Astanga Yoga's topics - tribe.net

Toning?

Christina — Tue, 27 May 2008 03:46:03 GMT

I love incorporating toning into my classes and I'm always looking for different sounds, techniques, or sequences.
Any suggestions?

posted in Astanga Yoga - 1 reply

Lakulish Yogasan Championships 2008: Feb. 22; 23; & 24th, - City of Surat, Gujarat State, India

Dennis — Mon, 10 Dec 2007 11:36:02 GMT

For details and application forms, please refer to: http://www.lifemission.org/ and under "New" go to item #4 and click on "World Open Yogasan Championships".

Please note, to optimize your India trip and your experience of Lakulish Yoga you could attend or participate in the Yogasan Championships and also take in the 3 week Certificate Yoga Training Course being offered at Swami Rajarshi Muni's Malav Ashram from January 30 -February 20th. For details on the training go to http://www.lifemission.org/ and under "New" click on item # 5 " "Overseas Students Annual Yoga Certificate Training Program"

posted in Astanga Yoga - 1 reply

touching my toes

Marnie — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 04:45:48 GMT

hello everyone~
i am a baby yogi -i've only been practicing ashtanga yoga for the last 4 months. my practice is steady (6-8 hours a week). i've never been athletic but i am active. however i came to the mat very stiff -- and i still can not comfortably touch my toes let alone the floor in a forward bend without much pain. i know every body is different, but folks, when will i start to loosen up those hamstrings! a year ? two years? what's the dealio! i know yoga isn't really about looking like a calendar yoga model, but i would like to go deeper physically. any advice is much appreciated!

all love~
marnie

posted in Astanga Yoga - 4 replies

la

pearlsgirl — Sat, 09 Feb 2008 00:08:41 GMT

looking for a great ashtanga studio in la that offers the first and second series - no specific location needed at this point, i'm pretty open.
i used to go to its yoga in sf and i liked their style. thanks!

posted in Astanga Yoga - 2 replies

any Ashtanga teachers in the North Bay?

ton-ton — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 23:01:13 GMT

Namaste ya'll!
I've recently opened a yoga studio in Santa Rosa where i am holding a space for self-practitioners while doing my own practice daily. I am envisioning a teacher in the bay area that would be interested in teaching once or twice a week initially. If you have any interest or ideas please contact me. Thank you.

Blisses & Blesses!

posted in Astanga Yoga - 0 replies

new and concerned...

Laine — Wed, 19 Dec 2007 20:03:59 GMT

hey all, im really interested in the astanga style yoga, but finding a class or teacher in my town is proving prohibitive.
i learned the first series from a friend (not certified, but REALLY into it and well on his way) and read dozens of books, (which all say not to practice unless taught from a bonafide instructor), I am wondering if there would be any reasons not to continue with what i have learned, or other ideas
thanks dears

posted in Astanga Yoga - 3 replies

North Bay Ashtangis

ton-ton — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 16:41:33 GMT

I am inspired and honored to announce the birthing of a beautiful new yoga studio in Santa Rosa we are calling Yoga Namaskara. I have partnered with my brother Mark Mann, a new good friend and yogi of 14 years. In the past, Mark created Hamsa Yoga in Santa Rosa, and he is highly reputable in the SR and yoga community. We have partnered with Five Dragons Martial Arts School (http://www.fivedragons.com) the location and facility is amazing! We have other great teachers that have followings in SR that we are involving in the project. We are creating the schedule now with classes begining January 2nd 2008!

We plan to have monthly workshops, bringing new teachers and arts to the community, so that we may all continue to learn and grow. The first workshop will be February 10th featuring Dr. Maung Gyi and introducing the Bando Yoga systems to the North Bay.

I will be posting the schedule and more info as it develops
my schedule so far:

Morning Yoga
Mon through Fri 8-10 AM
Int, Adv
Silent Self-Practice with Michael

This silent sacred space is held for the yoga self practitioner to blossum among other flowering yogi's. Whether your practice is new or seasoned, whatever your style from Ashtanga to Zen, we welcome you in the spirit of self development, exploration and meditation. We welcome you to our garden.

Intuitive Yoga Flow
Tues, Thurs, Sat 10-11 AM
Beg, Int, Adv
with Michael

This light-hearted practice is focused on the moment, allowing the class rhythms, energy and desires of the present to create the process. Integrating yogic vinyasa, fitness fundamentals and martial arts movements this holistic practice promises to be fun, spontaneous and fullfilling. Please join me in creation and yoga of the Now.

Happy Holydays ya'll!
Many Blessings of Health, Joy and Abundance!
feel free to call or write with any questions, cheers or ideas
323 369 0575
-tt

posted in Astanga Yoga - 0 replies

Yoga Teachers Gathering , Aug 15-18, Vermont

Bald Mountain Retreat, — Thu, 20 Dec 2007 22:01:40 GMT

Attend an informal long-weekend with your colleagues this summer.
Recreate, rest, rejuvenate, renew, network, learn, enjoy.
Bring some old friends and make some new ones.
Sit around the campfire beneath the starry sky.
Group activities and events.
Or come for the day.
Vermont
Free.

August 15-18
Contact us for registration details, please.
Spread the word!

posted in Astanga Yoga - 0 replies

If You Could Only Have One book on Yoga

Dennis — Thu, 22 Nov 2007 04:48:25 GMT

If one could only have one book on yoga, the new book, Classical Hatha Yoga by Swami Rajarshi Muni would likely be it. This is the only book on yoga the practitioner or teacher would ever need. It is probably the most comprehensive book ever written on the subject of yoga as it is written by a most highly advanced Yogi whose personal practice is authenticated by the scriptures and all known classics. Check it out on Amazon's Inside the Book Program, where you can actually see its contents as well as its summary. It can also be purchased at the Kripalu Book Store.

posted in Astanga Yoga - 1 reply

Postures for dizziness

Bala — Fri, 09 Nov 2007 16:48:49 GMT

Blessings...

I was wondering... does anyone know of any asanas/postures that are good for dizziness by chance? I have been feeling dizzy since monday and i just cant seem to to shake it. It is not the kind of dizziness where i feel light headed, it is more of an equalibrium/structural/postural dizziness. I also feel tons of pressure in my head, almost like a head cold without the cold.

Grateful for any feedback.
best wishes...
bala

posted in Astanga Yoga - 3 replies

studios in tucson, az?

Autumn_Shadowdancer — Mon, 15 Oct 2007 17:27:03 GMT

hi everyone,
can anyone recommend some astanga or iyengar classes/studios in tucson az?
thanks!
autumn

posted in Astanga Yoga - 2 replies

mysore classes in san francisco

kristenjoy — Thu, 07 Jun 2007 16:34:55 GMT

the winds of change are blowing through my life and i may be relocating from santa barbara to san francisco. i'm fairly new to astanga (started about 6 months ago) but already find myself very dedicated to it - so it's a big factor in the decision. any recommendations (based on personal experience) of wonderful, loving, grounded instructors/shalas in san francisco would be soooo appreciated. i'm looking for mysore-style but am also open to other suggestions. thank you. (((love)))

posted in Astanga Yoga - 8 replies

looking for second series class in sf bay area

jen — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 19:17:40 GMT

are there any out there?

namaste.

jen

posted in Astanga Yoga - 1 reply

teaching?

bREEZY — Tue, 09 Oct 2007 04:19:37 GMT

Helloooo ya'll my name is Breezy. I was wondering if any of you were 'certified teachers' are how you have developed your practice. I am really serious in becoming a dedicated teacher and was wondering if anybody knew of any work exchange centers or something of that nature. I am leaving college to fulfil my own practice, am going to do some traveling, and would like to find places to study. (possibly in temples, ashrams, etc) ANY INFORMATiON is APPRECIATED : ) lovin u

posted in Astanga Yoga - 2 replies

Any Ashtanga teachers/classes in Eugene, OR?

transcendance — Mon, 08 Oct 2007 19:45:18 GMT

I'm in Eugene for a good chunk of time and really looking for a good practice with some other folks as the rain begins to pour down and trees begin their colorful striptease...hmmm fall.
Thanks.
@

posted in Astanga Yoga - 0 replies

Going to Mysore

David — Wed, 05 Sep 2007 02:11:17 GMT

Hello all you burning Ashtangis. I just got back from Black Rock City and am off to dinner with some new playa friends. So in the spirit of friendship and sharing, I give you this bouquet of parentheses {{{{{}}}}}} (by way of JD Salinger), and I ask you to share your thoughts and knowledge of Mysore. I am planning to go in December and stay through March. Has anyone been this summer (after Guruji's illness)? What's it like at the shala now? Who's the person to contact to get a ride from Bangalore? Good places to stay, to eat? What to bring, what not? Words of encouragement, discouragement? How about workshops in Goa? Bike, scooter or feet? Rock, paper or scissors? I am grateful for any response.
love to all of you,
David

posted in Astanga Yoga - 6 replies

teeth chatter?

barbco — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 17:34:44 GMT

Hello everyone. I am new to this tribe. I am a beginner ashtangi and have recently noticed that when i engage mula bhanda, my teeth start to chatter. has anyone else out there experienced this? It has become really distracting for me and wonder if there is something I could be doing to utilize this energy elsewhere. thanks for all replies.

posted in Astanga Yoga - 1 reply

Purple Valley Retreat in Goa

habibi — Sat, 15 Sep 2007 21:21:33 GMT

Does anyone have suggestions for accomodation near Purple Valley, Anjuna or Mapusa? I seem to have booked without accomodation, now it's full and Goa over the holidays is really expensive. The links from Purple Valley for accomodation were all way over priced. Has anyone stayed in Anjuna or Mapusa and commuted?

posted in Astanga Yoga - 2 replies

Mysore @ BM

habibi — Thu, 26 Jul 2007 04:28:03 GMT

So it's that time again. Last year we did an informal pracitce starting around nine in the morning till? to the left of center camp cafe, it was nice. Shall we do it this year? It is easier to keep the practice going on the playa with other people :) Does anyone have other ideas or does that work?
See you on the Playa!!!! woohooo!!!!

posted in Astanga Yoga - 2 replies

Seeds for peace in the middle east?

Benj_of_Arc — Mon, 06 Aug 2007 07:28:34 GMT

Hay all!
I've tried to post a this before, but for some reason, it didn't registrar and folks couldn't read what I had written. So, I'm going to attempt to write it out again and hopefully this time, we'll have more responses,

Ok, so...a little info and background. I'm in Israel, and working on a project out here to grow herbs for the community. Also, wanting very much to have a program available for kids and their parents to learn about plants and how they communicate with us on all levels. It's really something that isn't being done here and I would like to bring this opportunity to light. I need some help. That's way i'm writing this request. We have a few green houses, so climate is not an issue. We need seeds! All different kinds, but organic. Herbs and winter vegetables.

The list for herbs:Elder flowers ,Yarrow ,Sage ,Rose hips ,Echinacea,Mullein,Astragalus,
Poke Root,Elecampane ,Thyme.

We are asking for 30 seeds each be sent to Israel.
We are asking for donations, since this project can really use all the help it can get and we really don't have the funds to get these seeds. Also, we request that the seeds are from your own garden and collected by you. It's a beautifal thing to know that the seeds that we are receiving are from people who cared for these plants and havested the seeds themselves. There is a story there and it makes it interesting to explain where these seeds came from and who cared for them. We like telling it this way.

Our request for organic Veggie seeds:
Celery ,Chinese leaves ,Dark greens ,Leeks ,Mushrooms, Squashes ,Winter roots ,Winter salads.

If it's not too much trouble to send the seeds with labels so we know what is what.

If you have any questions please feel to send me a message.
Thanks so much for helping us with this project. I mean a lot to us and the many people who's lives will be changed by your seeds.

If you are interested, please let me know and I can give out the address of where to send the seeds.

~peace~

posted in Astanga Yoga - 0 replies

ashtanga in atlanta?

bianca — Sun, 08 Apr 2007 14:30:39 GMT

hey..i'm visiting Marietta, GA, which is close to Altanta. Does anybody know of a yoga studio I should visit while I'm there? I will be there from april 23 until may 1

posted in Astanga Yoga - 4 replies

Mysore classes in Milwaukee???

denise — Thu, 21 Jun 2007 01:20:19 GMT

Hi!

I am moving to Milwaukee, Wisconsin and was wondering if anyone knew of any good Traditional Ashtanga studios
in the area....

Thanks,

Denise

posted in Astanga Yoga - 0 replies

studying with Sharmila???

trailme — Thu, 17 May 2007 19:39:41 GMT

i just found out that sharath and saraswathi will be in hong kong during the first week i'm in india, but i'd still like to practice during that time period.

does anyone know anything practicing with sharmila mahesh (guruji's granddaughter) in bangalore? do i need to write to her? does she accept short-term students? do i just show up?

posted in Astanga Yoga - 2 replies

Ashtanga/Mysore classes in Mexico

betha — Tue, 01 May 2007 05:11:17 GMT

Hello All,
I'm planning to go to Mexico for the Summer and I want to spend the first month in one place taking Spanish classes.
Ideally I would like to be in a place with a mysore class.
Could anyone recommend any ashtanga teachers/studios in Mexico?
Thanks,
Beth

posted in Astanga Yoga - 2 replies

opening mantra

multa — Wed, 23 May 2007 20:39:02 GMT

hola!
i just started the astanga practice, and i started with a teacher, and now due to my location, i do it at home with a video. with my teacher i repeated the mantra back, in the video it is just the mantra straight thru and too new of a concept for me to do with him, on the chart i have it is in sanskrit. i find it great to start with, and i miss saying it. does anyone know it and can write it down in using english, is that even possible? thanks so much, i am feeling bathed in goodness with this practice and watching my body change and open to emit and recieve more from the beloved.

posted in Astanga Yoga - 2 replies

Peace from Israel

Benj_of_Arc — Wed, 31 Jan 2007 14:04:02 GMT

Hi.
I wanted to connect with some folks who might be interested to know that I am in the middle east (Israel) and that I am safe and not M.I.A.
Israel is a crazy place, however there is much good being done here and although, the media might cast and dark shadow down on this part of the world, I am here to say that I have faith and have seen much peace here amonst so much surrounding conflict. I just hope I can make a difference out here and be here now. To see things with my own eyes and and listen to what my heart is saying when I connect and speak with, and live with, peoples from all stand points and views. The world is changing. We can still rise up and make a difference. I am hoping that there are still a few of us out there that still believe that a voice and a heart can shed light on peace and process. Take to the streets if you need to. Dance. sing, live and be possitive. We need to let the rest of the world know that we are still here.

Peace from the middle east~
Ben-ja
posted

posted in Astanga Yoga - 1 reply

Best Yoga Anatomy Books

hoopervillain — Thu, 26 Apr 2007 18:42:47 GMT

I was wondering if anyone has a strong opinion about the best anatomy books for yoga. Maybe something that goes beyond the merely physical that includes why certain poses benefit the body in certain ways. Has anyone read: ANATOMY OF HATHA YOGA H. David Coulter? Sorry if this has been talked about but I didn't see a search result for it. Thanks!

posted in Astanga Yoga - 2 replies

astanga basics?

Jed — Sat, 19 May 2007 15:18:49 GMT

What are the basic traits that define astanga yoga from other styles like hatha and iyengar

Is there certain fundamentals all astanga teachers should be following/teaching?

posted in Astanga Yoga - 1 reply

feeling dizzy

kristenjoy — Tue, 13 Feb 2007 17:03:57 GMT

I am a beginner and during practice the last couple of days, I have been feeling very dizzy...much more than what would be considered "normal." Yesterday I nearly fainted. Has anyone else had experiences like this or know what it may be from? Life transitions? Emotions burning off and working their way out? I've been very focused on my breath and it almost seems to make the dizziness more intense. And I am not on my moon right now. Any ideas or helpful suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

posted in Astanga Yoga - 8 replies

practicing with pattabhi and sarath

brooke — Tue, 27 Mar 2007 23:39:12 GMT

hi all,

i've been thinking about heading to mysore to practice with pattabhi and sarath for years now and am just now feeling ready for the journey. anyone have any idea how it works? the ayri website says to write a letter if you want to join them...so i did. do they write back? it sounds, from other posts, that you just kinda show up and hope for the best - the best being that they are in town and have space to practice. any insight, suggestions, advice....

i'm hoping pattabhi is at peace.

light,
brooke

posted in Astanga Yoga - 6 replies

New Ashtanga Mysore Shala in West LA

ton-ton — Tue, 03 Apr 2007 18:34:41 GMT

This is note from my yoga instructor, Maia Heiss, who is incredibly knowledgable, experienced and inspiring. The new shala is in Brentwood here in LA and will be an evening practice. We also have a shala in Malibu where we do our morning practice.
Namaste!

Hi folks! I have news for those of you interested in my westside Ashtanga "Mysore" practice group idea. We have a great space in which to meet and will be getting started this month!! We'll be at my friends Karen and Ivan's house, in the little shala they built in their backyard-- a very sweet, alive, homey space that holds about 6 at a time. As usual, practice is daily minus the traditional weekly rest day each Saturday and the monthly rest days on the full moon and new moon. The time is still TBA but will be somewhere around the hours of 4-6 pm. I will be leading the group as authorized by my/our Guru Sri K. Pattabhi Jois of Mysore, India. As instructed by his grandson Sharath, I ask individuals of the group to make a monthly commitment and class tuition is $200/mo. If you are interested, please write me back soon or call me at 310-457-0140. If you know someone who you think would be interested, please pass on this note or my info. Also, I'd like to acknowledge that absolute beginners are most welcome and as well, I am authorized to instruct through the intermediate(second) series. For more about Ashtanga Yoga or Guruji please visit www.ayri.org. Much love and goodness to you! Yours, Maia.
ohmaia@earthlink.net

posted in Astanga Yoga - 0 replies

a question about guy's anatomy

ton-ton — Tue, 27 Feb 2007 16:09:10 GMT

when i am doing Surya Namaskara B my testicles get squished..this is incredibly uncomfortable and it's slightly embarrassing to make the necessary adjustments. Does anyone have any suggestions or experience with this?

posted in Astanga Yoga - 8 replies

Guruji's health???

habibi — Mon, 26 Mar 2007 21:51:10 GMT

Does anyone have an update on Guruji's condition? I have heard he is back in the hospital, not sure if it's from a reliable source.
Thanks

posted in Astanga Yoga - 1 reply

Isla Morada

David — Thu, 15 Mar 2007 14:42:12 GMT

Anyone going to Isla Morada for the second week to study with Guruji and Sharath? I would love to hear from folks. Maybe we could get together, go to beach, eat, drink or just be merry.

posted in Astanga Yoga - 1 reply

practicing with sri pattahbi jois?

kimbriel — Thu, 15 Mar 2007 05:35:54 GMT

hi all,
i'm going to india in the fall, and i'd like to study ashtanga in depth... i want to practice with pattabhi jois but i'm feeling a little intimidated. i practiced regularly for about a year, then i traveled for a year, now i'm back-- been practicing 5 mornings a week since october. i'm torn-- i'm just not sure if i'm going to be ready physically/ spiritually/ mentally ready by september. i don't know-- maybe i should go and practice at another ashram in the fall and then go to mysore next year.... what are your opinions? i would love to hear your stories and your thoughts. thank you!!

posted in Astanga Yoga - 6 replies

asanas

hopefalling — Sun, 18 Mar 2007 05:07:23 GMT

I'm a baby yoga practicer and i was wondering what asanas i should use for neck and shoulder tension, and tension along the sides of my torso, any suggestions?

posted in Astanga Yoga - 1 reply

Ashtanga in West Palm Beach

David — Thu, 15 Mar 2007 08:01:02 GMT

Anyone know of a place that has Mysore or Led classes in that area?

posted in Astanga Yoga - 0 replies

starting all over again

caitanya — Thu, 01 Mar 2007 03:01:25 GMT

for various reasons, i had to stop my much loved and coveted mysore practice for a year (!). I really want to start up again, but i admit i am feeling flabby and very intimidated. I wonder if i can even remember the series and asanas. Ugh. Tell me it'll be okay! :-(

Also, i was highly recommended to take mysore from devorah sacks, who now teaches at mission yoga. Any words/thoughts on her? Thanx.

posted in Astanga Yoga - 6 replies

how much is too much?

lisalotus — Thu, 01 Mar 2007 16:06:11 GMT

I've been intensifying my yoga practice the last couple of weeks...and I'm hurting! Should I push through this and keep up the daily practice, or should I be giving my body some rest?

posted in Astanga Yoga - 5 replies

heart pains from heart openers?

Fri, 02 Feb 2007 06:00:56 GMT

Has any one experienced heart aches days after doing heart opening poses?

posted in Astanga Yoga - 4 replies

For Astanga Yoga in South Florida, check out...

Mon, 19 Feb 2007 23:34:22 GMT

www.redpearl.com-an ashtanga studio in the Fort Lauderdale area.

posted in Astanga Yoga - 0 replies

ashtanga teachers in Southern Florida

Thu, 30 Nov 2006 17:07:44 GMT

would anyone recommend a good ashtanga studio in the Fort Lauderdale area in Florida? for some reason, it seems like it has been difficult to find good astanga teachers lately

posted in Astanga Yoga - 2 replies

Danny Paradise

ralph — Thu, 08 Feb 2007 23:51:48 GMT

Has anybody had any experience with him?

posted in Astanga Yoga - 1 reply

LA?

katherine — Sun, 21 Jan 2007 03:35:17 GMT

I have a beautiful ashtanga teacher in LA, but sometimes i can't make it to her class, so i'm trying to compile a list of ashtanga in LA. any suggestions?

posted in Astanga Yoga - 3 replies

Learning Uddiyana Bandha

maxineastorga — Tue, 29 Aug 2006 12:45:34 GMT

hello..
After reading about back injury and how to prevent and heal through yoga, the word Uddiyana Bandha has apeared . It seems that my yoga teachers do not really focuse much on it. Can somebody share their wisdom with me ....porfavor ?
Gracias

posted in Astanga Yoga - 12 replies

mysore practice at burning man?

habibi — Wed, 13 Jul 2005 05:33:04 GMT

is anyone interested in doing a mysore style pracice once a day at burning man?

posted in Astanga Yoga - 23 replies

ashtanga in park city utah

pearlsgirl — Thu, 25 Jan 2007 00:46:04 GMT

looking for classes, teachers or practictioners ~ found very little online. thanks!

posted in Astanga Yoga - 0 replies

Need some help please

NoorNalini — Sat, 06 Jan 2007 09:05:24 GMT

Hey guys,

I'm planning on going to Mysore in April as I understand Guruji will be in Florida in March.
Does anyone know where I can see his schedule? When's the family traveling, and when are they teaching back at home ?
Don't want to arrive and find a "closed" sign on the shala's door... :)

Also would really apreciate if anyone could give me some tips about going to Mysore. Since it's the first time for me, and I've never went on a trip alone. Should I book a room in advance, or is it alright and possible to find one upon my arrival? What are the most important things I should bring with me?
Oh, and how's the weather there at this time of year ? April-May ?

Thank you very much in advance,

Namaste

Alex

posted in Astanga Yoga - 10 replies

Mysore

Lovely LInz — Tue, 14 Nov 2006 13:22:37 GMT

I am in Asia on my way to Mysore for training. Just wondering of anyone had any advice about places to stay or anything else.=)
Namaste
Lindsay

posted in Astanga Yoga - 1 reply

Free Mysore Classes - Yoga Tree Valencia, SF

Yoga_Daddy — Sat, 13 Jan 2007 01:52:32 GMT

Through the month of January, new Mysore students at Yoga Tree Valencia can get one free week of morning Mysore classes, there are coupons by the front desk. I am one of the Mysore assistants and I assist the Monday morning class. The classes are normally taught by Clayton Horton but he is currently in India studying with Pattabhi Jois, so for now, Mike Hannum is teaching Mysore classes. Both Clayton and Mike are very good teachers. Hope to see you there.

--Yoga Daddy

posted in Astanga Yoga - 0 replies

Any extra mats to donate or sell (cheap)

bahiyabelly — Wed, 10 Jan 2007 18:49:36 GMT

I'm starting to teach yoga classes to middle school
students and a community class focused on the SF Arts
community.

Both of these classes won't be taught in
studios SO there won't be any yoga mats to lend out.
I wanted to ask my tribe if any of you have any extra
mats around that you would be willing to donate or
sell to help support these classes.

I'm also in need
of blankets, straps, and blocks.
sattva,
Amanda

posted in Astanga Yoga - 0 replies

ot: cheap(er) fares from the Cali to Delhi?

Sator — Sun, 07 Jan 2007 14:44:26 GMT

I'm wanna be booking my flights to New Delhi soon, leaving in late June. Does anybody have an India-specialist travel agent to recommend? The prices airlines are charging right now are killin' me.

posted in Astanga Yoga - 0 replies

Mysore Series at Mission Yoga, San Francisco!

juicy23 — Tue, 02 Jan 2007 21:25:59 GMT

Devorah Sacks and Chad Herst are starting a Mysore program at Mission Yoga. Classes are from 7am - 9am Monday through Friday, and 10:30am - 12:30pm on Sundays.

Practice is held in the spacious and beautiful Sun Room on the third floor of 2390 Mission Street, at 20th Street in San Francisco.

Please check out our website at www.missionyoga.com for a full schedule of classes, including Bikram, Yinyassa, Iyengar, Tai Chi and more!

posted in Astanga Yoga - 0 replies

How to Levitate

Tue, 15 Aug 2006 02:00:57 GMT

THE GRAVITY OF THE SITUATION

Newton’s third law is that for every action there is an equal and opposite reaction.
Newton didn’t invent this law; he noticed it. I also notice it, and now I’m going to apply it and in the process share with you the secret of levitation.

Three Questions:
1) What is the opposite of Left?
2)What is the opposite of Forward?
3) What is the opposite of Gravity?

The third question is more like a yoga riddle and there are two things I can observe to see if someone is unfolding the riddle's meaning. First, to the extent that people transition out from postures effortlessly, they understand what is the opposite of gravity. Second, to the extent that people laugh at my jokes, they understand what is the opposite of gravity.

Here are two experiments you can do to understand and embody the principle of levity.

Experiment #1:
What did the fish say when it ran into a wall?
Dam!

Did you laugh? If not, you can try again up to 10 times. If after 10 attempts you still don't think this joke is funny, try some push ups.

Experiment #2
Stand with your two legs about hip width apart. Relax into the gravitational field and allow the body to naturally ease into equilibrium. Sense the line of gravity and then begin tuning your attention into the corresponding line of levity.

The line of Gravity I call the Gravity Line.
The line of Levity I call the Punchline.

A great secret of yoga and an essential key to levitation is to every day move a little closer to the punchline, reconciling weight and weightlessness. With care and attention, I’m sure you’ll get it. Good Luck.

(excerpted from www.theintimateweave.com)

posted in Astanga Yoga - 4 replies

what is yoga?

Thu, 16 Nov 2006 03:43:59 GMT

What is yoga? Yoga is a Sanskrit word which means "to add two things together." There must be two things. For example if you want to add two bricks together, then ce ment, water and other substances are needed.

Similarly, yoga means to connect two persons: one is the Supreme Lord and the other is the unlimited souls. Because we have forgotten that Supreme Lord, we are greatly suffering. Sometimes we suffer as donkeys, asses, dogs, pigs and so on, and sometimes as demigods; we have passed through all the various species of life.

Sri Krsna is so merciful that, by His causeless mercy, He has now given us this human form. This human form is very temporary however; we do not know when we will die. We are all suffering because we think that we are this body. Actually, this body is a bag of urine, stool, blood and other unwanted things. Still we think we are this body, and we endeavor only to please this body – not the mind and soul.

The easiest way to meet with Krsna is through yoga. You should know that the soul is part and parcel of God – the eternal servant of God – but don't think in te rms of worldly servants. The service of Krsna is very loving and beautiful. It is like the service of a friend, mother, father and son, or like the service of a lover towards his most beloved. Sri Krsna's servants are all very loving. Yoga is that process by which a soul can be with Krsna – this is actually the meaning of yoga.

What is taught as yoga in this world today – especially in China and Hong Kong, as well as in other countries – is the exercise of the body. If you will do these exercises for your whole life, or thousands of lives, still you will not be happy. You will have to get old, and one day you will have to give up this body.

We are discussing real yoga. Sri Krsna is the Supreme Lord and we are part and parcels of that Supreme Lord. By what process can we meet Him and join with Him? By cement? By mud? No. It is through love and affection.

By giving our love to Krsna, we can attain that perfect stage in which we will be happy forever. But what is that process? How can we have prema (pure love of God)?

anyabhilasita-sunyam
jnana-karmady-anavrtam
anukulyena krsnanu-
silanam bhaktir uttama

["Uttama-bhakti, or pure devotional service, is the cultivation of activities that are meant exclusively for the pleasure of Sri Krsna, or in other words the uninterrupted flow of service to Sri Krsna, performed through all endeavours of the body, mind and speech, and through the expression of various spiritual sentiments (bhavas), which is not covered by jnana (knowledge aimed at impersonal liberation) and karma (reward-seeking activity), and which is devoid of all desires other than the aspiration to bring happiness to Sri Krsna." (Sri Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu 1.1.11)]

This is the definition of uttama-bhakti (pure devotion). By this love and affection for the Supreme Lord, you can meet with Him and serve Him. In another scripture it written: "Paranuraktir isvare." Such deep and strong affection to Isvara (the Supreme Controller) Sri Krsna is the only transcendental religion of the soul.

sa vai pumsam paro dharmo
yato bhaktir adhoksaje
ahaituky apratihata
yayatma suprasidati

["The supreme occupation for all humanity is that by which men can attain to loving devotional service unto the transcendent Lord. Such devotional service must be unmotivated and uninterrupted to completely satisfy the self ". (Srimad-Bhagavatam, 1.2.6)]

Spontaneous lo ve and affection for the Supreme Lord Sri Krsna is the transcendental and eternal religion of the soul (parama-dharma). The teachings of present day religions are not truly dharma. If these religious teachings would indicate devotion to Sri Krsna (krsna-bhakti) then they would be dharma, but the adherents of all religions, such as Christianity, Islam and Buddhism, don't accept the transcendental form of the Supreme Lord. They say there are no qualities in Him.

What would be the use of accepting God if He has no mercy and no attributes, and if He is like zero? We should not accept such false ideas. Spontaneous service to Sri Krsna is parama-dharma.

There should be no selfishness. Whatever you do should be to please Krsna. You should think, "What I am going to do – will it please Krsna or not? Will it please my Gurudeva or not?" If your endeavour will please them, only then should you do it. We should strongly reject that which is unfavo rable for bhakti. This is bhakti, and it begins from its smallest fraction, which is called sraddha (faith).

adau sraddha tatah sadhu-
sango 'tha bhajana-kriya
tato 'nartha-nivrttih syat
tato nistha rucis tatah

athasaktis tato bhavas
tatah premabhyudancati
sadhakanam ayam premnah
pradurbhave bhavet kramah

["In the beginning one must have a preliminary desire for self-realization. This will bring one to the stage of trying to associate with persons who are spiritually elevated. In the next stage one becomes initiated by an elevated spiritual master, and under his instruction the neophyte devotee begins the process of devotional service. By execution of devotional service under the guidance of the spiritual master, one becomes free from all material attachment, attains steadiness in self-realization, and acquires a taste for hearing about the Supreme Personality of Godhead, Sri Krsna. This taste leads one fur ther forward to attachment for Krsna consciousness, which is matured in bhava, or the preliminary stage of transcendental love of God. Real love for God is called prema, the highest perfectional stage of life." (Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu 1.4.15-16)]

What is sraddha? It is the strong faith that, "If I perform Krsna-bhakti, then the fulfilment of all other endeavours of my entire life have automatically been accomplished." You should know that sraddha is actually the tendency to serve Krsna (Krsna-seva-vasana), and its outer symptom is very strong faith in the words of Krsna, scriptures and Guru. This is the real sraddha. How does sraddha come? It comes only by sadhu-sanga – being in the association of sadhus. But this refers to a real sadhu, not a so-called sadhu.

Sadhu-sanga first creates faith in the words of Krsna, Guru and Vaisnavas. After that, the sadhu will say that you must take initiation – harinama and diksa. Then the s tudent selects a bona fide guru, and after that he learns the process of performing bhakti.

Bhakti is of two kinds: vaidhi-bhakti and raganuga-bhakti. Vaidhi-bhakti-prema (the development of love of God attained by worshiping Him in awe and reverence) will lead you to Vaikuntha-dhama (the abode of Sri Krsna in His opulent feature as Lord Narayana), and raganuga-bhakti will take you to Krsna-dhama. You are lucky to come in the line of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu. One day you will be able to really achieve raganuga-bhakti, by reading Caitanya-caritamrta, Srimad-Bhagavatam and the books of the Gosvamis.

Gurudeva will teach us sixty-four processes of bhakti. Of these, the first is to serve Gurudeva – to fulfill the desire of Gurudeva – and thus hear and follow the process strongly. Other processes are there, and of the sixty-four, nine are prominent:

sravanam kirtanam visnoh
smaranam pada-sevanam
arcanam vandanam dasyam
s akhyam atma-nivedanam

["Prahlada Maharaja said: 'Hearing and chanting about the transcendental holy name, form, qualities, paraphernalia and pastimes of Lord Visnu, remembering them, serving the lotus feet of the Lord, offering the Lord respectful worship with sixteen types of paraphernalia, offering prayers to the Lord, becoming His servant, considering the Lord one's best friend, and surrendering everything unto Him (in other words, serving Him with the body, mind and words)-these nine processes are accepted as pure devotional service.'" (Srimad-Bhagavatam, 7.5.23)]

Of these nine processes, five are most prominent:

sadhu-sanga, nama-kirtana, bhagavata-sravana
mathura-vasa, sri-murtira sraddhaya sevana

["One should associate with devotees, chant the holy name of the Lord, hear Srimad-Bhagavatam, reside at Mathura Mandala (which includes Vrndavana) and worship the Deity with faith and veneration. (Caitanya-car itamrta, Madhya-lila 22.128)]

And of these five, three are most prominent: sravanam (hearing), kirtanam (chanting) and smaranam (remembering). Of these three, one is most prominent – kirtana of Krsna's name. If you chant and remember Sri Krsna's name, all things will come.

harer nama harer nama
harer namaiva kevalam
kalau nasty eva nasty eva
nasty eva gatir anyatha

["In this age of quarrel and hypocrisy the only means of deliverance is chanting the holy name of the Lord. There is no other way. There is no other way. There is no other way." (Caitanya-caritamrta. Adi-lila 17.21)]

If you follow all of these processes, then all anarthas (unwanted habits) will go away. What are these anarthas? The first is nama-aparadha (offences to the holy name), of which there are ten kinds. Don't criticize any Vaisnava, don't beat them, don't be envious of them, don't disobey your Gurudeva, and do try to totally foll ow what he and other Vaisnavas teach us. At the time of chanting the holy name, don't sleep or be lazy. Chant, "Hare Krsna Hare Krsna, Krsna Krsna Hare Hare, Hare Rama Hare Rama, Rama Rama Hare Hare." Chant your Gurudeva's diksa-mantra, and know the meaning of its eight or nine mantras. You should chant daily.

Anarthas include nama-aparadha, seva-aparadha and so on. *[See Endnote 1] If you follow the process, these anarthas will all go away and then nistha will come. Nistha means steadiness of mind: "I may die, but I will not give up chanting the holy name." Srila Haridasa Thakura was beaten in twenty-two market places. *[See Endnote 2] As they beat him, the miscreant government followers were telling him, "You should chant Allah! Hoda! Don't chant Hare Krsna!" But he continued to chant, "Hare Krsna Hare Krsna, Krsna Krsna Hare Hare, Hare Rama Hare Rama, Rama Rama Hare Hare." At last he became almost like a skeleton – bloody and only some skin remaining – and finally they threw him in the Ganges.

Srila Haridasa Thakura came out of the Ganges as if nothing had happened, and was still chanting, "Hare Krsna Hare Krsna." At that time his prosecutors begged pardon at his lotus feet. This is nistha.

Do you know Sri Prahlada Maharaja? His father tortured him and ordered him, "Don't speak the name of Visnu, my enemy!" But Prahlada never followed his order. He was always chanting, "Krsna, Krsna, Krsna." Oh, you should be like that – very strong. Don't become weak when I leave here. Krsna's mercy will then come to you.

After nistha, ruci will come. Taste in chanting, taste in reading books, taste in cooking for Krsna, and taste in all other devotional practices. There are two kinds of ruci: vastu-vaisista-apeksani and vastu-vaisista-anapeksani. If kirtana is going on with very nice instruments and very sweet voices, the de votee who has vastu-vaisista-apeksani ruci will try to hear it, whereas even if the singer has so much love and affection but is not singing in a melodious tune, he will not hear. If the Deity is decorated with gold ornaments and cloth, that devotee will offer obeisances, but if the same Deity is without decorations, he will not offer obeisances.

So, this is vastu-vaisista-apeksani. If all things in relation to the Deity are nice and sweet and well decorated, then he will offer obeisances.
When there is no need of all these things, when it does not make any difference whether or not the singer has a sweet voice, and only Krsna Himself is important, that type of ruci is called vastu-vaisista-anapeksani. Even if the voice is not good or sweet, but the singer has sraddha, nistha and ruci – we should hear him. Where there is a sweet tune (raga-ragina) but no bhakti, we should not hear that singer.

The second type of ruci will create asakti. Wh at is that asakti? Asakti means "attachment to the process of bhakti and to Sri Krsna." When one thinks, "Without chanting the holy name I cannot remain alive for a moment," this is asakti. The first attachment is for bhajana, and later it becomes attachment for bhajaniya (the object of bhajana, Sri Krsna), attachment to Krsna and to His associates. This is asakti, and when this asakti becomes perfect, then rati (transcendental mood) will come.

What is rati? It is very difficult to understand.

suddha-sattva-visesatma
prema-suryamsu-samya-bhak
rucibhis citta-masrnya-
krd asau bhava ucyate

["When devotional service is situated on the transcendental platform of pure goodness, it is like a ray of the sunlight of love for Krsna. At such a time, devotional service causes the heart to be softened by various tastes, and it is called bhava . (Caitanya-caritamrta Madhya-lila 23.5)]

Rati is on the plat form of suddha-sattva, which is also very difficult to understand. If anyone is doing bhajana – if he has left his wife, children, home, wealth, reputation and everything, and yet rati, suddha-sattva has not come, this stage is very critical. That is why we fall down. So many sannyasis and others are falling down. In an easy way, you should understand what suddha-sattva is.

There are two kinds of associates of Sri Krsna: ragatmika and raganuga. *[See Endnote 3] Mother Yasoda, Nanda Baba, Subala, Sridhama and the gopis are ragatmika – eternal associates in Goloka-Vrndavana dhama – and those who follow them are raganuga. When a raganuga-bhakta sadhaka (a practitioner of raganuga-bhakti) meditates upon the associates of Krsna, like Mother Yasoda, Nanda Baba, a cowherd friend (sakha) or Krsna's most beloved gopis, that sadhaka's (practitioner's) mood is called raganuga and his stage is called suddha-sattva. This is a very, very high thing – bh akti is not an ordinary thing.

After rati, prema will come. In that regard I wanted to explain a story, but now there is no time.

[Devotees:] There is time.

[Srila Narayana Maharaja:] I will tell it in brief.

Sri Krsna is the Supreme Lord. He is quite independent. He is not dependent. He can do whatever He wants. Still, Mother Yasoda bound that powerful Krsna with a rope. When she did this, He began to weep. Though He is the Supreme Lord, Mother Yasoda told Him, "I will punish You," and He wept. Was He imitating? He was not imitating at all. He feels that if Mother Yasoda will not love and serve Him, He will not be able to remain alive for a second.

She tied Him to a grinding mortar. At first she threatened to beat Him, but instead she somehow bound Him. Actually she bound Him by her love and affection – Krsna was actually bound.

posted in Astanga Yoga - 2 replies

Pattabhi Jois' NEW shala in the Florida Keys

tamala — Tue, 14 Nov 2006 05:48:22 GMT

in case you haven't heard, it's true!

http://www.ashtanganews.com/2006/11/07/pattabhi-jois-new-shala-in-florida/

cheers,
t

posted in Astanga Yoga - 2 replies

Mysore in Miami?

Raquel — Tue, 14 Nov 2006 19:37:23 GMT

I'll be in Miami in December and would appreciate suggestions on places to practice. I did a quick Google search and there doesn't seem to very much mysore-style yoga going on down there. Thanks!

posted in Astanga Yoga - 2 replies

Mysore in or near Santa Monica?

Dare — Fri, 17 Nov 2006 03:28:27 GMT

Hi, during my trip to California I'll be spending one night in Santa Monica. Suggestions for morning Mysore places?

posted in Astanga Yoga - 2 replies

pittsburgh classes?

heather — Fri, 17 Nov 2006 03:29:11 GMT

are there any good teachers in pittsburgh? i will be visiting next week and would love to take classes.

posted in Astanga Yoga - 0 replies

Mysore-style Astanga near Los Gatos, CA?

Dare — Tue, 14 Nov 2006 16:01:57 GMT

Hi. I'll be in and around San Jose, CA during the week of Thanksgiving and I'm looking for a place to practice. I appreciate your help.

posted in Astanga Yoga - 4 replies

Ashtanga 2007 Calendar NOW available

tamala — Tue, 14 Nov 2006 05:46:42 GMT

Hi everyone,

Antonia's calendar is available now.
(see this post: http://astanga.tribe.net/thread/ebf89188-9121-4920-b842-0d267a2ae516)

Here's a little review of it:
http://www.ashtanganews.com/2006/11/12/now-available-new-ashtanga-calendar-morning-mysore/

It looks reeeeeeaaaaallllly good.

cheers,
t

posted in Astanga Yoga - 0 replies

astanga yoga in PDX?

transcendance — Wed, 01 Nov 2006 07:32:06 GMT

anyone suggest any teacher in the portland area?

posted in Astanga Yoga - 1 reply

YOGA STUDIO FOR SALE

Jenna Arpita — Wed, 13 Sep 2006 05:24:45 GMT

Beautiful yoga studio for sale in the heart of Nelson, BC, Canada. Shanti yoga studio is just over five years old and thriving. Nelson, BC is an amazing mountian town, that offers a very conscious commuinty of hiker's, mountain bikers, skiier's, gardeners, artists and more.
do a google search to see for your self.
www.shantiyoga.ca
please personal message me if you are interested.
jenna

posted in Astanga Yoga - 1 reply

Donate Space for Ashtanga in Burlingame/San Mateo on Sundays from 0900-1030

hr — Mon, 23 Oct 2006 23:47:29 GMT

Hi - we are looking for covered/indoor space to hold approx 10-12 people for Donation Ashtanga Yoga held on Sundays from 0900 - 1030.

Right now, we are practicing Ashtanga every Sunday behind the Burlingame Recreation Center in Washington Park. With the inclement weather approaching, we'd like to take it inside, preferably Burlingame or San Mateo.

We are open to suggestions as to how to pay for the space. Since this is Donation Yoga on the Peninsula, we do not charge anyone for practicing Ashtanga.

Ideally, we'd like to have some kind of setup similar to "YogaMob" in San Francisco, "Yoga Mob is a part of the growing movement towards donation based yoga classes in the Bay Area. Yoga Mob is located in a 4000 sq. ft. live/work warehouse at 3359 Cesar Chavez at Mission. This space is provided to qualified instructors at no charge. Due to the lack of overhead, donation based classes can be offered to the yoga community for as much or as little as one is moved to donate. For those of us who practice regularly but are on a limited budget, community spaces like these are an invaluable resource."

So if you have some space you'd like to donate, please contact James Murphy at burlingameyoga@hotmail.com -

~Namaste

========================================================================================
Donation Yoga Classes - A community service making Yoga affordable for every individual. Come to class regardless of your finances. Beginners are encouraged to attend. Pay what you can afford or free yoga...Yoga should be accessible to absolutely everyone regardless of financial resources. Voluntary donations accepted.
========================================================================================

posted in Astanga Yoga - 0 replies

Getting Into Supta Kurmasana

Michelle — Sun, 27 Aug 2006 15:13:47 GMT

I'm wondering if anyone has any tips on getting into Supta Kurmasana during self practice? It seems like I have to choose between binding my hands or binding my feet right now. They don't seem to want to work together. Does someone have a systematic approach to getting into this pose? I'd love some advice. Thanks!!

posted in Astanga Yoga - 5 replies

advice on teacher trainings?

((elise)) — Wed, 20 Sep 2006 02:29:12 GMT

favorites anyone?

posted in Astanga Yoga - 2 replies

mula bandha and pelvic/glutteal troubles

((elise)) — Wed, 20 Sep 2006 02:22:57 GMT

Okay you ashtangie sleuthy teacher types - can anyone shed some light on this?

Two years ago I injured myself in prasarita paddotanasana (excuse my spelling please!) i beleive that I tore a gluteal minimus muscle (internal oberator is my best guess).

Stopped any yoga practice for a year. I've graduallly gotten back into my ashtanga practice now it and usually feels alright but I can't seem to engage mula bandha anymore and I have SI joint discomfort on the side of my injury. My hip flexors are very tight now, too.

My intuition is that mula bandha could really help stabalize this area of my body after all its been through if I could only get it working again. Any ideas on how its all related? Any help would be greatly appreciated...

love. elise

posted in Astanga Yoga - 2 replies

Ashtanga Yoga Weekend with Paul Dallaghan

Steve — Sat, 30 Sep 2006 19:13:23 GMT

Hi all you Astangis. North Shore Yoga in Chicago is hosting a weekend workshop with international master instructor Paul Dallaghan from Yoga Thailand. Paul is a senior certified instructor of Guruji. He not only has a wonderful mastery of the Astanga system, but he also is well versed in classic pranayama and the sacred texts of yoga.

For more information check our website at www.nsyoga.com

We will also be offering vegetarian lunches prepared by renowned chef Adrienne Felder.

October 14-16, 2006 • North Shore Yoga & Fitness

A weekend of yoga practice and explanation following the centered approach, moving towards balance in all areas of life with Paul Dallaghan Founder of the Centered Yoga Institute and Yoga Thailand.

Saturday, October 14
9:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m. Ashtanga Primary Series led practice
11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. Detailed Understanding of the Asanas &
Intro to Intermediate series
3:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m. Philosophy and Intro to Pranayama

Sunday, October 15
9:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m. Ashtanga Primary Series led practice
11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. Ashtanga Intermediate Series led practice
3:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m. Philosophy and Pranayama

Monday, October 16
9:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m. Morning Mysore Style Ashtanga practice
11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. Teacher's Adjustment Clinic,
Injury Assessment, and Q&A

posted in Astanga Yoga - 0 replies

Ashtanga Photo Calendar Project Seeks Quotes

divine_eye — Sun, 03 Sep 2006 18:50:13 GMT

Hi all,

Three of us ashtangi/nis at Yoga is Youthfulness in Mountain, View, CA (www.yogaisyouth.com) are collaborating on a yoga calendar for which we are seeking quote submissions from all ashtagi/nis in answer to:

What is this practice for you? Why do you show up on the mat, daily? How does it affect or hold a space in your life?

We'd love to hear from you. Please email answers to wiseorchid at yahoo dot com by 9 September 2006.

The intention of the project is to document what goes on at Ashtanga morning mysore practice. Rather than images of superyogi/nis with smiles and no sweat like what you might see in a Yoga Journal magazine, the project captures the raw essence of the practice as done by ordinary yogi/nis, showing up on the mat.

You can view all the pix we've shot thus far and select your faves here:
http://www.yogaisyouth.com/gallery/mysorepix

Namaste,
Antonia

posted in Astanga Yoga - 0 replies

Discopathy, herniated disc, back injury...can one still practice ashtanga ??

Carolina — Fri, 25 Aug 2006 13:29:10 GMT

Friends.
I would like to talk about back injuries. Can somebody tell me the symptoms of a herniated disc ? Can you still do ashtanga yoga with one ? Can you do ashtanga with a discopathy ?
How do you recover from a herniated disc or a discopathy ?
I do have a discopathy inbetween my 4 and 5 lumbar disc , and I might have a herniated disc; I`m getting MRI next month.
Any info is very welcome and thank you !!!!!!!!!!!

posted in Astanga Yoga - 11 replies

Anyone practiced in India

Dunk — Sat, 28 Feb 2004 20:33:19 GMT

Would love to know what it is like practicing over there with Jois. Do you have to be very experienced to do it with him over there?

posted in Astanga Yoga - 14 replies

www.ashtangayogacostarica.com

Mariela — Sat, 19 Aug 2006 03:01:38 GMT

Namasté is the first traditional Ashtanga Yoga Studio in San José, Costa Rica.
Mariela is in the process of getting authorized by Guruji.
She is also an Anusara Inspired teacher.
All levels are welcome. Classes can be bilingual.

posted in Astanga Yoga - 0 replies

Check out the Yoga in Chicago tribe

ashtangaeverwhere — Tue, 15 Aug 2006 01:46:53 GMT

Even tho i am no longer there, and am now living in LA. The Chicago yoga community still feels very close. And today i felt really energized to help organize a space here we can connect and be even closer. and so i collected photos of friends and studios there - and am putting this together. If you live in Chicago - visit Chicago - do yoga - or live anywhere and just want to connect - Join us HERE!

http://tribes.tribe.net/yogachicago

posted in Astanga Yoga - 0 replies

Check out this new tribe - Yoga in Costa Rica

ashtangaeverwhere — Sun, 13 Aug 2006 02:32:37 GMT

http://tribes.tribe.net/yogaincostarica

all things yoga in costa rica - Retreats, classes, community and fantastic destinations.

posted in Astanga Yoga - 0 replies

Mysore Practice in LA?

Sun, 30 Jul 2006 16:39:04 GMT

I'm down here working for the next few weeks and was wondering I'm looking for a good place to practice. I'm staying in the Artist District in downtown LA and will be working on West side. I probably won't be able to get to the studio until after work. Does anyone know of a place that has mysore in the evening?

Any suggestions would be much appreciated. Thanks so much.

posted in Astanga Yoga - 2 replies

Mathew Sweeny.... 3rd and 4th series pictures....

David — Thu, 16 Mar 2006 14:18:24 GMT

If you interested in the sequencing for the upper series.. check out Sweeny book... Ashtanga yoga as it is. you can get it a yoga vermont.

namaste

the information is out there.... you just have to find it.

posted in Astanga Yoga - 8 replies

ASS-TANGA: IT'S ALL ABOUT THE BOOTIE

lady k — Wed, 17 May 2006 03:02:51 GMT

Lately, my yoga business partner Chris and I have been developing new strategies for adjusting each other. We have both realized that after 8 years of steady ashtanga practice, both of our asses are REALLY TIGHT, even though we have completely different body types (me: bendy, fleshy female... him: tall, skinny, stiff dude). I mean, I never considered myself a tight-ass before... So we’ve been grounding each other’s sit bones in all seated forward bends ( especially Marichiasana A & B)and even getting into gluteal pressure points with great results. Unfortunately, some of these adjustments could be considered “sexually questionable” and therefore can’t be shared with most of our students. Unless of course, they’re open-minded and aren’t going to slap us with a harassment suit. But basically we work each other’s butts over every morning and I’ve had some MAJOR low back shifting and opening. Also, this is all connecting me into my core awareness, which is an amazing and much-needed shift.

Ashwini mudra, the action of squeezing the sit bones, is part of mula bandha. This is a crucial yet elusive aspect of the powerful practice of ashtanga yoga. So how’s your yoga butt? Are you a tight-ass too? Suffering from bootie-lock? Or have you opened your outer hips with great success? Let’s talk about our asses, shall we?

posted in Astanga Yoga - 10 replies

Pain in my BACK!

:Eileen: — Sat, 13 May 2006 04:29:16 GMT

Hi there,

First off, I'm 5-6 months new to (astanga) yoga, so the names of the poses are still a little sketchy... That's not the problem though. The problem is I am experiencing a painful pinch deep in the center of the upper right part of my back (rhomboid?). The pain is centralized. I do not know what triggered the initial pain, but I was first aware of it during/after yoga. The spot doesn't hurt constantly, but I am aware of it when I sneeze, cough, and sometimes when I breath deeply. It hurts a great deal when I go through chataranga and move into upward dog - Basically, I can't do these things properly and am tensing in odd places and extending my arms in weird ways to accommodate the pain in my back. Bad news. Extension postures also seem to aggravate it - I don't feel any pain during the poses, but my back hurts coming out of these asanas, so I have to do so *super* carefully and slowly.... Then my back hurts afterwards... So... what to do? I guess pop some motrin and lay off astanga for a week or so? I don't like the idea of not going, but I also hate the idea of going and being in pain and spending so much time in child's pose. I don't know what I'm looking for, really. Maybe just to tell someone ;-) Really though, I'm sure some of you have worked through various injuries... or could make suggestions on how I can heal and continue yoga. Or maybe what poses I should avoid or which might help. Should I seek massage??

Thanks ;-)

Eileen

posted in Astanga Yoga - 4 replies

nerve damage

JessetheVessel — Tue, 02 May 2006 12:56:15 GMT

for almost a year now i've been experiencing sharp, uncomfortable "pins and needles" sensations in my legs (especially in my knees and hamstrings).

i've pretty much deduced that the nerves in my legs are inflamed for some reason. i've seen physicians, had x-rays, gone to physio and dabbled in acupunture. all to no avail.

has anyone here experienced a similar sensation? if so, what was the cause and how did you treat it?

thanks so much!

posted in Astanga Yoga - 6 replies

San Diego Classes?

dandysparkle — Tue, 09 May 2006 20:48:32 GMT

I spend alot of time split between NoCal and SoCal...

Does anyone know of places for classes focusing on Ashtanga/Ashtanga Vinyasa ?

(I did a search, but have not had any luck...)

Thanks...

posted in Astanga Yoga - 2 replies

Forest Hills, NYC Yoga Meetup Group meets on May 16th!

lafemmejessica — Fri, 12 May 2006 20:29:38 GMT

For more info click here http://yoga.meetup.com/395

posted in Astanga Yoga - 0 replies

Free Yoga Class in LA

ashtangaeverwhere — Fri, 28 Apr 2006 04:15:35 GMT

Hi Friends -

i am really excited to announce that i can now offer your first class free with me, if you are new to the studios i am teaching at.

My schedule is posted on my tribe page - and the owners of Karuna Yoga and Bala Yoga (beautiful folks) have both agreed to let me invite students to take my first class free. If you want a free class pass, please let me know and i will get it in your hands.

I am happy to invite all of Los Angeles to check out what i do - these classes are all Introductions to Ashtanga Yoga - they are beneficial for all levels of practitioners. If you are an advanced student, i guarantee you will learn something new about your primary series practice in my class - if you have never done yoga before, i can work with you to get the most out of this experience by increasing your sensitivity and awareness in each breath and getting your body moving in a way that is appropriate for your level. I am also experienced in working with folks who are dealing with injuries – illnesses or extremely stressful situations.

I am hoping to be teaching mysore style ashtanga yoga soon here in LA - and i am looking for a space in downtown LA or near Hollywood to start an afternoon practice where i can work simultaneously with students of all levels on cultivating a consistent daily practice... if you know of a good space, please let me know!

And while i have your attention - i am actively seeking to WORK. Teaching yoga in LA town pays very very little and gas just keeps getting more expensivo. I am happy to work privately with anyone who wants to learn ashtanga yoga - i am an excellent Raw Food counselor - Intuitive Coach - structural Bodyworker and teacher of meditation and pranayama. If you need me and i can help you lets find a way to work together!

posted in Astanga Yoga - 0 replies

Ashtanga Comedy

betha — Wed, 12 Apr 2006 17:24:14 GMT

http://practiceashtanga.blogspot.com/ - read Neti's blog entry from April 4th it is hilarious.
beth

posted in Astanga Yoga - 0 replies

AshtangaYoga in Los Angeles

ashtangaeverwhere — Wed, 12 Apr 2006 15:03:13 GMT

I am subbing a lot of classes in the next week at Bala Yoga.

This studio deserves to be seen, it is gorgeous and has really great free parking upstairs. Come and check out the space - and check out my class. Here is when i am teaching.

Saturday, April 15th -@5PM
Monday, April 17th @ 6PM
Wednesday, April 19th @ 6PM
Wednesday, April 19th @7:30PM
Thursday, April 20th @ 9AM
Thursday, April 20th @ 12Noon
Friday, April 21st @4:30PM
Saturday, April 22nd @ 10:30AM
Tuesday, April 25th@10:30 AM

On the Bala schedule, these classes have designated 'levels'. I am a skilled teacher and can teach a multi-level class, so my invititaion is for students of all levels to join me if they are interested in learning more about Ashtanga Yoga. Ashtanga Yoga is a beautiful practice that systematically heals the body and creates new levels of awareness. However, being a deep and powerful healing modality, it requires high levels of concentration and awareness. We work on that in class, in addition to the physical postures. Los Angeles has very little Ashtanga - and i believe a lot of interest.

I am subbing here a lot - and beginning in May will be teaching a permanent class here on Saturdays @9AM

I am also teaching an Intro to Ashtanga class REGULARLY at Karuna Yoga
Saturdays at 1PM
Karuna is located in Los Feliz at 1939 1/2 Hillhurst, entrance in the back.

Stay tuned to my page for other classes i am teaching around town and help me spread the word!

posted in Astanga Yoga - 0 replies

Tempo of Primary Series?

David — Sat, 01 Apr 2006 01:07:50 GMT

I heard Pattabhi was teaching his Primary series in 75 mins... this is a lot faster than most of us are used to. Any comments on why?... Usually it would be at least 2 hours.

posted in Astanga Yoga - 5 replies

Ashtanga yoga with Jodi Blumstein

ashtangaeverwhere — Wed, 05 Apr 2006 19:37:18 GMT

Hi Friends

I am teaching a class this Friday morning at 9AM at:

Bala Yoga
145 N. La Brea Ave - between Beverly and 1st.

this is a gorgeous studio - with great parking facility connected to it.

As a former studio owner (in Chicago) i am keenly aware of the hard work and sacrifice that it takes to keep a studio going and to bring yoga to our communities. Support your local Yoga Studio!!! and Bala is a good place to direct some of that suport.

So come and check out my class - this is a level 2 class, but i invite students of all levels to attend, from absolute beginners to advanced practitioners. There will be information for everyone. My classes are a unique blend of traditional teachings, self study, and healing rest. Be prepared to work hard and relax deeply.

posted in Astanga Yoga - 0 replies

Intuitive, experienced and mature astanga yoga teacher in Los Angeles

ashtangaeverwhere — Tue, 28 Mar 2006 23:21:26 GMT

Hi friends,

As many of you know, last year i sold my yoga studio
in Chicago, fell in love, and moved to LA. This has been a pretty bumpy transition for me, and teaching yoga has been on the backburner. For most of this last year, I haven’t worked at all. And there have been many moments where i have wondered what was next for me.

Then, in the last few weeks, I traveled down to Costa
Rica, where I worked with lovely, dedicated students, to teach a yoga workshop that I had planned last year.
And I was reminded, very clearly, that this work, teaching Ashtanga yoga, is my work. It felt great to teach - and now i feel hungry to get back to it. And hungry is not just a metaphor......I need to make some money, it is time to get back on track!

So I wanted to announce to my friends and family – to really say out loud to the universe that I am ready to work, send some my way!

I am happy to work with anyone at any level. I can teach to advanced ashtanga yoga students as well as beginners who are interested in developing a steady yoga practice, and I love to teach meditation, pranayama and to work with people who are battling or recovering from any sort of health issues.

I have taught yoga to students dealing with severe injuries – using one arm or no arms, and I have taught to students who were terminally ill. I have worked with a host of celebrities as well, which everyone keeps telling me is important in LA.

While my main focus is to create private sessions, I am also open to working with small groups. If you have a friend, or 3 or 5 who want to come together to learn this practice in a safe and effective way, I will work with the group.

In addition to yoga sessions, I am also available to do nutritional coaching sessions, working within the framework of raw food nutrition. I have helped people 'redo' their kitchens, I have taught raw food preparation classes on a variety of topics, and I can combine this sort of coaching with yoga and my other skills as an intuitive coach.

Currently, I am living in downtown LA. And, at least right now, I am willing to drive anywhere in the LA area to work. My fee is $100 for a private, running one hour and 15 minutes. And I will work on a sliding scale for anyone in need, who cannot afford my fee. I am also interested in trade, although right now what I need most are groceries (organic produce) and gas – so if you can trade me for some really basic survival stuff, I am open.

At this point in time, creating work is my focus – send me any ideas or possibilities. I find tribe to be an amazing forum for creating community and supporting each other. If you have a friend or a relative who you feel might benefit from my skills, please feel free to forward them my information(ashtangachicago@yahoo.com). I greatly appreciate the support I find here and hope that I can be of service in this community.

peace and love

jodi b

posted in Astanga Yoga - 1 reply

Guruji in SF Photos!!!!!!!!!!

betha — Mon, 03 Apr 2006 17:36:41 GMT

Hello Ashtangis,

I have something very exciting to share....Govinda Kai, a very talented photographer and fellow ashtangi was invited by Guruji to photograph our last day of primary series in San Francisco the other week. He has posted the best of on flicker at http://www.flickr.com/photos/govindakai/ and wants everyone to see them. I asked about obtaining prints of the photos and here was his response:

“For the time being, as I have not set up a system that works smoothly, I am offering the digital files of the photos on a donation basis only. Also, get the word out to as many friends as possible, so that as many people can see the images on flickr. Let me know what images you want and send a check to me at:
Govinda Kai, c/o Yoshikawa Mae
1-8-822 Kugayama
Suginami-ku, Tokyo 168-0082
OM Namah Shivaya!
Govinda Kai
lunaticmonk@mac.com
www.lunaticmonk.com
www.flickr.com/photos/govindakai/ “

Enjoy looking at them---they are so inspiring.

posted in Astanga Yoga - 1 reply

Ashtanga Closing Chant?????

David — Sat, 25 Mar 2006 12:35:46 GMT

Does anyone know where i can get an audio of the closing chant. I have the written form but it helps to hear it done. Any websites of audio cd's would rock.

Namaste

d

posted in Astanga Yoga - 2 replies

Brazilian YOGA!Natural Gymnastics Seminar in San Francisco!!!!

gralha — Thu, 30 Mar 2006 08:05:26 GMT

Ginastica Natural Event that we will have April 15th and 2572 3rd st,SF,Ca.

What is Ginastica Natural...

Ginástica Natural combines the techniques of stretching, flexibility and respiration of hatha-yoga, the ground movements of jiu-jitsu, and the natural movements of the human body. Idealized by Alvaro Romano, it is a revolutionary method of physical conditioning that has an objective of developing physical qualities associated with motor and mental skills. Romano elaborated a methodology for beginning, intermediate, and advanced students. Originally Ginástica Natural
was intended to be practiced outdoors, however today it is a complete method. Alvaro Romano developed an adequate system that allows Ginástica Natural to be practiced in gyms. There is also a licensing for instructors to administer the classes.

Unlike what seems to suggest a creative nomenclature of movements - monkey, spider, tiger, eagle, etc. - Ginástica Natural does not consist of imitating animals. The names of the positions are merely an illustration, referring to the similarities to some animals. It deals with a gymnastic of movements that are analized and tested by Alvaro Romano before applying them in the classes. These positions help develop diverse physical qualities such as strength, flexibility, rhythm, balance, motor coordination, and muscular resistance. Exercises that use animal movements have always existed, that is why Alvaro sought to develop a different method. Based on the body expression classes that he had attended, primarily, on intuition, creativity and discipline, Alvaro decided to criate something new, which combined all his experiences with physical activities. The classes last about an hour and are practiced wearing comfortable clothes, aside from knee pads, to the sound of new age and techno.

Alvaro Romano will arrived April 14th and he will be available for privates friday night and sunday all day at Open Door.

The seminar of Natural Gymnastics will happen at 2572 3rd ST,SF,Ca,94107

www.ginasticanatural.com.br

The Cost will be 80$ advance...

100$ at the Door!

Spaces are limited....

posted in Astanga Yoga - 0 replies

opening chant recording

rayann — Mon, 06 Mar 2006 19:02:33 GMT

does anyone know where i can get a recording of the opening chant online (that is good) ?
i always forget the melody. thanks

posted in Astanga Yoga - 8 replies

helping a yogi in pain

ashtangaeverwhere — Mon, 20 Mar 2006 14:56:20 GMT

hi fellow yogis.

this is my first post here - and unfortunately it is a plea for help. 7 or 8 years ago, i had a neck injury, which i cured with chiropractic and yoga.

yesterday, my neck went out - for the first time in a long tiime. the pain is quite bad - and i need to find a chiropractor. I am living in los angeles these days, recently moved here and havent worked very much. i dont really have money and i dont have any health care. at home, in chicago, i have friends who can help me in a crisis such as this, but here in CA i dont have that.

to complicate things more, i am supposed to drive to san fran today, and have promised my apartment to a friend who has nowhere else to stay. my reason for going to san fran is to see my longtime yoga teacher, pattabhi jois. tho i dont have the funds to take class with him, i made arrangements to go there anyway, to see friends and visit with my teacher.

so i am asking the universe to help me find a gifted chiropractor - or therapist, who can help me make the few small adjustments that i need to ease the excruciating pain i am having, it is travelling down my arm and even affecting my lower back and left leg.

and i need for that gifted chiropractor to bo willing to work on me briefly in san francisco this week - either on trade or with extreme generosity.

I am an ashtanga yoga teacher and experienced raw foodist - i can trade yoga privates, raw food prep information or consultaion, and i am a skilled intuitive coach.

all replies are welcome -

posted in Astanga Yoga - 3 replies

yoga mats

Joy — Sun, 26 Mar 2006 14:58:01 GMT

i just signed up for my first yoga classes. Do I need an expensive mat or can I just get a less expensive one from target?

posted in Astanga Yoga - 2 replies

Ganesha Puja

Tue, 21 Mar 2006 21:21:19 GMT

I heard that Eddie stern does an open Ganesha puja on Thursdays. does anyone know about this. I would like to contact the studio and find out but don't have any info. Can anyone be of any service here? Appreciate it whatever info any one has.
Prabuddh

posted in Astanga Yoga - 0 replies

NY showing of Guru, the Movie, on March 26

tamala — Mon, 20 Mar 2006 01:49:18 GMT

Hi all -

Just a quick note that the film will play on March 26 in NY...at the Anthology Film Archives

We'll have more details & our review of the SF showing on www.ashtanganews.com - hopefully - tonite.

In the interim, details at: www.guruthemovie.com/html/screenings.htm.

cheers,
t

posted in Astanga Yoga - 0 replies

NEW documentary about Pattabhis Jois on March 19 in SF

tamala — Sat, 11 Mar 2006 22:02:54 GMT

Hi all,

A new documentary about Pattabhis Jois, "Guru", will play on Sunday, March 19 at the Victoria Theatre (San Francisco, Mission district) at 11:30 am.

The filmmaker will be there and hopefully so will a lot of Ashtangis (coming from the World Tour that day).

Lori, an Ashtangi formerly from the Bay Area, wrote a nice review of the London premiere here:
Movie review: http://www.ashtanganews.com/?p=160

And here are more details about the San Francisco showing:
(including some cool photos from the film)
SF Showing: http://www.ashtanganews.com/?p=180

And HERE's the movie's website:
www.guruthemovie.com

Hope some of you can make it!

Best,
Tracy

posted in Astanga Yoga - 4 replies