A study in 2021 found four main psychological factors that increase injury risk in running – and they are quite shockingly absolutely nothing to do with your shoes, gait or terrain or anything you may guess straightaway. The research showed them to be: Identity – meaning identifying as a serious athlete can lead to risk…
Finding Inner Peace: The True Meaning of Santosha In a world filled with constant change and external pressures, finding inner peace can seem like a daunting task. Yet, there is a concept in yoga philosophy that offers a pathway to lasting contentment, no matter what life throws our way. This concept is known as Santosha.…
Is International Yoga Day Problematic? Each year on June 21st, people worldwide celebrate International Yoga Day. Social media lights up with photos of yoga poses and inspirational quotes, and large groups gather to meditate in public spaces. However, this celebration can have a troubling side that many might not be aware of. The idea for…
Chakras: Beyond the Myths and Misconceptions Chakra, pronounced “chu-kra,” not “sha-kra” commonly translates to “circular wheel-like disc.” However, the common terms we often hear, like chakra blockages, balancing, opening, or healing, can be misleading. Traditional Yoga texts suggest that chakras don’t need opening because they aren’t closed, nor do they need healing because they aren’t…
Have you ever felt a sense of peace when you’re near water or found yourself mesmerized by its gentle movement? Marine biologist Wallace J. Nichols explains in his book “Blue Mind” that being near water helps our brains enter a semi-meditative state called drifting. This special form of attention means we’re engaged with the world…
The five kleshas (‘clay-shas’) in the Yoga sutras as known as afflictions, often translated as poisons and seen as the root of our discontent. We could simply think of them as obstacles in our minds that make us unhappy. They are: 1.Ignorance/delusion avidya 2.Ego asmita 3.Attachment raga 4.Aversion dvesa 5.Fear of death/change abinivesah These can…
Choosing to use a prop in yoga isn’t always a practical decision but more often an emotional one. Each prop carries a unique energy and symbolism, resonating differently with individuals. Whether it’s the comforting embrace of a bolster or the grounding stability of a block, or your nervous system feeling supported nestled into a meditation…
Ever been bored in yoga? I have. Yoga is a mirror, it reflects us back to ourselves. It teaches us something about ourselves- What I can tolerate today and what I can’t. Whats comfortable and what am I forcing? What are my habits and tendencies, can I unshackle from them? What keeps cropping up in…
Unlocking the Secrets of Flexibility: Nature vs. Nurture Are we born flexible, or do we become flexible over time? It’s a question that’s intrigued fitness enthusiasts and scientists alike. Let’s delve into flexibility and uncover the truth. Contrary to popular belief, our exercise routines and physical activities play only a minor role in determining our…
The Bhagavad Gita in a Nutshell: A Timeless Guide To Finding Purpose and Peace Have you ever felt torn between duty and desire? Unsure of your path in life? If so, you’re not alone and this ancient text provides guidance to timeless problems we can all relate to, it is the key text of yoga…