Yoga In My School » yoga

Yoga for Women: From Pelvic Floor to Global Movement

DonnaKFreeman — Thu, 10 May 2012 21:59:15 +0000

Celebrate Mother’s Day the yoga way with our special guests. Discover how women continue to balance family and career while carving out some personal asana/meditation time.

Candice Garrett joins us to talk about the importance of yoga for Moms including pelvic floor health, the Yoga Sutras of parenting and the power of a single breath. Then the producer/director of YogaWoman: The Film, Kate Clere McIntyre will shed light on the impact women on having on the world of yoga and the awakening of female power around the globe. This is a special episode dedicated to women everywhere as they nurture themselves, love passionately and lead powerfully in this moment and into the future.

Original Air Date: May 10, 2012

Connect with Candice Garrett at Nine Moons Yoga on Facebook. Here are the Mama Sutras we referred to during the interview.

Discover YogaWoman.tv on Facebook and leave a message if you want the movie to come to a theatre near you.

Enjoy all our archived interviews available on iTunes including guests Cora Wen, Sadie Nardini, Waylon Lewis, Bob Weisenberg, Karma Carpenter, Amy Saltzman, Briohny Smyth and many more.

Yoga for Arthritis: Practice Tips & Raising Funds for Reseach via Power of Movement Kim McNeil, Calgary Power of Movement Ambassador, joins us to...
Successful Adapted Yoga for Youth with Special Needs An innovative adapted yoga approach is proving highly successful in...
Yoga and Mindfulness in Schools Karma highlights the research and programs bringing yoga and mindfulness...

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.

The Benefits of Om

DonnaKFreeman — Fri, 13 Apr 2012 12:15:29 +0000

This is Part 4 in a four part series on Om. Enjoy Part 1: Om the Sound of the Universe, Part 2: Chanting Om: How to Teach Kids to Chant (video), and Part 3: To Om or Not to Om

Why It’s Great to Chant OM

There are numerous benefits to chanting and employing music to teach children and teens (see Benefits of Music in Kids Yoga Class.) “Om” is the primordial sound of the universe, the first vibration of creation, the eternal sound of the divine. “Om” in particular helps center and calm participants, bringing a sense of peace, focus and connection to ourselves, each other and the world. When chanted in repetition “om” is invigorating, strengthening and an effective way to release stress. Here are a number of the benefits of chanting “om.”

Physiological Effects

slows the heart beat
relaxes muscles
calms the body
decreases blood pressure
oxygenates the blood
massages the spine, chest, core, throat and head through vibrations

Mental/Emotional Effects

induces the relaxation response
improves task performance
increases clarity and concentrated focus
soothes the mind
increases effectiveness and motivation
deepens the connection to spiritual self
creates a sense of community (group chanting)

What benefits do you feel come from chanting “om?”

To Om or Not to Om Pros and cons of chanting in schools and yoga studios....
Chanting OM: Teaching Kids to Chant {Video} Today Alea has joined me. She is going to learn...
OM The Sound of the Universe One of the easiest, and most approachable, ways to teach...

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.

Yoga and Mindfulness in Schools

DonnaKFreeman — Tue, 13 Mar 2012 19:38:48 +0000

The International Association of School Yoga and Mindfulness (IASYM) knows the times are a-changing. Karma Carpenter Shea, IASYM Founder, joins us to talk about the rising trend of bringing yoga and mindfulness into schools. The goal of IASYM is to promote pediatric health through sustainable yoga, mindfulness and contemplative ed programs for students and staff. She’ll share why mind-body tools are becoming so popular. As well, we’ll delve into some of the science behind the hoopla. Special guests include Debbie Cohen, Ryan McGraw, Dee Marie and Rachel Glowacki.

Original Air Date: March 13, 2012

Learn more about IASYM on the K-12yoga.org website.

Thanks to everyone who listened, called in and participated. We’ll be offering more in-depth interviews with experts on various topics of interest to yoga instructors, teachers, administrators, researchers and others in the coming months. Be sure to LIKE us on Facebook and sign up for our newsletter (right hand sidebar) to stay in the loop of what’s coming.

Please share this interview and promote mind-body education in schools.

Coming SOON – review and give away for Rachel’s award winning #kidsyoga app.

Mindfulness for Youth with Dr Dan Siegel Discover the importance of mindful awareness in youth to foster...
From Monkey Mind to Peace of Mind Dr Catherine Phillips, founder of the Mindfulness Institute.ca discusses MBSR...

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.

Yoga for Arthritis: Practice Tips & Raising Funds for Reseach via Power of Movement

DonnaKFreeman — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 18:05:31 +0000

Canada’s Largest Yoga Fundraiser Raises Autoimmune Disease Awareness

Millions are impacted by arthritis and autoimmune conditions. Canada’s largest yoga fundraiser, Power of Movement encourages putting your downdog to good use and raise funds to beat arthritis and autoimmune diseases. Twenty three cities will host Power of Movement events on Sunday, March 4, 2012. Kim McNeil, Calgary Power of Movement Ambassador, joins us to talk about the important roll yoga can play in alleviating the symptoms caused by autoimmune conditions. She’ll give tips for individuals with arthritis who want to practice yoga and let you know how you can get involved in an event close to home - Families welcome!

Take on the Power of Movement Virtual Challenge in support of arthritis and autoimmune research. All funds raised are donated to the Arthritis Research Foundation.

DONATE HERE.

Original Air Date: February 22, 2012

Connect with Kim on Twitter @KimMcNeilYoga or Facebook Kim McNeil Yoga.

Learn more about Power of Movement HERE.

In the interview Kim refers to this book Yoga for Arthritis by Loren Fishman - which I’ll definitely be getting my hands on ASAP.

Equinox Video Interview with Briohny Smyth and Michael A Stusser Briohny Smyth caused a ruckus, Michael A. Stusser made us...
Steve Gold Heart Melting Music Steve Gold talks about inspiration, affirmation and building community through...
Kids Yoga and the Power of Storytelling Explore the magic that happens whenever you combine oral storytelling...

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.

Equinox Video Interview with Briohny Smyth and Michael A Stusser

DonnaKFreeman — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 14:55:23 +0000

Briohny Smyth caused a ruckus, Michael A. Stusser made us laugh. Hear from each of them on the effects of the 2012 Equinox video.

Briohny Smyth started 2012 with a bang: featured doing yoga in what became a highly controversial ad by Equinox. She joins us to chat about her experiences, her yoga practice and what it’s like to be at the center of a proverbial tornado.

In response to the Equinox video Seattle based writer Michael A. Stusser created his own version. A decidedly different version of an early morning yoga practice. Michael will share the why and how of his own personal yoga journey and the power of not taking ourselves too seriously.

You don’t want to miss this.

Original Air Date: February 8, 2012

In case you’ve been living in a yoga cave and somehow missed them, here are the videos we’re talking about. Fun to do a play by play comparison to see how well Michael’s parody was done.

OM The Sound of the Universe

DonnaKFreeman — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 23:26:14 +0000

This is Part 1 in a four part series on Om for Kids and Teens. Watch for Part 2: Chanting OM: How to Teach Kids to Chant (Video), Part 3: To Om or Not to Om and Part 4: The Benefits of Om coming soon.

Yoga Chanting for Kids & Teens

Often when I visit a class for the first time a number of kids come in right away, sit cross legged, hands in the air, thumb and index finger joined, and spontaneously chant “om.” Their natural curiosity and receptivity always makes me smile. They are so adorable in their sweet innocence as they connect with this universal sound and mudra (hand position).

Teaching Om

Now for a little guidance.

One of the easiest, and most approachable, ways to teach “om” is to break it down into A-U-M.

Sit cross-legged, place your hands on your knees in gyan mudra (thumb and index finger forming a circle, other fingers elongated). Aum is generally considered to have 3 1/2 measures: A, U, M and silence. Close your eyes, inhale then exhale as you perform Aum, repeating three times. The sounds ahhhh starts in our chest at the heart center, moves upward with the ooooo sound in the throat center, and ends with the sounds mmmmm, which vibrates the higher centers in the head. (~Once Upon a Pose, p. 4)

It’s fun to play around with variations in volume, pitch and timing. As with any yoga practice, approach “om” with curiosity and openness to see what feels right to you.

Three Symbols of Om

If you’d like to go all Hindu with your students you can explore the symbolism behind the sound. According to the Mandukya Upanishad,

Om is the one eternal syllable of which all that exists is but the development. The past, the present, and the future are all included in this one sound, and all that exists beyond the three forms of time is also implied in it.

Each tone of “om” relates to a time of life, a power and a Hindu deity/philosophy.

A = birth, creative power (Brahma)

U = life, sustaining power (Vishnu)

M = death, destructive power (Shiva)

silence = bliss, pure consciousness (Turiya)

How do you teach “om” to kids and teens?

A Day at Kids Yoga Camp Children are often intrigued by the idea of yoga camp....
Thanksgiving Playlist for Kids & Teens Yoga Class Bring a smile to your face and joy to your...
Finding Your Still Quiet Place with Amy Saltzman Join us for easy to implement techniques which are proven...

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.

An Early Morning Yoga Practice for a Better You

DonnaKFreeman — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 13:23:36 +0000

Guest post by Bethany Winston

It seems difficult to leave the comfort of bed, maybe just for few minutes, before actually beginning to execute the ‘to-do’ list. But if you can wake up in the quietness and soothing calm of a refreshing morning, you will be delighted to find its charm. A warm cup of water with lime can get your digestive system going. Try giving a similar dose to your mind as well.

Everyone seems overwhelmed with daily chores; whether it is managing the ever-demanding boss, creating portfolios to channel your hard earned money or catering to the big requests of children. Reasons are endless. But within the busy and tight chores, finding some time for your self is imperative. An open secret that it is, the body and mind needs replenishment. And this goes beyond taking a healthy diet! Spending exclusive moments with self is not a tall order. Determination is the key.

What to Include

Yoga is an inexpensive tool when working for a better mind and body.

Working when the rest of the world sleeps can give an immense satisfaction and contentment. When beginning try moves and stretches to prepare your body for more elaborate postures which follow. Balasana can start your session, followed by other stretches like Cat-cow. Thereafter, you can move on to the more extended postures. For resting, Sukhasana is appropriate. And when performing each of the postures, watch the breath going in and out of the nose.

Finding a morning yoga schedule is recommended. It will encourage an active and complete yoga session, concluding with Savasana (Corpse Pose). While some postures are energizing, others, like forward bends, are calming. Sun Salutations produce heat and flowing movement linked to breathing. Standing poses can help in building strength and stamina. For improving concentration, balancing poses are appropriate. You can also practice twists, which detoxify the body relieving stress in the head, neck, and back. If you want to examine the world with a different dimension, inversions (upside down) are apt postures.

The Benefits

The short, yet meticulous, session is meant to work not only for the muscles but also the nerves. Early morning practice helps in setting the tone for your entire day. Sessions can be one reason to leave the bed few minutes before your usual timing, a natural compulsion. For many yogis early morning hours are lively and energetic. Your yoga session can potentially connect you to the energy, contributing to a healthy living.

A dedicated morning practice certainly produces encouraging results, boosting up your energy to meet the demands of the day. Irrespective of the day, try to maintain a similar structure in your practice sessions. When you can stick to the format, penetrating further becomes easier. Some find it helpful to incorporate a ritual blend in their practice sessions, giving a more meaningful and tempting edge to the early morning practices. Sun Salutation is a popular choice.

Before grabbing that aromatic cup of tea or coffee and the newspaper, spend a few moments with yourself. A good beginning is kick-start your day.

About the author: Bethany is a blogger by profession. She loves writing on environment and technology. Beside this she is fond of books. She recently read an article on nail care and liked it a lot. Few days ago she bought some Bathroom Lighting for her home.

Kris Carr Rocks Wanderlust SPEAKEASY Wellness Warrior and Cancer Thriver Kris Karr kicks off the...
A Day at Kids Yoga Camp Children are often intrigued by the idea of yoga camp....

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.

Steve Gold Heart Melting Music

DonnaKFreeman — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 17:39:00 +0000

“As you affirm, God confirms.” ~ Steve Gold

Steve Gold is known for his soul touching, positive music which he shares extensively at yoga workshops, retreats and festivals. His latest album Let Your Heart Be Known is an exploration in heart melting goodness as he combines America acoustic-guitar, blues, African rhythms and kirtan. Steve’s life mission is to build community through music and anyone who has enjoyed a workshop with him will agree that he does this and so much more. Employing the power of music to heal, connect and inspire, Steve’s melodies, rhythms and lyrics lift and soothe. Join Steve as we discuss inspirations, community, yoga and more.

Original Air Date: January 23, 2012

Find Steve on Facebook at Steve Gold Music and on Twitter @stevegoldmusic.

To purchase songs from Let Your Heart Be Known visit CD Baby.

Upcoming Interview: Feb 22nd – Yoga for Arthritis and POM2012 (Power of Movement) with Kim McNeil

iTunes Downloads

Check out the 60+archived interviews available for download on iTunes: includes guests Bob Weisenberg, YogaDork, Cora Wen, Sadie Nardini, Elena Brower, Anna Guest-Jelley, Leah Kalish and many more.

YogaKids Bridge of Diamonds Haiti Mission Volunteering to teach kids yoga in Haiti, a country racked...
Kira Willey: Music, Yoga and Life Musician and yoga instructor Kira Willey shares her experiences of...
Reflections 2011: Jessica Durivage & Diane Ferraro of Where Is My Guru Sharing their love of yoga, community building and more the...

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.

Making the Most of Your Time in The New Year: 365 Days of …

DonnaKFreeman — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 14:51:24 +0000

At the beginning of each year I am struck with a sense of possibility. 365 days ahead in which to do, to create, to heal, to rejoice, to connect, to become. I know some people love to set resolutions, or intentions, or goals, or sankalpa for the New Year, others hate it. My one wish for you, no matter how you approach the New Year, is that you will value your time and use it wisely to come to know yourself, your potential, your uniqueness, and all the amazing things you are capable of. Be and share your best with yourself, your loved ones, your community, the world. Happy New Year!

To realize the value of One Year,

Ask a student who failed his or her AP exams.

To realize the value of One Month,

Ask a mother who gave birth to a premature baby.

To realize the value of One Week,

Ask an editor of a weekly magazine.

To realize the value of One Day,

Ask a daily wage laborer who has six kids to feed.

To realize the value of One Hour,

Ask the lovers who are waiting to meet.

To realize the value of One Minute,

Ask a person who missed their train.

To realize the value of One Second,

Ask the person who survived an accident.

To realise the value of One Millisecond,

Ask the person who won a silver medal in the Olympics.

No related posts.

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.

Reflections 2011: Duncan Wong

DonnaKFreeman — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 12:22:47 +0000

Duncan Wong joins Reflections 2011.

Innovative, powerful and trans-formative Duncan Wong’s signature YogicArts style combines traditional martial arts, vinyasa yoga and Thai massage into a yoga practice that activates energy and releases blockages. Duncan reflects on 2011 live from Japan during this 30 minute in-depth interview. We’ll chat about finding inspiration, yoga in Asia, how to perform safe assists through smart contact, and the similarities and connection between the ancient practices which influence his work, yoga practice and life.

Original Air Date: December 22, 2011

Connect with Duncan on his website, Facebook and @yogicarts.

Thank you for joining us for #reflections11. It’s always a thrill to connect with and learn from such amazing individuals. May you spend some time reflecting on your own personal journey this past year, letting go of things which no longer serve you and holding close that which gives you joy and love. All the best in 2012.

Enjoy all of our archived interviews for FREE download on iTunes.

Dec 1 - Jeff Krasno, Wanderlust Festival co-founder

Dec 5 - Roseanne Harvey of it’s all yoga, baby

Dec 7 - Seane Corn

Dec 12 - Jessica Durivage and Diane Ferraro of Where Is My Guru

Dec 14 - Amy Ippoliti

Dec 19 – Kristin McGee

Reflections 2011: Amy Ippoliti Enjoy this in-depth interview with Amy Ippoliti, one of Anusara...
Reflections 2011: Kristin McGee In this #reflections11 interview we'll chat about physical and emotional...
Reflections 2011: Seane Corn Enjoy thirty minutes with the indomitable Seane Corn as she...

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.