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Side Plank

8 limbs of yoga - Ashtanga yoga!

bi-polar energy!

Gorgeous Ganesha!

b playful!

How Dehydration Damages Your Health!

The Rhomboids Major and Minor Muscles.

 

The rhomboids run from the spinous processes of the vertebral bodies and the supraspinous ligaments to insert onto the medial (inner) border of the scapula. The rhomboid minor originates at the level of C7 and T1; the major originates from T2 to T5. These muscles retract (adduct) and stabilize the scapula. In Garudasana, we protract (abduct) the shoulder blades, thereby stretching the rhomboids. 

The Supraspinatus Muscle.

The supraspinatus runs from the supraspinous fossa of the scapula to the greater tuberosity of the humeral head. This muscle initiates shoulder abduction and assists in stabilizing the humeral head in the glenoid (socket) of the shoulder joint. Garudasana works to lengthen this muscle.

4 Ways to Make Savasana Sweeter!

At the end of yoga class, it’s often joked that Savasana is the most difficult pose of all. It didn’t take me long to realize that there may be some truth to this joke. Many beginners struggle with Savasana, either falling asleep or hanging on to their thoughts, forbidding clarity and relaxation to sink in.

One of the reasons I developed a commitment to yoga was the paltry $5 difference between signing up for only yoga classes and tacking on a full gym membership. I seldom went upstairs to the gym. Movement on the machines felt unnatural and I was intimidated by the bulky dudes in tight shirts. Meanwhile, I found the yoga classes soothing. I sweated out so many toxins and worked on my flexibility, but there was something that regularly happened in class that annoyed the sweet prana right out of me.

When it was time for the exquisitely long 15 minutes of well-deserved Savasana, some unknowns upstairs would start their heavy weightlifting routine. Loud thuds and trembling shock waves distracted my focus and raised feelings of anger and rage. I thought about going upstairs to complain, but I wasn’t inclined to start an argument with buff dudes who could kick my skinny ass.

I didn’t realize until my teacher training that this aggravation was allowing me to practice aparigraha, or non-attachment, by letting go of thoughts and emotions, either positive or negative. After about four months, those thuds sounded like a light knock on the door of my perception; I had learned to withdraw from my senses and my active mind.

Here are four ways to improve the Savasana experience, both in your personal practice and when you’re teaching class.

LEARN AND PRACTICE YOGA NIDRA

Yoga Nidra is a technique that guides students through various parts of their bodies. It works by increasing the awareness of sensations in the muscular, connective and nerve tissues by breathing into them to send a signal of relaxation.

If done right, one can feel the energy flow up and down through the chakras. Eventually, it’s possible to dissolve sensations from the body altogether. It’s like having a voice-guided eraser that slowly fades your body into the ether.

There are many Yoga Nidra recordings out there, and some teachers like to guide their students through a session during Savasana. However, due to time limits at studios, it’s best to incorporate in a home practice to allow yourself the extra time.

MYSTICAL MUSIC OR SILENCE

Traditionally, yoga was done without music, much less meditation. It wasn’t until yoga came to the West that teachers started to notice the addition of music adds more flow and rhythm to a class. In the end, it really comes down to the preference of the individual.

Being a “Cosmic DJ” is no easy feat. We often let our personal musical preferences filter into our sacred tracks, be it mantras, Kirtan, white sounds or Enya. I’ve had some teachers play great songs through class and then choose an awful track for Savasana that was distracting or too intense.

My recommendation is to experiment and find tracks that take you to another dimension. If you live in a quiet town or deep in the woods, these locations allow for moments of silence; work with that and get a little Tibetan bowl timer in case you drift too deeply.

VISUALIZATIONS

One of the most powerful resources available to us is our imagination. I’ve found that using my imagination for visualizations has led me to profound and prolonged sessions of peace, quiet and rest. Here are three visualizations that help the mind let go.

The Big Blue Sky
Bring your awareness to the color blue, as if you were lying down on the earth looking up at the sky. Feel the warmth of the sun on your body and start to breathe in the fresh air. Any thought that passes through your mind, give it the shape of a big, fluffy cloud. If a thought is more negative, make the cloud more stormy and grey.

As you inhale, summon the power of the wind element, and as you exhale, watch how the clouds slowly drift away. Continue attaching thoughts to cloud shapes and breathe them away until nothing remains except blue bliss.

This visualization is a personal favorite inspired by Pema Chodron’s quote, “You are the sky, everything else is just the weather.”

The Ocean of Consciousness
Imagine you are sitting on a deserted beach in front of the crashing waves. Imagine that each wave is a thought or feeling. Let the wave slowly rise and fall as it crashes and dissolves in the sand.

As the breath deepens, so do the waves. Ask yourself, Where are these waves coming from? Their source is the depths of your mind. Imagine standing on the shores of your own consciousness, witnessing the waves arriving and dissolving. Realize you are not just the waves, but the whole ocean.

(This visualization works great with some ambient wave sounds.)

The Theater and the Ghost Light
Imagine that the mind is a stage, and your awareness is auditioning thoughts to see how well they perform. Some are funny, others are dramatic, and there’s the occasional poetic script read.

Imagine that your cue to let each thought go is a deep breath. As you start to slow your breath, you notice the stage lights are slowly fading out. The stage turns dark except for a white light that’s keeping the ghosts from the past and future away.

This light is your anchor to the present moment. It’s the light that shines within you and illuminates other beings with love, compassion and kindness. With every inhale, let these positive feelings sink in and watch how the light glimmers brighter and brighter.

ESSENTIAL OILS

Last but not least, aromatherapy is an effective way to calm the mind and relax the body. A diffuser works like a charm to spread the scent through a whole room, but there’s nothing more powerful than rubbing a little dab of oil right on the third eye, the base of the neck and the temples. Some favorite essential oils for Savasana are lavender, bergamot, ylang ylang, rose, jasmine, melissa and geranium.

via David Flores.

The Tensor Fascia Lata (TFL) Muscle!

The tensor fascia lata runs from the front portion of the pelvis to the iliotibial band (fascia lata), which then attaches to the outside front surface of the tibia. The revolved variation of Supta Padangusthasana works to lengthen this muscle. 

Mudras to Regulate Five Elements of Your Body!

A mudrā (meaning "seal", "mark", or "gesture") is a symbolic or ritual gesture in Hinduism and Buddhism that involves the hands and fingers (and sometimes the entire body). Traditionally, they are held as a spiritual, energetic seals of authenticity employed in the iconography and spiritual practice of Indian religions and traditions of Dharma and Taoism. In practice, they can be used as powerful tools to heal and revitalize the body.

There is a total of 108 mudrās used in regular Tantric rituals, so clearly, there are many to choose from when deciding to use them for oneself. In fact, there are many, many ways to use them, such as in conjunction with pranayama (breathing exercises), generally while seated in Padmasana, Sukhasana or Vajrasana pose, to stimulate different parts of the body involved with breathing and to affect the flow of prana in the body. The simple hand mudrās, however, is easy to use for beginners, which is why they are our focus here.

Mudrās operate on the principle that the Universe is composed of five elements: earth, air, water, fire, and ether. Because we are beings in this Universe, our bodies are comprised of these five elements. Breaking it down even further, the five elements are represented by our five fingers and thus can be regulated by hand mudrās. The finger categorization goes like this:

Fire: the thumb
Air: index finger
Ether: middle finger
Earth: ring finger
Water: little finger

The beauty of hand mudrās is that they can be performed at any time in any way, whether you’re sitting, standing, walking or traveling. While carving out a specific time isn’t necessary, putting it on your calendar can be a good reminder to keep up the practice. The best way to get the most benefit is by doing it in sitting posture, especially in sukhasana (easy pose), vajrasana, or padmasana.

While you’re starting out, you can keep your mudrās time to around 10 minutes. As you become more adept, you can increase this to 30 minutes to an hour. You also have the option of doing all of the mudrās in this sequence, or you can perform them in shorter installments. If you’re really crunched for time, you can start with the gyan mudrā and then do whichever you need the most from there.

GYAN MUDRĀ

Mudrā of Knowledge

Method:

Touch the tip of the thumb to the tip of the index finger, with the other three fingers stretched out.

Specialty:

The tip of thumb correlates to the pituitary and endocrine glands. When you press these centers with the index finger, the two glands work actively.

Benefits:

Increases memory power and sharpens the brain, enhances concentration and prevents insomnia. When practiced regularly, it can relieve psychological disorders like hysteria, anger and depression.

PRITHVI MUDRĀ

Mudrā of Earth

Method:

Tip of the ring finger touches the tip of the thumb with the other three fingers stretched out.

Specialty:

It strengthens physical weaknesses.

Benefits:

It helps to increase weight for weak life-force people, improves the complexion of skin and makes the skin glow, and promotes body functionality.

VARUNA MUDRĀ

Mudrā of Water

Method:

Tip of little finger touches the tip of thumb with the other three fingers stretched out.

Specialty:

Balances the water content and prevents all diseases which come due to lack of water.

Benefits:

Improves the deteriorated quality of blood due to shortage of water and gives freshness to the body.

VAYU MUDRĀ

Mudrā of Air

Method:

Keep the index finger on the base of the thumb and press with the thumb keeping the other three fingers straight.

Specialty:

Prevents diseases that occur due to imbalances in the air. Helps in diseases like arthritis, trembling in Parkinson's disease. Better results obtained if practices after Prana mudrā.

Benefits:

Relieves rheumatism, arthritis, gout, Parkinson's disease and paralysis. Useful for cervical spondilytis, paralysis of the face, and pressure on nerves in neck. Relieves gas pressure in the stomach.

SHUNYA MUDRĀ

Mudrā of Emptiness

Method:

Press the middle finger on the base of the thumb and keep the thumb on middle finger. Keep the other three fingers straight.

Specialty:

Targets issues in the ear.

Benefits:

Relieves an earache within 4-5 minutes.

SURYA MUDRĀ

Mudrā of the Sun

Method:

Put the tip of ring finger at the base of thumb, with thumb gently pressing on it.

Specialty:

Correlates to the thyroid gland.

Benefits:

Reduces cholesterol in body and helps in reducing weight, reduces anxiety, corrects or relieves indigestion.

PRANA MUDRĀ

Mudrā of Life

Method:

Bend ring finger and little finger and touch the tip of thumb with their tips keeping the remaining two fingers stretched.

Specialty:

As it is the mudrā of life, this improves the life force. Reduces clumps in blood vessels. Practiced regularly this promotes physical activity.

Benefits:

Improves immunity, improves the power of the eyes and reduces eye related issues, relieves vitamin deficiency and fatigue.

APANA MUDRĀ

Mudrā of Digestion

Method:

The tips of middle finger and ring finger touch the tip of thumb while the other two fingers are stretched out.

Specialty:

Plays an important role in our health as it regulates the excretory system.

Benefits:

Regulates diabetes, relieves constipation and piles, helps establish regular excretion of solid waste.

APANA VAYU MUDRĀ

Mudrā of the Heart

Method:

The tips of the middle finger and ring finger touch the tip of thumb, while the index finger touches the base of thumb and the little finger is stretched out.

Specialty:

Benefits the heart and works like an injection in the reduction of heart attack. Reduces the gas content in body.

Benefits:

Strengthens the heart and regularizes palpitation, regulates excretory system, relieves gastric issues.

LINGA MUDRĀ

Mudrā of Heat

Method:

Interlock the fingers of both hands and keep the thumb of the left hand vertically straight and encircle it with the thumb and the index finger of the right hand.

Specialty:

Generates heat in the body. Take milk, ghee, more water and fruit juices in addition to the practice of this mudrā for many benefits.

Benefits:

Stops production of phlegm and gives power to lungs, relieves severe cold and bronchial infections, invigorates the body

While practicing these mudrās, remember that balance among these five elements is key in maintaining optimal health.

mind-body-asana!

guru...

chairpose / utkatasana

Setu Bandh Asana Anatomy n Benefits!

Dwi Pada Pitham /  Two-Legged Table  B E N E F I T S — Opens the chest and shoulders and brings awareness to the spine. — Opens the Thoracic spine. — Strengthens the legs. — Lengthens the hip flexors. — Tones the upper back muscles. — Improves digestion — Helps menopause — Reduces anxiety, fatigue, backache, headache & insomnia — Therapeutic for asthma, HBP, osteoporosis & sinusitis 

Sensuous Yoga!

Cat Pose Anatomy!

Yoga thought!

Yoga is for everyone. No matter what your current skill level, remember that every yogi had to start somewhere. You will always be at the right point on your own personal journey. Banish your need for perfection and work to enjoy the effortless feeling of sitting in a pose and experiencing your breath. The practices and will empower you as you light your inner fire and move forward with grace and compassion.   

cool 1......

Herbalism for Your Astrological Sign!

 

 

There are unseen cycles that connect so many different factors in our world. Early on in our history, man observed the cycles that plants have when they grow according to their seasons. We went a little deeper, making a connection between time of year, plant growth and the cycles of the stars in the sky: the zodiac.
Thus, the use of plants for medicinal purposes and the study of such use were strongly linked to astrology by many early herbalists; Paracelsus, a Swiss German Renaissance physician, botanist, alchemist, and astrologer took this even further and declared that a physician should be predestinated to the cure of his patient and the horoscope should be inspected, with the plants gathered at the critical moment.
This school of thought holds that people, plants, planets and constellations are made of the same elements (fire, earth, air and water) and energies (hot/dry, hot/moist, cold/dry, cold/moist). This commonality facilitates people's connection with nature and the universe. Practitioners believe that the human body is a miniature replica of our solar system, with each body part and system symbolically representing a sign and planet.
Essentially, every person born under a particular zodiac sign has particular plants, herbs and spices that resonate clearly with their sign. By learning which these are, you can utilize their powerful properties for yourself, strengthen your energetic field and connect more fully with yourself. Start using particular plants in your cooking and environment.
- See more at: http://www.gaiamtv.com/article/herbalism-your-astrological-sign?cid=soc:facebook:articles#sthash.HX1GgLzE.QZSpYB92.dpuf

There are unseen cycles that connect so many different factors in our world. Early on in our history, man observed the cycles that plants have when they grow according to their seasons. We went a little deeper, making a connection between time of year, plant growth and the cycles of the stars in the sky: the zodiac.
Thus, the use of plants for medicinal purposes and the study of such use were strongly linked to astrology by many early herbalists; Paracelsus, a Swiss German Renaissance physician, botanist, alchemist, and astrologer took this even further and declared that a physician should be predestinated to the cure of his patient and the horoscope should be inspected, with the plants gathered at the critical moment.
This school of thought holds that people, plants, planets and constellations are made of the same elements (fire, earth, air and water) and energies (hot/dry, hot/moist, cold/dry, cold/moist). This commonality facilitates people's connection with nature and the universe. Practitioners believe that the human body is a miniature replica of our solar system, with each body part and system symbolically representing a sign and planet.
Essentially, every person born under a particular zodiac sign has particular plants, herbs and spices that resonate clearly with their sign. By learning which these are, you can utilize their powerful properties for yourself, strengthen your energetic field and connect more fully with yourself. Start using particular plants in your cooking and environment.
- See more at: http://www.gaiamtv.com/article/herbalism-your-astrological-sign?cid=soc:facebook:articles#sthash.HX1GgLzE.QZSpYB92.dpuf

WHAT TO DO WITH YOUR HERBS

Aside from cooking more with your particular plants, there are tons of ways you can make them a more permanent part of your life. Give a few of these a try:

Zodiacal Garden:

Design a circular garden divided into twelve sections, or houses, in which you might grow one or more of the herbs that correspond to each sign. For instance, you might plant thistle, garlic, and horseradish in the Aries section (or “house”). You could design and make, or purchase, a special symbol designating the section that corresponds to your sun sign, such as a large flat rock, painted with your astrological sign This symbolic garden honors the herbs that share your personal zodiac.

Around the House:

Until they grow bigger and require more room in your zodiac garden, you can keep little potted herbs around your space. Not only will they empower you, they also smell great and help keep your house or office fresh. It’s also nice to care for the plants that care for you.

Tea Time:

Depending on the herbs, most signs have plants that make for a wonderful cup of tea, or soup! Make this your power brew when you’re feeling low on energy or emotional oomph.

Essential Oils:

The next time you’re out shopping for essential oils, keep your list with you and add a few to your regular aromatherapy routine. They can make a world of difference for your personal astrological sign.

Drying Herbs:

Once you have a harvest from your garden (or the farmer’s market, for those of you with black thumbs instead of green!), you can preserve herbs nicely by tying them in bunches and hanging them upside down in a warm, dry place. You can then use them in cooking, or as another way to decorate.

Decorate:

You can try to create an herbal zodiac for your wall; draw, paint, or reproduce them in a textile art form. Hang an almanac (Llewellyn’s Organic Gardening Almanac is a good one) that will give you information about the moon’s phases. Press herbs as you would press flowers and place them in a shadow box. Arrange a windowsill or potted plant collection full of herbs.

With those ideas in mind, jot down the herbs associated with your zodiac sign:

ARIES

March 21 to April 20

Mars-ruled Aries is assertive, energetic and fearless. Mars rules the red blood cells, the muscles, and metabolic processes, as well as the motor nerves and the head. Herbs ruled by Mars may be thorny and prickly or have a strong, acrid taste. They may also be assigned to Mars because they are red (Mars is an orange-red color). Add a little fire to your life with cayenne. Like the sign of Aries, cayenne can instill confidence and zest in life. Use when you want more get-up-and-go and the courage to take on the world.

Other recommended herbs:

Basil
Nettle
Chervil
Wormwood
Geranium

TAURUS

April 21 to May 21

The planet Venus was regarded as the female embodiment of sexual love and human appetite. The planet rules the sign Taurus, which is related to those things we want and value. It rules the internal sexual organs, the nose and sense of smell. It harmonizes various body systems, and influences the complexion and facial appearance. Also under Venus’s dominion are the abdomen, kidney, thymus, and breasts. Venus-governed herbs are soothing and help to regulate the body’s metabolism through the endocrine system (see Libra). They have lovely flowers and, occasionally, red fruit. Oregano is an herb that has traditionally been used to attract money and resources. Earthy Taurus is all about building a stable and comfortable foundation, so using oregano regularly can help you generate greater abundance and prosperity in your life.

Other recommended herbs:

Mint
Thyme
Violet
Marsh Mallow
Catnip

GEMINI

May 22 to June 21

The mutable, changeable planet Mercury (also patron of the art of medicine) rules Gemini. It also governs the respiratory and nervous systems and their fluids, the ears and hearing, the tongue and speaking, the vocal cords, lungs and thyroid, as well as the shoulders, arms, and hands. Plants ruled by Mercury tend to have ferny or highly-divided leaves. Gemini has so much going on mentally that they may need a little help to digest all the information they're constantly absorbing. Dill has a clean, pure flavor that not only helps physical digestion, but assists spiritual and mental intake as well.

Other recommended herbs:

Valerian
Parsley
Anise
Lavender
Marjoram

CANCER

June 22 to July 23

Nurturing, maternal Cancer, ruled by the Moon, governs the esophagus and the stomach, the breasts, the womb, and the ovaries. It also rules all fluid secretions, including menstrual blood, fluids in the eye, and tears. The moon is often associated with conditions involving irregular periodicity: irregular menstruation and menstruation-related moods, epilepsy, insomnia, hysteria. Lunar herbs tend to have white or yellow flowers and soft, juicy leaves. They often live in or near water. As they are so nurturing and warm, Cancer loves the homey smell of cinnamon. This sweet spice is good for gently heating things up; it also promotes movement and flow in life. Its familiar scent is soothing and calming for those who need a little retreat every now and again.

Other recommended herbs:

Sage
Aloe
Lemon Balm
Bay
Parsley

LEO

July 24 to August 23

Leo, ruled by the Sun, is primarily associated with the cardiac system, but also with the spine, the thymus gland, and the eyes. Herbs related to Leo strengthen and tone the heart, regulate blood pressure, and raise the spirits. Some plants and herbs have been traditionally associated with Leo because of their color (orange, like calendula), their shape (radiating, like sunflower), or their association with victory (like the bay laurel). All cardio-active herbs should be used only in consultation with a qualified professional. Luxurious saffron is perfect for infusing a special flavor note into a dish. Leo loves this colorful and special spice, which is known for amplifying prosperity and abundance.

Other recommended herbs:

Rosemary
Sunflower
Lemon Balm
Chamomile
Tarragon
Eyebright

VIRGO

August 24 to September 23

Virgo is traditionally ruled by Mercury, which also rules Gemini. In its rulership of Virgo, Mercury governs the abdomen and the lower intestinal tract and the entire digestive process. Herbs associated with Virgo assist in digestion (as do Cancer herbs) and help to reduce flatulence. The relaxing, calming scent of lavender helps Virgo release stress and worries. When used in cooking, the gentle floral flavor of lavender adds a unique twist to many dishes.

Other recommended herbs:

Caraway
Dill
Mint
Horehound
Marjoram

LIBRA

September 24 to October 23

Venus-ruled Libra has traditionally been related to the endocrine system, the kidneys, and the bladder. Venus (which also rules Taurus) is responsible for the harmony between the various body systems, as well as the abdomen, kidneys and urinary tract, and thyroid. Libra's romantic nature appreciates a spice that cultivates love and sensuality. Cardamom is a spice known for its gently warming nature, so add a sprinkle when you want to heat things up slowly.

Other recommended herbs:

Catnip
Elderberry
Thyme
St. John's Wort
Bergamot

SCORPIO

October 24 to November 22

Until this century, Scorpio was ruled by Mars, and the herbs associated with it had to do with the urogenital system and the colon. Many of the herbs related to Scorpio are cleansing and revitalizing herbs. Now, astrologers assign Scorpio to Pluto, discovered in 1930. (Pluto is said by astrologers to be a “higher octave” of Mars.) Physiologically, Scorpio involves the processes of catabolism and anabolism, the death and regeneration of body cells. Diseases of Scorpio are often involved with the slow buildup of toxic substances in the body (carcinogens, etc) or in the mind (anger, jealousy). Scorpio loves a spice with depth and complexity. Nutmeg adds rich flavor to every dish it seasons, and its own aphrodisiac tendencies appeal to Scorpio's lusty nature.

Other recommended herbs:

Basil
Sage
Catnip
Coriander
Nettle

SAGITTARIUS

November 23 to December 21

The planet Jupiter rules the hips, thighs, lower spine, and the autonomic nervous system, as well as the process of growth and preservation. It also governs the body’s largest glandular organ, the liver. Herbs related to Jupiter have traditionally been used to treat lower back problems (including sciatica and lumbago), arthritis, and rheumatism, and to in dealing with the liver. Herbs with a high silica content are related to Sagittarius, as are plants with large taproots and trees that produce fruit and nuts. Illnesses of Jupiter are said to arise from immoderate consumption. Basil is an herb that's both expansive and cheerful -- just like Sagittarius -- and its reputation as a money attractor resonates with this sign's generous nature as well. Use this happy herb when you want to infuse your life with fun and prosperity!

Other recommended herbs:

Sage
Borage
Saffron
Chervil

CAPRICORN

December 22 to January 20

The sign of Capricorn (“The Goat”) is ruled by Saturn. Physiologically, Saturn rules the systems that give the body its structure and form: the skeletal system, and the skin, teeth, joints, and knees. Capricorn/Saturn herbs are high in calcium. They include woody plants and shrubs that show annual rings, as well as some poisonous or narcotic plants. Saturn herbs are useful in treating arthritis and rheumatism. Traditional Capricorn appreciates a spice that is powerful but familiar. Black pepper adds flavor and a bit of heat to both food and life, creating movement without too much change.

Other recommended herbs:

Rosemary
Tarragon
Caraway
Chamomile
Marjoram

AQUARIUS

January 21 to February 19

When Uranus was discovered, it replaced Mercury as ruler of Aquarius. Physiologically, Uranus rules the bioelectrical impulses that power the body’s nervous system. Nervous tension and nervous exhaustion brought on by powerful changes in the environment are related to Mercury, Uranus and Aquarius. Physically, Aquarius rules the lower legs, the calves, and the ankles, and the electrical impulses that travel through the body’s nervous system. The nervous system itself is ruled by Mercury, and Uranus is said to be a “higher octave” of Mercury. Since Uranus was discovered after the correspondences with plants had been established, the herbs used in Aquarius are Mercury herbs. Always difficult to pinpoint, quirky Aquarius appreciates the unusual and complex flavor of star anise. Use this star-shaped spice when you wish to bring happy surprises into your life.

Other recommended herbs:

Comfrey
Rosemary
Fennel
Violet
Valerian

PISCES

February 20 to March 20

Herbs connected to Pisces are ruled by its former ruler, the Moon (Neptune, the current ruler, was not discovered until 1846, after the plant correspondences were established; Neptune is considered a “higher octave” of the Moon). Diseases of Pisces have traditionally included psychotic disorders, various forms of substance addiction, lung diseases such as tuberculosis, and ailments of the foot; contemporary herbalists also add immune system diseases. Pisces is strengthened by rosemary's ability to promote an aura of centered grounding. This protective herb helps strengthen boundaries and cultivate a closer connection to the physical realm.

Other recommended herbs:

Basil
Lemon Balm
Borage
Sage

Yogic Physiology!

Sassy Water: A Flat Belly Diet Staple!

Flat Belly Diet and Sassy Water

Sassy Water: A Flat Belly Diet Staple

On the Flat Belly Diet you'll begin with a 4-day jumpstart, and one key ingredient is Sassy Water

The Sassy Water Recipe

Sassy Water

2 liters water (about 8 ½ cups)
1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
1 medium cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
1 medium lemon, thinly sliced
12 small spearmint leaves. 

Combine all ingredients in a large pitcher and let flavors blend overnight. Drink next day!

5 elements!

Finding the Master Within!

Guidance for the deeper levels of Yogic practice

Many of us ache for infallible guidance promised by great gurus who had—or have—a higher perspective to know exactly what is needed and best for our growth. Unfortunately, especially in these modern times, many such gurus turn out to be quite underwhelming, if not disappointing, upon closer inspection. These days everyone wants to be a Yoga teacher, but few have what it takes to be a Yogi first.

Any teacher with confidence, sensitivity and decent rhetorics quickly gathers a following, which exponentially grows, giving the increasing impression of credibility.

Some of them even have made enough actual progress on the path to develop a degree of personal power—always a huge challenge when it appears. Power tempts the ego, which is often not rooted out completely, to abuse this capacity for less-than-holy purposes. Examples abound, think Maharishi Mahesh Yogi (the Beatles’ guru), who was distracted from sublime perfection by wealth and power as they came with popular success.

On the energetic path of Yoga we develop tremendous potential in certain aspects of our being. Asanas,pranayama, kriyas, bandhas and meditation can—with proper instruction—allow an aspirant not only to overcome impurities and elevate consciousness, but also to develop certain extraordinary abilities like telepathy, telekinesis, clairvoyance, teleportation, etc.

If this sounds like make-believe or the stuff of legend to you, simply look at the sizable amount of very credible accounts out there.

Ram Dass (Richard Alpert) for instance collected hundreds of his co-devotees’ memories of the late Neem Karoli Baba in his book The Miracle of Love, many of them describe the extraordinary feats of the humble master: transporting himself to far away places instantly, appearing in several places at once, generally knowing everyone’s thoughts and many events of the future.

Never did he admit, much less show off, his abilities. He actually denied them insistently like a true master always should according to both, the ‘Yogic etiquette for siddhis (perfections)’, and the absence of an ego giving rise to lowly desires.

He is by far, not the only example for siddhis are mentioned in many of the ancient Indian scriptures as side effects of spiritual practice that should never distract us from the actual goal, which is of course, Self-realization. Extraordinary powers are a temptation many teachers have fallen prey to as it is hard to resist using them for desires of the ego. Money, influence, fame and sex were and are the subject of scandal after scandal around teachers (and others) the world over.

But we should never think that there are no genuine cases, just because most we hear about are scandalous.

The lineage of Paramahansa Yogananda abounds with fascinating tales of the masters’ feats and no scandals to speak of. In his famous book ‘Autobiography of a Yogi’, really one of the first books to read when embarking on the path of Yoga, the same miraculous abilities are described.

Yet, we should not conclude that superior abilities are the best proof of a teacher being ‘for real’. Some of the greatest teachers have never displayed unusual powers and here’s why: Spiritual evolution can be seen as a tree that can grow either like an oak—wide and strong but relatively low—representing well-developed ways of dealing with the world (like siddhis) yet not reaching to the highest levels of consciousness. Or it can be more like a poplar—growing very tall and skinny—signifying full realization without displaying ‘worldly powers’.

Such a master is Sri Ramana Maharshi (1879-1950), commonly regarded as one of the greatest rishis (saints) of modern India.

The bottom line is that this world holds more in store for us than we are told while growing up, more than we can even fathom. True masters have existed throughout history and all cultures. They may not be common as it takes rare qualities to become one, but they exist. It is our karma that decides which teacher we come across when and the saying goes, “When the student is ready, the teacher appears.”

That now reminds us of the first quality we need to develop on the path: patience.

A young person can be forgiven their impatience, but if one has not learned this ‘trick’ over a few decades they really have not paid attention.

Instead of rushing from one promising lead to another, why don’t we just rest in our practice, letting all intentions and interests be for the ‘time being’, all will take care of itself in its due course. Any spiritual practice has the potential to make us awaken to the Eternal Now, we just need to patiently practice for more than a few minutes (or even months).

We remain aware of intuitive pulls and callings, but without obsessing about them. Many of the great masters of all time have put forth that the master is ultimately within and by listening calmly and quietly anyone can find this infinite spring of wisdom.

Spiritual knowledge (jnana) is not conveyable in words as words are limited and designed for ‘the world’ only.

True knowledge arises from within, it is beyond doubt or arguments, its truth stands shining brightly without needing to convince anyone.

A wonderful effect of Yoga is indeed that it makes us aware of the Stillness inside, needed to hear this ancient unchanging wisdom. Yoga calms down the otherwise incessant babble of the mind in favor of listening to the subtler layers of creation.

This is the master within. So go, sit with patience, let awe and wonderment take the lead to where no questions remain.

Via Arjuna Hackenberg