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This page may be used on other sites or printed as long as it is reproduced in its entirety including the link to this site: Soul Quest Learning Center - http://groups.msn.com/SoulQuestLearningCenter | | |  by Barb McLaughlin | | My first experience with yoga was about 7 years ago. I had let myself get out of shape physically and my spirtitual life had fallen into disrepair also. My attempts at divination were less than satisfactory, too, so I felt a need to find a way to integrate mind, body & spirit to have a more effective, satisfying life.
While flipping through t.v. channels one afternoon, I landed on PBS right before the Wai Lana Yoga show was to begin. For some reason, (my Higher Self must have been running the show!) I decided to tape that particular episode. As it turned out, it happened to be a very good intro to yoga asanas for a person like me. It was a relatively easy routine and worked on various areas of the body in succession to provide a balanced, centering experience.
I am not one to join classes, although, for some, this is a great way to learn. I just prefer to learn on my own. I am self-taught in many areas - sketching, computer skills, crocheting, Wicca (through books & intuition), yoga & life in general. For me, at least, this has been the best method of learning. It tends to be slower than instruction by another because of trial & error, but I absorb information better this way. My yoga practice has evolved through watching many episodes of Wai Lana Yoga, reading books like "Yoga for Wimps", by Miriam Austin & "Eight Lectures on Yoga", by the legendary (now deceased) ceremonial magician, Aleister Crowley.
I highly recommend researching yoga as an adjunct to spiritual evolution. The physical benefits are also quite amazing. For the two years prior to my beginning a daily routine of yoga asanas, I had suffered severe back pain due to a bulging disc pressing on my sciatic nerve. The pain has vitually disappeared. Please consult your physician before embarking on any change in physical exertion of this type however. Yoga is not a quick fix, but if you approach it with an open mind & a true desire for a more fulfilling way to live, I guarantee you will reap benefits.
Yoga teaches you to listen to your body & respect its messages. It is an entire philosophy of life worth exploring, no matter what your station in life. I have included links below which address needs for a wide cross-section of people. Enjoy! |
