These Yoga Mats and Rubber Mats will have you Standing on your Head

By Terry Price

When it comes to the practice of yoga, there are a few basic items that you should consider in addition to yoga mats and the proper clothing. Clothes that breathe well and are comfortable are recommended. Try to wear a shirt that is a little bit form-fitting, as you'll find most yoga poses will require your head below your hips and your shirt can slide down. It's best to not have some super-slick lycra-type pants since most poses may cause these to slip. Some good exercise shorts or pants are usually sufficient. You can practice yoga in just about any room in your home and in bare feet, so don't bother with carrying a bulky pair of athletic shoes around to the gym for after-work workouts, as most yoga studios will request you leave your shoes near the entrance anyway. Yoga mats sometimes referred to as sticky mats will help define your personal space and provide a foundation for traction when using your hands and feet. You will probably get a little sweaty, but you won’t slip! A good custom floor mat or cheap area rugs offer a suitable surface, but unless they are sticky, they may pose a problem with slipping.

Rubber mats and yoga mats provide a bit of cushioning, regardless of what type of hard surface on which you practice. They are only around $20 and if you’re just getting started, you’re advised to go buy one right away. You’ll find that most studios rent mats for a dollar or two per class session. If you like sanitary conditions, then you should definitely get a personal one. One disadvantage of rented mats is that a lot of people use them and they can get smelly between washings. Most studios will let you store your mat there if you attend regularly.

In addition to yoga mats, blankets are common and yoga studios have stacks of them available for their students to use during class. You’ll find that yoga mats are made of open cell natural rubber and offer excellent traction. Compared to your standard rubber floor mat, they are thicker, tougher and denser. You’ll find that these mats are made from natural rubber which is a renewable resource made from rubber trees. Most do not contain any ozone-depleting substances and are biodegradable. You can also purchase a nylon canvas bag to carry your mat in. Most are mesh woven at the center of the bag and they breathe well. You’ll find them in many vibrant colors such as pink, blue, lavender and many others. Most bags have convenient front pockets for keys, wallets, etc. Complete with an adjustable shoulder strap, this is almost a must when transporting yoga mats to and from the studio. Another useful tool is blocks. When it comes to yoga blocks, they are super strong and will support your full body weight. They aren’t mushy like a lot of foam products. They are lightweight and easy to use, and can offer you stability and support for proper alignment. Folded blankets are used to sit and lie on during class and act as props. As an example, assume you are sitting in a cross-legged position. It is comforting to place a blanket under your sit bones, as this will elevate the hips above the knees. You’ll find that they come in handy for all sorts of things during your session, and if the studio is cold you can cover yourself during the final relaxation at the end of the class. The yoga blocks are like blankets and can be used to make yourself more comfortable and improve your alignment. They are great for standing poses in which your hands don't reach the floor.

Terry Price is a regularly contributing author to http://www.rugsmatsitems.com/disclaimer.html Bargain Priced Yoga Mats: http://www.rugsmatsitems.com/wholesale-yoga-mats.html

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Pranayama -- The Yoga of the Breath

By Jenn Courtney

A human being can survive without food for 40 days or more; can survive without water for up to a week, but we die if we do not have air for more than 5-10 minutes! In today's society we do not take the time to breathe properly: I mean, we REALLY do not take much time to notice IF we are breathing, let alone take the time to observe the quality of our breath. We rush from here to there; grab fast lunches on the fly and rush to the next task, panting in our hurry to get to our destination. When we do breathe it is often a shallow breath, concentrated in the upper chest- more closely resembling the breathing pattern of panic or flight. Often, the tensions of the day's activities leave us with a tight chest, strained, constricted breathing, and equally constrained and tight thoughts. In addition to asana practice, pranayama (Yoga of the Breath) is an excellent way to bring calm clarity into your day; it takes only a few minutes and can bring fresh perspective whenever needed. Many people take a few minutes to pause and breathe or meditate before a meeting, presentation, performance, or as a study break; pranayama is useful any time you need to detach from your mind and rest.

The breath is the wave upon which yoga postures flow one into the other and is one of the most important aspects of yoga. When we take a moment to notice and improve the quality of our breath we have more oxygen moving to the brain, the muscles around the rib cage and upper back relax more, our stress levels reduce and we are able to achieve greater perspective in our day. With full and proper breathing we find our bodies and minds are more open and clear; thus yoga practice deepens in both posture and observance.

Namaste

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Yoga: When Should You Consider a Private Lesson?

By Paul Jerard

Shouldn’t Yoga should be easy for everyone to understand? There are so many Yoga books, containing detailed, full color pictures and loaded with content.

At this time, it is easy to find audio books, DVD’s, and various video formats made by world famous Yoga teachers. The world of Yoga has changed from small classes, in a Yoga teacher’s home, to gymnasiums full of eager Yoga students.

This is a good thing - so who needs a private lesson when you can buy a Yoga video and learn from the masters? Learning Yoga should be a “piece of cake,” right? Wrong; as a matter of fact – Painfully wrong.

Yoga videos are great learning tools for “Yoga Teachers.” Sometimes, I use them at workshops for Yoga teacher interns, but we stop the film at certain points and cover intricate techniques. This gives a Yoga teacher, or an intern, a more complete understanding of the subject covered.

On more than one occasion, we have had a new Yoga student join because he or she was injured while practicing Hatha Yoga, with a video, at home. How is that possible? It is as simple as watching the television and cranking your neck to the side while practicing a Shoulder Stand (Sarvangasana ) or Plow (Halasana).

Why would someone do that? Someone who is new to Hatha Yoga, and has had no formal guidance from a Yoga instructor, does not know better. Hatha Yoga is a safe practice, if you develop a foundation of knowledge by coming to Yoga classes and learning from a competent Yoga teacher.

If there is no Yoga teacher in your nearby area, use a Yoga DVD or video. Please watch the Yoga practice at least one time, completely, so that when you physically participate, you do not injure yourself. You should take notes and develop a safe practice, based on the easiest postures you see.

When you start to develop a Hatha Yoga home practice, never force your body to do anything. Always stay in the “comfort zone” and play it safe. In your spare time, read about contraindications for Yoga postures. This will help you expand your knowledge of Yoga and stay safe.

If you do have a Yoga teacher nearby, and get injured because you did not visit a class, or set up a private lesson – Shame on you. Whenever, you take a private lesson with a Yoga teacher, ask questions. That is what you are paying for.

If you are new to Yoga, and have a health condition, it would be wise to inform your teacher. It would also be in your best interest to take a private Yoga session. In the case of pregnancy, you should seek out a certified Prenatal Yoga instructor, if approved by your physician.

© Copyright 2006 – Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

Paul Jerard is a co-owner and the director of Yoga teacher training at: Aura Wellness Center, in Attleboro, MA. http://www.riyoga.com He has been a certified Master Yoga teacher since 1995. To receive a Free e-Book: "Yoga in Practice," and a Free Yoga Newsletter, please visit: http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html

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Deep Tissue Massage - Muscle Tendon & Ligament Relief

By Kelly Price

Deep Tissue Massage or myofascial release is a massage technique that focuses on releasing restrictions in the deeper layers of the muscles, tendons and ligaments.

Deep tissue massage releases chronic patterns of tension in the body through slow strokes and deep finger pressure on the contracted areas.

Using slow strokes and deep pressure or friction applied across the grain of the muscles not with the grain, deep tissue massage first warms the soft tissue before targeting deeper muscles groups.

Deep Tissue Massage – How Does it Work?

Deep tissue massage is both corrective and therapeutic. It uses two methods, direct or indirect and is effective in releasing deeply-held patterns of tension, removing toxins, relaxing and soothing muscles.

The direct method applies pressure to the muscle with the intention of finding resistance in the body, and maintaining the pressure until the resistance is released.

The indirect method moves in the opposite direction of the resistance.

With both techniques the amount of pressure applied is dependent on the amount of resistance.

Fingertips, knuckles, hands, elbows, and forearms are all used with long, slow strokes.

Because of the focus on a specific area some clients find deep tissue massage uncomfortable and it may
cause some soreness during or after.

Providing the massage is carried out correctly any soreness should disappear in a day or two.

Deep tissue massage does not require great strength, nor does it need to be painful and applying pressure for the sake of it can be ineffectual if done incorrectly.

Of the two methods, direct and indirect, there are many different combinations.

Some of the more well known include:-

• Polarity Therapy

• Thai Massage

• Triggerpoint Therapy

What are the benefits of a Deep Tissue Massage?

Unlike a regular relaxation massage, deep tissue massage works effectively on the skeletal structures that lie deep within the body.

Many people seek a deep tissue massage to help in treating crippling diseases, muscle, tendon and ligament injuries.

When muscles are stressed, they block oxygen and nutrients, leading to inflammation that builds up toxins in the muscle tissue.

Through controlled manual manipulation, deep tissue massage breaks down scar tissue and crystallization, loosens muscles, releases toxins and allows blood and oxygen to circulate properly.

It is important to drink plenty of water afterwards to flush away the toxins released during massage.

The key benefits of deep tissue massage include:

• Elimination of the blocks that cause muscle tightness

• Increases circulation of blood, lymph, cerebro-spinal and interstitial fluids

• Can resolve many chronic pain patterns by releasing deeply held emotions that cause tension

• Helps improve the functioning of the internal organs and any associated symptoms or diseases

• Improves posture and mobility

• Helps to reduce tension and the automatic reflexes to stress

How effective is Deep Tissue Massage?

Deep tissue massage can be very effective, but one has to be realistic about how much can be achieved in one session.

Simply asking for more pressure and thinking that if the therapist pushes hard enough, all tension will be released within an hour is unrealistic.

Chronic knots and tension built up over a lifetime can only be addressed with a series of treatments.

Most therapists will offer advice on a program that includes exercise, work on your posture, relaxation techniques and a regular program of massage.

Is Deep Tissue Massage Safe for Everyone?
As with most massage treatments, deep tissue massage is not recommended for certain people.

Massage should not be done directly over bruised or inflamed skin, open wounds, tumors, areas of recent fracture, abdominal hernia, rashes or skin disease.

It should also be avoided by:

• People with cardiovascular conditions and heart disease especially in cases of thrombosis, phlebitis and oedema

• Pregnant women and people with osteoporosis should consult their doctor before considering a massage

• Immediately after surgery

• Immediately after chemotherapy or radiation, unless recommended by your doctor

Deep Tissue Massage - Choosing a Therapist

When considering a deep tissue massage, ensure you choose a therapist you feel comfortable with and one that comes from a reputable organization.

Salons, spas, health and fitness clubs typically offer deep tissue massage, or you contact a mobile spa and have a deep tissue massage in the comfort of your own home.

For More FREE info

On the benefits of massage, the different types available from experienced masseurs visit http://www.privatelyyours.co.uk.

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Yoga: Three Reasons You Should Not Do Wheel

By Subodh Gupta

The Wheel – (Chakrasana also known as Urdhva-Dhanurasana)

The Wheel is an advanced and one of the most dynamic whole-body postures in Hatha Yoga. In this asana the body is arched back and supported on the palms and soles of the feet.
Do not be discouraged if you are not able to accomplish this pose right away as it is a very challenging and difficult asana. Before fully attempting this inverted pose know the strength of your upper body and your spinal flexibility. Even attempting this pose without successful completion gives great benefits.
If you have limited strength but plenty of flexibility you can easily come up into this asana.
If you have lots of strength but limited flexibility you will be able to come up into the Wheel using the force of your strength.
If your strength and flexibility are limited the Wheel pose will be quite a challenge.

The Chakrasana has an overall tonic effect for the entire body. It tones the spine by stretching it fully. It strengthens the spine, upper back, arms, shoulders, wrists, buttocks, thighs and abdomen. It stretches the chest and the lungs.
It stimulates the cardiovascular system, thyroid and pituitary glands.
The Wheel gives a boosts of energy, great vitality and feeling of lightness. It counteracts depression.
By practicing this asana the glandular, digestive, respiratory and nervous systems are enhanced.

Although the Wheel is a very healthy and safe asana to perform for some people, the same may not hold for other people. There are many health conditions in which it is suggested that Wheel posture is not recommended.

Three important reasons (out of many) not to do Wheel:

1) Any person with weak wrists should not attempt this powerful pose.

2) In case of back injury avoid this posture.

3) During pregnancy this asana is not to be performed.

Issued in the interest of people practicing Hatha Yoga by Subodh Gupta, Yoga Expert based in London.

Mr Subodh Gupta, a Corporate Yoga Trainer has conducted more than 500 workshops on Yoga and Stress Management. He has been interviewed by various TV channels in India and London.

For reaching to Subodh Gupta Yoga website http://www.subodhgupta.com/ and for Subodh Gupta Corporate yoga webpage http://www.subodhgupta.com/corporateyoga.html

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Yoga for Health: Are You Stressing Out? Take Yoga Class

By Paul Jerard

Stress is actually the number one killer of humans on the planet. Stress is a factor and cause of more physical and mental diseases than most of us can imagine. If you have any disease or ailment, stress will make it worse. If you are getting "stressed out," it may bring on an ailment or disease.

Just look at what stress does to your blood pressure and heart. Cancer patients recover better when they are dealing with less stress. There are many reasons to worry, and none of us is without worry or stress. Too much stress can also cause an abrupt withdrawal from society and result in a possible depression.

Stress overload can cause job burn out, chronic fatigue, and nervous breakdowns. All of these conditions can result in long-term effects that can "sap" a person's life energy, focus, and motivation.

Unfortunately, stress can also be caused by the ego, too much attachment to outcome, greed, jealousy, and hate. This is mentioned within the Yoga Sutras, by Patanjali, which has remained a timeless guide to human insight. Sometimes, we create our own stress and are our own worst enemies.

So, what's the solution? Stress management programs are one answer. Have you ever noticed how many stress management techniques look like Yoga? To be honest, if something looks and sounds like Yoga; it's probably "Yoga in disguise."

I do not want to take away any credit, but Yoga is a 5,000 year old health maintenance system. You could call Yoga the "mother" of all health maintenance systems. Many of today's health maintenance systems are "off shoots" of Yoga.

Hatha Yoga teaches you to stretch and strengthen your tense muscles, breathe correctly, relax, meditate and much more. Regular Yoga practice will help you develop your focus and turn stress "on its head." As a result of Yoga practice, you will easily be able to handle life’s daily stress.

Whether the form of Yoga you practice is holding postures for a while, or flowing from one posture to the next, your body will be relieved of stress. Hatha Yoga sub-styles such as, Restorative Yoga and Iyengar Yoga, hold the Yoga Postures a bit longer than most.

The controlled breathing, practiced while holding a posture, enables the Yoga student to release stress, and walk away from a Yoga class feeling better than he or she did before the start of the class.

On the other hand, Hatha Yoga sub-styles that flow such as, Vinyasa Yoga, Power Yoga, and Ashtanga Yoga, have more movement, but the repetition of movement will also release stress from your body.

So, which is the best style for you? Most Yoga studios and wellness centers realize that students do not all "dance to the same beat."

These movement-based Yoga classes differ from a gentle Restorative Yoga style. Each Yoga style has its own flavor, but a prospective student should talk to a Yoga teacher prior to the particular class. This is the wisest course of action, when considering your own goals.

Yoga is not a complete cure for stress, but it does cause the opposite effects of stress. Most Yoga students do find themselves living a calmer, more relaxed, and healthier life style as a result of practicing Yoga on and off the mat. This is why so many doctors recommend Yoga to their patients.

© Copyright 2006 – Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500, is a co-owner and the director of Yoga teacher training at: Aura Wellness Center, in Attleboro, Massachusetts. http://www.riyoga.com He has been a certified Master Yoga teacher since 1995. To receive a Free e-Book: "Yoga in Practice," and a Free Yoga Newsletter, please visit http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html

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