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Bandhas: Awaken Your Vitality

Bandhas: Awaken Your Vitality

Bandhas, a significant aspect of yogic practices, are energy locks or seals used to regulate and direct the flow of prana (life force) within the body. The term "bandha" comes from the Sanskrit word meaning "to bind" or "lock." By engaging specific muscles and energy centers, bandhas help to control the subtle energy within, enhancing physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. There are three primary bandhas commonly practiced in yoga: Mula Bandha, Uddiyana Bandha, and Jalandhara Bandha. Understanding and incorporating these bandhas into one's practice can deepen the experience of yoga and promote a harmonious connection between the body and mind. From a philosophical perspective, practicing bandhas is believed to harmonize the flow of prana, which is considered essential for the journey of self-discovery and spiritual awakening. By activating and controlling…
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Nadi Shodhan : The Dance of Balancing Energies through breath

Nadi Shodhan : The Dance of Balancing Energies through breath

In the ancient wisdom of yoga, the human body is believed to be a vessel of prana, the vital life force that sustains all living beings. This prana circulates through subtle energy channels called nadis, creating a delicate dance of energies within us. When these energies are in harmonious flow, we experience physical, mental, and emotional well-being. However, stress, imbalances, and external influences can disrupt this dance, leading to various health issues. Nadi Shodhan, a powerful yogic breathing technique, offers us the means to restore this equilibrium and rediscover the symphony of life force within. The Philosophy of Nadi Shodhan Nadi Shodhan, also known as "Alternate Nostril Breathing" or "Channel Cleansing Breath," is rooted in the philosophy of traditional Hatha Yoga. It is based on the concept of the two…
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Yoga and Balance: Achieving Harmony in Body and Mind

Yoga and Balance: Achieving Harmony in Body and Mind

Yoga, an ancient practice that originated in India has now gained popularity worldwide due to its numerous physical, mental, and spiritual benefits. One of the fundamental aspects of yoga is balance, which extends beyond the physical realm and encompasses harmony in all aspects of life. In this article, we will explore the connection between yoga and balance and how practicing yoga can help us achieve equilibrium in our body and mind. Physical Balance: When we think of balance in the context of yoga, the first thing that comes to mind is physical balance. Yoga poses, known as asanas, require us to find stability and equilibrium by engaging various muscle groups and aligning our body properly. Some of the many postures as mentioned below challenge our balance, encouraging us to develop…
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25 Basic Yoga Postures for Beginners

25 Basic Yoga Postures for Beginners

Yoga is a journey of self-exploration and personal growth. It encourages self-reflection, mindfulness, and the development of a compassionate and non-judgmental attitude towards oneself and others. In our fast-paced modern lives, stress has become prevalent. Yoga provides a sanctuary to unwind and relieve stress. Through asanas (poses), pranayama (breathing exercises), and meditation, it helps to calm the nervous system, reduce cortisol levels, and induce a relaxation response. Regular yoga practice boosts energy levels and promotes a sense of vitality. It improves circulation, oxygenates the body, and releases tension, resulting in increased physical and mental energy throughout the day.  It is a powerful tool for managing stress, anxiety, and depression. The combination of physical movement, breath control, and mindfulness in yoga helps to improve mental clarity and focus. Let’s understand: How…
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Anatomy of the Spine and Neck

Anatomy of the Spine and Neck

Anatomy of the Spine and Neck What is the Spine Made Of? The spine is made up of vertebrae, spinal discs, and the spinal cord. Vertebrae are small, circular portions of bone stacked on top of each other. There are 33 vertebrae in total making up the structure of the spine. Between each vertebrae are spinal discs. Spinal discs are rubber-like discs that act as padding for the vertebrae. They work as shock absorbers and keep the vertebrae from rubbing against each other. The vertebrae and spinal discs house the spinal canal. Inside the spinal canal lives the spinal cord and nerves. The vertebrae and spinal discs act as protection for the spinal canal and what lies inside. What Are the 5 Parts of the Spine? 1.Cervical Spine The cervical…
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8 Yoga Poses for Flexibility: A Step by Step Guide

8 Yoga Poses for Flexibility: A Step by Step Guide

Improving your body’s flexibility can come with many benefits. These include less muscle tension and pain, better posture, and improved circulation. By increasing your flexibility, you can also lower your stress and decrease your risk of injury. Try out these 8 Yoga poses to improve your flexibility and see your body transform. 1.Marjaryasana-Bitilasana: Cat-Cow Step by Step: Start in a table-top position, on your hands and knees with a neutral spine . Your hands should be placed directly under your shoulders and your knees below your hips. As you inhale, arch your lower back, dropping your abdomen towards the floor. Retract your shoulder blades, letting your chest fall down and forwards, opening it to the front of you. Turn your chin up to the ceiling and let your gaze follow.…
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8 Yoga Poses for Better Digestion

8 Yoga Poses for Better Digestion

When your digestion is sluggish, the feeling can spread to the rest of your body and affect your mood. Next time you want to give your digestive system a boost, try out these 8 yoga postures and watch your body come back to life. 1.Marjaryasana-Bitilasana: Cat-Cow Step by Step: Start in a table-top position, on your hands and knees with a neutral spine . Your hands should be placed directly under your shoulders and your knees below your hips. As you inhale, arch your lower back, dropping your abdomen towards the floor. Retract your shoulder blades, letting your chest fall down and forwards, opening it to the front of you. Turn your chin up to the ceiling and let your gaze follow. All of these steps combined make Bitilasana or…
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9 Effective Asanas for Thyroid Issues

9 Effective Asanas for Thyroid Issues

The thyroid gland, located in your throat, plays a vital role in the development of the body by regulating hormones and maintaining a healthy metabolism. The thyroid gland regulates hormones and metabolism by releasing the proper amount of hormone into the bloodstream as the body needs it. When the thyroid gland is underactive or overactive it can affect how the body uses the energy it receives from food. If you struggle from thyroid issues, try these 9 powerful yoga asanas to improve your thyroid health and balance the hormones in the body. 1.Marjaryasana-Bitilasana: Cat-Cow Step by Step: Start in a table-top position, on your hands and knees with a neutral spine . Your hands should be placed directly under your shoulders and your knees below your hips. As you inhale,…
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What is Yoga Anatomy – A Guide to Safe Yoga Practices

What is Yoga Anatomy – A Guide to Safe Yoga Practices

What is yoga anatomy Anatomy is the study of the structure of the human body. It covers the study of bones, joints, muscles, and internal organs. Yoga anatomy uses the knowledge of how the body is structured to further explain how the body works while performing various asanas and other movements. Understanding anatomical concepts, such as how joints and muscles work in relation to one another, will help a yoga practitioner deepen their mindfulness during their practice. With anatomical mindfulness, we can better understand alignment, weaknesses, strengths, and imbalances in our body. Why is yoga anatomy important? Learning yoga anatomy is important in order to maintain safety in your practice. Developing an understanding of yoga anatomy will help prevent injuries and facilitate the healing process for existing injuries. Taking the…
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Chandra Bhedna Pranayama (Left nostril breathing) – How to Do It, Benefits & Precautions?

Chandra Bhedna Pranayama (Left nostril breathing) – How to Do It, Benefits & Precautions?

Chandra bhedana pranayama is a cooling breathing technique in which the breath is inhaled through the left nostril and exhaled through the right nostril. This pranayama is believed to balance the body's energies and calm the mind. The left nostril is associated with the cooling effect, lunar energy (idā nāḍī) and the right nostril with the heating effect, solar energy (piṅgala nāḍī) according to yogic tradition. This practice is recommended for those who are experiencing anxiety, stress, or excess heat in the body. It is important to note that this practice should be learned under the guidance of a qualified yoga teacher. According to yoga philosophy, the human body is said to contain three main energy channels, or nadis: ida, pingala, and sushumna. Ida nadi is associated with the lunar…
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