BHAKTI YOGA

Elements Hosting: Therapeutic Night Out

noreply@blogger.com (MJ) — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 16:14:00 +0000

Nourish the Conscience

noreply@blogger.com (MJ) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 20:23:00 +0000

"What we call conscience is the voice of Divine Love in the deep of our being, desiring union with our will." ~ J. P. Greaves

Let us Pray...

God of Widsom,
open my mind and heart to your will,
and shape my conscience with your love.
Send your Spirit and guide me to grow in understanding.
Help me make the good and loving choices you call me to make.
Amen

May your intentions on the mat be heartfelt and insightful. Use the third eye to look within and the heart to feel Divine love. Allow the intake of each new breath to nourish the physical and energy body as the pranayama (extension of the lifeforce) travels from crown to root through the nadis.
Let this intention be released in order to heal and return to you new or as something different. Let go of your will and desire in order to let your path of existence to flourish.

~ Namaste, MJ

In Memory of MLK

noreply@blogger.com (MJ) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 16:20:00 +0000

"Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that."

"Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter."

"I have decided to stick with love. Hate is too great a burden to bear."

Winter Feast for the Soul

noreply@blogger.com (MJ) — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 21:46:00 +0000

"What nine months does for the embryo, forty early mornings will do for your growing awareness." ~ Jelaluddin Mevlana Rummi

Join me from January 15 through February 23, 2012 for forty days of self awareness and a journey you will surely not regret. As many spiritual leaders have taken their own forty days of discovery, you too can use these days to change your life. Forty is historically significant and as we begin Ordinary Time and prepare for Spring, we welcome a path of peace.

Invite change into your own life with forty minutes of insight into your own soul. Whether it's 40 minutes at once, two twenty-minute sessions or four ten-minute sessions of meditation, yoga, martial arts, prayer, journaling, or random acts of kindness, the positive energy created during this time will mend your spirit and nurture your heart. During the quiet space and time, let yourself find inner stillness to cultivate positive change to yourself, those you love and the planet.

For more information about private yoga and meditation sessions contact MJ LaDuke at Bhakti Wellness at mj@bhaktiwellness.com or visit www.bhaktiwellness.com.

Namaste ~ MJ

Is Yoga Right for You?

noreply@blogger.com (MJ) — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 23:22:00 +0000

Has the New Year brought you to a place of contemplation?

Do you desire more peace?
Do you desire more balance?
Do you desire better sleep?
Do you need to reduce stress?
Do you need to reduce anxiety?
Do you need to increase flexibility?
Do you need to increase muscle tone?
Do you need a better diet?
Do you need better will power?
Do you need to increase awareness of your self?
Do you need to increase spirituality?
Do you need desire a new path to spirituality?
Do you know what brings you peace?

Yoga brings all of this into a positive light. Yoga "yokes" you with the divine...the divinity within yourself, whatever that may be. Discover a new journey through yoga into the energy body. Or, just begin with the physical asanas (postures) to create awareness of the body and the breath. Use this insight to bring you to an emotional and spiritual state of awareness.

Discover the sound of the universe.....Om. Mention this blog post and receive a chakra assessment of the energy body for only $10 ($35 value) through March 31, 2012. You will receive a free crystal to assist in bringing balance to your energy body and a guide to use yoga asanas to achieve the balance you desire.

Follow this link for a free guide and answers to common questions asked before beginning the path of yoga.

www.bhaktiwellness.com

Namaste ~ MJ

Six Nights of Sunsets by MJ LaDuke

noreply@blogger.com (MJ) — Tue, 27 Sep 2011 23:12:00 +0000

*no reproduction of photo without written permission by MJ LaDuke

Anticipating a sunset often brings you to a myriad of flashbacks...from oceans to lakes across the country to islands far away to countries overseas. But tonight, the Great Lakes, one in particular, bring solace to the heart, peace to the mind and comfort to the soul allowing us to stay in the present moment. Let us look no further than the present and no farther into the past without creating unrest. For each sunset brings new meaning to life and new additions to our dreams.
A new destination brings depth to the spirit and a smile to the face when savoring the moment the sun meets the horizon. The anticipation soared as we approached our destination, we were taunted with each turn of our trek. A glimpse of the lake was in sight for but a moment only to disappear swiftly by a vast verdant abyss of pines, fruit laden trees and endless rows of maize. Each fork in the road exalted berries, fruit or wood!
With an endless view of the Great Lake in sight we arrived at our destination, yet the journey began anew as we set a new course for our Six Nights of Sunsets...a walk down the jetty proclaimed unrest on one side and tranquility on the other. The fishermen emerged as dusk drew near and the young-at-heart created their own memories as fearless stunts graced the waves and the chill of the water caressed their bodies. Their silhouettes glistened in the sun and their shadows danced with the skyline as we awaited the moment when the sun kissed the earth.
The clouds grew bountiful, but the source of all life jetted through each sliver of space offering beams of light to dance on the water below. As the end drew near the clouds gracefully passed and revealed the burning orange sphere. The beauty went unnoticed by many as they continued on with their evening play. Children's laughter drifted from the swings, teenagers demonstrated their athletic prowess off of the jetty and sweethearts walked hand-in-hand along the water's edge.
The moment came and swiftly went and now we anticipate the setting of the second night. As the eyes are closed and the sounds of the waves crash upon the shore, they sound not unlike that of the ocean. But something in the sound of the fresh water waves exudes more comfort than their salty counterpart. Perhaps the cooler nights and the unity of family that abounds create a heartfelt feeling that only the change in seasons can bring.
On this night, the sun is clearly visible as the clouds linger above the unique giver of life sharing warmth and beauty to all that acknowledge its presence. Behind the jetty it slowly sinks into the water and brings light to the other side of the sleeping world. As we say goodnight to the day we embrace the night that we are left with and each other. Only the aura of what once existed remains.
The third day brings unrest to the surrounding waters and even the partner of jetties can't hold back the force of the tide and winds. The animated weather brings clouds so dense not even a mere glimpse of the sun can be found yet the rituals of many remain the same. However, the spirited waters welcome brave souls to ride her waves as if upon the salty oceans. A conquered surf reveals yet another purpose for each evening whether a blatant or clandestine sun.
Into the night the weather turned restless to reveal a morning filled with a blanket of fog. The lighthouse faded and remained cloaked well into the afternoon hours. To the sailor's delight, the hours passed and the veil slowly lifted as the vast lake opened her arms once again welcoming the last Dog Days of summer. The fate of the next setting of the sun was sealed and hearts walked with a lighter step with anticipation of the evening's ethereal beauty.
And so it came. The lighthouse stood tall and proud as a beacon for all. The sun's audience faded this eventide, but for those loyal fans the show was grand. A tequila sunrise kissed the horizon as it spanned across the lake. The prism of color remained into the night as onlookers faded, yet the memory will live on in hearts and dreams for nights to come.
On this fifth evening the clouds were absent; Not one decorated the canvas of the night. A blazing sun exuded nobility and nostalgia as the setting was anticipated by all. Not even the smallest white cap erupts from the water. Only a slow ripple rolls across the lake to enhance the glistening path of light and even the fish swim beyond the lures to maintain the serenity. Stillness has arrived.
The journey down the jetty was like no other this week...waves remained obsolete and the path dry. The end became the beginning as we watched and waited. The breathtaking ritual was full of grace and prowess admired by most, and missed by few. Patience brings the pinnacle of the holiday to full circle.
The sixth and final sunset was a backdrop for the consummation of the holiday. The evening
held a plethora of memories from dawn to dusk from undulating greens and sparkling waters to
historical landmarks and thought provoking cinema. Though the mesmerizing sphere fell slowly below the horizon with less attention than deserved it was not forgotten nor dismissed. As the last rays danced upon the water, we hold the shining star in our hearts for eternity as it feeds our souls and nurtures our spirit. Without it, we would surely perish.

*No reproduction of any part or whole of article without written consent by the author.

Living in the Present (Moment)

noreply@blogger.com (MJ) — Thu, 08 Sep 2011 17:30:00 +0000

After hearing Mike Babcock, NHL coach of the Detroit Red Wings, speak today, I had to immediately put pen to paper for his words resonated with me as a yogini as I'm sure it did for many of the 400+ in attendance even without a yoga mindset.

It often takes a tragedy to stop us in our tracks and allow for a better perspective on life, but Mike Babcock lives each day with a positive attitude and a perspective based on his core values...family. There was nothing he could emphasize more than to cherish each day with those you love.

Yesterday afternoon many lives were touched with tragedy including Mike Babcock. A Russian aircraft carrying 45 passengers crashed just after takeoff outside Yaroslavl leaving only two survivors. Three of the fatalities were affiliated with the Red Wings and Babcock changed his practiced speech accordingly...

"If you live in the present, how could you ever go wrong?", he remarked. It doesn't take years of yoga training and philosophy to realized that if you stop dwelling in the past and dreading the future, you can have a joyful life each day. Some advantages of living in the moment include decreasing mind made suffering, increase in clarity of thought, creating a sense of calm which can eliminate fear, and achieving an emotionally positive mindset.

How does one arrive at such a state, however? Babcock reminds himself each morning of his choice to be positive or not. As he comments about the "Upward Success Spiral", he encourages listeners to "find something you are good at!". If you are passionate about something you are good at you will become great by default. Babcock has one fear. That fear is not to be great. So each morning he stays in the moment and continues on his quest to be the best coach he can be, the best husband he can be, and the best father he can be.

As YogaFit teaches, the essence is as follows: Let go of expectations, judgment, competition, listen, feel, breath, and stay in the present moment. How else could anyone manage the daily challenges, curve balls and temptations we are presented with? His advice was sincere, heartfelt and genuine. May we all live each day as he does and be great at our passions!

"We are not held back by the love we didn't receive in the past, but by the love we're not extending in the present."
Marianne Williamson

Introduction to Kids Yoga

noreply@blogger.com (MJ) — Tue, 19 Jul 2011 21:57:00 +0000

The statistics relating to health, fitness and obesity in children today are daunting. Allow them the gift early on of connecting their mind, body and spirit as they take their first step on the path of yoga. During this customized workshop, they will enjoy movement, increase body awareness and self esteem, and begin to take responsibility for their overall health.

Saturday, July 30 from 11am - 12:30pm or

Sunday, July 31 from 1pm - 2:30pm both in the Bhakti Studio

$15 per child (ages 6-12)

Each child will receive a Yoga Guide to take home and a chakra crystal.

Email mj@bhaktiwellness.com to reserve your child's spot today! Limited space available.

Gifts of Summer

noreply@blogger.com (MJ) — Wed, 06 Jul 2011 14:43:00 +0000

Children catching fireflies.
Mesmerized by the light.
Freedom in flight.
Drift by night.
Follow the path of pure delight.

Close your eyes.
Feel the breeze.
Listen how it kisses the leaves.
Floating through the trees.
Gently blowing over the seas.

"If we pursue mere earthly gain,
We choose a path that ends in pain;
But joy remains within the soul
When we pursue a heavenly goal."
~ D. De Haan

Surya Namaskara: Sun Salutation

noreply@blogger.com (MJ) — Thu, 23 Jun 2011 18:07:00 +0000

Experience the morning air and the rising sun as we give gratitude for our source of life. A spiritually robust time of day to connect with the mind, body and spirit. Allow yourself the time you deserve while you focus on the breath entering and exiting the body. Awaken the spine and create a day of purpose.

Friday, June 24 at 7:30am in Ford Field, Northville

Call 586-929-0806 for details or visit www.bhaktiwellness.com. $10 per person ($5 is donated to the American Heart Association).

Namaste~ MJ, Bhakta

"Forgiveness is Free. Hate is Expensive."
(Bitterness eats the soul)

Charming Jewels Offer Abundant Rewards

noreply@blogger.com (MJ) — Wed, 04 May 2011 21:09:00 +0000

There couldn't be a better time to host a Jewel Kade party or, simply, a GNO! This fashion forward, hand-made line boasts simple style and simple prices. Whether you prefer one chain or the layered look, JK has it all! From custom charms, to birthstone accents, glitter sticks and more!
Become a hostess in May and receive 10% of your party sales in JK cash, TWO free pieces of jewels (select items - one is picture on right, grey layering pearls) and any item at half off with a booking. Just email me at mj@bhaktiwellness.com for details or to set a date!

The Blossom of Love

noreply@blogger.com (MJ) — Sat, 30 Apr 2011 13:26:00 +0000

To have loved, but never to have had.
To have had, but to never have loved or been loved.
To lose what you have always loved.
To have lost the only chance to love.
To lose love to another.
To grieve. To mourn. To weep.
Hold me close to soften my heart.
Hold me with intention and earnest.
Hold me like no other.
Hold me once again.
Hold me if you can.
To live each day without love I look to the sky.
I look to the clouds.
I look to the trees.
I know you feel me.
Touch my face.
Kiss my cheek.
Caress my skin.
For in nature you find peace.
For in nature I find solace.
Breath of life fill my soul.
Lift my spirit.
Carry me past this desolate space.
Show me hope in each new bloom.
Through space and time love empowers, embodies, engulfs.
Through growth and change love evolves into a beauty not unlike the lotus.
The spectrum of life brings the color of change.
From root to crown I leave my life.
Unite me with the divine.
Om Namah Shivaya.
I honor the place in you that is love, truth, light, and peace.
When you are in this place in you, and I am in this place in me, we are one.
by MJ LaDuke

*no reproduction or use of this article without written permission by the author.

Let the Angels Guide Us Today

noreply@blogger.com (MJ) — Thu, 17 Feb 2011 12:41:00 +0000

Angels are beautiful to see
They fly like a bird, totally free
They look like humans,
But with a heart of gold.
Their wings expand the Universe,
Their love surrounds us all.
Up above flying free
See the beauty of the Angels,
Open your heart and eyes,
They are waiting on our call.

(Helen Jane Read)

Thought For Today

noreply@blogger.com (MJ) — Mon, 24 Jan 2011 12:42:00 +0000

Part of the essence of YogaFit is Staying in the Present Moment. We can do this through mindful awareness and with a daily mantra:

"I fly, I soar, released from the past, unbound from the future. Earth and sky meet me in this everlasting moment. I am here now."

I also wanted to share this wellness tip today:

Drink a glass of lemon water each morning (I do before my coffee). It assists in the following ways:
~ Rejuvenates the skin from the inside with Vitamin C.
~ Relieves heartburn, bloating and constipation.
~ Fights throat infections.
~ Natural diuretic.
~ With high potassium, helps high blood pressure as well as asthma.
~ And so much more!!!!

Enjoy!

Inspiring Classes and Students Bring Gratitude and Humility

noreply@blogger.com (MJ) — Sun, 16 Jan 2011 21:54:00 +0000

I wanted to take the time to say thank you to all those who have been attending my Wednesday night class at St. James Church in Novi. We started off our New Year with two full classes, new faces as well as old ones and new energy! Last week I left on a high like no other thus far. As the light increases each day we will anticipate Spring together and all of the new birth that naturally arises. Out of the earth we will rise like the lotus flower or perhaps the phoenix.
I am inspired from my already accomplished 2011 YogaFit training and, more so, from my students. Nothing gives greater pleasure, and gratitude, than to share this beautiful practice together especially when it comes from your own child.
As I sip my African Solstice tea with rooibos (Tea Forte)I reflect back on my already satisfying practice this month (and we're only half way through). Bringing heartfelt pleasure was my morning just this day with my nine-year-old daughter. We viewed, in half lotus, Anodea Judith's Illuminated Chakra DVD. From root to crown we followed an ethereal journey of light as the scent of patchouli filled the air.
When we arrived at the Vishuddha (throat) Chakra, we both verbalized "Om". It came so naturally to her...as did her selection of crystals to assess her Chakras: carnelian. The pendulum only slowed at her Svadhisthana. The rest were perfect!
My yogini apprentice was born today. And I thought scrapbooking with her was special!
Blessed are we who can find peace in our hectic world and share it with others.
Namaste~

New Class at Power House Novi

noreply@blogger.com (MJ) — Tue, 04 Jan 2011 02:28:00 +0000

Beginning next Tuesday, January 11, I will be teaching Yoga Flow at the new Power House Gym in Novi at the Fountain Walk. I am very excited about this new opportunity and look forward to seeing new faces.
The New Year has already brought new opportunities to my world of yoga....my world of peace and balance. I pray that everyone is able to find new beginnings, nurture current relationships and find closure where needed. Often it is the new window that opens when the door closes that allows us to rise like the phoenix...from ashes into beauty.
Our foundation (muladhara chakra)is key in life as it is in each asana. To allow our roots to grow deep, our (mula) bandha allows us to increase core stability, protect our lower back, increase mental clarity, and enables us to hold each posture longer. The bandha also contains the flow of energy.
With mastery of our foundation we are able to move into the second chakra....building our strength and allowing the prana or chi to flow through our nadis (energy pathways).

"When I am fully present in this moment I have everything I need."

The Gayatri Mantra

noreply@blogger.com (MJ) — Mon, 27 Dec 2010 03:27:00 +0000

Om bhur bhuvah svah
Tat savitur varenyam
Bhargo devasya dhimashi
Dhiyo yo nah prachodayat

"Om, We meditate on that
wondrous Spirit of the
Divine Solar Light, which
shines in every dimension of
life. May that Light inspire and
guide our inner vision."

New Website: www.bhaktiwellness.com

noreply@blogger.com (MJ) — Mon, 22 Nov 2010 04:14:00 +0000

Restorative and Chakra Yoga

noreply@blogger.com (MJ) — Wed, 10 Nov 2010 12:49:00 +0000

In addition to my private yoga instruction, I am pleased to announce two new classes at the Novi Civic Center come January 2011. Looking forward to seeing you there!

Online registration begins December 13, 2010 at www.cityofnovi.org.

Restorative Yoga ~ Tuesday at 10am
Create balance physically and mentally with Hatha yoga poses and meditation. Bring your response system back into equilibrium by triggering the parasympathetic nervous system. This class is suitable for the beginner to intermediate level. Bring a mat, strap, block and towel/blanket.

Chakra Yoga ~ Saturday at 10am
Explore all three aspects of your yoga practice (physical, mental and energy/spiritual) and tailor them to your unique personality and circumstances. This journey will take you deep within yourself to experience the balance and union that is yoga. This class will include some Vinyasa flow and is suitable for beginner through intermediate level. Bring a mat and blanket/towel.

Namaste ~ MJ

Mantra For Peace

noreply@blogger.com (MJ) — Mon, 11 Oct 2010 12:28:00 +0000

Om saha navavatu saha nau bhunaktu
saha viryam kara vavahai
tejasvi nava dhitamastu
ma vidvisha vahai
om santi santi santihi

OM Lord, protect us as one,
Nourish us Lord, as one.
Let us flourish in Thy strength as one.
Let our knowledge, O Lord, be changed to Light and
Change our hate to love,
OM Peace, peace, peace.

Fall Yoga

noreply@blogger.com (MJ) — Wed, 29 Sep 2010 01:51:00 +0000

October presents an ongoing Slow Flow Vinyasa (Bhakti/Devotional Yoga)at St. James Catholic Church in Novi (46325 W. 10 Mile Rd.) Wednesday's at 7:15pm. No RSVP necessary nor religious affiliation. Cost: FREE

Bhakti Yoga Private Sessions (Please call to schedule your session)

~ Private $35/hr. first private session
~ $50 one hour private session/$75 out of studio within 15 mile radius
~ 5 private sessions for $225, 60 minutes each (Save $25)
~ 5 private sessions for $325, 90 minutes each (save $50)tea and chakra assessment included
~ Yoga & Massage (with nationally certified therapist) $100 per session, allow two hours
~ Novi Chamber of Commerce Discount (please call for details)
~ PayPal available

~Wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely.
~If needed, eat a healthy, small meal at least an hour and a half before class.
~We encourage you to bring your own mat, but if you need to,
we have a limited number for use.
~Please reserve your space ahead of time and arrive 5-10 minutes early.

Blogger's notes: Although I am not in Key West anymore, my spirit floats anywhere I send it. As long as it is from the heart, our Anahata Chakra, the genuine intention holds steadfast.
When on the mat, my intentions vary, but they are always from the heart. They shift from peace, to family, to strangers, to global issues, to causes and the list goes on. It is the quest of a yogini (or yogi) to follow those intentions off the mat or to release them when fulfilled. Tonight, my intention is for my children. Sweet dreams...

Bhakti Semi-Private Yoga Schedule

noreply@blogger.com (MJ) — Sun, 22 Aug 2010 01:26:00 +0000

Sunday, August 29 ~ 7:00pm
Wednesday, Sep. 1 ~ 7:30pm FREE to launch Yoga Awareness Month*
Sunday, Sep. 5 ~ 10:00am
Sunday, Sep. 19 ~ 10:00am
Saturday, Sep. 25 ~ 10:00am
Sunday, Sep. 26 ~ 7:00pm

*The Department of Health and Human Services has declared the first National Yoga Awareness Month! If you've never tried it, join our journey for personal balance where we honor these values (our essence): Let go of competition, expectation, judgment, stay in the present moment, feel, breathe, and listen.

Yoga Awareness Month FREE Slow Flow Vinyasa beginning Wednesday, Sep. 8 at St. James Catholic Church in Novi (46325 W. 10 Mile Rd.). No RSVP necessary. Bring your own mat. Tentative start time is 7:30pm. Check blog for updates.

Please RSVP 24 hours in advance for semi-private instruction and email or phone to arrange private instruction. Thank you!

"Love is the force behind Consciousness. Whenever I put love first I am aligned with Consciousness, and my life flows effortlessly."

Last Week at a Glance ~ From Marathon Runners to 3-Day Walkers

noreply@blogger.com (MJ) — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 00:49:00 +0000

This last week I was honored with two opportunities. The first was to speak and perform a demo for an advanced marathon running group at the Running Fit store in Northville. I was so pleased and pleasantly surprised to find approximately 30 runners prepared (with mats and all!) to unwind with me after their run in our 90 degree weather.
Even amidst the heat and perspiration, the pleasant smiles, warm greetings and positive attitudes were all I needed to share my passion and practice of yoga. Oh, and I failed to mention the fact that we were on Haggerty Rd. outside the store so there was a pertinent need to project my voice over the trailing rush hour. Such a gesture is not typical of a soothing yoga practice, but when the need arises to make do, you make do!
The goal was to stretch and educate on the benefits of yoga to runners. Ahhhhh, where do I begin? To summarize the lengthy answer was a challenge, but not out of my grasp. I presented a foundation with the essence of yoga: breathing, listening, feeling, staying in the present moment and letting go of expectations, judgment and competition. Of course, to combat the 1,000 steps per mile that a runner takes and any physical misalignments, we focused on core, breathing, and mind/body synergy. I pray the evening was mutually beneficial as I was beaming with energy arriving at home.
This energy is identical to the energy I felt consume me after I had the pleasure of stretching out another group of approximately 30 walkers on day two of the infamous 3 Day Walk for Breast Cancer. The atmosphere here was was of friendship, love, humility, and selflessness. Women walking for themselves, for loved ones past, and for endless friends with one common goal.
Details of such an event take months of planning and to provide stanchioned space and (pink) yoga mats but no instructor was merely an oversight I'm sure. When a walker friend called me pleading to instruct, I was honored to assist and join my mother (a two-time walker) to support an endearing cause and share my passion of yoga with others. Though handfuls of walkers bypassed the mat for the medic tent, others awaited instruction and relief on their pink mats.
With my 11-year-old son at my side (and camera in his hand) we made our way through the barricades, police and volunteers to make way to the main camp. We were greeted by fatigued, but spirited walkers and soon the flow began...fulfillment for a yogini, a serendipitous experience for my son (from vans decorated with undergarments to port-a-potties with Dr. Seuss on them), pain relief for the walker's arduous day, and a dose of gratefulness for all.
Cancer surrounds us in all forms and the benefits of yoga are vast. From improved sleep patterns, to self awareness and acceptance, to empowerment of the mind to stress reduction and beyond, yoga brings peace and balance to all those who seek it. A cleansing breath brings detoxification and purification. Strength is built and/or maintain when the physical body is weak. If only to give yourself the time you deserve for yourself, an hour for the day or for a week. Learn to live yoga off the mat and see your life and world transformed.
Blessings to all those touched by cancer in any form. For strength, for love, for hope and eternal peace.

Yoga and Chakras: Understanding How They Work Together For a Balanced Life

noreply@blogger.com (MJ) — Wed, 28 Jul 2010 20:54:00 +0000

"The Chakra System is a map for the journey through life. Its seven rainbow colors represent the full spectrum of human possibility that stretches from the ordinary to the extraordinary, from Earth to Heaven." Anodea Judith

Learning about the chakras gives you access to your programmed responses so you can minimize their negative effects and maximize their positive ones.
A chakra is a spinning vortex of activity created by the presence of the consciousness within the physical body. There are seven major chakras whose locations correspond to seven central nerve ganglia branching out from the spinal column. The mind and the body are brought together by the life force running through you. In yoga, it is referred to as prana, which is equal to chi. Both mean “life force”. It is this vital energy that the chakras organize. When we work mind and body together (as in yoga), the basic tasks of life flow more smoothly and enjoyably.
The word chakra means wheel or disc. There are various ways to balance these spinning discs, but one consistent identity is their color. Imagery used with chakra balancing is that of a lotus flower…a flower that grows out of the mud unfolding into divine purity and beauty suggesting expansion of the soul. Below are characteristics of each chakra:

Chakra One
Location: Root of spine
Purpose: Foundation, grounding, survival, stability
Color: Red
Lotus Flower: 4 petals
Chakra Two
Location: Sacral area
Purpose: Movement and flow
Color: Orange
Lotus Flower: 6 petals
Chakra Three
Location: Solar plexus
Purpose: Energy, will
Color: Yellow
Lotus Flower: 10 petals
Chakra Four
Location: Chest/heart
Purpose: Love, relationship, compassion
Color: Green
Lotus Flower: 12 petals
Chakra Five
Location: Throat
Purpose: Communication, creativity
Color: Bright blue
Lotus Flower: 16 petals
Chakra Six
Location: Brow/third eye
Purpose: Seeing, intuition, insight
Color: Indigo
Lotus Flower: 2 petals
Chakra Seven
Location: Crown of head
Purpose: Pure awareness, understanding, unity with divine
Color: Violet or white
Lotus Flower: infinite petals

Using Nadi Sodhana Pranayama to Achieve Balance, Clarity, and Peace

noreply@blogger.com (MJ) — Tue, 11 May 2010 00:09:00 +0000

Sadly, the world is in a hurry and life is passing us by. If we could only eliminate ten of the items on our 20-item “to-do” lists, we could perhaps find ourselves on a path to some balance, clarity, and peace. Though many are told to rid their lives of unnecessary “things” and slow down the warp speed pace, they still don’t listen. A nod of acknowledgement gets them off the hook and on their way they go back to the daily grind.

Somewhere out there exists a select few have taken the path to peace, or rather, found the path to peace. A path where each step unfolds into a beautiful journey. This is a quest that will come at no cost, but have many, rich rewards. Call it an alchemy of sorts where wisdom is gained through prayer, breath, and silence.

Though silence is necessary for authentic meditation and prayer, there are actions necessary to achieve enlightenment. Arriving at a place where there is no judgment, no competition or expectations. Yoga, in any form, brings us to this place. When we use karma (which means action), it is a force causing good things or bad things to come to us. Since it is really our own inner conditionings and processes that are leading us to experience outer effects or consequences in relation to our own actions, we must continually monitor our choices for the self to rest in its true nature.

Yes, mind games. Or let’s say mind balance. One way to achieve this balance is through relaxation. We can achieve relaxation through our breathing. In many forms of yoga the three-part breath is used. Before final Savasana, or any time we need to fight off stress, we can perform Nadi Sodhana Pranayama = nostril breathing.

Purification of (energy) channels through nostril breathing is balancing, relaxing, and calming. Thus, eases stress through lowering heart rate, synchronizes the two hemispheres of the brain, synchronizes breathe through continued practice and can ultimately lead to spiritual awakening.

If you are unable to breathe through either side of the nose, you will not be able to perform this practice. The air must be able to move without obstruction to perform the pranayama (breathe). Wait until you are clear or use the Jala Neti Pot technique.
1. Sit in a comfortable cross legged position on a cushion to ensure a straight spine.
2. Relax the entire body by closing your eyes.
3. Begin with your right hand in Vishnu Mudra: fold your pointer and middle fingers into your palm, leaving your thumb, ring finger, and pinky sticking up.
4. Bring your thumb to the right side of your nose and your ring finger to the left side.
5. Close off your right nostril with your thumb.
6. Inhale through your left nostril for eight counts or until you reach your full and comfortable inhalation.
7. Close off your left nostril with your ring finger.
8. Open and exhale through your right nostril again for equal counts.
9. Inhale through your right nostril.
10. Close off your right nostril with your thumb.
11. Open and exhale through your left nostril.
12. Inhale through your left nostril.
13. Continue alternating 5 to 10 times.

I will use this technique in some of my classes so please feel free to reserve space for a class that is convenient for you. Hope to see you soon! Until then, breathe long and deep, close your eyes, feel the sun on your face, the wind in your hair, and the beat of your own heart….
Namaste~
MJ