Category: Happiness

Biostrata …. continues 5

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We now find ourselves evolved to the stage of the Sensory Stratum and here, development of the intelligence displayed is generally known as ‘Human’ intelligence.  Within the ‘grey’ areas of there being no difference between mind and matter it is sometimes challenging to understand the credibility of this. But think on, your body is made up of cells which ‘display’ intelligence, for their behaviour is that of organised pranic (life source) movement, and as we have seen so far, all the way up through the layers of Biostrata there is intelligence. Thus, this belongs to both mind and matter.

For human intelligence to exist, there is dependence upon sensory images. This is so because when we think, or apply intelligence to problem solving, we are readily using ‘sensory’ images. We have not the capability to think of pure quality or pure quality for we must at all times have available to us, sensory images, better known as ‘symbols’ which represent the quantities and qualities which constitute the subject of our thinking.  For example, if we were to try to think of the pure quantity of SEVEN, we would find that impossible, yet if we produce in the mind, a symbol and/or sensory images that represent SEVEN, we can then immediately begin to envisage that quantity.  We could visualise SEVEN apples or audibly imagine SEVEN chimes of a bell.  The ‘types’ of symbols used are not important but their presence in the imagination is fundamental to being able to ‘think’ about quantities.

Of course we know we have progressed further than this method of ‘quantity’ thinking (albeit the exception in young children in their learning informative years) for we have moved forward to utilise specific written symbols for each number and so to do we have symbolism when ‘thinking’ about quality. LOVE for instance, unless we can produce a sensory image in respect of this, something or someone who portrays the quality of Love, we would find it impossible to think (feel) it.

Qualities are abstract. Like a hole; that is abstract. A hole cannot be perceived purely as a hole, there must be a concrete counterpart. If you have a hole in a piece of wood and then the piece of wood were to be destroyed, there would be no hole. We are only able to think/perceive that hole in relation to the piece of wood it is found within.

So to think of an object of beauty, it has to come with a counterpart, a determination of an occasion, we have to see (perhaps a beautiful face), or hear (a beautiful voice) or smell (a beautiful scent) to have something which directly represents that which is beautiful.

Thus, here we are, in the knowing that the human body belongs to the Sensory Stratum of the Biostrata. Every single human body is the outcome of the upward movement/progression/development of Prana, forever ascending the evolutionary scale of Existence.

With this notion, how then do WE determine the extent of OUR potential progress?

The answer is found within consciousness. If consciousness is dependent upon the senses for information then this clearly indicates that the Sensory Stratum has been reached. If consciousness is mainly relying on impulses, feelings and urges then it is on one of instinctive nature (the Cellular Stratum) … but if thinking about quality and quantity through symbolism is reached, then we are at the Sensory Stratum. By no means however, does this mean we are on a ‘precision instrument’ level, one that is indicative of our development for more often than not, although we ‘occupy’ our main ‘stratum of residence’ we are also reluctant to leave behind the old ‘familiarity’ of acquaintance and experience and thus we continue to cling to the stratum immediately below. So too, do the lower stratum, before completely vacating their residence in their eagerness to ascend the biostrata, reach up immediately above and thus you can find intelligence occupying three strata at the same time.

One may think that ascension through the biostrata is now complete, seeing as we have come to our Senses, but we are still yet to reach the apex of the symbolic triangle.  Next we venture further upward to enter the Spiritual Stratum.

 

Yoga Nature

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Yoga is a Science. It is an Art. It is an Order to which every boy and girl, man and woman can adhere toward in their lifetime to become healthy and whole.  Dedication, discipline and direction are all required to bring oneself from infancy to healthy normal maturity.  During all stages of growth, maintenance of one’s general health and well-being requires self-control and perseverance.  An understanding of the self will lead to the development of mind body unification and ultimately physical welfare.  The science of Yoga encompasses all aspects of ‘how to’ gain a normal state of health. It is profound, there are foundations to be laid, it is a way of life.

The fundamental birthplace of Yoga teaches the path of a natural mode of living.  On this modern planet in which we inhabit, this can prove challenging. Can we return to ‘Nature’?  Have we time to turn our view away from the dazzling mad rush of modern civilisation? Fashion and Social ambition demeans and befools us. In short, it controls us. The repercussions thereafter, obliterate us.  In the cradle of Yoga, one can receive nourishment, warmth and protection. In your Yoga practice you gain first, nature, second, nature, third, nature.  A return to whence it began.

The ordinary way, true earth, natural magnetism, is still with us.  The most vigorous races of the world still live, still inhabit this wondrous earth, as they have done for centuries.  They require little other than what nature gives. This last remaining vital force is bestowed on us all.

Attention now, to the self, is inherent.  It is how nature, and all living beings, will survive.  Observation and awareness to ‘natural magnetism’ and ‘vitality’ will teach all that a Yoga Nature and the answers therein, will show earth’s way.  The Earth is like a battery, charged with magnetism and ready and willing to give forth its strength to all beings. Apply the ‘test of nature’ to all theory and know that it has valuable ‘order’ and is a trusted friend.

Seeking to maintain a healthy, normal, natural body? Assume the title of ‘Yogi’, reverse the trend of ignorance, and endeavour to lead the Yogi plan of physical life.

One can be loyal, as far as possible, to the continuous practice of Yoga, in order to gain insight and experience of Nature’s plans and methods. All systems and techniques within Yoga will indicate how to reach normal functions of the body.  With this adherence followed, a natural state of health and well-being can be achieved.  Yoga’s key note is ‘Health’ and its main purpose is to help all conform to a standard of healthy living.  That which keeps a human healthy can make an unhealthy human healthy.  Yoga (and all branches thereof) exploits a sane, natural, normal and healthy manner of living, and if followed, will benefit all. Yoga stays close to nature and advocates a return to natural methods of life in preference of those which mislead us into obliteration.

Yoga will demand your attention and observation and will teach you how to take command over your rebellious self. Yoga will call to action your responsiveness, your ‘will’, and will show you how to do everything you can to achieve health and well-being.  Yoga will re-ignite your belief in the Intelligence behind all Life. Engagement with the great Life Principle will allow us to survive, to all be well within our bodies.

Put your yearning for something new into Yoga practice; through this you will get a good fair start on the road to the knowledge you seek.

Yoga and Premenstrual Syndrome

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Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is experienced by all women at one time or another during their lifespan. It is still unknown as to why such symptoms as headaches, stomach cramps, breast tenderness, bloating, weight gain and irritability occur, however through the realms of Ayurveda and Homeopathy, the physicians therein believe that lifestyle factors which disrupt the body’s natural rhythm, creating hormonal imbalances play a significant part in generating all symptoms. Lack of exercise, bad eating habits, overworking, tension, stress, travel and difficulties in relationships will all contribute to cyclic patterns of anxiety, mood swings, emotional turbulence and depression, which all equate to PMS.

Gynecologist and obstetrician, Dr.Guy Abraham developed a classification system for PMS back in 1980. Four types grouped PMS, Type A (Anxiety) often accompanied by mood swings and irritability. Type C (Craving) would result with headaches, fatigue and sugar cravings. Type D (Depression) would have results in the region of memory loss and confusion and Type H (Water H2O retention) would result in weight gain, tender breasts and bloatedness (not to mention the further psychological distress that attaches itself to weight gain and negative body image). Any woman could suffer any combination of any of the above, with symptoms altering with every menstrual cycle depending on the earlier lifestyle factors mentioned earlier plus hormone fluctuations and dominations.

Based on the four main types of PMS outlined above there are self-help measures recommended.  Specially selected Yoga positions will provide not only immediate relief for the discomfort of PMS but will give continual opportunity for inner renewal and long-term benefits in reducing (and in some cases eradicating) all symptoms therein.

Yoga Postures for Type A (Anxiety) : The Corpse Pose, The Crocodile, The Child’s Pose All three of these are simple relaxation poses. In turn they will allow the mind to focus inward and relax deeply and completely whilst focusing the breath on the organs such as the abdomen, pelvis and back muscles.

Yoga Postures for Type C (Craving) : The Bow, The Bridge (modified) These two postures will stimulate blood flow to the abdomen and pelvic areas thus helping to regulate sugar levels and metabolism. Further within these 2 poses the ovaries, uterus and abdominal organs will be stretched and toned. Performing these positions will increase energy and lift the mood bringing with it a sense of rejuvenation and relieving of carbohydrate cravings. This type of PMS will translate the need for glucose to that of the need for sugar and/or chocolate (which contains magnesium which is needed to normalize glucose metabolism) however, unrefined sugar and chocolate have the side effect of a ‘let-down’ feeling, fatigue and headaches.

Type D (Depression) : Upward Facing DogThis dog posture is excellent for stimulating both the front and back of the body and bringing renewed strength to the lumbar and pelvic area. Gazing upward together with stretching skyward help counteract the downward pull of gravity, and that too of depression.

Type H (H20 Retention) : Wide-Angle Pose, The Plough                                                                                                                Gentle inversions help relieve and reverse the effects of water retention, especially in the feet, ankles and lower legs. Blood and energy circulation is stimulated, the entire pelvic region is opened and energized thus counteracting swelling. Care is to be taken to not do full inverted postures whilst on your menses.

All of the above postures, practiced regularly, during and in between the menstrual cycle, will all contribute to lessening the discomfort of PMS symptoms.

Om/Aum

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om

Om/Aum is the ultimate Mantra (repeated sacred word).

Aum/Om has its own symbol

it represents the conscious, the subconscious and the unconscious in everything

The word Om is mighty and omnipresent.

It is believed that Om is the ancestor of Amen.

 

Om emphasises balance.

Paramahansa Yogananda states: ‘the infinite potencies of sound derive from the Creative Word, Aum, the cosmic vibratory power behind all atomic energies’.

Any word spoken with clear realization and deep concentration has a materializing value. Loud or silent repetition of inspiring words has been found effective in Coueism (a method of self-help stressing autosuggestion) and similar systems of psychotherapy. The secret lies in the stepping-up of the mind’s vibratory rate.

Molecular vibration never ceases. Inherent tendencies are equal to the sum-total of impressions/stimuli that you imbibe, which then live on in the mind. Repetition of creative sound is the greatest stimulus that can be given to the spirit, by repeating the Om/Aum mantra, one is keeping great company with one’s own mind. Light enters, ‘the self’ will become manifest.

With AUM, the first letter A is the root sound, the key, pronounced without touching any part of the tongue or palate. The second letter, U rolls from the very root to the end of the sounding board of the mouth. The M, and third letter represents the last sound in the series, being produced with the lips closed. With this in mind it becomes clear to see that Om(Aum) represents the whole phenomena of sound-producing and shows all possibility and range of word making, it is in short the matrix of sound and nature.

Yoga is Good For You

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Yoga is good for what ails you.

Just for starters Yoga helps manage or control anxiety, arthritis, asthma, back pain, blood pressure, carpal tunnel syndrome, chronic fatigue, depression, diabetes, epilepsy, headaches, heart disease, multiple sclerosis, stress and other conditions and diseases.

On top of all that Yoga improves your muscle tone, flexibility, strength and stamina, it reduces stress and tension, boosts self-esteem, improves concentration and creativity, lowers fat, improves blood circulation, stimulates the immune system and creates a sense of well-being and calm.

That’s all just scratching the surface. If you delve further, deeper, you find connection to your transcendent Self and gain true happiness, liberation and enlightenment.

 

Hatha Yoga / Styles

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Regardless of your age and/or level of fitness you can find a style of Hatha Yoga that will appeal and be most appropriate for your particular body and/or personality. Throughout all styles of Hatha Yoga, basic asanas (postures) and pranayamas (breathing exercises) remain the same, however it is within their order, how they are approached and where attention is focused that differentiates them. The emphasis may be on the postures, the breath, the rhythmic movements, the philosophy or a combination of non-exhaustive factors. There will always be the specific characteristics which reflect any particular teacher’s approach too. All styles and all teachers have their own personalities and it is about finding one which suits you.

Ananda Yoga ~ this method combines physical and spiritual with its purpose to clear and energize the systems of your body in preparation for meditation. Every posture looks toward expanding or heightening self-awareness. It is enhanced through affirmations which are a distinctive feature of this system. This style utilizes series of poses called ‘energization exercises’ which involve tensing and relaxing different parts of the body synchronised with breathing exercises to send energy to all parts. There is emphasis placed on relaxing deeply into the poses reflecting the intention that Hatha Yoga is a preparation for meditation.

Ashtanga Yoga ~ this yoga system is a rigorous practice and can be compared with the training of an elite athlete. There are 240 postures done in six successive series which are all linked by the breath (vinyasa flow). This style of Hatha Yoga represents the most intensive form with its purpose to create heat which in turn produces a cleansing/detoxifying effect on the body. There are equal emphasis placed on strength, flexibility and stamina within Ashtanga practice (also known as ‘Power Yoga’).

Integral Yoga ~ this combines all paths of yoga to benefit all aspects of the individual. One approach is made through asana (postures), pranayama (controlled breathing), selfless study, chanting, prayer, meditation and self-inquiry. Integral Yoga is more meditative than anatomical. This approach encourages one to be ‘at ease in body, peaceful in mind and useful in life’.

Iyengar Yoga ~ this is probably the most widely known technique of Hatha Yoga and is prescribed by yoga master B.K.S Iyengar. It is rigorously scientific and therapeutic and concentrates on alignment, correcting those structural imbalances of the physical body. One will pay close attention to the placement of hands, feet and pelvis as well as gaining alignment of the spine and appendicular frame (arms and legs). There is much attention to detail within Iyengar Yoga and props (wooden blocks, belts, straps, blankets, bolsters) are made available to assist in achieving great symmetry of the skeletal frame and progressing in extension within the posture.

Kripalu Yoga ~ this style of Yoga has been described as ‘meditation in motion’.  There is less concern with the structural detail of the poses more rather how the student feels mentally and emotionally whilst holding the posture. This style encourages a gentle, compassionate and introspective approach and due to the nature of holding the position for a longer time, it helps the practitioner to explore and release any emotional/spiritual obstructions. There are 3 stages to this style of practice, willful practice, will and surrender and surrendering to the body’s wisdom. There are differing intensities offered, gentle, moderate and vigorous. On top of all of this there is spontaneity encouraged through sequences of postures and too in individual postures to be guided by the body’s internal awareness.

Kundalini Yoga ~ this is the ancient practice which is designed to unlock and bring forth the reservoir of energy located deep within the base of the spine. The use of breath, posture, chanting and meditation are all encouraged to stimulate and consciously awaken the ‘kundalini’ through the chakras of energy centres positioned along the spine. The most common breathing exercises to be emphasised are : alternate nostril breathing, diaphragmatic breathing and a dynamic technique called ‘breath of fire’.

Sivananda Yoga ~ this style of Hatha Yoga incorporates a 5 point method of practice. It includes proper exercise, breathing, deep relaxation, vegetarian diet and positive thinking and meditation. The practice herein follows a routine of breathing exercises, sun salutations, a series of postures and then relaxation. Short Mantra chants and prayers will always begin and end each class.

Viniyoga ~ this style is ‘middle of the road’ between exacting Iyengar Yoga and demanding Ashtanga Yoga. Its basis is within the realm of ‘organized course of yoga study’.  There is the combination of asana, pranayama, meditation, text study, counselling, prayer, ritual, chanting and using the powers of imagination. There is a tailoring of the postures to the physical needs of the individual student, the emotional needs and also the cultural heritage. Breathing is considered to be one of the most important parts of the movement and inhalations and exhalations are consciously coordinated and articulated in varying length and ratios. This style of yoga is tutorial on a private one-to-one basis.

Bikram Yoga ~ this style is also known as ‘hot yoga’ for it is practiced within temperatures of 80 degrees or more (supplemented by a humidifier). The 90 minute class consists of 26 hatha yoga postures repeated twice over and there is a pranayama exercise at the beginning and the end of the session. A brief relaxation concludes the class. This style of yoga is exhilarating and an excellent routine for the physically and mentally fit.

 

Swadhaya through Pranayama

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Our breathing not only connects us with the outer world, but it also connects our body, mind, emotions and spirit. Sit quietly with eyes closed and spine erect but supple.  Begin to relax more and more into this very simple posture. Simply follow the breath going in and out of one’s nose. Then follow the actual movement of the air into and out of the lungs. Observe the body and sense where the breath is taking place. Does it take place in the shoulders, the chest or the lower abdomen? Do your shoulders go up when you inhale? does your belly go out or in? Do you feel your breathing in your ribs, your back and your pelvis? As you sense your breathing, are your inhalations and exhalations taking place evenly and harmoniously or do they seem to pull in one direction or another? What tensions do you feel? What does your breathing ‘sound’ like? As you sense the location of your breath, do you feel peaceful, agitated, angry, joyful, sad, bored or wilful? Are you being stubborn or rigid in your thinking? What are you thinking and feeling?

In addition, at the more advanced levels of this work with breathing, one can even sense a certain quality of energy that seems to enter with each breath, and one can follow the movement of this energy in one’s body. The purpose here is simply to observe – not to analyze, judge or manipulate.

Do self-study at least 20 minutes at the beginning of each day.

Swadhyaya through Yoga

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Yoga is a philosophy of life, which is not restricted to just Asanas and Pranayama. It is a path of all-round development of an individual’s physical, mental, emotional and spiritual self. As the Vishnu-Purana states that self-study and yoga are not ultimately two separate things but both arise together from each other. Through Yoga and study, we have a chance to observe how our bodies, breath, mind and emotions have responded. For example, when you do a Yoga pose, you follow instructions. You learn as to how to get into the pose and how to align all body parts in tune with gravity. This is just the knowledge and the foundation of the yoga posture. But the power of the practice comes when we add observation or consciousness to the knowledge i.e Swadhyaya. Though consciousness already exists in the body, it needs to be tapped through Swadhyaya. Then in each pose, we align the body mindfully in tune with gravity for maximum balance, space and freedom to the spine, inner organs and to the breath. This observation leads to a deeper understanding and a communion with each asana. In the same way you can add the quality of curiosity, observation and exploration in each step of your life. Whatever you do, do it mindfully and consciously instead of doing it mechanically. It is true that mechanical repetition only dulls, but where there is profound attention one never stops seeing deeper and deeper. The next time you step into your Yoga pose or into your daily routine, add Swadhyaya to it.

Breathing Meditation

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Generally, the purpose of breathing meditation is to calm the mind and develop inner peace.  We can use breathing meditations alone or as a preliminary practice to reduce our distractions.

Simple Breathing Meditation

The first stage of meditation is to stop distractions and make our mind clearer and more lucid. This can be accomplished by practicing a simple breathing meditation. We choose a quiet place to meditate and sit in a comfortable position. We can sit in the traditional cross-legged posture or in any other position that is comfortable. The most important thing is to keep our back straight to prevent our mind from becoming sluggish or sleepy.

We sit with our eyes partially closed and turn our attention to our breathing. We breathe naturally, preferably through the nostrils, without attempting to control our breath, and we try to become aware of the sensation of the breath as it enters and leaves the nostrils. This sensation is our object of meditation. We should try to concentrate on it to the exclusion of everything else.

At first, our mind will be very busy, and we might even feel that the meditation is making our mind busier; but in reality we are just becoming more aware of how busy our mind actually is. There will be a great temptation to follow the different thoughts as they arise, but we should resist this and remain focused single-pointedly on the sensation of the breath. If we discover that our mind has wandered and is following our thoughts, we should immediately return it to the breath. We should repeat this as many times as necessary until the mind settles on the breath.

Benefits of Meditation

If we practice patiently in this way, gradually our distracting thoughts will subside and we will experience a sense of inner peace and relaxation. Our mind will feel lucid and spacious and we will feel refreshed. When the sea is rough, sediment is churned up and the water becomes murky, but when the wind dies down the mud gradually settles and the water becomes clear. In a similar way, when the otherwise incessant flow of our distracting thoughts is calmed through concentrating on the breath, our mind becomes unusually lucid and clear. We should stay with this state of mental calm for a while.

Even though breathing meditation is only a preliminary stage of meditation, it can be quite powerful. We can see from this practice that is is possible to experience inner peace and contentment just by controlling the mind, without having to depend at all upon external conditions.

When the turbulence of distracting thoughts subsides and our mind becomes still, a deep happiness and contentment naturally arises from within.  This feeling of contentment and well-being helps us to cope with the busyness and difficulties of daily life. So much of the stress and tension we normally experience comes from our mind, and many of the problems we experience, including ill health, are caused or aggravated by this stress. Just by doing breathing meditation for ten or fifteen minutes each day, we will be able to reduce this stress. We will experience a calm, spacious feeling in the mind, and many of our usual problems will fall away. Difficult situations will become easier to deal with, we will naturally feel warm and well disposed towards other people, and our relationships with others will gradually improve.

A Smile

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A Smile costs nothing, but gives much

It enriches those who receive it

Without making poorer those who give it

It takes but a moment

But the memory of it lasts forever.

None is so rich or mighty

That he can get along without it

And none is so poor that he cannot be made rich by it

A smile creates happiness in the home

Fosters goodwill in business

and is the countersign of friendship

It brings rest to the weary,

Cheer to the discouraged,

Sunshine to the sad

And it is nature’s best antidote for trouble.

Yet it cannot be bought, begged, borrowed or stolen

For it is something that is of no value to anyone

Until it is given away.

Some people are too tired to give you a smile,

Give them one of yours,

As none needs a smile so much

As he who has no more to give.

WHAT CAN YOU DO!

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forgive all who hurt you in the past

and forgive yourself for the same

let go of the past

no judgments

think positive

no attachments

send love

send light

morning affirmations

nightly review

never fear

everything’s ok

7 Pointers to A Great Life!

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1.   S = SIMPLIFY

a great life is a result of simplifying your life… people often misinterpret what ‘simplify’ means. When you focus on simplifying your life, you free up energy and time to enjoy the purpose of why you are here … in order to create a great life you have to make room for it ….

2.   E = EFFORT

make some adjustments, re-evaluate how you spend your time … look for new ways to spend your energy and ensure this coincides with your definition of ‘a great life’ …

3.   C = CREATE PRIORITIES

become aware of what gets your attention, is it conducive to your ‘great life’?  focus on removing any obstacles or obstructions in your way … spend your days moving forward to your priorities ….

4.   R = RESERVES

have reserve of time, money, energy, love, space … have more than you need, they reduce fear of consequences, they allow you to make decisions on what you really want instead of having ‘fear’ decide for you …..

5.   E = ELIMINATE DISTRACTIONS

get rid of anything that is draining, distracting or debilitating you … protect your mental energy, find ways to free up your daily mental energy for things that are important to you ….. let go of that which is no longer bringing you joy or happiness or support to reach your goals ………

6.   T = THOUGHTS

control your thoughts so that you accept and allow that a ‘great life’ can be yours, that you can have all that is good happen to you – your belief in your outcome will directly dictate how successful you are …. motivate yourself through positive thoughts of achievement … believe in your solutions to any problems you may encounter … whatever you think and believe, you create … listen to what you tell yourself and ensure it is in line with your goal of having a ‘great and happy’ life ….. you can adjust the voice in your head, you can keep your thoughts in control ……

7.   S = START

do it!  the best thing to do to get your life on track is to START … right now, it’s the best time to START taking a step in the direction of your heart’s desires … it is what you do right now, TODAY that will make a difference in your life tomorrow …..