Yoga for the Dancer The Various Yoga Disciplines XI
Yoga is the best possible existence you can find for yourself. This springs from the well of joy deep within you. That joy or bliss is the very nature of the spirit, or transcendental Self. Joy captures life's bright colors and motivates you to embrace life in all of it's countless forms. Yoga points the way to happiness, health, and life-embracing meaning.
Our new Yoga Discipline is Jivamukti, a Yoga school developed by Sharon Gannon and David Life in 1984. It's a method of Yoga which reintegrates the physical, philosophical and spiritual aspects of Yoga. The emphasis in the West has been on Yoga as mostly a physical practice. More and more people are achieving firmer bodies through regular Yoga classes. But many are finding something more: what starts out as a purely physical practice creeps into the hearts and minds of even the least spiritual practitioners. David and Sharon were passionate about communicating Yoga as more than just a system of exercises, but also as a spiritual practice; a path to enlightenment. From the beginning they have taught a living translation of the Indian System of Yoga so the Western minds can comprehend. Aside from the vigorous asanas (exercises) as it's primary technique, emphasis is placed on meditation, devotional chanting and study of the ancient texts. Jivamukti is internationally recognized as a style of Yoga.
They chose the name Jivamukti (pronounced Jee-va-mook-tee) to reflect the true aim of Yoga, which is liberation. Jiva means individual soul and mukti means liberation. The name reflects the fact that it's possible to have a beneficial and fulfilling life in the world, and also progress spiritually trying to attain liberation while living. Yoga is the natural state and origin of the truth, beauty, eternal happiness and bliss. The Jivamukti Yoga Centers are places for spiritual gathering that host international performers and speakers from a wide range of spiritual and artistic fields.
There are five tenets of Jivamukti: Scripture- Study of the ancient Yoga teaching including Sanskrit chanting. Bhakti- Acknowledgment that universal consciousness is the goal of all Yoga practices. Ahimsa- A non-violent, compassionate lifestyle which emphasizes ethical vegetarianism and animal rights. Nada-The development of a sound body and mind through deep listening. Meditation- Connecting to that internal unchanging reality within. Through various forms of media, Sharon and David help you understand each of the five tenets that constitute the Yoga path to enlightenment. This quote from them sums up their passion, "The aim of Yoga is to realize that we are all connected. We share one heart, one consciousness, and the Divine source. Yoga's method is to provide us with experiences that help us grasp this". In the transcendence, they are hoping to become an umbrella to bring together and support a diverse group of political activists, environmentalists, and musicians. They wonder how the spiritual and the political can inform each other, become stronger and more effective in working together. They wish there were more spirituality present in activism, more political and environmental action among Yogis. They also wish for powerful words of integrity, vision, meeting the challenges of daily life and the need to keep practicing, knowing the importance of overcoming fears and taking a stand politically and environmentally. More on Jivamukti and it's creators next month. Here's To Your Dancing Health!
The Camel
This is an important posture, as it prepares the BODY and MIND for more difficult back bending postures. It limbers the SHOULDERS, ENTIRE SPINE, and PELVIS. It opens the CHEST improving RESPIRATION. It improves BLOOD circulation in the SPINAL COLUMN. The Camel also stretches and strengthens the THIGHS and KNEES in the first position and if you perform the second position, the ARMS. A lot of toning action in the THROAT, ABS, and BUTTOCKS takes place. This exercise is very energizing. Proceed to the second position with caution and only when you're confident you can perform it. Dancer and I disclaim any liabilities or loss in connection with the exercise and advice herein.
1. Begin in a kneeling position with the tops of your feet on the floor so the toes point back. Place your hands on the hips at the lower back. Lift your torso up as you roll the shoulders back and arch back lifting your chest up toward the ceiling, head goes back.
2. Slowly drop back and reach for your heels with the hands. Once your hands are on the soles of your feet, push your hips forward so the thighs are vertical. Hold for 10-20 counts. Carefully come up, relax and repeat. To counter stretch your back, place your hands on the floor with your knees and pull the middle of the back up, hips under, and relax your neck.