Northern Colorado Autumn Class Schedule Inside!
Viniyoga
More Than Meets the Eye The Benefits of
Coming Home to Yoga
Kirtan:
Singing for the Divine And
More Inside!
Published by Local Yoga Junkies
Complimentary Autumn 2010 Volume 1, Issue # 4
Editor’s Note
“Nothing is more fleeting than external form, which withers and alters like the flowers of the field at the apperance of autumn” ~ Umberto Eco
Welcome to the autumn addition of the Yoga Connection. This is the fourth issue, and we are proud to say that we have made it through our first year. We began to breathe life into this idea just a little less than a year ago. We feel honored and humbled by having started this endeavor, and we feel blessed to be able to contribute to our community in a way that has been so well received by everyone. It seems this community of ours has a lot to say and in this issue, we will be introducing some new writers. We are very excited to be able to showcase the likes of Jack Workman, Celeste Magnuson, Lauri Pointer, David Moats, Kathyrn Visser and so many others. We cannot give special mention to them all, but they are all worthy of it. So, please, be sure to look over the contents and read the bio’s at the end of the articles. They are all beautiful souls who volunteer to participate in this with us, and therefore help to strengthen our Sangha (spiritual community). The strength of our Sangha is what enables us to wage peace and spread kindness in the fray. That is what happened at YogaFest 2010! The available members of our Sangha came together to share the diversity of yoga with each other and the community at large. I have not seen that many people smiling in Old Town in a very long time, if at all. I feel that YogaFest was truly a blessed occasion, and goes to show that we can make a difference. Thank you to everyone who participated. This season of our bounty ripens as the life sustaining harvests put forth our stipends. The cycle of perpetual nurture unfolds to mature, and appreciations are proper and due. The scent of autumn gives occasion to rejoice in outcomes and reminds us to enjoy the tastes of our labors. For all too soon, the labors resume. Almost without warning, coolness sets upon the morning and without delay, those scents decay. Saturated with nervousness and vexed by the wither, the insects, they begin to gather. As fast as they gather, they pass in the feeling of rather. Raphael’s wings spread wide, but never to eclipse his grin, for his pleasure he cannot hide! As he descends, the hues of anxiety spread across the land, carried by that coldest of hearts, Raphael’s closest confident and friend - The Wind! Without fail, that old man Fall answers the call. He sets forth the dance of scurry and scamper, as he makes no apology for squeezing the light from the day. He is a dodgy old codger, determined to remind us, even if by merciless means, that life is hard. He is not cold and indifferent for lack of love, quite the opposite. His way is one of preparation, and he would be letting us down if not for the deliverance of his brutal, but balanced honesty. Though we cannot trust his method, for it is surely the symptom of our demise, he has not lied. Life is hard! We do ourselves a service to remember this. If we are blessed by the presence of wisdom to admit to this, than may we also possess the courage to continue the living. For most assuredly, the demons of All Hallows Eve do not peddle the petty fear of death; they terrify us, even the most calloused of souls, with the notion that there is more life to live! Still, life is worth every hardship, and every satisfaction is well earned, which is why autumn is a season of grateful celebration and not one of melancholy yearns. Please enjoy this collection of thoughts and explorations of the vast spiritual science that yoga is, and, please get out there and support the local yoga scene. May all of your sittings be still and any chitta chatter be dissolved. Blessings, The Yoga Connection The Yoga Connection is a quarterly publication. The information provided in this publication is intended for personal, non-commercial, informational and entertainment purposes only and does not constitute a recommendation or endorsement with respect to any company, product, procedure or activity.
For advertising and editorial information, contact: Kate Stephens or Gary Pritchard Phone: (970) 214-6921 E-mail: yogaconnect23@gmail.com
Printed on Recycle Paper
Contents Features
The Benefits of Coming Home to Yoga
The Journey of a Wandering Yogi Join Taylor Isaacson as she shares her personal journey of yoga. ...................... pg 8
Nina Kunze shares the benefits of practicing yoga in your 50’s and beyond ........................ pg 18
Healing Touch: A Path to Higher Level Wellness
Kirtan: Singing for the Divine Kara Norman explores Kirtan, sharing her personal experience and bringing light to this beautiful practice ........................................ pg 20
Lauri Pointer gives an overview of Healing Touch Therapy .......... pg 10
When the Mics Don’t Work
The Mystical Life
David Moats and Kathryn Visser collaborate on Ebb and Flow Yoga .............................. pg 12
Explore the various concepts of mysticism ............................... pg 30
Viniyoga: More than Meets the Eye
Kundalini Yoga Lori Krauss introduces the basics of Kundalini Yoga............................. pg 13
Learn about Viniyoga’s adaptive practice as River Cummings shares her insights ............ pg 36
Green for LIfe: The Detoxifying Properties of Wheatgrass
YogaFest 2010 Kenny Workman’s inception and production of Northern Colorado’s First Yoga Festival ...................... pg 37
Celeste Magnuson shares the many benefits of wheatgrass juice ....... pg 14
Who is Driving the Bus?
Vision Quest
Join Alan as he shares his thoughts about the different personalities we each possess ................................. pg 37
One of the youngest yogis in our community, Jack Workman, shares his teacher training experience ....... pg 17
The Harvest Joe Zahn speaks of the seasons and the joy of Autumn ...................... pg 45
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THE YOGA CONNECTION MAGAZINE
Contents Departments
Inner-View... Adriane Ehmann, a local Yoga instructor and visionary, introduces us to Bess Leader .................... pg 34
Chris’ Culinary Corner Great recipes from a local culinary craftsman ........................................ pg 7
Health & WellBeing Directory.......... pg 39 Sanskrit Corner Definitions of common Sanskrit words .................................... pg 16
Northern Colorado Yoga Class Schedules Autumn 2010.................................. pg 40 At Home Practice Tomi Simpson uses Radical Expansion to break down Ardha Chandrachapasana ................ pg 23
Autumn Workshops 2010......................................... pg 43
Autumn Ayurveda
Once Upon a Yogi Time
Balance yourself with Ayurveda............. pg 26
The re-telling of the ancient yogi stories through the ages............ pg 46
THE YOGA CONNECTION MAGAZINE
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AUTUMN 2010
Chris’ Culinary Corner
W
e are moving into the Vata season (fall and early winter) when temperatures cool off and the air becomes dryer. Warm, oily and hearty meals help balance the excess Vata in the environment which can reduce ones likelihood of experiencing fatigue, constipation, dryness, and anxiety. Beans, whole grains, meat, and seasonal vegetables are recommended for this diet.
Hanuman Curry
What You’ll Need... • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
2 tbsp whole cumin seeds 1 tbsp whole coriander seed 1 tbsp turmeric 1 tbsp garam masala 1 tsp cayenne (optional) 1/2 tbsp salt 1 tbsp fresh ginger (zested) 1 cinnamon stick 1 large yellow onion 1 to 2 tbsp fresh garlic (chopped) 1/4 cup of canola oil 2 carrots chopped 1/2 lb green beans 1 lb mushrooms (shitake and crimini mixed) 1 bunch swiss chard (chiffonade) 1 - 28 oz can crushed tomatoes (fire roasted) 1 cup greek yogurt or sour cream 1/2 to 1 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
What To Do... 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13.
Toast seeds and grind. Add ground seeds with turmeric, garam masala, cayenne, and salt. Set aside. Saute onions, garlic, and cinnamon stick in oil until soft. Add carrots and cook 3 minutes. Add mushrooms and cook until softened. (3-5 minutes) Add Swiss chard and cook until softened. (2 minutes) Add curry spices and ginger. Mix well and cook 2 minutes. Add tomatoes and cook until oil separates from curry. (5 minutes) Can add water until desired consistency is reached. Add green beans and cook until al dente. Add yogurt and cilantro. Mix well. Serve with rice and/or naan.
Bean & Short Rib Soup
What You’ll Need... • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
1 lb navy beans (dry) 1 lb pinto beans (dry) 2 to 3 lb beef short rib 2 tbsp honey 2 qt veggie stock 2 tbsp oil 1 cup chopped celery 1 cup chopped carrot 2 cup chopped onion 2 tbsp fresh garlic (chopped) 1 tsp cayenne (optional) 1 cup red wine 1 can stewed tomatoes 1/2 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
What To Do... 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11.
Soak beans overnight and rinse well in the morning. Preheat oven to 365 Cook garlic and veggies in oil in large pot until soft. Add stock. In saute pan sear/brown ribs on all sides. Add ribs to pot. Add honey, cayenne, tomatoes, and red wine. Cook 4 to 6 hours until meat falls off the bone. Take meat out and let cool. Shred meat and set aside. Process remaining ingredients in food meal or food processor. Add meat, salt and pepper to taste, and more cayenne if needed. Right before service garnish with fresh parsley and serve with cornbread.
Curry Annananda What You’ll Need...
• • • • • • • • •
1 lb green beans 2 lb new potatoes 2 - 28 ounce cans of crushed tomatoes (fresh....if you have them) 1/2 cup canola oil 2 tbsp cumin seed 1.5 tbsp black mustard seed 1 tbsp cayenne pepper (optional) 1 tbsp turmeric salt to taste water
What To Do... 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.
Peel and cut tomatoes. Cook potatoes in boiling water until soft. Heat oil on high one minute. Add cumin seeds and cook for 30 seconds. Reduce heat to medium add tomatoes mustard seeds, cayenne, turmeric, and salt. Stir well cook 10 minutes. Add green beans and potatoes and cook 5 min. or until beans are al dente. Add water until desired consistency is reached.
9.
Serve with rice, naan, and greek yogurt.
The Journey of a Wandering Yogini by Taylor Isaacson THE YOGA CONNECTION MAGAZINE
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AUTUMN 2010
My mom and her family moved into the old farmhouse on the corner of Vassar and Pierson Road when she was 15 years old. My dad and his family lived in the house next door on Pierson. All the neighborhood boys made a bet on who could get the “cute” girl to be their girlfriend. My dad won.
No matter how crazy some of my ideas are (ahem, origami master), my parents continue to remind me that I can be anyone and do anything. Even when I am overcome with selfdoubt, they are always there for me, full of encouragement. During those times of self-doubt and worry, my confidence is lifted when I read Janet Luhrs’ quote:
The young lovers wore a path through the field grown with wild raspberries behind their houses. As a commitment of his love, my dad gave my mom a blue sapphire ring. After dating for five years, my mom’s promise ring was replaced with a solitaire diamond engagement ring.
“When I am a willow tree, I can be with another and still stand my ground–I don’t change and become a different kind of tree just to please the other. I stand as myself even when the other pushes up against me. But I can bend when I want to, and I can grow when I need to.”
My parents said their “I do’s” and settled down where they were born and raised. My dad worked full-time in the financial industry while my mom worked full-time at home, raising two kids in diapers. This fall, they will be celebrating their 30th wedding anniversary.
I bend when I let go of this preconceived idea of how my life is supposed to be. My parents have taught me to value love and commitment. I’m learning about love and commitment through my own experiences. I have made a promise to figure out who I am and to love myself unconditionally. I have made a promise to follow my dream of traveling and to commit to the steps along the way.
My mom gave her promise ring to me, and every time I wear it, I am reminded of where I come from. I have always thought my purpose in life (Dharma) is to be a wife and mother – the same roles my mom took on. Just like someone who feels passionate about pursuing a career as a teacher or dancer, I feel passionate about living the life of wifehood and motherhood.
I grow when I live my promises. With every hopeful thought and step toward my goal, my dream continues to manifest into reality. However, making the most of each step is a constant struggle for me. If I could, I would have gotten on an airplane yesterday and would be traveling around the world today. Impatience is my weakness. I have the mindset of a 5-year-old, asking every few minutes, “Are we there yet?” All the while, missing out on the journey. The beautiful scenery, people, and conversations ... the lessons.
My life is not the way it is supposed to be. I am a single woman. The occasional dates I go on usually end with an awkward, “thanks-but-no-thanks” hug goodbye, followed by me sneaking into the kitchen to eat a coconut milk ice cream bar. The fact that my next-door neighbors are old enough to be my grandparents isn’t in my favor either. When the time is right, I will have a winter wonderland wedding and raise babies of my own. But for now, my path is heading in a different direction.
While standing in Tree Pose (Vrksasana), focusing my gaze on a single point (Drishti) helps me keep my balance. Having a drishti within my body, like following the breath, draws my awareness inwards. Life will inevitably push me this way and that. I’ll be pulled in several different directions. When I find myself fixated on the ultimate goal, I can find stability and inthe-moment awareness by connecting to my innermost self.
I am trying to figure out my purpose during this point in my life. My present life situation has inspired me to think about another way of living. A way of living that involves wandering. My mom and dad understand that we cannot all follow the same path. My journey is my own. I have to follow my own hopes and make my own mistakes. My parents have never forced a certain path or dharma on me. When asked, “What do you want to be when you grow up?”, I’m still the fearless young girl that says, “I want to be a ...
My thoughts of wanderlust take me worlds away. My family roots keep me grounded to the present moment. As I harmonize my dreams with my values, I begin my journey as a wandering yogini.
Skydiving instructor. Professional wakeboarder. Professional snowboarder. Dreadlock shampoo maker. Coffee farmer. International volunteer and teacher. Travel writer. Bookstore owner. Backpacker. Herbalist. Hermit. Stay-at-home mom. Member of a Buddhist community. Origami master. Dog walker.
ISSUE # 4
Taylor Isaacson is a yoga instructor, nanny, and writer. She loves practicing yoga before the sun rises, looking at the world map, dreaming of traveling, and playing in the mountains. On her journey, she has learned that living authentically is the only way to live and that selflove is the loveliest feeling.
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THE YOGA CONNECTION MAGAZINE
Healing Touch: A Path to Higher Level Wellness by Lauri Pointer
and abundance and a feeling of being excited to get up in the morning. Waking up happy and excited for your life is a great sign of higher-level wellness!
Higher-level wellness is more than an absence of symptoms; it includes vitality, a joy of living, and a feeling of self-worth. These are all qualities that are present when our life force energy is flowing vibrantly and radiantly. Healing Touch is an integrative, energy based therapy with a goal of doing just that - increasing the flow of energy through the body to facilitate the conditions for optimal health and well-being. These non-invasive techniques utilize the hands to clear, energize, and balance the human and environmental energy fields, thus affecting physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health and healing.
The three most basic parts of our energy system include the biofield (aura), the chakras (energy centers), and the meridians (tracts of energy through the body). Our energy biofield is considered to be the blueprint for the physical body, meaning it holds the template for how our physical body is building and repairing. Symptoms appear in the energy field before they show up on a physical level. With Healing Touch, we can approach health preventatively by clearing the symptoms out of the field before they have a chance to manifest on the physical level. We call Healing Touch a “subtle energy” therapy. And, indeed, it is subtle. But, we can fine-tune our subtle awareness to this energy by practicing Healing Touch. The more we learn about our own energy, the more effectively we can recognize when something is out of balance BEFORE it has a chance to take hold as a physical symptom.
Our bodies are phenomenal communicators with us to let us know when something is out of balance, energetically. Symptoms in the body (i.e., headaches, colds, insomnia, lethargy, depression, and fatigue) show up when we have a compromise to the flow of energy. All kinds of situations can affect our energy flow - environmental toxins, stress, lack of exercise, lack of sleep, poor nutrition, etc. When the flow of energy is compromised, the overall vibration of the energy is lower. When our vibration is lower, symptoms begin to appear. Conversely, when we clear the blockages through a Healing Touch treatment, the overall vibration is higher and when the vibration is higher, it is impossible for symptoms to hold in the body.
Every single human being is created to be able to flow energy - to ourselves and to others. It is a skill, and just like any other skill, your ability to do it improves with practice. Your subtle awareness of your own energy also improves with practice. If you are ready to take a powerful step toward higher-level wellness, a great way to start is by learning about energy medicine and Healing Touch.
Think of a wellness wheel, consisting of spokes that represent all the categories of health such as physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, social, and environmental. If we can simply improve our situation in one of those categories, we begin to see improvement in all of them. The better we feel, the more inspired we are to take good care of ourselves. If we keep our vibration high through regular Healing Touch treatments, we begin to crave healthier, higher vibrational foods. Additionally, our bodies crave more water, we are drawn to other people with higher vibrations, we spend time in places with higher vibrations, we partake in activities that keep our vibration high such as exercise, time in nature, and reading that is inspiring. We begin to attract to us more opportunities for experiencing joy
THE YOGA CONNECTION MAGAZINE
Lauri Pointer is a Healing Touch Certified Practitioner and Instructor as well as a Certified Instructor of Journal To the Self®. She has been in private practice doing Healing Touch since 1997. She lives in Fort Collins, CO and thoroughly enjoys time with her family and friends and taking full advantage of the beautiful Colorado mountains--regularly hiking, trail running, skiing, and snowshoeing.
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AUTUMN 2010
神道 Shen Dao ~ “The Way of Spirit”
TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICAL CLINIC, INC. Olivario Pijoan
Michael Johnston
Licensed Acupuncturist (CO, NM) Doctor of Oriental Medicine (NM)
Licensed Acupuncturist (CO, CA, NY)
700 West Mountain Avenue, Fort Collins, Colorado (N.W. Corner of Mountain & Loomis)
(970) 416-0444 • www.tcmclinic.org Hours: Mon, Tues, Fri & Sat
8:00 am ~5:00 pm
Acupuncture • Chinese Herbology NCCAOM Certified
Many different styles of yoga Classes in Egoscue and Tai Chi Pilates Group Classes and Private Classes Offering the most up-to-date pilates equipment including: Reformer, Chair, Cadilac and Tower Non-members are welcome! First Saturday of every month FREE PILATES EQUPMENT CLASS from 11-12 Fort Collins Club 1307 East Prospect Road, Ft. Collins CO 80526 Phone: 970-224-2582, Direct: 970-310-1477 E-mail: echisesi@comcast.net Website: www.fortcollinsclub.net
When The Mics Don’t Work...
I’m not talking about forcing things to happen. I’m talking about enjoying what you’re handed. My name is Kathryn. I’m a freelance videographer, a local yoga instructor, a fellow seeker, and David’s YogaFest cohort. And, yes, the microphones quit working. First, our words were intermittently mixed with razor-blade screeches, and then there was nothing. How does one teach yoga with only every-other syllable audible, a too-large headset impeding any chance to physically illustrate the missing words, and hundreds of on-lookers gawking at the awkward situation? For a perfectionist like myself, it was hard to accept that I couldn’t offer quality instruction. Yoga has brought me immeasurable comfort and insight, and I strive to share a path to peace in every class I teach. But, I had to realize that things were out of my control, to work with what I had, and to look at the bigger picture. YogaFest isn’t about getting pulses pumping, or contorting one’s body in a new way. It really isn’t even about the connection of body, mind, and soul. (Gasp!) YogaFest isn’t a class. It is a production, put on by a beautiful band named Lila, and a group of well-intentioned instructors, with the objective of bringing awareness to Yoga and building a heartcentered community. And, if that were the goal, I’d say the event was a smashing success.
Written by David Moats and Kathryn Visser Sometimes, inspiration never seems to come and then one day it slaps you right in the face. My name is David. I’m a full-time, Traditional Chinese Medicine and acupuncture student, a yoga instructor, and I’m deeply involved in the Fort Collins yoga community. For weeks, I have been pondering, no, downright grasping, for something to write about in the Yoga Connection Magazine. It is two in the morning and a blank sheet of paper lays in front me. A pencil clinches tightly between my knuckles as the eraser rubs against my forehead. I attempt to write the first line: The key to life…too cliché…Every Yogi at some point in his or her practice encounters…no wait…the journey of yoga is rooted in the...no that won’t work….Yoga is the union of…Ughhh! Frustration, then Panic. I told Kate I would have an article to her by the deadline and I can‘t even manufacture the first line. But, I am a yogi. Yogis have quite the quiver of tools in their tool belt. I draw from my hip one serving of Kapalabhati breathing. Forty repetitions and some breath retention exercises later, my scribe is still paralyzed. I step into that place of acceptance. I decide to call it a night and give it another shot in the morning. I surrender into the tides of destiny in an attempt to live what I preach. Ebb and Flow.
It’s taken me a long time to Ebb and Flow with life. The progress has come in small, jerking, sometimes backwards-slipping, steps. I owe a large part of this evolution to David. He likes to joke that he “found me in Savasana,” when he soothed me with a final adjustment at the end of class, my chest heaving from unlocked emotions. He was teaching Ebb and Flow, a class, which he defines as, “an energizing Vinyasa class full of upbeat flows, intermittently mixed with static postures.” The concept came from the idea that life Ebbs and Flows. Sometimes we are riding high atop that exhilarating wave, and sometimes we are ground into the sand, scraping our bodies across the ocean floor. That’s just life, you can’t stop it, you can’t mold it, you can’t force it. You can only ride the wave.
The deadline hovers on the horizon and for days, still nothing comes. Humbled, I surrender to defeat. Growing up in California as a surfer, I learned about nature’s ways and how to harmonize with its waves to get that perfect ride; knowing that sometimes, you just have to submit. YogaFest awaits and I am scheduled to teach a class to what could be 100 practitioners. Nightmares dance in my mind of all the things that could go wrong teaching in Old Town Square. I dream of fumbling my cues, having pants with food stains on them, or forgetting to include left sides in asanas as hundreds of people watch. They laugh at my demise. I feel the humiliation in my dream as if it were real. What if my microphone doesn’t work? How would people hear me amongst all the noise in Old Town Square on a Friday night?
I just recently returned from an incredible Ashtanga Teacher Training in California. We spent a lot of time studying Sanskrit, the primary liturgical language of Hinduism and Buddhism, yoga’s poetic prose. In Sanskrit, Anahata is the word for Heart. It is defined as “un-struck,” or, “not opened by force.” How fantastic! For a young woman who was raised to believe that you can always do better, work harder, and manufacture happiness, this is a huge revelation. I don’t have to force anything. All is the way it should be. Life is perfect just the way it is. I can enjoy the sand in my teeth and the water up my nose because the current behind this wave is going to draw me to the surface, as long as I don’t fight the tides.
YogaFest arrives. We are poised and ready to teach. The stars seem aligned. Sound check comes. The microphones are working just fine. I spent all day eating especially carefully so that I didn’t spill anything on my pants, and I have written a note on the back of my hand saying, “Remember the left sides,” just in case. I am prepared. We teach.
The next time you find yourself pressing your eraser against your forehead trying to force the lead to draw the next line ... Relax. Allow yourself to Ebb. All is coming. The most treacherous storms yield the most epic waves. Sometimes the mics don’t work, and you let the experience speak for itself.
And then it happens.
Local yoga instructors, David Moats and Kathryn Visser, can be found at Miramont, Treetop, and Breathe Yoga. For a full listing of their class schedules go to Ebb and Flow Yoga on Facebook or email: ebbandflowyoga@yahoo.com
When the mics don’t work, you speak louder. When you body fails, you sharpen your mind. When love walks away, you stand up straighter. When your pockets are empty, you fill up your heart. THE YOGA CONNECTION MAGAZINE
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The Kundalini Yoga Lifestyle …unlike any Yoga you will ever experience By Lori Krauss Kundalini Yoga teachers begin each event and their own personal practice tuning in to this mantra. As we do, the lineage of the Golden Chain, the 10 Sikh Gurus, are energetically accessible to help us deepen our practice. The Will of God is ever-present to a much greater degree and our ego steps aside. We are ready to begin. Yogis of this practice begin each morning with Sadhana. Sadhana is a daily spiritual practice which allows us to express the Infinite within. It is a discipline of the body and mind to serve the soul. The body is participating in the Kundalini Yoga set or kriya, followed by the mind doing a specific meditation. Yogi Bhajan has strongly suggested a meditation of a specific set of seven chants designed to open each chakra and prepare us for the Aquarian Age. Sadhana is best done during the ambrosial hours of 4-7am before the sun rises. Because of the angle of the sun and the earth, and the effect that it has on the electromagnetic fields, higher states of meditation are more easily accessed. Physical cleansing of the body and mental-emotional clearing of the subconscious fears are best achieved first thing in the morning, which then sets the day to be in the flow of the Divine.
Ong Namo Guru Dev Namo!
I Bow to the Divine Wisdom Within!
Another unique practice of Kundalini Yoga is the wearing of white clothing, preferably cotton or other natural fibers. White reflects all the colors of the spectrum and actually expands our energetic fields. Our aura radiates up to 1.5 feet larger with white clothes on. This increased stability makes it easier to handle stress.
I invite you to explore and experience any of these Kundalini Yoga practices and enjoy the enhanced radiance they bring to you. Events are provided at Breathe Yoga Studio on Saturdays with Lori Krauss and Rich Morley. You do not have to be flexible to do Kundalini Yoga. Whether it is your first time or 100th, all are welcome.
A Kundalini Yogi has a lifestyle free of alcohol, drugs, cigarettes, meat, fish, eggs, and poultry. These substances create toxicity within the body, are difficult to digest, and produce high levels of uric acid within the blood stream, making it difficult to attain deeper levels of meditation. In creating a body of higher vibration, sattvic foods are important, such as fruits and veggies. Yogi Bhajan offers the trinity foods for greatest health: onion, garlic, ginger.
If you would like to join our email list or register for events, please call 224 – 5006 or visit our web site at www.myfortcollinsyoga.com.
Dr. Lori Krauss, chiropractor of 28 years, practices gentle Network Care, Kundalini Yoga teacher (as taught by Yogi Bhajan) for the past year, mother of 3 amazing boys and grandmother of one adorable, baby boy. She lives life passionately, from her innate guidance, and teaches others to honor the wisdom within. She loves to travel and has served on several international mission trips.
Eating only when hungry and eating until you are 75% full will ensure greater health and vitality through the ages. Every 18 years, diminish your food intake by 1/3. Do not eat after sunset, rest after meals, and avoid caffeine. Kundalini Yoga practitioners end all personal practice and teaching events with a final mantra – Sat Nam. Sat Nam means, “The Spirit of Truth is within me” or “Truth is my Identity”. It is chanted in an 8:1 count, with a long Sat, short Nam.
ISSUE # 4
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THE YOGA CONNECTION MAGAZINE
Green for Life: The Detoxifying Properties of Wheatgrass by Celeste Magnuson Fifty million years ago, our guardian angel, the grass, arrived to our planet - to make life possible, and to prepare the Earth for the human race. ~Edmond Bordeaux Szekely Einstein laid the groundwork for nearly all natural health care models when he showed the world that everything, including the human body, at its most fundamental level, is vibrating energy that follows natural laws. Health is the result of cooperating with these natural laws of our being, and science supports the premise that there are no nutrients in animal-based foods that are not better obtained by plant-based foods. The Standard American Diet (or SAD) for most Americans consists of ultra-high level fat content foods with high levels of preservatives. Toxins from red and white meats, water, air and other environmental factors can leave your insides feeling worn and run-down. An average American will eat 4-6 meals/day and have a typical bowlmovement once a day. This leaves anywhere from 5-8 meals of food sitting in your system at any given time. Natural plant based foods are the Holy Grail. Their chemical and biological composition creates a symphony of sustainability, proper functioning, and internal healing that is in direct contrast to the stresses and illnesses placed on the body by animal based and heavily processed foods.
Dr. Ann Wigmore founded the Hippocrates Institute, developed the Living Foods Lifestyle (raw, plant-based nutrition), and introduced wheatgrass to America over 40 years ago. She did extensive research and found that it was possible to heal the body of serious dis-ease by taking in the proper nutrients and eliminating toxins from the body. Her research showed that live foods and wheatgrass promoted a considerable rate of recovery for many suffering from advanced levels of dis-ease.
Ann Wigmore, age 82
Wheatgrass juice has the amazing ability to detoxify the body almost immediately after consumption. When beginning a wheatgrass detox, start slowly, drinking only one ounce of juice per day. As the body begins to eliminate toxins, old drug deposits and poisons, it can be much like experiencing the flu. Headaches, muscle aches, fatigue, nausea, occasional vomiting, dizzy and spaced-out feelings, and nerve symptoms can develop depending on your level of toxicity. These symptoms usually begin to ease up after the first week. After the detox phase, the chlorophyll in the grass juice begins to build and refine the tissues. Dr. Ann Wigmore’s detox protocol is as follows: •
Begin with one ounce of juice per day.
•
Drink the juice 1 hour before meals and at least 2 hours after.
•
If detox symptoms are not happening, after about a week increase the amount gradually… over a period of weeks.
•
The maximum recommended amount is 4 to 6 ounces per day. Most find 2 to 3 ounces to be very energizing.
•
She also recommends that during the initial two weeks, in order to alleviate detox symptoms, daily enemas and a colonic once per week should be taken. Anytime a live juice or live food regime is initiated, the body becomes strong enough to eliminate toxins at the cell level, and the blood stream and lymphatic system begin to carry them out. The organs of elimination include the bowel, kidneys, lungs, and skin. It is important that the bowels be kept clear with either enemas or colonics. Toxins that sit in the bowel tend to reabsorb into the bloodstream. This is what causes symptoms such as headaches and nausea. Ingesting fiber, such as ground flax seed, is also helpful.
•
Drink plenty of water… at least one quart for every fifty pounds of body weight. When toxins are eliminated via the kidneys, skin and lung problems are less likely to develop. Toxins in the body tend to find a way out, and it is best if we keep them moving out through the proper channels. Living food (raw plant-based nutrition) also assists in removing toxins naturally.
•
People who are extremely ill and begin wheat grass should do it under the direction of a health practitioner.
•
It is also recommended that while going through detox, one should cut down on the amount of protein eaten. Try to eat just fruits and vegetables (raw), and fruit and vegetable juices. This allows the body to use all its energy to eliminate rather than using this energy to digest food.
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Sometimes after a week or two people notice that the juice makes them nauseous. This is a typical reaction and might be the body’s signal to slow down a bit or change from wheatgrass to barley grass juice.
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Dr. Wigmore found that after several weeks or months on the juice, the body begins to heal present and past illnesses that have been suppressed. Dr. Bernard Jensen says that the body heals from top down and from the inside out, and backwards in the order of whatever was wrong last.
Wheatgrass is easy to grow at home! Please feel free to email me or stop by my center for detailed instructions.
Celeste Magnuson is nationally certified in massage and bodywork. Her areas of focus have been Neuromuscular Therapy and Structural Integration to relieve chronic and acute pain. She also spent a year studying and working at the Ann Wigmore Natural Health Institute in Aguada, Puerto Rico. Her lectures and workshops focus on “Living Foods Lifestyle” training (Raw Foods!). And, as an I-ACT Instructor Level Colon Hydrotherapist, Celeste offers 100 hour workshops for foundation level colon hydrotherapy certification.
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Sanskrit Corner:
“She said what?” We’ve all been in a yoga class, heard a Sanskrit word and wondered, “what does that mean?” We shall begin an ongoing column in TYC to help indentify some of these words and offer a translation. Here are a few common Sanskrit words and their translations:
Asana: A yogic posture held to induce various mind states and/or to release spiritual energies. A posture to be a yoga posture must be enjoyable and steady. Asana is not just a physical posture, but also a mental pose, i.e. a correct attitude: peacefulness, quietude. Aum (OM): This sacred symbol is the basis of all man-
tras. It is the root syllable of origination and dissolution. All that exists is only a development of this eternal syllable. The past, the present and the future are all included in this mantra sound.
Dharma: ”That which sustains and upholds.” It means
living a life of high conduct, moral duty, universal law, universal order, custom, principle and justice. It means being true to one’s own self, often expressed as duty to oneself. It also means duty to one’s civilization.
Mantra: The word means “thought form.” Mantra is
an instrument of thought. They are sacred formulas or mystical verses that contain within them primary vibratory forces that create mystical states of consciousness.
Mudra: This refers to hand gestures, or more accurately,
gestures made with the fingers that are used during certain types of rituals and/or meditations. Many different yogic texts list from 10 to 37 different mudras. The main purpose of a mudra is to “gather” energy in a given chakra so as to obtain metaphysical visional states and/or psychic powers (yoga siddhis).
Shanti: Means “equilibrium” or “peace.” It is most often repeated three times, each repetition being softer that the one before. It is preceded by OM: Om, shanti, shanti, shantih. Exoterically, it means, “May the physical universe be in equilibrium. May the mental universe be in equilibrium. May the causal universe be in equilibrium.” THE YOGA CONNECTION MAGAZINE
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My name is Jack Workman and I am a Yogi... I am starting my sophomore year at Fossil Ridge High School in Fort Collins, Colorado. I turned sixteen during my yoga teacher training last month in San Francisco. I have been doing yoga for almost exactly two years. September of last year my dad and I attended the Yoga Journal Conference at the YMCA of the Rockies in Estes Park. I had been practicing yoga for about a year and a half before that and it felt so good to be in a climate where I was surrounded by so many yoga practitioners. We attended the Beginners Conference to gain a more basic understanding of yoga. For three days, we took classes from some of the best teachers. It was a blast! During one of the breaks between classes, we went to the cafeteria to have lunch. I talked with them about wanting to learn more about yoga and hoping to attend a teacher training. Sitting at the table next to us was Jason Crandell, who had just taught us “Sun Salutation 101.” Jason joined our conversation. After meeting him and talking for a while, I knew I wanted to continue my yoga studies with him. I found out that he was having a teacher training in July 2010 in San Francisco. To me, that sounded like a wonderful idea. I told Jason I hoped I could make it. We ended the conversation with no official plans. The Conference concluded, leaving me craving an environment where all I did was practice yoga. When I went home, I did all the yoga I could fit into my schedule. I held onto the idea of going to Jason’s training in San Francisco. Yoga became more of a lifestyle than a hobby for me. It took away a lot of stress at school and gave me a healthier body. I decided to bring up attending the training to my parents. Even though it would cost a lot of money, they wanted to support my passion. I emailed Jason and told him my plan. Over the next few months, we figured out all the details. The month of July came so quickly, and I was so excited to go! After a fun road trip, my parents and I arrived in San Francisco. We went to the Yoga Loft, where the teacher training would be held, and met Meg, the owner. She took us to a house, where she had arranged for us to live during the teacher training, conveniently just around the block. The next day was the beginning of the teacher training.
The first day was scary—uncomfortable for me. I was worried about what the other trainees would think of a fifteen-year-old being in a yoga teacher training. All of the other trainees and Jason were so encouraging and supportive to me. As the days passed, I became more comfortable. The first week of the training was intense. Some of the days lasted thirteen hours, but I enjoyed every minute because I was doing what I loved. After the first week the schedule calmed down, the training was just in the afternoon except for the weekends. This gave my mom and I time to explore the city. The culture of San Francisco was amazing. There was something to do all the time. It was joyful. It was happening. It was definitely a town made for yogis. The days passed so fast and I was learning so much.
VISION QUEST One of the greatest pieces of knowledge I gained was to truly savor the moment. On the last night of the teacher training, a lot of us were sad. However, we had learned that things quickly change, so to embrace and accept the “now” because that is all we truly have. I said goodbye to everyone and told Jason I wanted to continue my studies with him in the future. When the teacher training ended, we drove home. It was a bittersweet moment for me because we were leaving San Francisco, but I had just earned my 200-hour teacher certification. Once we got back to my hometown in Colorado, the local yoga community was putting on a YogaFest. There was music and yoga in the town square. I demonstrated yoga asana. On the stage, I remembered what I learned from my teacher, and I was completely in the moment. It was probably the most comfortable I have ever felt in front of a group of people in public. Going to San Francisco was a life c h a n g i n g experience for me. My parents had said it would be somewhat like a vision quest for me, and it was. I came out with a clear intention of what I want to do in life—to spread the energy of yoga to everyone.
Jack Workman is a Yoga Alliance certified teacher. He can be contacted for class and private yoga instruction at jackworkman78@gmail.com .
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By Jack Workman
The Benefits of Coming Home to Yoga
by Nina Kunze
As much as I looked forward to my daughter being selfsufficient and out from under our wings, when the time came for her to leave for college, there was a gaping hole. One part of me celebrated the new freedom, the ability to travel more, to do more of what pleased me, but on the other hand, I felt empty.
Symptoms of aging had started plaguing me at around age 50. Fatigue, arthritis, neck and back pain, and some irritating menopausal symptoms such as weight gain, hot flashes, and mood swings were bothering me. Getting serious about integrating yoga into my life eased so much of this. Instead of having uncomfortable feelings and depression over getting older, I began to settle into myself.
About this time, I went to southern California with my husband on a trip for his business. Yoga Works was offering a special: two weeks of unlimited yoga for $30. It was perfect, since I was there for two weeks and the Pacific Palisades studio was within walking distance of where we were staying. So, while my husband contended with LA traffic on his way to business appointments, I, without a car, simply took my mat and walked to Yoga Works. Often.
Days stretched into months that year, and I remained committed to my practice. The arthritis in my wrists and hands subsided as my strength and stamina increased. A deep contentment began to seep into my core. Yoga literally means union. It is a union of body, mind, and spirit like no other, and that’s what I began to understand.
I wasn’t new to yoga. I knew how calming it was and how good it made me feel physically. I had been practicing for years, usually once a week, maybe twice if I was lucky. But, the commitment wasn’t there. My attitude about physical exercise was “no pain, no gain.” If I took a yoga class that I thought wasn’t strenuous enough, I was afraid I was wasting precious time when I could have been huffing and puffing in a cardio class, out running, or lifting weights. I thought the objective was to burn the maximum amount of calories in the minimum amount of time. I have since learned the advantages of a different way of thinking.
In the fall, I helped my daughter move away to college. Life was shifting enormously, and I had a transition to work through. It was time to deepen my yoga practice, and I made a decision to begin yoga teacher training. I signed up through the Shambhava School of Yoga to become a certified yoga instructor. At first, it felt intrusive to have so much of my schedule consumed by class time, study, and memorizing poses, but soon a rhythm was established and I began to look forward to the time with my teachers and classmates. It turned out to be a deeply satisfying 3 ½ months, a wonderful way of transitioning out of one phase of life and into another.
I loved the way yoga made me feel, and I sensed the possibilities that were there. Something new opened up in me during those two weeks in LA. The simplicity of walking a few blocks with my mat and water bottle, putting my mat down, and having my yoga practice become the focal point of my day had shifted something major in me. Instead of mentally going over my to-do list, I put all thoughts aside during practice. My breath became central. A peaceful sense of well-being settled over me, and the routine of heading to the studio became a joyful, nurturing event.
After my training was completed, I naturally gravitated toward teaching a gentle style of yoga. Gone were the days of thinking that the objective was burning the maximum amount of calories. Yoga was about so much more. Developing a sense of inner peace, awareness of one’s breath and paying attention to flexibility are all deeply essential. Yoga helped me finally understand that the results I see in the mirror are not the whole picture. Yet, as I continued with my own practice and teaching regularly, I did see changes that I had been seeking for some time, but not achieving with my former philosophy. My energy increased greatly. I shed (and kept off) those extra pounds that had plagued me. I learned that teaching others brings me home to myself by regularly reminding me to tune in to breath, to the moment, and to good health.
I carried that feeling home with me and vowed to deepen my commitment to my yoga practice. I found a yoga class within walking distance of my home, and I held to my intention. Rather than sternly telling myself to get to the gym and then often finding a way out of going, I began to eagerly anticipate my yoga practice. My body began to crave the mixture of movement with breath, the deep stretching, the chance to live in the moment while strengthening my body and spirit. I became one with my yoga practice. It was as if I’d been drifting along a stream aimlessly, and a lifeboat with my name on it floated by, and I took hold.
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Yoga has helped me so much with the aging process that it is a natural fit for me to teach others who want to improve the quality of their lives as they age. Since my aches and pains from tension, poor posture, and arthritis gradually faded away with a committed and regular yoga practice, a desire arose in me to help others achieve the same. And, as my flexibility increased, I became aware of how essential flexibility is if we wish to hang on to our youthful
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suppleness. Our muscles and ligaments are attached to our bones with a material called fascia. As we age, this fascia becomes brittle, causing the stiffness and inflexibility experienced by so many. Yoga naturally lubricates and loosens the fascia, and that is why stretching is so important. Yoga is literally a magic, anti-aging elixir! Balance is another key area where yoga helps to combat aging. It is common for older people to have trouble with normal activities like standing up to shower or walking while carrying groceries. There are many yoga asanas that help improve our balance and which help us to avoid the immobility caused by being shaky on our feet. Quality of life for older adults can be dramatically improved with regular yoga practice. Yoga has helped me become more fully myself. The other day I noticed I was feeling completely alive, invigorated, and energized while walking around the grocery store after a yoga session. There was a subtle, positive energy pulsing through my body, telling me that life is good, and there’s so much to look forward to. I knew that sensation was the force of the steady, dedicated yoga practice I have committed myself to. I love to help others achieve the same sense of well being.
OM
I offer classes that encourage students to tune into themselves, featuring a slow flow of linked poses with lots of attention to breath. Our focus is on building strength, flexibility, and balance as well as on improving our quality of life by developing an attitude of appreciation for how rich and full life’s experiences can be. No matter what your age, you will be giving yourself a wonderful gift of greater mental, physical, and spiritual health with a regular, committed practice of yoga. Namasté.
Nina Kunze is a yoga instructor, writer, realtor and property manager who loves sharing yoga with her students of all ages. She is the mother of Corinne, step-mother of Matt and Mark, and wife of Scott, all of whom enjoy doing yoga with her. She teaches “Gentle Yoga” and “Yoga in Your 50’s and Beyond” at Old Town Yoga, and a donation-based class at her old town office. Feel free to contact her at Nina@NinaKunze.com.
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Kirtan:
Sri Krishna Govinda Hare Murare, He Natha Narayana Vasudeva, Sri Krishna Govinda Hare Murare, He Natha Narayana Vasudeva, He Natha Narayana Vasudeva, He Natha Narayana Vasudeva, He Natha Narayana Vasudeva, He Natha Narayana Vasudeva,
Singing for the Divine
I was already in love with the chant, but now I was singing in the backyard to break through the grief that had taken up residence in my throat and the heavy weight that had settled on my heart. I didn’t care about the prospect of Tim’s change, post-surgery. (A dear friend had asked, “Will he get a prosthetic?” when I told her they were removing the cancerous testicle. This question, unthinkable to say the least in our world, gave me and Tim lots of laughs.) No, the reason I was singing my broken heart out, croaking like a bullfrog through my tears and praying desperately through every word, was because I regretted our decision to go to the hospital alone, to not ask my parents—a mere three hours away—to drive over, or his own parents—who lived eight hours away—to drive down. (This was a decision Tim’s parents thankfully ignored, showing up at the hospital just after Tim went into surgery. Before I knew they were coming, however, I thought I had to be Tim’s sole support). I was terrified of Tim’s wish to keep the news of his cancer from reaching a lot of our graduate school community, which was small, supportive, and close. And I was at the end of my imagination – the picture of our future days had been completely blanked out by this unexpected turn of events, and I had no idea what to do. So I sang.
written by Kara Norman
It was the evening before my husband was to have surgery to remove the cancer in his body – testicular cancer. We were merely dating then, far even from engagement, but it was the beginning of the time in our lives when we would say, “Cancer dropped by. He’s going to sleep on our couch for a while,” as if Cancer were an old, mostly bad friend from college, say, or from a different time of chaos in one’s life. It was our attempt, led by Tim, to deal humorously with such a difficult visitor in his body, and thus in our lives.
Alas, the stars above me twinkled. The trees behind me stirred. Somewhere in the grief and the song that it led me to, I gave my heart and all its weight away. I surrendered. I did not quite realize at the time that I was involved in an ancient practice. I only knew that singing made me feel better, and that this chant that I wanted to sing was the most beautiful song I had ever learned.
While it took the edge off, to describe cancer as a couch-surfing annoyant whom we were eventually going to shake, it was not so easy to dismiss the question of how to present our cancer news to the rest of the world. I was scared to tell my family, because I have lived most of my life stubbornly asserting my independence, and now I needed help. Big time. I was also afraid they would judge the fact that neither my beloved nor I had healthcare coverage, a fact that, at one point, I had been somewhat proudly, semi-artistically, and stupidly amused by. I was worried that, while I was their daughter and they sort of had to love me, they would not forgive Tim the same mistake. Especially now, when Look what happens when you assume grace will hold up forever...The judgments played loudly in my mind. Luckily, they were mostly in my mind. No one quite had the gall to mention health insurance to us at the time.
Now I know what I was up to in that moment. It was my first practice of kirtan—singing for the Divine, a practice that I have come to love as much as my asana practice, probably more. I can trace my love for kirtan to those two moments: the first, when my friend taught me her cache of chants and second, the moment in the backyard when I was on the edge of my mind and my heart stepped in to lead.
We had no idea how we were going to pay for any of Tim’s care, but money was the least of my concerns at the moment, at least while cancer blossomed live and well inside of Tim’s body. So there I was, kneeling in our backyard, singing a chant that a yoga friend had taught me only weeks before. At home, I practiced them, memorizing the words she had written out on a piece of paper. Now I called on the song that was the “stickiest” to me, the one that had nestled into the folds of my brain and covered over all other melodies:
The prologue of Steven Rosen’s exceptional book, a collection of interviews called, The Yoga of Kirtan: Conversations on the Sacred Art of Chanting, defines kirtan as “a call-and-response form of yogic chanting.” The benefits of chanting are the same whether you participate in the singing or just hear the words themselves, but the call-and-response format of chanting gives participants the opportunity to fully experience the vibrations within the mantras and invocations.
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What I did not know in those two moments, when I felt so moved by life and in touch with the width and depth of the world’s terrific mystery, was what the yogis who handed down the ritual of kirtan knew: that chanting the name of God is the same as being in the presence of the Divine. It’s like dialing a phone number, but in the case of chanting, guess who answers? It ain’t Little Caesar’s…
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My friend Dhara Carter, who has been chanting for more than twenty years ever since she met her guru, Neem Karoli Baba (who is known lovingly as Maharajji by his devotees and who left the body in 1973), summed up kirtan the first time I met her as, “the most direct and best way to prepare the mind for meditation.” She wasn’t kidding around. As soon as I started singing at the weekly gathering that she and her husband, Ravi Carter, hold at their home in Fort Collins, my voice bolted out of my throat like a racehorse. As my heart dove into the chant, my mind slipped into a place of sweet surrender, wonder, and bliss.
“... it’s the perfection of yoga—since yoga is ultimately about ‘re-linking’ with the Supreme….Most often, chanters glorify [the names of deities] for the fulfillment of various material desires.…But these goals really miss the point. These things are actually insignificant side benefits of the real benediction that the holy name can bestow—that is, pure love for God, prema. This is the real fruit of chanting.” There had been a dark moment early in my courtship with Tim, long before we were seriously involved, but shortly after I realized I loved him. I woke up from a night’s sleep and thought of Tim, his being taking up so much real estate in my heart. In an instant, I saw my world go black. I was flooded with panic and the thought that I was going to lose him. I called him up, sobbing. At the time, I believed I had been given information about some tragedy coming our way.
Typically, kirtan-wallahs and their circles—well hold on a minute. Circles is a word I hesitate to use because it sounds exclusive and cultish, but which I use to mean people hanging around a harmonium singing their little hearts out, or people hanging around a harmonium shyly muffling their Sanskrit. In fact, many things about kirtan can sound slightly wacko or cultish to the analytical mind. That’s a little bit of the point. Like all forms of yoga, kirtan aims to yoke the left-brain to the right-brain, the masculine essence to the feminine essence, the Big spirit to the little spirit, the Self to the self. And, kirtan, in particular, does a fine job with its aim.
But, I didn’t lose him – not then, and not after cancer came to town. I thought when we first learned about Tim’s diagnosis, that the moment had finally come, the moment I had feared on that longbefore morning. I was going to lose him. However, as I chanted in the yard and offered up my life with Tim to God and my life’s arc in general, I knew that everything was going to be all right. No matter what happened. And what happened was that we all survived - my beloved, our relationship, our tenuous, but still beating finances. And, perhaps, most miraculously, we faced the whole event with big doses of surrender. Thus, the courage in our hearts grew fierce. A marriage and a leap across the country resulted from it, among other things, such as a lot of bemused wonder at the charity in the world - the charity of loved ones, acquaintances, systems, and strangers.
Okay, where were we? Oh yes, the instruments. Typically, kirtan artists utilize instruments such as the khol - a type of Indian drum with two sides or heads, the kartals - which are small hand cymbals, and the harmonium - an instrument which has a keyboard and is hand-pumped and small enough to sit in front of on the ground. Other instruments may be used and often are, especially as western musicians such as Krishna Das, Jai Uttal, and other kirtaniyas expand and record these ancient chants. And, of course, no instruments must be used at all. The real vehicle of the chants are the words themselves, both because they are generally in Sanskrit (which is a seed language, the mantras of which vibrate in the listener as well as the chanter) and because they are the names of God - an invocation, an honoring, a praising, and a calling-in. As Yemuni Devi says in The Yoga of Kirtan, “Kirtan is our birthright. It comes from deep in the soul - it’s a crying out to God, like a child cries out to its mother.”
I suspect that the black moment I experienced early in our courtship was my heart’s last cry before it jumped into the abyss of true love. It was the full flash of panic before I surrendered to something larger than myself, to the love that had brought me to Tim, to the God who was offering me this beautiful place of tenderness through my union with Tim. This offering was nearly too incredible, something I clearly could not control. And that just about blew my mind. But, I finally conceded that I didn’t need to be in control. It was much more pleasing to watch God’s art unfold.
I knew, the night that I bayed at the stars in my backyard, that I was involved in some form of prayer. But what I got, as well as a way to express my grief, was nearly instant solace: the removal of all analysis, and simple, total acceptance. The acceptance came from deep in my heart, forgiving my arrogance, my fear, and my terror. In other words, I opened the door, and the Divine rushed in.
Sometimes I forget this - that the truth and beauty of life lies in watching consciousness unfold. I get attached to expectations. I re-live old fears. But, when I put on music, or sing and dance, inevitably, I remember. In the sounds of the mantras, I find the love that twines through all things, and I make my way back to it. Kara Norman writes, teaches yoga, and makes food in Fort Collins. She lives with her husband and dog and is crazy about all things yoga.
Sri Prahlad, another kirtan yogi interviewed by Rosen, calls kirtan a mantra meditation that “reconnects the chanter with the supreme soul, God.” He says:
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22
At Home Practice
Ardha Chandrachapasana “Sugarcane pose”
What is the notion of Radical Expansion in yoga? The three A’s of Anusara ® Yoga help us to understand the fundamental ability of our beings to expand not only on the mat, but off the mat. Attitude, alignment and action form this triad. An easier way to think of this is to ask these three questions. What do you want (attitude)?; What do you desire (align with)? ; and What are you going to do about it (action)? One of the first meanings of radical in the dictionary is the root of a plant or the fundamental quality and nature of something. This fundamental quality can be as simple as how you line your feet up on your mat – how you root yourself into the earth or as complex as how you line up with the gifts you have been given in this life. Both of these qualities reflect our natural state to expand and deepen our awareness in everything we undertake. It is always from this place of consciousness that we are able to taste the bliss of our incredible embodiment!
Benefits •Lengthens hamstrings and quadriceps, opens shoulders •Teaches muscular and organic energy
It is with the sensitivity of our hearts that we cultivate Radical Expansion. The balance action between stability and freedom arises from our breath, the place where our soft heart, sharp mind and vibrant body meet.
Containdications
This is just what we will need to delve into
•Hypertension – obesity
•Injured hamstring •High blood pressure
Ardha Chandrachapasana
•Lower back or disc injuries
known as “Sugarcane pose”
ISSUE # 4
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Parsvakonasana –
Side angle pose
Taking a wide stance, bend your front knee at a right angle. Pause and open to the sensitivity and rooting of your foundation. Plug into the earth and, with the freedom of your breath, draw energy from your feet into the core of your pelvis by engaging your muscles. From there, stretch your arm alongside your ear and revolve your belly upward by pressing from your pelvis back out into your foundation. Full stretch and expand.
1.
2.
3.
Asva sancalanasana – Advancing horse pose – low lunge
Urdhva prasarita ekapadasana –
Step one foot back and spin on the ball of the back foot, bend your front leg at a right angle. With sensitivity and your breath, bring your back knee to the floor. Keeping your front foot firmly rooted, drag your back knee towards the front of your mat to firm your foundation. Keeping all that you have aligned, soften and deepen you pose to the place your breath leads you.
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One leg extended up pose
Fold forward into Uttanasana (standing forward fold) and enjoy your breath. Again, draw energy up your legs by engaging your muscles onto your bones. As you lift your right leg to the sky, hug your leg deeply into your midline. From there, extend out through the long bones of your legs. Say yes to the desire to expand and deepen the opening of your hamstrings.
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Ardha chandrasana -
Half Moon Pose
Step back into Utthita trikonsasana (triangle pose). Pause and soften, then bend your front knee, cup the fingers of your right hand and slide them forward on the floor until they are in front of your pinkie toe. Commit through your standing leg and lift your back leg. As you root down through your foundation, create freedom in your upper body and unfurl your pose.
4.
Ardha Chandrachapasana –
Half moon bow pose – Sugarcane pose
Begin in Half Moon Pose, waiting for the invitation of the breath, bend your top leg. Be sensitive to your alignment and hug into the midline of your body. Sweep your top arm alongside your ear and reach back to take your foot. Press down from your pelvis into the earth and put into action the opening you have created. Be radical and expand!
5.
Tomi Simpson is a certified Anusara® yoga instructor.
ISSUE # 4
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Autumn Ayurveda
Tonight as I dimmed the lights while bringing my evening yoga class into savasana, I noticed there was almost no light from the windows peering in. Then, riding my bike home in a T-shirt and Capri pants, I felt the chilly air making me think of tea and sweaters. Autumn is knocking on the door and I actually just put my winter scarves away today! While I do feel a tinge of sadness as summer begins to fade, I have to admit, part of me is ready for the shift. I can only enjoy so much of the high Sun, elevated energy level, erratic (but fun!) schedules, and Pitta inducing heat. I know some people may disagree but, I stand with arms open to receive the fresh energy of autumn. Fall has always been my favorite season, if I am forced to pick. I love watching the leaves change. Growing up in update NY, the colors were spectacular. My mom actually still sends me some red and orange leaves from where she lives and somehow they are still in perfect condition when they arrive in the mail. During Summer in Colorado, I find myself making small notes about what areas have the most Aspen trees with hopes to visit again as they turn brilliant gold. In Ayurveda, Fall is the season of Vata. The outside temperature cools down, the air becomes dry, and the wind picks up. All of these changes work to increase Vata, regardless of the combination of doshas in an individual’s constitution. As discussed in the previous issues of TYC, according to the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda, we are each made of a unique combination of elements: earth, water, fire, air, and ether. The elements translate to a wide variety of attributes and determine what dosha or combination of doshas are primary in our constitution. The Kapha dosha is composed of water and earth. Fire and water predominate the Pitta constitution. Vata is made of air and ether and is the principle of movement and change. Ayurveda teaches ‘like increases like’ and therefore as the air moves more briskly and the seasons change, the qualities of Vata are enhanced.
by Sarada Erickson
In a balanced state, the increase of Vata may encourage more creativity, enthusiasm, and more interest in spirituality. However, when Vata is out of balance, increased stress, anxiety, fear, indecision, forgetfulness, and insomnia may arise. Luckily, Ayurveda has many simple suggestions for keeping Vata happy.
As autumn arrives, if you feel your Vata out of balance (i.e., dry skin, restless sleep, fear, anxiety, constipation, unsettling routines, agitated mind) try a few Ayurvedic suggestions and nourish yourself … mind, body and spirit. Meditation Out of the three main doshas, Vata is most drawn to spiritual endeavors. Meditation can help ground Vata in the present moment, clear the mind, and decrease anxiety/fear/sleeplessness. One simple technique from the Shambhava School of Yoga is the “Breath Awareness Meditation” described below. If you would enjoy the support of a group, there are many classes offered around town. In fact, my husband and I teach meditation out of our home on Sunday evenings. Additionally you may wish to check out Treetop Yoga, Old Town Yoga, CSU, Shambhala Center or Heruka. The structure of a group can help Vata combat the tendency to meditate only when the mood strikes.
Breath Awareness Meditation Sit comfortably on a cushion or chair, with a tall spine and relaxed shoulders. Direct your focus to the present moment. Observe your breath. What are the qualities of your breath? Notice the pace, depth, rhythm. Return to your breath anytime you find you have become distracted. Let go of doing and wanting to change things - simply be present with the ebb and flow of prana (life energy that is part of the breath). Allow your breath to lead you deeper inside and experience your Inner Self.
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Foods for nourishing Vata: •
Root vegetables! I have found I can roast just about any root vegetable I come across and really enjoy it. No kidding. Winter squash, radishes, turnips, daikon, celeriac, beets, sweet potatoes, carrots, parsnip, - cut them into cubes or just in half, toss lightly with canola oil, and roast them! They typically take about 45 minutes at 450 degrees, but it depends on your taste.
•
Warm and moist foods soothe Vata. Think soup, sweet potatoes, and oatmeal.
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Avoid dry, crunchy foods such as crackers, popcorn, and cereal.
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Don’t be afraid of adding a little oil to your food. Vata is dry and airy, so a little fat supplies lubrication and grounding. Almond, canola, sesame, and sunflower are recommended for Vata. Better yet, try ghee (clarified butter). See the recipe below.
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Perhaps most importantly, attempt a regular eating schedule with enough time to enjoy your meal. Vata has the tendency to forget to eat.
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Warm spices such as cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, nutmeg, oregano, rosemary, thyme, basil, curry and others are all excellent for Vata.
Establish a Routine Ayurveda recommends going to bed (by 10pm) and waking at the same time each day (very important for restless sleepers especially). The regularity of meal times helps digestion and elimination. Meditating at the same time creates a more stable mind. Routine is a hard one for me and many Vatas. If you can do your best to follow a pattern, you will definitely feel more balanced. I think the level of difficulty corresponds with the level of benefit I can gain from it. I do not agree with this sentiment when it comes to activities which are physically painful. But, when it comes to certain disciplines, resistance can reveal patterns that sustain a less than optimal state. The trick is to see this resistance as an opportunity to grow in ourselves!
Make your own Ghee! (clarified butter)
Asana for soothing Vata
In Ayurveda, ghee is known for many positive attributes. It aids digestion by balancing stomach acids. It is rich in antioxidants and it increases the absorption of nutrients from other foods. Ayurveda places special importance on ghee for enhancing overall health, longevity, and well-being. I first learned how to make ghee while living at Shoshoni Yoga Retreat. It is very simple and satisfying.
Move slower, focus on grounding into the earth whether this is with your feet, your sit bones, your shoulders, or whatever body part is on the ground. Let your breath be slow, regular, and deep. Try some hip opening, sitting and lying poses as well as shoulder stand and plow. Restorative poses can be heavenly; use cushions to make it super comfortable. Lastly, enjoy a longer savasana to calm and balance Vata.
Place 1 pound of unsalted butter in a heavy bottom pan.
Quick Vata remedies
Cook at medium-low heat for 15-20 minutes. The butter will bubble and the milk solids separate out. The remainder becomes golden and clear. It is easy to overcook so be watchful. The butter will start to brown and burn if left too long or on too high of heat.
After your daily shower when your skin still has some moisture, apply oil. If you are primarily Vata, sesame oil is recommended. Kapha can use sesame oil also. Pitta can choose sunflower or coconut. Personally, in Colorado I need to use Shea butter, which is really great for super dry skin.
Strain through a fine wired mesh into a glass jar. Use just as you would butter.
Oil your feet and put socks on prior to going to bed. Try some essential oils. My favorites for Vata are sandalwood (also good for Pitta), chamomile, rosewood, ylang ylang, lavender, and cedarwood. Use in bath, steam, tea, water, massage oil, or dilute in a base oil and use as perfume.
The heaviness of your pan, the amount of butter you start with, and your patience level (don’t give it a jump start on high first - not recommended - but med-high is fine for a few minutes) all impact cooking time. If you watch the process a couple times, you will develop the magic touch. A golden jar of ghee is very pleasing to the senses!
Enjoy some peace and quiet. Excess stimulation through TV, computers, etc can disturb Vata.
Sarada Erickson began practicing yoga in 1997 and was nationally certified for yoga instruction through the Shambava School of Yoga. She has assisted many yoga teacher trainings in the Shambava School and began leading trainings in Fort Collins in the Spring of 2007. She has an MS in nutrition and is an RD. Sarada deeply enjoys helping people find a more complete sense of Self through nutrition, yoga, meditation and lifestyle. She offers group classes and private instruction in the Fort Collins community.
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THE YOGA CONNECTION MAGAZINE
The Mystical Life Explorations of the Mysticism of Yoga...
The Soul & Chakras by Gary Pritchard
* Indicates future topics to be explored in depth.
In
the summer issue, we began to explore a mystical viewpoint of the Soul. More specifically, that exploration was through the lens of the mysticism of Yoga. With great daringness, we began to dissect the composition of this most elusive of spiritual icons. The reality of the Soul, I feel, is one of the most important, and tragically, one of the most misunderstood, misrepresented and institutionally abused of all the pieces of knowledge belonging to the mystic or religious traditions. Our ideas about it, as well as our technologies for its care, nourishment and refinement, are usually antiquated and are often cloaked in a language that has not been relevant for many thousands of years. We tend to carry around a bag full of rusty terms and ideas that we prop up with hope, and all too often, secure with fear. This bag of rusty inadequacy is not easily converted to a cache of modern mysticism. It takes a great deal of work and freethinking to accomplish it. Developing and modernizing our antiquated paradigms usually requires one to stand against the current of the norm and past conditioning. In the process of modernizing our spirituality, we are challenged to develop a deeper, more enlivened communion. One that is based on the application of the scientific method to our spiritualization, as well as, the sophistication of our religious lives. We are required to operate as integrators instead of separatists, regardless of institutional or anthropological affiliations, if we are to advance our spiritual* paradigm.
the various subjects of mysticism is the whole point of this series of articles. We are simply caught in Van Neumann’s Abyss of Infinite Regress on this one. Complexity is the outcome of the depth of one’s perception, but does not necessarily create confusion. Confusion is the outcome of the depth of one’s misconception. Ironically, the revelation of intricacies or complexity is actually the alleviation of confusion. This is reminiscent of the maxim that states, “Chaos is an order that goes unperceived.” Although, unfortunate as it is for us spiritual seekers, confusion tends to compound and expand before it recedes. The subject matters are vast, and it simply takes time and effort to develop an adequate frame of reference. However, the Soul itself, with its intrinsic intelligence, will prevail and we shall have our triumph as our soldiers (!) defeat the humpbacks (?). Oh, but there will be obscurity, abstractness, implication, strange language, weird words and every type of obfuscating demon arising to give us a challenge. Nevertheless, we will cast them all down with the sword of reason, and in due time, with a raised chalice, we shall have a toast and drink of the elixir that is knowing. Now let’s dig in. We have a lot to cover. In the first article of this series (see the summer issue), we began to explore the reality of the Soul. In that article, I defined the Soul as, “The transdimensional anatomy of subtle organs (organizations) and force/ field complexes, of various scales and intensities that give shape, quality, condition and function to consciousness.” You will see that the definition has two distinct aspects, what the soul is and what it does. In the first article, we trekked as far as to say what it is, and in this article, we will begin to look at what a Soul does. Our journey of what a Soul does will probably span a few seasons; we will have a lot to go over. Furthermore, we will have to look closer at more of the “is” stuff as well.
Another point, that I feel compelled to make, is that deep development and modernization of our spirituality is important to be able to share our insights without spreading contempt for the body of knowledge or methods that give them birth. It is important to prevent our paradigms from being perceived as the sales pitches of pseudo-spiritual profiteers, so that we may be the harbingers of psychic change. We do not want to project our selves as being ungrounded by having no command of our subject matter. We should strive to stand upon a mountain of mastery, as beacons, to give inspiring evidence of our spiritual unfolding.
By the end of that first exploration, we were building familiarity with the concepts of The Planes of Existence, The Sheaths (Koshas) and The Bodies (Shariras). The intention was to introduce the reader to the foundational ideas behind the “trans-dimensional anatomy” and “Force Field Complexes” parts of the definition. In a very general way, the exploration leads us to say that the koshas make up the bodies, the bodies are relative to the planes and that the planes are autonomous dimensions of existence - with all of it being experienced simultaneously and called reality. For the conclusion, the proclamation is made that the soul is the symphonic relating of the Prana Maya Kosha, the Mano Maya Kosha and the Vijnana
The subject of the Soul is intimate, as well as complicated, and my sense is that at least some of you found the last round of exploration to be challenging of your personal beliefs or at least intellectually obscure, or maybe both. If that was the case for you, than I would like to say that I appreciate your bravery and willingness to continue on this exploration. While the intention here is not to complicate, I cannot easily remove the complexity; it is inherent to the subjects of mysticism. So, it comes to being, that exploring the complexity of
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the torso in a vertical fashion, just as the spinal cord does. They start at about the level of the perineum and end at the level of the pituitary gland in the brain, otherwise known as the “third eye.” The starting and stopping points are relative and interchangeable. We can just as accurately say that the three primary nadis start at the area of the pituitary gland. The sushumna nadi is a straight line of force between the starting and ending points and is located in the center of the body, so to speak. The sushumna force line is the balanced current and is the path of conduction for Kundalini*. The ida nadi is associated with the left side of the body, but it is actually a spiral line of force traveling from the start to end points. It circumnavigates the length of the sushumna and crosses it six times. The force (quality) of the ida line is feminine or lunar. It is associated with a descending current, but ultimately, it flows as ascending as well. The pingala line of force is associated with the right side of the body. It is a spiral line of force as well. It also travels from the perineum to the pituitary gland circumnavigating the Sushumna as it goes. The quality of this force line is masculine or solar. The pingala nadi also crosses the Sushumna at the same six points as the ida nadi does, but on the opposite side of it. It is principally associated with an ascending current, but it also flows as descending. Imagine the caduceus with its two spiraling snakes. They wrap themselves around a central rod capped with a winged globe. This is basically what the Tri-Nadi Complex looks like.
Maya Kosha. In other words, it is the Astral Body* - the SukshmaSharira. As we proceed, it will also be helpful to reconnect to the idea of “trans-dimensional”. In the summer issue, this is defined as “That which has validity of existence in, and the ability to act upon, more than one of the planes of existence.” In order to familiarize ourselves with the “does” portion, we will have to also explore the concepts of Prana*, Nadis* and Chakras* - among others. I suspect that we will be limited to a superficial study of them, and I think that we will most likely give them a more detailed treatment in future articles. For now, we have to give them some consideration, as they are supportive to what a soul does. The soul gives shape, quality, condition and function to consciousness*. The soul or Sukshma-Sharira has many transdimensional organs and systems that do this. Two very important ones are the nadis and the chakras. The nadis and chakras are foundational building blocks of the soul’s anatomy. We cannot say what either of these two are, or do, until we explore another reality - prana. If you have been around the world of yoga for any small amount of time, you probably will have heard this word. The reality of prana is very important to conceive of deeply and accurately. Mystically speaking, we will be doing our selves a great service to develop a deep relationship with it. However, as unfortunate as it is, I cannot enter into a worthy exploration of it here, there just is not enough space. Therefore, we will be limited to a couple superficial statements about it - for now.
Whenever two or more nadis cross, they create a subtle force field complex that the Yogis call a “Chakra.” They also teach that we have 72,000 of these chakras. The vast majority of these are considered to be minor chakras. Depending on the school of mysticism one is using, there are anywhere from six to ten of them that are considered major chakras. Practically speaking, we are most concerned with the crossings of the three principle Nadis and those corresponding Chakras.
Prana is commonly referred to as “Life Force Energy”, which I think is a semi-accurate characterization, but if it is considered from a technical viewpoint it should read: “Life Energy Force”. Energy (pure motion without secondary or tertiary qualities or conditions) is quintessential and it organizes (by means of supplemental influence) into forces (qualities), which, in turn, organize into fields (conditions). We will give these concepts an appropriate treatment when prana is the feature concept of this article. For now, let’s also say that prana is the “animating principle,” or, even more esoterically speaking, it is motion and the cause of motion. Keep this in mind as we explore the pranic “Soular” systems of the nadis and chakras.
I prefer to use the Kriya Yoga* model of the chakras. Kriya Yoga says that there are six chakric levels and seven chakras. The Kriya Yogis teach that the sixth chakric level is host to two chakras, the Ajna* and Chandra*. The other chakras, in descending order are, Vishuddha* (Throat Chakra), Anahata* (Heart Chakra), Manipura* (Solar Plexus), Swadhisthana* (Sacral Chakra) and Muladhara* (Root Chakra). Many other schools use a model of seven Chakras and count the Sahasrara (Crown) as a chakra, where Kriya yoga treats the Sahasrara as a manifestation beyond that of a chakra (non-dual). We will not be able to give the chakras individual treatments here. Instead, we will explore, in a more general way, the fundamentals of how the nadis and chakras interact trans-dimensionally to “give shape, quality and condition to consciousness” or to put it simply Experience.
The word nadi means river. In the etymology of Sanskrit, the word is derived from nada or nala, which means “regulated motion.” The Yogis teach that a human has an uncountable number of nadis within the Sukshma-Sharira, with three of them being of the utmost importance. The nadis are often referred to as tubes or astral channels. However, the imagery of tubes, channels or rivers is somewhat misleading. The nadis are not things, like pipes or channels; they are the organizations of prana (motion) into directional (regulated) lines of force or currents. This organization is not the same as the outcome of two different states of matter (solid/ liquid) interacting on the physical plane, as it is with a river. Instead, the nadi currents are the outcome of a trans-dimensional migration of the archetypes of direction! I realize that this is a very obscure statement, but it will have to suffice until we can explore prana in more depth. Imagine the system of nadis as the astral* precursor to the nervous system, having a very similar tree-branch like expression, but also having priority in time and space. Putting it in an overly simplified way, the nadis provide organizational influence for the formation of the nervous system and for its conduction of bioelectricity. For the purpose of this discourse, we will give consideration to the three most important nadis - the Ida*, Pingala* and the Sushumna*- (Tri-Nadi Complex). These nadis travel the length of
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In order to understand how a chakra works to imbue consciousness with experience, we need to say a little bit more about them. Let’s start with a definition. A chakra is a “trans-dimensional consciousness/ energy/mass repository and converter.” They are a type of astral transformer, or better yet, an astral central processing unit. At the “densest” level of their expression, they are photonic - still massless and therefore non-physical. At the subtlest level, they are constituted of elements that we would associate with consciousness. Chakras have the ability to convert consciousness into energy and energy into mass, or vice versa. Chakras, like everything in existence, are causal expressions; they wear the signatures of the archetypical or causal plane. Therefore, they are dualistic in nature. They have positive/negative or solar/ lunar qualities (charges). Because they have these “charges” they are able to store and release energetic patterns and states of consciousness - a small part of their function is what we call our memories*. The solar side of a chakric complex stores and releases the charges, patterns and experiences of the conditions of consciousness (Purusha). The lunar side of a chakra will process (store/release) the charges, patterns and experiences of materiality (Prakriti). This chakric processing is the fundamental principal behind Karma* and, in every way, is your life as you know it. Chakras are trans-dimensional composites, and therefore they have parts. From the center outward, they consist of the Bindu*, Chittamic Function*, Causal Transform Moment*, the Pranic Body*, Polarized Hemispheric Force Fields*, a Coronal Atmosphere* and Coronal Photonic Ejection Points* (the “Petals”). I have suggested these in a sequential order, but that is strictly for the convenience of imagining. In reality, the Bindu, Chittamic function and the Causal Transform Moment are beyond the spatial arrangements of the space/consciousness continuum as we measure it scientifically. They are not localized* phenomenon, nor are they nouns; they have no thing-ness to them, per se. They are the foundation of, and host to, the consciousness/space continuum and are really more like events, if we consider the events as not being bound by ideas like space and time. Well, I guess that I have exhausted all of my allotted space for this issue. This is a good point to stop at anyways. We will explore the components and functions of the chakras in detail in the next issue. This will bring us closer to being able to understand how the soul gives shape, quality and conditions to consciousness. Thank you for taking the time to read this exploration. I hope it will be beneficial to you in your journeys. Be on the lookout for the winter issue where we will continue to explore the finer concepts of what a soul does and how it does it. Blessings …
Gary Pritchard is an unexpected (and unsuspected) esotericist and practitioner of the mystical arts of Kriya and Laya Yoga. He has been participating in all types of cosmic schmuckery for many moons - expanding this, contracting that - twisting here, stretching there. He has made more mistakes than one should care to admit. He has fallen, battered and bruised from the path, but never once has not swiftly returned with more determination. He is unqualified to teach but hopes that he is heard. On his worst days, he is completely and utterly human, and on his best days, he is even more human!
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Inner-View
While in Savasana (final resting pose), Bess found herself so relaxed and began to understand and experience, first-hand, the beauty that yoga is. Finding this peace of mind and this greater whole, she practiced for a little bit and then, as it naturally happens, her practice began to ebb. Taking some time off, she later returned to yoga and found herself being called to become a teacher. A yoga instructor encouraged her to take a 200 hour Yoga Alliance Teacher Training. At the time, she was looking for something more in her yoga practice and was inspired by the passion this person exuded about teaching, so she did it. When asked what sold her on yoga, she gave this answer:
By Adriane Ehmann
BESS
“When I started teacher training, I felt a huge heart opening, though I did not know what I was experiencing at the time. After reading and talking to fellow yogis, I found that the feeling of a wide-open chest was truly called a heart opening. I felt all of my energy in my heart center - like I was being pulled by my chest. It was the most connected feeling I’d ever had up until that point.”
LEADER
This inspiration and drive led Bess in to teaching. Her desire is to help others experience this thing called Yoga on whatever level is best for them. Bess has a genuine desire to open her heart to others as well as teach classes that will help others to explore their own personal path with yoga, whether as a meditation or an exercise. Bess was a very inspiring person to interview and everything she said was delivered with a gentle and truthful calmness. When I asked her if she thought of yoga as a work out, the answer was unswerving and graceful. She believes that exercise and yoga are one in the same. She sees yoga as an opportunity to learn mindfulness and that the more you practice the more you can be mindful in all areas of your life, even when on a treadmill. Chances are that when you take a class from Bess, she will help you to feel supported in your journey, no matter what it is.
Bess Leader is a local yoga instructor that teaches at Anytime Fitness and Breathe yoga. If she could share anything with you about what yoga is to her it would be this:
Bess lives a simple lifestyle of ease and order and she uses yoga to help her notice what areas of her life are out of alignment. She stays busy, but makes sure to take time for herself, her food, her dog, and her yoga. Through her experience with yoga, she has learned more about her personal dietary needs, helping her to create a more balanced regimen and to bring more awareness to what her body is asking for. Bess has learned a lot about love for herself and love for the present moment by creating an opportunity to become clearer with herself and more focused. These experiences are accompanied by life changing moments that have inspired her to continue her path of teaching and learning.
“Yoga is not such a far-fetched, obscure idea. The resources are always here for us at our disposal. The breath and inner Self are always present and these give you tools to access.”
As I went through the interview process with Bess, she reminded me why I practice and helped me to reflect upon my truth. I trust that her passion for yoga will inspire you to continue your practice, or even begin a practice. Bess has a beautiful perspective and experience with yoga. I am so excited to share her story with you. While a student of Science at CSU, Bess one day noticed a flier for a yoga class and convinced a friend to attend with her. The class was led by Sarada Erickson (another truly amazing teacher here in town) and she fell in love. She found the gateway that was about to lead her into what she was looking for in life.
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Some practice yoga for religious and spiritual purposes and some for exercise. There are many debates as to whether yoga is a religious practice. For Bess, yoga is what teaches her how to live her life and permeates into every area of her life whether it is friends, diet, discipline, or having fun. She believes that if you allow
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it, yoga can bring you to your higher power; it can help you to see God in everything that is around you. You become a witness in your life, recognizing the voice of the ego as just a voice. Bess is vigilant about using yoga to help her ego stay in place so that she can continue to be a witness. Bess has crossed my path many times since I first met her and I have a deep respect for her. She puts you at ease and makes you feel an inner calmness. She is inspiring, beautiful, accepting, and lives her life by yoga. With strong connections to yoga, she loves and appreciates Ahimsa (nonviolence) and Satya (truthfulness). You will undoubtedly feel this when she teaches her classes and speaks to you about yoga or about life. Yoga will take you to a deeper place as you learn to listen to your breath and calm your mind. We often experience an “AH HA” moment that defines the recognition of this change. I asked Bess if she ever had this moment and this was her answer,
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“During meditation one day on Ganesh, I heard a voice speak to me saying, ‘First you will learn how to smile, then how to listen.’ I had been really struggling with finding direction in my life and meditating on this again and again. I realized at that moment just how much time I had spent disliking myself. I cried. I find that when I smile and listen to my inner voice, I find joy for myself and others.” I encourage you to experience the beauty that Bess is. Try her classes and the workshops that she offers. Allow yourself to feel her passion and to witness her love for yoga and for others. I feel blessed to know this beautiful spirit and I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know her even more through this interview. I leave you with a blessing of love and light. ~Namaste~ To view pictures and read a traditional Bio of Bess you may go to: http://web.me.com/daronhays/Instructor_Bios/Bess.html
ISSUE # 4
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THE YOGA CONNECTION MAGAZINE
Viniyoga:
The yoga tradition is vast and there are many entry points to its practice: meditation, philosophy, spirituality, and breathing exercises to name a few. Currently, however, the most common doorway to yoga in the U.S. is the practice of asana or physical postures. There are several key elements that differentiate the Viniyoga approach to asana:
more than meets the eye by River Cummings “There’s a joke I’ve heard circulating around the yoga community,” Gary says, a mischievous twinkle in his eye. “They’re calling this work Miniyoga.” The class cracks up – rising bubbles of laughter breaking the surface of a tense moment in an intense practice. I’m in my first workshop with Gary Kraftsow, founder of American Viniyoga Institute, and my body, breath and mind are reaching, straining moment by moment to grasp the subtle coordination and internal complexity of the practice at hand. The worst part is that the poses are so simple. “This should be easy for me!” has been my angry mantra for the last three poses. This is about as similar to the large group flow and power yoga classes I’ve attended as red stiletto heels are to aardvarks. In fact, I’m just about ready to throw in the towel when Gary’s joke and its irony arrive like a tiny gift, a crackedopen seed inviting me to rally. I dive back in to the practice – coordinating a backbend with chanting an impossibly long yoga sutra while maintaining a visualization – with renewed gusto. As I tackle internal and external landscapes simultaneously in an absurd feat of multitasking, the question arises: what exactly have I gotten myself in to? The Sanskrit word viniyoga is an ancient term meaning “appropriate application”. Despite the presence of “yoga” in the word’s root, viniyoga does not inherently relate to yoga practice, but rather can be used to describe any appropriate action. For example, when going out on a cold winter day, choosing to bypass your t-shirts and shorts and instead putting on a wool sweater and warm pants, is the viniyoga of dressing. You are dressing appropriately given the context of the weather. Viniyoga, as a style of yoga practice, retains this essence of appropriate action. Based on the teachings transmitted by T. Krishnamacharya and T.K.V. Desikachar of Chennai, India, Viniyoga strives to adapt yoga practices to serve the needs, interests, and capacity of each student.
Combination of repetition and stay. Different effects can be experienced through movement into and out of a posture versus maintaining a position for several breaths. Viniyoga methodology intelligently combines both movement and hold to maximize benefit and minimize structural risk.
2.
Function over form. Each posture has inherent functional potential. Retaining the original idea of personalized practice, the goal of Viniyoga is to help each student experience the function of a posture rather than emphasizing achieving its shape. Often this requires deviation from classic alignment.
3.
Breath centered. The Viniyoga approach to asana utilizes the unique powers of consciously controlled breath to unify the mind, anchor attention in the body, and organically mobilize the spine. Breath is a primary emphasis of the practice and each movement originates and is synchronized with the breath. Viniyoga instructors are also versed in the science of adapting breathing patterns in asana to produce different effects.
4.
Sequencing. Possibly the greatest gift of Krishnamacharya’s mature teachings is the highly refined art of combination. What elements of practice are chosen, how they are performed, and in what order has a profound impact on the practitioner. In keeping with the roots of the yoga tradition, Viniyoga teaches time-tested principles of combination to allow for maximal flexibility of intention, length, and intensity of practice.
In keeping both with the roots of the yoga tradition as an individualized experience and with the meaning of the word viniyoga, asana in the Viniyoga approach is applied contextually. The flexibility of posture forms and finely honed sequencing allow for a wide variety of experiences, avoiding the shortcomings of a “one size fits all” practice. Emphasis is always on internal experience as a vehicle for self-awareness and personal integration. This same intelligence can be applied to all of the other aspects of practice: breath control, chanting, meditation, ritual, and prayer. When all of these elements are layered in a single practice, the result is a seamlessly integrated experience. A finely woven tapestry of subtly refined complexity, choreographed to carry the practitioner inward.
Those who are familiar with the recent history of yoga in the west will perhaps recognize T. Krishnamacharya as a teacher of teachers. Among his more well known students are BKS Iyengar, Patthabi Jois of Astanga Yoga, philosopher J. Krishnamurti, and Indra Devi. An extraordinary man, Krishnamacharya’s life spanned 100 years (1888 – 1989) and through his decades of teaching experience he witnessed unprecedented changes in the world around him. These changes necessitated innovation and new ways of applying the traditional yoga practices Krishnamacharya had learned from the masters of his youth. One of his final major students was his own son, T.K.V. Desikachar, who was exposed to the richness of his father’s most mature teachings. The essence of these teachings forms the foundation of Viniyoga.
On that first day as I practiced with Gary, I had no way to make sense of what I was experiencing. As I sat on my mat, struggling with a volcanic eruption of irritation, sweat streaming down my back from the sheer effort of… breathing?... something opened in me. Curiosity. Through that window of open space wafted the presence of an ancient, infinite intelligence and I was suddenly sure that behind this crazy practice was something profoundly sane. On that day, and on countless occasions since, I have marveled at this path I have chosen for life, sanity, and livelihood. I am perpetually amazed by the richness offered -- and amused by the challenge posed -- by what seems on the surface to be such a simple practice. Looks can be so deceiving.
While there are numerous definitions of yoga, implicit in all of them is the concept that yoga practice provides the means to bring out the personal best in each individual. This requires a deep understanding of the starting condition, appropriate goals, needs, potential, beliefs, and motivation on the part of each practitioner. From this understanding, practices can be created to support self actualized, step-by-step movement in the direction of growth and improvement. Traditionally this process was carried out in the one-on-one setting, which allowed for highly refined, personalized adaptation. Each aspect of the practice (postures, breathing, chanting, meditation, ritual, prayer) as well as diet and lifestyle suggestions would be carefully chosen and precisely tailored by the teacher to suit the student. While this is clearly still the optimal setting in which to learn yoga, more and more students are drawn to the practicality and convenience of group classes. Most styles of yoga, including Viniyoga, have adapted to serve this growing community.
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1.
River Cummings is a long-time student of Gary Kraftsow and holds both Yoga Instructor and Yoga Therapist certifications from the American Viniyoga Institute. She makes her home and plies her trade in Boulder, CO, and serves as Director of Teacher Training for Old Town Yoga in Fort Collins. Please visit www.yogawithriver.com to learn more.
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YogaFest 2010
Produced by Kenny Workman
I did not know it then, but YogaFest was conceived when mom was visiting during the summer of 2008. She mentioned that she did yoga back home, so I suggested we try some classes together. With mom and son Jack beside me, and some patient teaching from Paul, Katelyn and Gwyn, Jack and I were hooked on yoga. Yoga was doing great things for me, and I began to look forward to each class. My body was changing and I was becoming more focused, open, peaceful, and alive. When I started Gwyn’s meditation class, something hit a critical mass. I was a musician, but I had never been able to write songs other than a couple in my teens. The practice of yoga and meditation somehow was opening more than just my clogged circulatory system. I started writing songs about yoga and decided to form a band to reflect and accompany yoga and meditation. Jack suggested the name “Lila”, which we had read in the Yoga and the Path of the Urban Mystic book by Darren Main. Bass man Dan joined the effort. We had our first gig at Tasty Harmony April 15. Lee of Ben & Jerry’s agreed we could play Old Town Square in August, four months away. Not really knowing what
a “yoga band” was, I did my best to follow my intuition and do it, writing songs, and trying to immerse myself in what other people were doing. I made a Pandora channel “OM Namah Shivah” and tried to play along. I went to hear Krishna Das, Deva Premal and Mitten. Dan and I kept practicing and trying to find a drummer who shared our vision. For a few weeks, it was a real struggle as we went through four drummers, and it didn’t seem to be happening. Things started coming together when Rebecca from yoga class joined. She had a clear, high voice and a ceramic flute. Gwyn joined with her nimbus of ideas, voice, and spirit. Jake joined on drums, and suddenly, Lila started becoming more than just a notion. The August Old Town gig became “YogaFest.” Yoga Connection encouragingly agreed to help with publicity. Local yoga teachers, Gwyn Tash, David Moats, Kathryn Visser, and Marianne Monteleone volunteered to lead classes. Jim Cox agreed to MC. Thank you to everyone who came to YogaFest and helped make it a magical and memorable evening. When people of like mind and heart gather together, miraculously powerful synergy will result!
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Contact Kenny Workman at kenny1954w@gmail.com to join in producing next year’s YogaFest or for information about sonic yoga band Lila.
&
Gentle Network Chiropractic
Kundalini Yoga
Chiropractic Wellness Center
In need of help and ready to take action? We can help! So many in our community struggle with: Depression & Anxiety Fatigue & Poor Sleep Hormonal Imbalances Asthma & Allergies Neck, Head & Back Pain
Mood Swings
Dr. Lori Krauss 970.224.5006
and on.
Call Today.
ADD & ADHD
1302 South Shields
Fort Collins
www.vitality-bodymindsoul.com
HEALTH & WELL-BEING DIRECTORY Yoga & Pilates Studios Big Toe Studio 3710 Mitchell Drive Fort Collins, CO 80525 (970) 377-0028 www.bigtoestudio.biz
Bikram Old Town 159 W. Mountain Ave. Fort Collins, CO 80542 (970) 472-5700 www.bikramyoga.com
Breathe Yoga 353 W. Drake Rd. Fort Collins, CO 80526 (970) 223-9642 www.gotoyoga.com
CorePower Yoga 2700 S. College Ave. Fort Collins, CO 80525 (970) 224-4615 www.corepower.com
Earthniight Studios Ayurveda Clinic & Yoga Studio (530) 305-7439 niight@earthniightstudios.org www.earthniightstudios.org
Fort Collins Club 1307 E. Prospect Rd. Fort Collins, CO 80525 (970) 224-2582 www.fortcollinsclub.net
Loveland Yoga & Core Fitness 100 E. 3rd St. Loveland, CO 80537 (970) 292-8313 www.lovelandyogacorefitness.com
Miramont - Central 2211 S. College Ave, Fort Collins, CO 80526 (970) 225-2233 www.miramontlifestyle.com
Miramont - North 1800 Heath Parkway, Fort Collins, CO 80524 (970) 221-5000 www.miramontlifestyle.com
Miramont - South 901 Oakridge Dr. Fort Collins, CO 80525 (970) 282-1000 www.miramontlifestyle.com
Old Town Athletic Club 351 Linden St. Fort Collins, CO 80524 (970) 493-7222 www.oldtownathletic.com
Old Town Yoga 237 1/2 Jefferson Street Fort Collins, CO 80524 (970) 222-2777 www.oldtownyoga.com
Raintree Athletic Club 2555 S. Shields Street Fort Collins, CO 80526 (970) 490-1300 www.raintreeathleticclub.com
Treetop Yoga 111 N. College Ave., Upstairs Fort Collins, CO 80524 (970) 484-0828 www.treetopyogastudio.com
Yoga Center of Fort Collins 210 E. Oak Street Fort Collins, CO 80521 (970) 231-0496 www.cwrightyoga.com
“Yoga Works” Embodyment Therapy® Mary Kay Koldeway, CSYT (970) 663-2213 www.yogaworksoflovelandcom Kim Orr, Embodyment Therapy® www.kimorryoga.com
Therapists
Yoga Teachers
ISSUE # 4
Sarada Erickson Om Ananda Yoga Fort Collins, CO 80526 (970) 581-8825 www.omanandayoga.com
Chiropractic Wellness Center Dr. Lori Krauss 1302 South Shields Fort Collins, CO 80525 (970) 224-5006 www.vitality-bodymindsoul.com
Michael Lloyd-Billington Yoga Instructor and Personal Trainer Fort Collins, CO 80526 Website: http://alternativepersonaltraining.bravehost.com/ E-mail: michaelmadhavan@hotmail.com
Sharon Greenlee Professional Counselor Consultant Fort Collins, CO 80525 (970) 224-1810 E-mail: sharongr104@aol.com
Om Counseling and Yoga Gwyn Tash 706 East Stuart Street Fort Collins, CO 80525 (970) 690-1045 www.omcounselingandyoga.com
Janna Pijoan Yoga Teacher 700 West Mountain Avenue Fort Collins, CO 80521 (970) 222-8528
Lighthouse Therapeutic Massage Jeannette Benglen C.M.T. Loveland, CO 80537 (970) 689-5527 www.lhmassage.com
Lauri Pointer, HTCP/I 210 E. Oak Street Fort Collins, CO 80524 (970) 484-2211 www.LauriPointer.com
Jamye Richardson Sacred Healing, LLC 134 Harvard, Suite 6 Fort Collins, CO 80525 (970) 556-3050
Mountain High Massage 200 East Swallow Road Fort Collins, CO 80525 (970) 215-8821 E-mail: MHMB@me.com www.mountainhighmassage.com
Traditional Chinese Medical Clinic 700 West Mountain Avenue Fort Collins, CO 80521 (970) 416-0444 www.tcmclinic.org
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Old Town Massage 237 Jefferson Fort Collins, CO 80524 Studio: 970-222-2777 Cell: 307-690-4607
THE YOGA CONNECTION MAGAZINE
Raintree Athletic Club
NORTHERN COLORADO CLASS SCHEDULES
2555 S. Shields Street, Fort Collins, CO 80526 (970) 490-1300 www.raintreeathleticclub.com Monday
class schedules are subjecct to change- please verify before attending
10:30-11:45am
Hatha Yoga
Beth
YPC
12-1:15pm
Hatha Yoga
Jim
YPC
Colleen
S-2
5-6:15pm
Autumn 2010
Yoga for Runners/Hikers/Bikers
6-7:15pm
Anjali Restorative Yoga
Kathleen YPC (V)
6:30-7:30pm
Tai Chi
Ken
S-2
8:30-9:30am
Pilates
Jenny
YPC
10-11:15am
Yin Yoga
Faith
YPC (V)
10:30-11:45am
Gentle Yoga
Marsha
S-2
12-1:15pm
Prana Vinyasa Flow
Kimberly S-2
12-1pm
Pilates
Helene
YPC (V)
4:15-5:30pm
Restorative Yoga
Marsha
YPC (V)
6-7:15pm
Hatha Yoga
Paige
YPC
Tuesday
Yoga Center of Fort Collins
Teaching Yoga in the Iyengar Method 210 E. Oak Street, Fort Collins, CO 80521 (970) 231-0496 www.cwrightyoga.com Monday 9:30-11am
All Levels Yoga
Cathy
12-1pm
Yoga for Neck/Shoulders
Cathy
4-5pm
***Gentle Yoga
Cathy
5:30-7pm
Intermediate Yoga
Cathy
7:15-8:30pm
Continuing/Beginning Yoga
Cathy
Wednesday
***Please call before attending Wednesday 9:30-11am
All Levels Yoga
Cathy
12-1pm
Yoga for Strong Backs
Cathy
6-7:30pm
Continuing Yoga
Cathy
Beginning Yoga
Connie
7:15-8:30pm Six-week Yoga Basics Connie October 7th - November 11th, $50, Must pre-register at crookedheart@comcast.net Friday
Saturday Restorative Yoga
Kathy
YPC
Beginning Hatha Yoga
Faith
YPC
12-1:15pm
Hatha Yoga
Jim
YPC (V)
1:30-2:45pm
Yoga for People Living w/ Cancer
Faith
YPC
6:30-7:30pm
Pilates
Jenny
S-2
5:30-6:30am
Pilates
Jenny
S-2
8:30-9:30am
Intermediate Pilates
Lee
YPC (V)
10-11:15am
Hatha Yoga
Jim
YPC (V)
12-1:15pm
Yin Yoga
Faith
YPC
4-5:15pm
Pre-Natal Yoga
Paige
YPC
6-7:15pm
Yin Yoga
Kate
YPC (V)
6:30-7:45am
Yoga w/ Weights
Colleen
S-2
8-9:15am
Viniyoga
Kathy
YPC (V)
9-10:15am
Prana Vinyasa Flow
Kimberly S-2
10-11:15am
Hatha Yoga
Jim
YPC (V)
12-1pm
Pilates
Helene
YPC (V)
5-6:15pm
Anusara Inspired™ Yoga
Tomi
S-2
8:30-9:45am
Hatha Yoga
Kate
YPC (V)
9-10:15am
Hatha Yoga
Paige
S-2
10-11:15am
Yin Yoga
Faith
YPC
9:00-10:15am
Hatha Yoga
Mansing YPC
10:30-11:45am
Hatha Yoga
Jim
Friday
6:30-8pm Eye of the Tiger Tomi Anusara Inspired Practice - 1st Friday of the Month See website for dates 9:30-11am
Viniyoga
9:30-10:45am
Thursday
Thurday 5:30-7pm
8-9:15am
Connie
(One Saturday per month, Sept. 25, Oct. 23, Nov. 20)
Saturday
Yoga Classes with Janna Pijoan
700 W. Mountain Ave, Ft. Collins, CO 80521 (970) 222-8528
Sunday
Tuesday 3-4:30pm
Beginner Yoga
Janna
5:30-7pm
Intermediate Yoga
Janna
Saturday 9-10:30am
Intermediate Yoga
YPC (V)
*RAC Membership w/ Yoga & Pilates Center add-on: includes all classes listed on this schedule
Janna
*Yoga & Pilates Center Membership: includes all classes on this schedule. *V: Voucher Required. Available at Front Desk THE YOGA CONNECTION MAGAZINE
40
AUTUMN 2010
Loveland Yoga & Core Fitness
Old Town Yoga
100 E. 3rd St., Loveland, CO 80537 (970) 292-8313 www.lovelandyogacorefitness.com
237 1/2 Jefferson Street, Fort Collins, CO 80524 (970) 222-2777 www.oldtownyoga.com
Monday 9:15-10:15am
Fitness Fusion
Amy
12-1pm
Vinyasa
Jennifer
4:30-5:30pm
Vinyasa L-1
Christi
6-7pm
Gentle Yoga
7:30-8:30pm
Monday 7-8am
Sunrise Yoga
Krista
9-10:15am
Slow Flow
Adriane
Pam
4:30-5:15pm
Kids Yoga
Patti Sterns
Candlelight Yoga
Kristen
5:30-6:45pm
Beginners Hatha
Samantha
6-7:30pm
Forrest Yoga
Molly
9-10am
Gentle Yoga
Pam
12-1pm
Yoga Pump
Christi
7-8:15pm
Yin Yoga
Alan
4:30-5:30pm
Vinyasa
Kristen
6-7pm
Fusion Flow
Christi
9-10:15am
Integral Yoga - All Levels
Michael
12-1pm
PranaUP
8:45-9:45am
Well Yoga
Marcy
5:30-6:45pm
All Levels Vinyasa
Gwyn
12-1pm
Vinyasa
Jill
7-8:15pm
All Levels Hatha
Rachael
Restorative Yoga for Athletes Samantha
Tuesday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Samantha
4:30-5:30pm
Detox Flow
Christi
7:30-8:45pm
6-7pm
Slow Flo
Mo
Wednesday
7:30-8:30pm
Candlelight Yoga
Jennifer
7-8am
Sunrise Yoga
Krista
9-10am
Gentle Yoga
Pam
9-10:15am
Pilates Mat Class
Marissa
12-1pm
Yoga Pump
Christi
12-1pm
Yoga in your 50’s & Beyond Nina
4:30-5:30pm
Vinyasa
Kim
5:30-6:45pm
Yoga for Strength
Somer
6-7pm
Fusion Flow
Kim
6-7pm
Prenatal Yoga
Samantha
Friday
7-8:15pm
All Levels Hatha
Sarada
9:15-10:15am
8-9pm
Yoga for Climbers
Samantha
9-10:15am
All Levels Vinyasa
Gwyn
12-1pm
PranaUP
Samantha
5:30-6:45pm
Energy Flow
Stephanie
Thursday
Vinyasa L-1
Jennifer
Detox Flow
Christi
Saturday 7:45-8:45am
Thursday
Sunday 10-11am
Vinyasa
Kristen
5:30-6:30pm
Lunar Flow
Christi
6-7:15pm Restorative/Rejuventation (with Aromatherapy)
Amy
7-8:15pm
Beginners Yoga
Adriane
7:30-8:45pm
Gentle Yoga
Nina
9-10:15am
Slow Flow
Adriane
12-1pm
Viniyoga
Amy
4-5:15pm
Yoga & Meditation
Krista
5:30-6:30pm
Prenatal Yoga
Sarada
6pm
Friday Night Flow w/ music
Jake
9-10:15am
Viniyoga
Henrietta
10:45-11:45am
Stretch and Relax
Jeannie
Energy Flow
Stephanie
Friday
Yoga Works 2530 Abarr Dr., Loveland, CO 80538 (970) 663-2213 www.yogaworksofloveland.com Monday 5:30-7pm
Svaroopa Yoga
Mary Kay
Svaroopa Yoga
Mary Kay
Svaroopa Yoga
Mary Kay
12-1:15pm
Angela
9-10:30am
Ashtanga
Dana
10:45-11:45am
Stretch & Relax
Jeannie
12-1:15pm
Integral Yoga
Michael
4-5:15pm
Forrest Yoga
Molly
Saturday
Tuesday 5:30-7pm Wednesday 4:30-6pm
Sunday
Thursday 9-10:15am
ISSUE # 4
Gentle Yoga
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THE YOGA CONNECTION MAGAZINE
Treetop Yoga 111 N. College Ave., Upstairs, Fort Collins, CO 80524 (970) 484-0828 www.treetopyogastudio.com ***New Schedule Begins October 2nd. Please check website for any last minute changes*** Monday 8-9:30am Vinyasa I ($6) Nell 9:30-10:50am Viniyoga Specialty Classes Jamye (4 week sessions, #1 Shoulders) 11:30-12:50pm Intuitive Vinyasa I Ena 5:30-6:50pm Kriya Yoga Kate 7-8:30pm Shambhava Yoga Erin Tuesday 9:30-10:50am Intuitive Vinyasa I/II Ena (with childcare) 11:15-11:45 Pranayama/Meditation Michael 12-12:45pm Lunch Vinyasa ($6) Chris 4:20-5:20pm Young Mens Teen Yoga Chris (4 week sessions) 5:30-6:50pm Ashtanga Improv Kathryn 5:30-8:30pm Shambhava Training Lila Love
2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
Wednesday 9:30-10:50am Anusara Yoga Tomi/Stacey 1 (4 week sessions w/ rotating teachers ) 11:15-12:15pm Mommy and Me Yoga Ena (4 week sessions) 4:20-5:20pm Kids Yoga (6-11 yrs.) Alissa (4 week sessions) 5:30-6:30pm Prenatal Yoga (max 8) Alissa (4 week sessions) 5:30-6:50pm Ebb and Flow Krystianne 1 7-8:20pm Yin Yoga Alan 1 Thursday 9:30-10:50am Intuitive Vinyasa I/II Ena (with Yoga Nidra .... and with childcare) 11-12:20pm Yoga Philosophy Series Michael (6 week sessions, #1 Kleshas) 2:45-4pm Viniyoga I Henrietta 5:15-7pm Fertile Being Cat 5:30-8:30pm Shambhava Training Sarada
1 1 1 1
Friday 10-10:45am Pre-Schooler Yoga (3-5 yrs.) Alissa (4 week sessions) 12:45-2pm Restorative Yoga Angie 1 6:30-8pm Satsung Michael (last Friday of each month) Saturday 8:30-9:50am Ebb and Flow David 1 9:30am-7pm Shambhava Training Sarada 1 Sunday 9:30-10:45am Shambhava Yoga Aramati 11-12:20pm Ashtanga Improv Dana THE YOGA CONNECTION MAGAZINE
1 1
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Six-week Yoga Basics Course w/ Connie Brown – From October 7th through November 11th on Thursday evenings, 7:15-8:30pm at The Yoga Center of Fort Collins … If you know someone who wants to begin the practice of yoga, this class is right for them. $50 for six-week course, Preregistration for the complete course is required. E-mail Connie at crookedheart@comcast.net or call 970-692-1057
Balance and Well-Being Series w/ Kathleen Jones and Jennifer Caragol – Wednesdays, September 8, 15, 22 and 29 from 6-7:30pm at Raintree Athletic Club … Join us for a month-long workshop designed to bring awareness into areas of your life that may need attention: stress management, weight management, heightened wellbeing, and personal growth. This supported practice includes one private coaching, three experiential group sessions and a daily e-mail inspiration. $60 members, $72 non-members. For more information or to sign-up, please call the Raintree Athletic Club at 970-490-1300 or e-mail embodychange@yahoo.com
Explore Yoga for a Healthy Low Back w/ Tomi Simpson – Thursday, October 7, 14, 21 / November 4, 11, 18 from 7:30-8:30pm (6-week series) at Miramont North … Do you have an issue with your lower back and are not sure how to work in your yoga poses? Using Anusara Yoga’s® Principle of Alignment, this workshop will elaborate the actions that safely align your low back in a variety of postures. This is an all levels series. $90 members, $120 non-members
Hot Yoga Workshop w/ Kathryn Visser – Saturdays, September 18, 25, October 2, 9 from 10-11:30am at Miramont Central … Hot Yoga is a class using portions of traditional Hot Yoga series and mixes in a few variations to keep things fresh and fun! Heat is used to open up tight muscles and detoxify the body. Sweat your way into optimal health while practicing static postures with remarkable healing effect. $55 members, $75 non-members
Introduction to Yogic Diet & Fasting w/ Michael Lloyd-Billington, Sunday, October 10th, 2-4pm at Old Town Yoga. In this special workshop we’ll explore how our dietary choices influence our mood, mindset & our spiritual growth. $20 in advance, $25 at time of event.
Understanding the Loops and Spirals of Anusara Yoga® w/ Tomi Simpson – Saturday, September 18 from 1-4pm at Miramont Central … Interested in learning the loops and spirals of Anusara Yoga®? This 3-hour workshop is designed to delve deeply into the way the loops and spirals align your body for greater stability in your yoga poses. Once this optimal alignment occurs, an opportunity to expand and open like never before is revealed. All levels workshop. $40 members, $60 non-members
Kundalini Yoga & Meditation w/ Marianne Monteleone – Wednesday, October 13th from 6:30-8:30pm at Miramont Central … Expanding into your excellence: yoga sets, breathing techniques and mantra will expand your mind, balance your glandular system, your chakras, and strengthen your nervous system. Group Class 15-50 participants. $25 members, $40 non-members
An Introduction to Yogic Meditation w/ Michael Lloyd-Billington – Sunday, September 19th from 2-4pm at Old Town Yoga, We’ve all heard meditation can offer greater peace, yet most of us find it challenging. In this introductory workshop you’ll learn simple, proven techniques for making meditation a regular part of your life, allowing you to experience greater presence, mindfulness & joy. $20 in advance, $25 at time of event
Yoga on the Ball w/ Angie Noe – Saturday, October 16th from 1-3pm at Treetop Yoga … This class will offer a variety of yoga-based poses using an exercise ball to provide support in helping you improve balance and flexibility. $25 Yoga for Anxiety Workshop w/ Ena Burrud – Saturday, November 6th from 1-3:30pm at Treetop Yoga ... This class will provide a few techniques from yoga therapy to help panic attacks, reduce chronic anxiety and provide insight into softening anxiety in the future. Included will be yoga nidra, breathing techniques, sound therapy, asana, light philosophy, and take-home worksheets. $40, early bird by Sept. 11th, $25
Kundalini Yoga & Meditation as taught by Yogi Bhajan w/ Marianne Monteleone – Wednesday, September 22, 29 / October 6 from 4-5:30pm at Miramont North … This 3 part series will give you an experience of Kundalini Yoga and Meditation as taught by Yogi Bhajan; with philosophy, technique and proper execution of yoga sets, breathing, mantras and meditations. Each class will build upon itself in duration and type of kriyas (yoga sets) and meditations. You will receive handouts and have an option to learn meditations for your personal practice after class ends. $79 members, $90 non-members
Introduction to Pranayama w/ Michael Lloyd-Billington, Sunday, November 14th, 2-4pm. Explore how the simple breathing practices of Yoga can give you greater energy, better cognitive function & deeper peace. $20 in advance, $25 at time of event. Specialty Workshops and Classes hosted by Gwyn Tash … Restorative Yoga Mini-Workshop, Yogaah Min-Retreats, Body Image, and Self Esteem for Women, and others. Dates to be announced. Please check web site (www.omcounselingandyoga.com) for updates or e-mail Gwyn at gwyn.tash@comcast.net to be put on mailing list.
Finding Your Emotional Balance through Yoga w/ Beth O’Brien Sunday, October 3rd from 3pm to 5pm at The Raintree Athletic Yoga Center … This informative workshop will introduce you to simple yoga poses and self-help tools to ease anxiety, lift depression, and relieve stress. Cost: $30.00. Dr. Beth O’Brien is a certified yoga instructor and licensed psychologist specializing in health and wellness. For more info, call Beth at (970) 491-9689.
Kirtan Gathering – Every Tuesday, and 1st and 3rd Fridays, 7-9pm. FREE. Kirtan is a call-and-response form of yogic chanting that prepares the mind for meditation by opening the heart. Join a sweet, no-pressure group of folks to experience the bliss of chanting. 626 Country Club Road. Authentic ashram chai served. Call Ravi or Dhara Carter for more details, 970472-1421.
Ashtanga Immersion w/ Kathryn Visser – Saturdays, October 6, 23, 30, November 6, 13, 20 from 10-11:30am at Miramont Central … The Ashtanga Immersion is an in-depth study of the Ashtanga Primary series. In this 6-week intensive, we will study multiple breathing techniques to unite the body with the mind, perfect alignment to keep your body safe and strong, and energy locks, allowing you to tap in to energy and strength you never knew you had. $90 members, $120 non-members. E-mail Kathryn at ebbandflowyoga@yahoo.com
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THE YOGA CONNECTION MAGAZINE
Who is Driving the Bus? by Alan Starner
If I allow my undeveloped negotiator into the driver’s seat, it is an opportunity for him to learn. I can also read books and go to trainings, etc. We should know that we are whole and complete, but not fully developed in all our aspects. As divine beings, we can grow ANY facet of ourselves that we want to. I think it is a real blessing that we have all possible facets within ourselves to help us adapt to the challenges that life gives us. Have you ever had a new set of challenges bring out latent qualities you never knew you had? I have some characters on my bus that I sometimes think should never drive. For example, I will rarely (if ever) want my liar to drive. However, if I were in Nazi Germany hiding Jews, I would cultivate my liar. This brings up those sides of myself it is difficult to face. Debbie Ford calls it the “dark side.” Sometimes the characters that reside within the dark side are very powerful. If I cannot admit that a particular character is there, then it can jump into the driver’s seat and I will not even know it! I cannot admit I have this quality, so I cannot see when it acts, and then I will wonder how I made such a mess of my life. For me, it is helpful to know that I have all possible qualities within myself. There is no shame in that; everyone else is that way too.
We are all multi-faceted beings. There is the part of me that is active when I teach yoga, and another when I am with my friends. There is a kind me, an angry me, and so many others in the mix, too. This matches my understanding of eastern philosophy, and matches what I have learned from Debbie Ford’s book, The Dark Side of the Light Chasers. Here is a quote from her book: “It took a long time to understand that what is actually inside me are the thousands of qualities and traits that make up every human being and that beneath the surface of every human is this blueprint of all mankind.”
As Tantric philosopher, Douglas Brooks says, “we are known by the choices we make.” The choice of who will drive the bus at any one time is ours and ours alone. We can choose compassion over anger. When something goes wrong in our lives, we can choose to see it as a challenge to make us stronger, rather than a weight dragging us down. The capacity to choose comes from the deepest eternal part of ourselves; I call it soul. Soul’s strength is shown through character, which is nothing other than our capacity to choose which facet of our being will be in control of our actions.
I like the metaphor of my embodiment as a bus, and all the facets of me are characters on the bus. EVERYONE is on the bus, but some are more developed than others are. Those facets that I have developed well can easily take the drivers seat when they are needed. I have a scientist, diplomat, yogi, dancer, lover, poet, warrior, and many others on my bus. I would hate to be driving a bus that had only hippies and peaceniks on it. Part of living auspiciously is to develop the right compliment of characters on the bus. But, remember we have EVERYONE on the bus.
Isn’t “Character” an interesting word? If we have character, the bus of characters is under our control. The etymology of the word is “engraved mark.” The mark we leave on the world is determined by whom we put into the drivers seat.
Unfortunately, there are some on my bus that I have let drive too often: the blamer, the fool, the angry man, and others who are racked with fear. They are on my bus, and always will be, but I know now that I do not have to let them drive.
To live auspiciously, we need two things:
I have a cook on my bus. He has natural talent, but very little training. If I wanted to develop my cook, I would cook more, and I could go to a cooking school. Anyone could do similar things with any quality they wanted to develop. Most of us living in the current age would do well to have a developed negotiator. Everyone has a negotiator, but some more developed than others. If I have an undeveloped negotiator, I might decide not to put them in the driver’s seat even if I am in a negotiation. Instead, I let someone else drive the bus. If I put the wrong person in the driver’s seat, I might not end up where I wanted. This is not an auspicious way to live.
The strength of character to be able to control who is driving and
•
To have a good compliment of developed “characters” on our bus.
The true driver is soul, because that is who decides who will take the driver’s seat, and thus acts in the world. Where do you want to drive anyway?
Alan Starner has been studying Eastern and Western spiritual teachings for over 30 years, and teaching yoga for the past 8 years. He is currently focused on yoga philosophy with an emphasis on Rajanaka.
Sometimes there is no one in the driver’s seat. Sometimes the bus will crash. Good thing I have a healer on board!
THE YOGA CONNECTION MAGAZINE
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44
AUTUMN 2010
In Runic lore, Harvest or “the fertile season” is represented by the Rune, Jera. Ralph H. Blum, in his excellent book, The Book of Runes, refers to Jera as, “A Rune of beneficial outcomes. Jera applies to any activity or endeavor to which we are committed”, and notes that the harvest represents, “A full cycle before the reaping or harvest”.
THE HARVEST
How many of us in our practice or other activities are all eager about the planting and the harvest, but would prefer to skip the tedium, the practice of “tending?” We become like the farmer in Mr. Blum’s book, who was so eager to assist his crops that he went out at night and tugged on the new shoots. I have no great difficulty in putting myself in the visual of that. You? I’m reminded of one of my favorite phrases, “you can’t push the river.” But, oh don’t we love to try.
As
these words go onto paper, we are in the heart of the Colorado monsoon. Those utterly predictable days, cool mornings, hot mid-days followed by the inevitable formation of the cumulonimbus over the Rockies. These days were well earned this season. Those cold, icy, wind swept days of interminable snowy winter now forgotten, or, well, nearly so. By the time these words appear before you, the season will be fall. Fall in Colorado naturally brings to mind the awesome spectacle of the aspens changing their colors. Colors of a thousand splendid hues set against skies as clear and sharp as broken glass.
A cycle of course, repeats. There is this harvest, but of course, there will be next years as well. So, while we celebrate the splendid miracle that is fall in Colorado, remind ourselves, each harvest has within it the seeds of the next. It is a time to enjoy the bounty of our efforts. Celebrate the fruits of your labors. But capture, perhaps one of those splendid autumn days for yourself, to frame your
Autumn, though, since the time our ancestors gave up on the hunting and gathering gig, has meant the time of the harvest. The harvest suggests culmination, the fruition of efforts in the planting and tending. In such, it suggests process, harvest being but one aspect of process, for without the planting and tending, there is no harvest.
vision for the next harvest. Joe Zahn is a local business consultant and self-professed life long “student of everything”. He finds much in ancient Eastern philosophy beneficial to application in our modern world.
Evolve Rolfing & Wellness
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Erika Olsen
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ISSUE # 4
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THE YOGA CONNECTION MAGAZINE
Once Upon a Yogi Time
Then, he took this most delicious candy in the world (which the disciple truly loved) and handed it to the disciple. However, the disciple said, “No!”
A Guru had a disciple who loved food. He also had a sweet tooth. This disciple could not unfold spiritually because he was always eating food and candy … or thinking about eating. So, one day the Guru took his disciple aside and said, “Do me a favor. Go into town and buy a bottle of the most deadly poison you can. Tie it onto a sacred bag and keep it around your neck. Never take it off your neck. Sleep with it. Bathe with it. That you do this is very important, for your whole spiritual destiny depends upon the poison remaining in that bottle.”
The Guru pushed it further toward him, “But you just said you wanted more candy. Take it!” The Guru then tried to force the candy into the disciple’s mouth. The disciple resisted, strongly. The Guru said, “Here’s the candy, take it! “No, no, no!” said the disciple, “it will kill me!”
The disciple obtained the poison, and carried it around his neck. A few days later, the Guru said, “We are going to fast for a day.” Though this was very difficult for the disciple, he had no choice, because the Guru was observing him all the time.
“Ah!” said the Guru, “Have you noticed that your mouth is no longer watering? Do you realize that you no longer have a craving for the candy? Just as this poisoned candy will kill you, in the selfsame manner, your unspiritual habits will kill you. Realize this in the same way that you realized the candy will kill you, and your mind and body will immediately stop craving these things. Disciple … come to understand that knowledge, true knowledge, is power! It has the power to instantly and fully control your mind and body!”
After the fast, the Guru said, “We should fast still another day.” Therefore, the disciple fasted yet another day. This went on for a number of days. He fasted for a few more days. Now, as the fast ended, the Guru said to the disciple, “Oh! I brought you some special candy.” The disciple was given a very, very small piece of candy, and he ate it with much gusto!
Thus, when you have the realization, “I perceive there is poison in this action …. I perceive there is poison in this thought,” your mind and body will immediately stop that action or thought. In this sense, the yogi says that knowledge is power! Plato, the Greek philosopher, said that no man would do harm to himself if he truly “knew” that it would harm him. This is the same type of “knowing” that the disciple had when he realized that the candy would kill him. As we meditate, we come to the realization that some of our thoughts and actions are “dipped in poison.” With this realization, all else happens, automatically. Thus, effortlessly, we can say, “No, thank you.”
Then, the Guru said, “Would you now like a very large piece of candy?” “Yes, yes!” was the answer. The disciple’s mouth was truly watering. Now, as he was about to hand over the candy to the disciple, the Guru stopped and asked the disciple, “Do you still have that poison?” “Oh, yes, right here.” And he gave the poison to the Guru.
“Once upon a Yogi Time” are stories told by Goswami Kriyananda. Visit his website at www.yogakriya.org
So, the Guru poured the poison on the delicious candy.
THE YOGA CONNECTION MAGAZINE
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When our inner nature is truly free, we find within ourselves a wealth of treasure: love, joy, and peace of mind. We can appreciate the beauty of life, taking each experience as it comes, opening our hearts to it and fully enjoying it. Realizing these qualities within ourselves is the greatest freedom that can be gained. ~Tarthang Tulku