Miracles

​​I was asked by a client, "Do you believe in miracles?" The short answer is yes. The long answer begins with the awareness that Charles Babbage (1791-1871), an English Polymath considered by some as the “Father of the Computer” has stated, "If we define a miracle as an effect of which the cause is unknown to us, then we make our ignorance the source of miracles!" To counter ignorance let us define responsibilities, realize values of source and choose subtle-body principles☮️

First, to understand classic physical (hatha), mental (jnana), cultivation (raja), causation (karma) and reverence (bhakti) practices are taught via eight-limbs (as(h)tanga). Within ashtanga are specific practice examples. Faith (ishvarahpranidhana) for example is a polite (niyama) serene-determination connected to hope and love. Astanga classic practice responsibilities include, civil (yama), polite (niyama), posture (asana), breath (pranayama), hold-tension (pratyahara), attention (dharana), meditation (dhyana) and living-meditation (samadhi)🆔

Second, to realize wellness within the Yoga Therapy Bio-enviro-psycho-socio-philosophical (Panc(h)a-maya-kosha) model from the values of longevity, vitality, mentality, intellectuality and spirituality. The model encompasses ‘five protections from illusion’, a more literal translation of the Sanskrit word pancamayakosha. The outermost bodily protection is biological (a(h)na-mayakosha) as well as being the first gross-body protection of the atmosphere working out into the cosm. The next protection (kosha) towards inner bliss is environmental (pra(h)na-mayakosha). Then, the psychological (ma(h)na-mayakosha), followed by the sociological protection known as vijna(h)na-mayakosha a wise intelligent intuition. All four koshas protect the a(h)nanda-mayakosh; the outermost macrocosmic protection is mirrored in the soul as the innermost protected sheath, veil, layer or micro-essence of source, force and or being⚛️

Next, through subtle-body principles particular to general and specific plexus (chakra) correlations in the seven to twelve system format. The Cavernous-cerebral plexus (Ajna, 6th chakra) is correlated to science, to proof. The Sacral plexus (Swadisht(h)a(h)na, 2nd chakra) is correlated to feeling, to theory. Specific to the vijnana-mayakosha, respective of 2nd and 6th chakra correlations, are relationship equity, a kindly togetherness for parasympathetic inhibition and excitation responses as well as top down, bottom up and processes that evolve around for information exchange. When through love, a Cardiac-pulmonary plexus (Anahata, 4th Chakra) correlation, a oneness of theory and proof unveils miraculous realities that defy death and provide cures, specifically with free and responsible (astanga) ways of understanding. Yoga therapy patrons benefit from innate full circle realizations integrated by a yoga therapist’s responsibilities, values and principles☯️ 

Furthermore, intuition (vijnana) is most closely correlated to bliss (ananda). In the Yoga Therapy model intuition is an aspect of sociology where theoretical feelings, such as feelings of equanimity (anahata), are validated by populations world-wide. Scientific research proofs when mathematically speaking, according to dictionary.com, are a way of understanding “in which there is an identity element that, on operating on another element, leaves the second element unchanged, and in which each element has corresponding to it a unique element that, on operating on the first, results in the identity element.” A verification by multiple groups is known as meta-analysis whereas correct correlations support theories. The UE Group of researchers at regroup.com eloquently states, "...success metrics, preferences, and ratings gathered from quantitative research helps validate and inform... By adding qualitative research takes it a step further, uncovering the motivations, behaviors and emotions..." An awe inspiring intelligence can be miraculous when allegedly unreplicatable revelations or unknown ancient practices are wisely accepted becoming future endeavors as intuition touches the soul💟

Finally, inspire (small) miracles with classic practice references in parentheses by noticing a happy blissful spirit through chakra correlations. The string of affirmations (japa) include: 1) Have ahimsa; without harm share the joy 2) feel the faith (ishvarahpranidhana); rejoice in joy 3) believe in yourself (astikya) to eccocentrically apply healthy-habits (hutu) and safety-rules (vrata)  4) Namaste is gracefully saying ‘thank you’ when leading and following your heart while omnipresently soul searching for ‘True Self Arise’ (Brahmin, Atman, Parusha, Id) with an attitude of gratitude and generosity 5) let laughter happen (bhoga) 6) Gently smile (sukha) 7) dare to dream ~ peace is possible (shanti) 8) explore beyond horizons with awareness (samadhi)  9) self-directed destiny is divinity (divya, nirvana, moksha) 10) seek heights and depths as well as open spaces and crowds in cosmic universal harmony (pranava) 11) compassionately embrace the journey victoriously (jaya) 12) smartly write a happy process and ending (buddhi). Observe the effects from the japa that can enlighten the anandamayakosha. Be protected without illusion (kosha) by the dance of energy; Om namah shivaya🕉

Holistic Health, A Bio-enviro-psycho-socio-neurological (pancamayakosha) model of care

“Pain is a debilitating and frightening experience that stresses and tires us! Let us look at the various types of pain;

- Physical pain - injury, burn, hunger, thirst etc.

- Emotional pain - insult and hurt by friends and family

- Intellectual pain - having an idea or suggestion shredded in front of everyone

- Pain of Power - being subjugated and forced to act against one's will.

- Existential pain - not understanding the reason for living”

...

 - Vishwanath (Vishu) Iyer, Chief Yogi

Yoga Therapy provides a model of care to perceived pain known as Bio-enviro-psycho-socio-spirituality (pancamayakosha)

Also purporting a.) physical pain includes, “contraindicated feedback loops from signals” and b.) “Pain of Power” be known as “Political Pain”

- biological (ana): healthy physical body maintained and healed by plants; measured intake of food (mithara), with pose (asana), isometric holds that indicate strength and or cohesion, at times linked together, often in classes, for activity or movement (vinyasa) at increased speed for exercise (kriya), also enacting that which science and research indicate honoring biological indices to thrive (see also vitality) food & asana (1 & 2)

- environment (prana): subtle emotional energy sustained by air; aura of life with breath (pranayama) empowering or subduing feelings and or parasympathetic, relaxation, responses that comfort and calm, also correlated to compassion caring and kindness, see also

- psychological/sociological (mana): wealthy mature mind primed by Ashtanga implemented by intentions (sankalpa) with SMART goals; one for all and all for one with holding tension and or withdrawal (pratyahara), attentive (dharana) to thoughts affirming (mantra) intelligence and mindfulness (dhyana) integrated as a living meditation (samadhi) utilizing civil (yama) and polite (niyama) classic practices (ashtanga), also SMART goals S pecific (describe and or write in a word, sentence, paragraph or letter) M easurable {each (small) step [leap, jump (flight), page, book and or volume etc.] at a time} A ttainable (trainings, coaching, class and or therapy can help) R realistic [(while daring to dream) making (tentative) plans]  T imly [directing your own destiny (a divine fate) choosing to schedule]

 - neurological (vijnana): wise intelligent intellect a samadhi inclusive of who, what, when, where, why and how of a greater good with Love Power [the inherent worth and dignity of every person place thing and sentient being, equity in relations, spiritual growth, free and responsible ways of understanding (yama, niyama, asana, pranayama, pratyahara, dharana, dhyana, samadhi), democratic processes and peace liberty justice while respecting interconnected existence), also providing follow through and spontaneity for results when synaptic nerve function resulting in spontaneous sensations with top down and bottom up processes; noticing the effects and benefits during and after physical poses (asana) and poses for the mind (mantra) with documentation (tracking and logging) in a gratitude journal as your able, also 

- Longevity, Vitality, Spirituality: happy blissful spirit perfecting practice by feeling (tantra) and or noticing/knowing (as(h)tanga) the beneficial effects of yoga and or other personal, cultural and or religious methods etc., with faith (ishvarahpranidhana), defined here as serene determination; noticing subtle energy (tantra), living in accordance with rights/values (of having, feeling, acting (doing), loving, speaking, knowing, being, privacy, intimacy/optimacy, ultimacy, efficacy/advocacy, agency)], responsibilities (ashtanga), also principles and practices of yoga (Love Power) and other natural practices protecting spirit

holistic health: model of body, mind and spirit; body, energy, mind, intellect and spirit

1.) Fresh is best vegan food: frozen and steamed as needed boiled is better than baked and never fried; whole grains, fruits, plant protein (edamame), vegetables, seeds and nuts fasting at least 12-16 hours during any 24 hour period of time depending on age, training and performance needs🥗

2.) Asana pronounced ahh-sauna at Yoga Training (Touch), a home studio and personalized retreat, are postures indicating poise, grace, elegance and simplicity. The poses improve all aspects of holistic health when practiced correctly, find a good teacher or therapist in your area (www.IAYT.org), many specialists provide virtual sessions, I can be reached by visiting www.yogatrainingtouch.com for Lifestyle Habit Formation of bio-enviro-psycho/socio-neuro-spirituality. 

       - *Yamas: including while not limited to non-harming, without hurting, no war, without violence, without aggression; without coercion, without trickery, without cheating, without deceit trustworthy (satya); non-stealing, without taking, leave it (astaya); non-controlling, without addiction, loyal, chaste (brahmac(h)arya); non-possessive, without jealousy, without greed (aparigraha)

     - *Niyamas: including while not limited to cleanliness and purity (sauc(h)a), contentment and patience (santosha), change by cultivating good with optimistic discipline (tapas), self-study and studiousness (svadhyaya) and faith with serene determination (ishvarapranidhana) 

From pain or dis-ease (dukha) to ease (sukha).

Yoga (Holistic) Strength

Participation often occurs upon the strength of our convictions, the tenets (yamas) and precepts (niyamas). When Centering, stand (tadasana), notice the strength and energy of the feet, pelvic floors/perineum, core, hands and neck. Feel muscles, tendons and ligaments throughout the body drawing bones into a cohesive whole. Notice breath (vyana pranayama), withdraw (pratyahara) from distractions, focus (dharana) upon yama, niyama, asana, pranayama through pratyahara in an enduring focus known as meditation (dhyana) while perfecting practices (ashtanga) of awareness (samadhi)!

Dictionary.com defines strength as:

1. The quality or state of being strong; bodily or muscular power; vigor.
2. Mental power, force, or vigor.
3. Moral power, firmness, or courage.
4. Power by reason of influence, authority, resources, numbers, etc.
5. Number, as of personnel or ships in a force or body:

A regiment with a strength of 3000.

6. Effective force, potency, or cogency, as of inducements or arguments:

The strength of his plea.

7. Power of resisting force, strain, wear, etc.
8. Vigor of action, language, feeling, etc.
9. The effective or essential properties characteristic of a beverage, chemical, or the like:

The alcoholic strength of brandy far exceeds wine

10. A particular proportion or concentration of these properties; intensity, as of light, color, sound, flavor, or odor:

Coffee of normal strength

11. Something or someone that gives one strength or is a source of power or encouragements, sustenance:

The Bible was her strength and joy.

12. Power to rise or remain firm in prices:

Stocks continued to show strength. The pound declined in strength.

The above definitions can be placed in holistic categories. The categories classifications or protections include, responsibilities values principles of a healthy physical body, powerful emotional energy, wealthy mature mind, wise intelligent intellect and happy blissful spirit. Most people have heard of body/mind or body/mind/spirit practices while approaching from a Yoga Therapists perspective Classical practices include principles of body, energy, mind, intellect and spirit!

Practicing during Strength Sessions the precept of discipline (tapas) applies. According to Deborah Adele, author of The Yamas & Niyamas, “It is our determined effort to become someone of character and strength.”  Holding positions (asanas) of strength is character building, forming us into svelte images; ‘our bodies are our temples’!

Prana, ‘energy in from the environment’ breaths help resist strain and wear. Relaxing (pratyahara) into strength is a surrendered determination which is comforting during long isometric holds. Focused attraction (dharana), often at the sight of muscular improvements may help in staying attentive (dhyana) during strength poses or thinking about the benefits of being strong, like helping with tasks. A Oneness or Holistic strength of being able is felt through to the bones with a density that lives on (see Yoga Lift); om namah shivaya!

Sanskrit, For the Love of Language

Sanskrit

10/21/2019

I’ve stated, “Sanskrit is the Latin of the East”. Both languages are ancient considered “dead” rather than extinct as extinct languages no longer have any speakers. Dead languages are often adopted, not usually native to the speaker. Languages adopted by a community, spoken by practitioners for the sake of stability and unity survive.

Dead languages are super special in that the words spoken are understood to resonate with love. Speakers of dead languages are caring for the language to remain alive. Dead languages remain when the words notate love, understanding, caring, kindness and compassion. Dead languages have special unique qualities understood by the speakers and listeners of the language embodied by a sense of having, feeling, doing, loving, speaking/listening, knowing and being. 

Sanskrit carries forth intentions (sankalpa) with intimate communities or relationships among speakers ultimately thriving upon the efficacy of words with inspiration optimally grounding and centering success. Hebrew is a language that has been revived due to the formation of a Nation State and Cornish has moved from the extinct list to critically endangered when 3500 claimed native speakers were recognized by UNESCO¹. The hope expressed in reviving languages is as optimistic of the kindness and compassion found by people caring for the welfare of endangered species of animals; when the option is extinction, speaking a dead language is known by speakers and listeners as an atmosphere of love.

1.   www.en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Extinct_language

Cultivate Good (Tapas)

Tapas
Edited10-21-2019

❣️Hatha Yoga pronounced hah tah is a Physical Practice of uniting opposites; pose (asana) counterpose, standing and sitting, prone and supine asana and movements (vinyasa) of strength, balance and flexibility. Ashtanga or Eight Ways, of perfecting awareness, are Classical Practices including precepts (niyamas). Discipline (tapas) is a niyama of ashtanga. 

The language of Yoga is Sanskrit (to learn more read the "Sanskrit" Blog). A more literal translation of tapas is, “practice changing heat”¹. Many of us appreciate attending to our needs whether rest and relaxation (zen) or activation and movement (zest).Tapas is a way of regulating heat. 

Exercise, movement, work and play, dancing, prancing and sway are forms of tapas. Body Type (Dosha) responses to trainings are beneficial, for example Lift Sessions ground, center and improve bone density balancing vata's small build, Basic Sessions help balance pitta's medium build, and the extra flow and go of Power Sessions balance kapha. All Trainings have specific benefits helping improve more than a person's body type. People interested in the options available at Yoga Training (Touch) can find out more by visiting www.yogatrainingtouch.com  

Translating tapas as a way of cultivating good with optimistic discipline is acceptable. For example completing a Hatha yoga routine can be considered good while knowing the way of optimism, with a smile helps. Letting go of the illusions of immaturity for the protections of a wealthy mature mind (mano-maya-kosha) may initially feel difficult, yet being able to wait, reevaluate and follow-through with spiritual growth has greater amounts of freedom; tapas to the rescue❣️

1.) "The Language of Yoga" by Nicolai Bachman

Supported Piano Balance, Extending Torso Over One Leg Hand to Foot Pose (Utthita-hasta-padangusthasana)

Balance, Extending Torso Over One Leg Hand to Foot Pose (Utthita-hasta-padangusthasana), being supported by a piano is optional! Align (bandhas) of feet, pelvic floors, core, hands, and neck (leading with our hearts not our heads), energy rise (kundalini) from tailbone (muladhara chakra) to top of head (sahasrara chakra), energy rise (kundalini) from tailbone (muladhara chakra), to top of head (sahasrara chakra), hinge at hips, lengthen the spine. Breathe (pranayama), envision, imagine, and notice an holistic body, energy, mind, intellect, and spirit. Feel the integrated [skin (hair, nails)/bones (skeletal), cardiac/respiratory, muscular/reproductive (sexual), digestive/immune, nerve (neurological)/hormone (endocrine) effects!

Swan Feather (Pancha Hamshasana)

Practice Swan Feather (Pancha Hamshasana) from Plank/Hover (Caturanga Dandasana) by floating into Hovering Butterfly! Support the body, hugging upper arms (Biceps and Triceps) towards the ribcage by contracting Serratus muscles, under the armpits, and Pectorals muscles of the chest, lift the body by stacking bones, aligning wrists below elbows using Gecko fingers or Starfish hands (Hasta Bandha) to protect the wrists; lifting out of joints by engaging muscles abates arthritis. Squeeze low back muscles (Latissimus Dorsi) and buttox muscles (Gluteaus Maximus, Minimus, and Medius), lengthening legs upward contracting the muscles (Hamstrings and Quadriceps) of the back and front of the legs. Try throat breaths (Ujjayi Pranayama) to engage the parasympathetic, relaxation (Pratyahara) response to hold (santosha) the pose, focus (Dharana) on closing the throat slightly, keep focusing (Dhyana) on the eight limbs of responsibility (ethics, morals), pose (strength, balance, flexibility), breath (counting), relaxation (parasympathetic response/prefrontal cortex engagement), focus (one pointed), meditation (continual focus), perfection (keep practicing/upward spiral)!

Practicing Reverse Plank/Hover (Purvottanasana) helps build strength for perfecting (Samadhi) Panca Hamsasana. Yoga Planks known as Hovers in the Fitness Industry are excellent core strengtheners!  Practicing Hovers prone (caturanga dandasana), supine (Purvottanasana), and to each side (Vasisthasana) create cohesive body strength, balance, and flexibility.  Actively recover in Down Dog Pose (Adhomukha Svanasana) or Child/Wisdom Pose (Balasana) before your next set.  Look for the Plank (Chaturanga Dandasana) video to come!