“Trees teach us about breathing. They continually produce oxygen, so they teach us about rejuvenation and about our perception of ourselves. They help us feel stronger, while remaining peaceful … Trees don't just give us fre...
For our agrarian ancestors whose lives were so closely entwined with the land, marking seasonal changes was a way of showing respect for the rhythms of nature that provided them with the means to flourish in their environment. To honour nature was to be in intimate rel...
When I visit my local Hindu temple for worship (puja), I am often asked why, as a Westerner, I am drawn to be there. When I mention that I am a yoga teacher, smiles of understanding break out. Despite confusion in the contemporary yoga world of how much the discipline...
The Spring Equinox is a good time to consider balance in our lives, not only of happiness and sadness, but also of the areas in which we are active and passive, successful and falling short, giving and taking. Use this exercise to...
Years ago, when I was first taught about the science of breath by an enthused and slightly eccentric yoga teacher, I was told that 'animals breathe through their mouths just before they die' and thus to preserve life, breathing through the nostrils should be favoured a...
India has a rich tradition of enlightened saints [yogis] who have dedicated their lives to guiding those on the spiritual path, encouraging aspirants to reach higher and more fulfilling levels of understanding and insight. What better way to start a New Year than by re...
“When the breath wanders, the mind also is unsteady. But when the breath is calmed, the mind too will be still, and the yogi achieves long life. Therefore one should learn to control the breath.” - Hatha Yoga Pradipika, 15th Century
The image of someone sitting cross-legged chanting the Om (Aum) mantrahas long been associated with yoga. Indeed, many classes begin and end with this sacred sound. But why? What is the meaning and purpose of it? Here are a few facts that might help to explain:
