Once you have decided to become a certified yoga teacher, the first thing you will need to do is select a teacher training program. There are a few things to consider when selecting a training program. The first thing to consider is the type of yoga you want to teach. Some schools focus on a mix of yoga types, while others focus on one style. Your future plans play an important role in determining which method is best for you. There are several options available in teacher training, depending on the program you choose. The options available will depend on … Continue reading →

Anusara yoga is a relatively new form of yoga that has its roots in hatha yoga. Anusara yoga was started in California by yoga guru John Friend in 1997. Friend trains teachers through his Anusara yoga center and teaches at workshops around the country. Anusara means flowing with grace or flowing with the heart. According to Friend’s website, Anusara yoga “unifies a life affirming Tantric philosophy of intrinsic goodness with the Universal Principles of Alignment.” These principles of alignment form the components of Anusara yoga. The Universal Principles of Alignment in Anusara yoga are Attitude, Alignment and Action. The asana … Continue reading →

There are many benefits to practicing yoga in the morning. The physical benefits of practicing yoga in the morning include stretching the muscles, awakening the body, improving circulation and stimulating the mind. The benefits of yoga are not all physical. Taking even the time for a short yoga practice in the morning allows you to begin your day centered and happy in the present moment. Even on mornings when calm feels miles away a little yoga in the morning can help improve your outlook. Recently, I recommitted to practicing each morning. With four kids, this is not always easy. It’s … Continue reading →

Integral yoga began in the early 1900s by Sri Aurobindo. In his book, The Synthesis of Yoga, Sri Aurobindo describes the goal of integral yoga to be uniting all aspects of the individual with the divine. Integral yoga is not one specific form of yoga. It is a fusion of many styles and philosophies. This form of yoga is not strictly for exercise, as a power yoga or weight loss yoga class. It is concerned with not just the body, but harmony in all areas, including the physical, emotional and spiritual practices. Basically, integral yoga’s philosophy can be deduced by … Continue reading →

Yoga Nidra, or yogic sleep, is a restorative yoga practice that brings calm, stillness and increases clarity. Whether staying home with young children, working full time or going to school while raising a family, our society is busier than ever and most people are losing sleep. Incorporating Yoga Nidra into your practice has a rejuvenating effect. If you have trouble sleeping, the problem is often related to a constant inner monologue, reminding you of all your responsibilities and worries, making sleep elusive. Yoga Nidra is an ancient practice that involves several levels of meditation. The instructor guides students in quieting … Continue reading →

Chair yoga classes for seniors are growing in popularity. These classes are now being offered in yoga studios, retirement communities, senior centers and community centers around the country. Seniors aren’t the only ones who can benefit from these poses. People with previous injuries or some health conditions can benefit from the gentle stretch provided in these classes. The modification of the asanas is useful for people with less flexibility or range of motion, regardless of age. People with rheumatoid arthritis benefit from a chair yoga class, whether they are seniors or younger. Arthritis makes it difficult, if not impossible, to … Continue reading →

Kripalu Yoga was founded in 1966 by Indian Yogi Amrit Desai of the Yoga Society of Pennsylvania. Desai studied with Swami Kripalvananda in India and named his form of hatha yoga for his guru. This form of yoga has an emphasis on physical healing and spiritual growth, as well as the physical practice of yoga. The focus in Kripalu yoga is on the proper alignment when performing the asanas and the breath, as well as the spiritual aspects of yoga. The movements are gentle with emphasis on performing the asanas correctly and breathing with the movements. In this form of … Continue reading →

There are many forms of yoga and if you are just starting out, you may not be sure which type is best suited for your personality. Choosing a compatible form is important because you will be more likely to stick with the practice if you are enjoying it. There are many factors to consider when selecting a yoga class. Your level of flexibility, fitness, workout preferences and personality all play a role in selecting a form of yoga that is best for you. The answers to these factors are different for each person. Fortunately, there are many forms of yoga … Continue reading →

If you spend much time studying yoga, you have likely heard of a guru and wondered what exactly that means and if you need one. In yoga, a guru is a time honored tradition, dating back thousands of years. A guru is more than just an expert in yoga or a yoga teacher. A guru is often described as an individual who has reached self illumination and offers guidance in spiritual matters as well. There is greater emphasis on studying with a guru in some forms of yoga. For example, in Kundalini yoga, the guru is said to have the … Continue reading →

Zen yoga is a holistic yoga practice. Like many other forms of yoga, this type focuses on the unity of the body, mind and spirit. However, Zen yoga takes this idea a step further because it blends yoga with meditation, breathing and Tai Chi movements. Because the movements are gentle and flowing, similar to tai chi, this form of yoga is a good choice for people who prefer a less strenuous practice. In addition, the combination of yoga with tai chi, breathing of Qigong and Zen meditation is intriguing and attractive for some students. The practice of Zen yoga is … Continue reading →