Polyvagal Theory & Trauma-informed Practices Polyvagal Theory has become a widely used framework for understanding how the nervous system responds to safety, stress, and trauma. It proposes that the body continuously and unconsciously evaluates the environment—a process sometimes called neuroception—and shifts between states of connection (calm and social), mobilization (fight Read more…
Anagarika Munindra Anagarika Munindra (1915–2003) was a Bengali Buddhist master and scholar who became one of the most important Vipassana meditation teachers of the twentieth century. Unassuming, genuine, and always encouraging, Munindra embodied the Buddhist teachings, exemplifying mindfulness in everything he did. Anagarika simply means a practicing Buddhist who leads Read more…
Understanding the Koshas, Chakras & Nadis Relationship Koshas (Sanskrit for “sheaths” or “layers”) are the five interconnected layers of being in yogic philosophy, progressing from the outermost physical body (Annamaya Kosha) to the innermost spiritual core (Anandamaya Kosha or bliss body), serving as veils over the true Self (Atman). Understanding Read more…
Asana Pose Library Asana pose library for the physical practice of yoga – english and sanskrit names included for reference. Standing Poses Tadasana/Samasthiti Mountain Pranamasana Mountain Namaste Vrikshasana Tree Uttanasana Standing Forward Fold Utthita Trikonasana Triangle Ardha Chandrasana Half Moon Virabhadrasana I Warrior I Virabhadrasana II Warrior II Virabhadrasana III Read more…
Is there a difference between Astanga and Ashtanga? Classical Astanga Patanjali’s Ashtanga (or Astanga) refers to the classical, eight-limbed path of yoga outlined in his Yoga Sutras, focusing primarily on the mental and philosophical aspects of liberation through meditation. The eight-limbs include ethical guidelines (Yama and Niyama), physical postures (Asana), Read more…
Om Mani Padme Hum ॐ मणिपद्मे हूँ Om mani padme hum is an ancient mantra that is related to the bodhisattva of compassion, Avalokiteshvara, and with therefore the Dalai Lama, who is considered to be an incarnation of Avalokiteshvara. It is very good to recite the mantra Om mani padme Read more…
Mantras Mantras are sacred utterances, words, or phrases believed to have spiritual or psychological power. They are used in various traditions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, and Sikhism, to focus the mind, invoke divine energy, or promote well-being. Mantras can be spoken aloud, whispered, or mentally repeated during meditation or prayer. Purpose: Read more…
Hanuman Chalisa The Hanuman Chalisa, a 40-verse hymn dedicated to Lord Hanuman, is believed to have originated when Saint Tulsidas was imprisoned by the Mughal Emperor Akbar. Tulsidas, known for his devotion to Lord Rama, was summoned to Akbar’s court, but when he couldn’t produce a miracle to prove Lord Read more…
Win Hof Method & Practice The Wim Hof Method focuses on three pillars: breathing exercises, cold exposure, and commitment. The breathing exercise involves 30-40 deep, rapid breaths followed by a breath retention phase and a recovery breath. Practice breakdown: BREATHING EXCERCISES Find a Comfortable Position: Sit or lie down in Read more…
Mysore Self Practice Mysore yoga is a self-paced, individualized approach to Ashtanga yoga, where students practice a set sequence of postures at their own pace, guided by a teacher who provides adjustments and guidance as needed. It’s a traditional method of learning Ashtanga, allowing beginners and experienced practitioners to learn Read more…
