Fit and Youthful Life

Guest Author: anonymous


Yogic Methodology: When thinking about Yogic Methodology, there are two kinds that come to mind. One is the application of Yoga techniques to daily life, and the other is Yoga teaching methodology. Competent Yoga teachers should thoroughly know both.

When considering the application of Hatha Yoga techniques to daily life, we know that Yoga will change a student’s health for the best and improve his or her lifestyle, but it must be gradual. The mind, body, and spirit will not change much in a month, but a year of regular Hatha Yoga practice will yield some significant health changes.

How many Yoga students want an instant life change? Too many – and this is why we should not make unrealistic promises. It is up to the Yoga student to take action, come to classes regularly, and practice what you have taught in your Hatha Yoga classes. It is up to the Hatha Yoga teacher to fill the student’s mind with knowledge and encouragement.

If it took decades of neglect for a new student to achieve poor health, how can he or she expect a little bit of Hatha Yoga practice to perform miracles? Every aspect of a student’s health will be changed for the better by regular Yoga practice; but this is an “on demand” world, where some people are willing to risk the side-effects of a pill rather than take positive action toward better health.

The natural effects of regular exercise, proper breathing, better posture, improved diet, and self-discipline will result in a Yoga student who is less stressed, has fewer ailments, lives longer, and sleeps better.

When a Yoga student continues to make Hatha Yoga classes a part of his or her life for years – the true value of good health will be felt and seen. This same student will most likely practice Karma Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, Jnana Yoga, Raja Yoga or other forms of Yoga “down the road.” The benefits of Yoga, in any form, will cause a student to go deeper into his or her personal Yoga practice.

Yoga teaching methodology is how a teacher reaches out to the audience – through the use of teaching, communication, or observation methods.

Student corrections, in regard to Yoga techniques, should be straight to the point; but every Yoga teacher should take care to be tactful in the process. Yoga students come to you for guidance, so keep your ego “in check.” A few “rogue” Yoga teachers, who are gruff and condescending, can ruin any student’s desire to continue practicing Yoga.

What are the qualities of a good Yoga teacher? There are many, but being able to spot students in need, and still show compassion, is very important. Being able to teach any student is another strong trait. The realization that each Yoga student is uniquely different from each other, and cannot be “cloned,” is a milestone in teaching.

Demonstrating and correcting Yoga techniques is only part of the job when teaching Yoga classes. A successful Yoga teacher must communicate with all students throughout the class, and keep the passion for Yoga going.

Copyright 2007 – Paul Jerard / Aura Publications



Longevity and Health Now

Guest Author: Danette Hibberd


Yoga is a wonderful form of exercise and assists in controlling and balancing various aspects of the body and mind. Yoga helps you in the control of your Central Nervous System and more. Enjoying yoga will promote many positive changes including a boosted self-esteem, a reduction in stress levels as well as discovering strength in your body and improved overall health. For more than 5000 years, people have enjoyed yoga. Yoga derived from the Indian nations, and through time has now allowed many people in the western world take control of their body and mind. Yoga when enjoyed on a regular basis is a great method to help you with the many pressures of today’s society. Yoga combines spirituality, exercise, positive thinking, breathing and so on to help you enjoy healthy ageing.

The Benefits of Yoga

Yoga is a valued practice for many people worldwide. Yoga incorporates fitness, health, gymnastics, and training in a set of rules. Yoga helps you to maintain or lose weight along with strengthening and toning to the muscular system. Yoga is a stress reducing machine. Yoga will train your mind, as you learn to control your thoughts through meditation and breathing. Breathing correctly is essential to mastering yoga. When you practice this form of exercise, you are connected with your inner self. You learn to balance your mind and body, which leads to good health.

Through practicing yoga, your emotions are also controlled, meaning that fears, doubts, and other negative influences will not take control of your life. Rather you will have control. As you practice yoga, you will feel comfortable with both yourself and others around you. The world will become yours, as you learn to communicate effectively and stop sweating the small stuff.

As there are many forms of yoga, be aware that some types of yoga training may not be right for you. Sometimes you may have to modify the workouts to benefit your body type and to withhold the workout suited for your strengths. You have to determine the beginners level in whatever yoga form you participate in, and allow to progress naturally. Your instructor will provide you with the necessary steps to receive the utmost benefit to you and your body.

How To Get Started With Yoga

The first thing you should do is seek medical approval from your practitioner. Make sure you are able to enjoy the type of yoga you choose. Start out slowly and progress only when your body is comfortable. Guide your way into mediate exercising. Yoga will put you in connection with your spiritual side, so prepare to find a new you.

When you first begin yoga, perhaps you would benefit from joining groups that practice yoga at the appropriate level. The group sessions will inspire you to continue your journey to healthy ageing. Having support is essential for all of us, and these yoga groups can become your support team on your journey. If you cannot find a group in your area, visit your local library. You can also purchase books, videos and dvds that provide instruction on how you can both enjoy and benefit with yoga.

Where do I go after learning yoga?

After you have taken the steps to get started and learn and discover the correct methods to perform the yoga exercises, you will need to find a quiet area where you feel comfortable. You want to avoid interruptions while practicing yoga to receive the most benefit from your workout. As yoga involves both physical and mental connection and balance, the benefits from the meditation and breathing will be tantamount to your results, stimulation and healing.

When will I notice the change in me?

Be patient. As with almost everything in life, you may not notice a change right away. It takes time to notice or feel the changes. If you practice yoga on a regular basis changes will occur gradually and soon you will be amazed how your emotional and spiritual connections will begin changing your life in leaps and bounds. Keep in mind that yoga is teaching you how to control your mind, body and emotions.

Work with yoga and yoga will work with you. Yes, promote healthy ageing with the benefits of yoga.