Well-Being
The Fifth Limb of Ashtanga Yoga: Pratyahara – The Art of Sensory Withdrawal
Pratyahara, often referred to as “withdrawal of the senses,” is about learning to tune out external distractions and turn our focus inward. This practice sets the stage for deeper concentration (Dharana) and meditation (Dhyana), which follow in the last three limbs of Ashtanga Yoga. Let’s take a closer look at what Pratyahara is all about, why it’s important, and how you can practice it.
What is Pranayama: The Fourth Limb of Ashtanga Yoga
The fourth limb, Pranayama, is often translated as “breath control” but carries a deeper significance. The term is derived from two Sanskrit words: “prana,” meaning life force or vital energy, and “ayama,” meaning expansion or control. Pranayama, therefore, refers to the regulation and expansion of the life force through deliberate breathing techniques. In traditional yogic philosophy, there is a belief that one’s lifespan is measured in breaths.
What are the Niyamas: Exploring The Second Limb of Yoga
Following the Yamas, which provide ethical guidelines for our interactions with the external world, the second of the eight limbs is the Niyamas. These are personal observances or disciplines that guide our inner growth and help us cultivate a positive and harmonious inner life. Hereby, Ni (नि) translates to “within” and Yama (यम) to “restraint”. The Niyamas consist of five principles that support the development of self-discipline, purity, and contentment.
Victorious Breath: A Guide to Ujjayi Pranayama in Yoga
Part of the ancient practice of yoga is Pranayama, also known as “breath control”. However, pranayama is really much more than that. A more exact translation is “controlling the life force or life energy”. Prana is our life energy – in the form of the breath – which we can learn to control with certain breathwork exercises. One of the most common forms of pranayama in yoga is the so called Ujjayi Pranayama.
The Power of Affirmations: A Simple and Effective Way to Transform Your Mindset and Life
Affirmations – or positive statements, when repeated regularly, have the potential to transform our mindset, behavior, and ultimately, our lives. But what exactly are affirmations, where do they originate, how can we use them, and what purpose do they serve? In this article, we will explain exactly what affirmations are, how they work and why they’re so effective. So, let’s dive in!
Meditation in Yoga: The Role of Meditation in a Modern Yoga Practice
Meditation has a long and diverse history, with origins that span across cultures, civilizations, and religious traditions. Despite its ancient roots, meditation continues to evolve and adapt to the needs and aspirations of modern practitioners, offering a timeless pathway to inner peace, self-discovery, and spiritual awakening. Traditionally, yoga was conceived as a holistic system aimed at achieving union between the body, mind, and spirit.
Breathing Life into Your Practice with Pranayama: The Art of Conscious Breathwork
There are various pranayama techniques, each serving unique purposes. Ujjayi breath, for example, creates a soothing oceanic sound, promoting concentration and warmth. Nadi Shodhana, or alternate nostril breathing, seeks to balance the body’s energy channels, fostering harmony and mental clarity. Kapalabhati, often referred to as “skull-shining breath,” is an invigorating technique that involves forceful exhales through the nose to cleanse and energize the body.
5 Practical Tips To Help You Crush Your New Year’s Resolutions in 2024
The start of a new year is often accompanied by a surge of motivation to set ambitious resolutions and make positive changes. However, turning those resolutions into lasting habits requires more than just good intentions. In this comprehensive article, we will share five practical tips and strategies to help you crush your New Year’s resolutions in 2024.
Self-Care 101: What It Is, Why It Matters, and Self-Care Examples
It’s crucial to remember that taking care of ourselves is not a luxury but a necessity. Here is where the concept of self-care steps in—a holistic approach that empowers us to prioritise our physical, mental, emotional, and social health, along with a touch of spiritual well-being. In this article, we’ll explore how you can embrace self-care in different aspects of your life.