how to look the part, while keeping your fashion conscience clear.
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1 Classic Glass Water Bottle by Takeya When you’re practicing yoga, it’s important to hydrate. Skip the plastic bottle and instead invest in a great reusable vessel that ensures you can enjoy fresh-tasting water without the toxic chemicals that seep from the plastic. This one from Takeya is made from glass and encased in a silicone jacket which provides a soft grip and protects it from breaking. It has an air-tight leak-proof twist cap and can be put in the dishwasher. $17.99, Takeya
2 Jonano Audrey Capri Legging Dare to stray from the ubiquitous black yoga pant and opt for something more fun instead. These organic cotton and bamboo capri leggings by Jonano are inspired by fashion-icon Audrey Hepburn and feature a unique watercolor dye batik pattern. $84, Jonano
3 Beasom Jacket by Alo You need a good cover-up for going to and from class and for keeping warm during shavasana. This jacket by yoga-label Alo is a full-zip piece with great pleated detailing along the body and back neck. The bamboo cotton french terry fabric is moisture-wicking, which will keep you dry too. $76, Alo
4 Gaiam Bra Top This bra top by Gaiam provides gentle support with a fully lined front and adjustable straps. It’s simple in design and works as well worn under a tank as on its own. Made from 86% eco-friendly recycled polyester from plastic bottles saved from the landfill, it breathes as you move, keeping you comfortable. On sale for $46, Gaiam
5 Anahata Mala by Dewi Jewels A mala is used when meditating, and each of the 108 beads on the string represents one instance of a mantra. This Anahata (heart chakra) mala is made with clear and rose quartz – the stone of love – beads, knotted with a soft, durable white hemp yarn. The tassel is made from vegetable-dyed ahimsa (cruelty free) silk. Wearing this mala promises to increase unconditional love, adding light, harmony, and well-being to your life. $75, Dewi Jewels
6 Jade Encore Yoga Mat I sweat a lot during yoga and my practice completely changed when I started using a Jade yoga mat. The natural rubber provides great grip and cushion, which keeps your hands and feet from slipping. Jade Encore is the first yoga mat to contain recycled rubber, making it the most eco-friendly yoga mat out there. The Encore yoga mat contains pre and post-consumer waste rubber and is an integral part of Jade’s commitment to the environment and their “Reuse, Reduce, Recycle Program,” which allows old Jade mats to be recycled into new ones. $69.95, Jade Yoga
7 Slick Corset Tank by Clary Sage Organics Made from 91% recycled PET (recycled water bottles), this corset tank by Clary Sage Organics proves once and for all that conscious yoga wear does not have to be boring or crunchy. The stitched detailing is not only fashion-forward but seriously figure-flattering as well. A natural and untreated alternative to high impact sportswear, this high tech, high style fabric has natural moisture-wicking properties to keep you cool. $88, Clary Sage Organics
8 Double Headband by Gaiam There’s nothing more more annoying than having your balance in the perfect Dancing Shiva pose thrown off by a piece of stray hair falling into your eyes. Prevent that from happening with this stylish double headband from Gaiam, made from 86% recycled polyester. Comes in many bright color combinations so that you can perfectly match your outfit. On sale for $16, Gaiam
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Yoga: The Benefits Editorial written by Kim Snoy
Yoga is good for your body in ways you may not think about. Not only is it good for your body, it is also a way to relax your mind. A healthy body leads to a longer living life. Having a calm and relaxed mind can also help you live longer. Along with it being a healthy activity, it can be fun too. There are all kinds of yoga classes and even online classes so you can do it at home. There are many benefits from practicing yoga. Yoga stretches the muscles and helps youbecome more flexible. The more flexible you are, the better you feel. Your muscles will not beas tight and you will be able to move around better. Along with flexibility comes strength. Yogawill help you become stronger because you are working your muscles while you hold differentposes. There are many poses and they all work different muscles. Most of the poses build core strength if you do them correctly. Yoga is a fun way to gain flexibility and muscle strength. When you gain flexibility and muscle, you also improve your posture. With improved posture, you will have a better presence when you sit and stand. You will not slouch or roll you shoulders in and if you do, you will be more aware of when it happens and you will be able to correct yourself. Yoga also helps your breathing. When practicing yoga you are supposed to take slow deep breaths. Concentrating on your breathing will help you relax. When you are relaxed you are able to push yourself a little further which helps increase your flexibility.
All of the benefits I just talked about are major things to help prevent injuries. You can injure yourself in many ways. If you play sports or you are active outside, yoga will help with preventing injuries. Yoga will also help your balance. It is proven that you need good balance to succeed in sports. Even if you do not play sports, yoga can still help prevent injuries. A lot of people throw their back out just by lifting something or turning around without moving their feet. Muscle strength and flexibility will help prevent injuries similar to those. There are 8 limbs of yoga and the 7th limb is Dhyana or meditation. Meditation can help you clam your mind and just relax. It’s a time where you can forget about the outside world an focus on yourself. The more relaxed you are, the less stressed you will be. When you practice yoga, you should clear your mind and concentrate on relaxing yourself. Being calm and relaxed will slow your heart rate and has been known to lower blood pressure. Yoga is good for theheart. Yoga is beneficial to your body whether you are a beginner or an expert. It can help you become less stressed and more relaxed. You will strengthen your muscles and gain flexibility. It can be fun too so give it a try and watch how your life will change for the better.
yoga WWAN AN WORLD around the
Wanderlust Festivals are all-out, ecstatic celebrations. We bring together the world’s leading yoga teachers, top musical acts, renowned speakers, exquisite chefs, and thrilling performers, weaving together an experience that surprises and delights. Whether you’re exploring our multi-day mountaintop adventures or gathering for a daylong urban retreat, Wanderlust events are an opportunity to unplug from the ordinary and discover the extraordinary.Bring a friend or make a whole group of new ones. From early morning meditations to all-night chakra-spinning musical performances, come practice and party in the most awe-inspiring locations in the world.
MAY 10 LOS ANGELES
MAY 31 CHICAGO 11 Yoga.com s Sping 2014
Wanderlust Yoga In the City Los Angeles, CA
Wanderlust Yoga In the City Chicago, IL
MAY 17 SAN FRANCISCO
JUNE 7 PHILADELPHIA
Wanderlust Yoga In the City San Francisco, CA
Wanderlust Yoga In the City Philadelphia, PA
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D E R L UUST ST NDERL JUNE 19 - 22 STRATTON
Wanderlust Festival Bondville, VT
JULY 3 - 6 ASPEN-SNOWMASS
Wanderlust Festival Snowmass Village, CO
JULY 17 - 20 SQUAW VALLEY
Wanderlust Festival Squaw Valley, CA
JULY 31 - AUGUST 4 WHISTLER
Wanderlust Festival Whistler, BC, CA
AUGUST 21 - 24 TREMBLANT
Wanderlust Festival Tremblant, QC, CA
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