Yoga & Breathwork

Entries all about asanas (movements/postures) & pranayama (breathing practices) and how they are gateways to inner peace, relaxation, healing, physical comfort, & connecting to the Universe itself through present moment awareness.

Harmony Within: A Guide to Energy Cleansing in Your Body

Introduction: Welcome to a journey of self-discovery and inner balance. In this blog, we delve into the concept of energy cleansing, exploring how it can bring harmony to your mind, body, and soul. Section 1: Understanding Energy Cleansing Embark on the path of understanding energy cleansing. Learn about the subtle energies that flow through your body and their impact on your overall well-being. Have you ever been in a place and all of a sudden you feel something odd or heavy? You look at the entrance and sure enough, someone just walked in clearly upset or angry. Their energy can be sensed and it’s even palpable. Feeling the energies around us is a natural skill we are all born with, like the sense of taste or smell, only it needs to be developed to experience intentionally. Our physical bodies are manifestations of the energy blueprints that surround each of us. It’s referred to as your aura and it consists or is built from your experiences and emotions. When you drop a glass, your initial reaction is a gasp or holding your breath. The spontaneous feeling of distress, fear, worry, and/or anxiety you experience becomes embedded in this energetic blueprint. While this is a small and seemingly irrelevant example, other more consequential examples might be physical or psychological traumas we have experienced, going all the way back to a potentially traumatic birth. From a dropped glass to a life-saving cessarian section and everything in between, our energetic blueprints are comprised of all our experiences, including our joyous and celebratory times. Only as we all know, sometimes the “bad” outweigh the “good” ones. Or potentially, one really traumatic experience could irrevocably alter our everyday experiences. It may have been so disastrous that your mind might have even blocked out having it so you don’t have to recall such trauma. These energies become blockages and keep us trapped in recurring behaviors and thought patterns. Do you know anyone who keeps dating the same kind of person even though it always leads to disaster? Another friend might keep making the same mistakes over and over, even though they know that route leads to pain. These are energy blockages which can be removed or healed. Section 2: Signs of Blocked Energy Discover the signals your body gives when energy is stagnant or blocked. Recognizing these signs is the first step towards rejuvenation. Some signs of energy blockages: Chronic Fatigue: Feeling persistently tired or lacking energy despite adequate rest. Emotional Imbalances: Sudden mood swings, heightened emotional sensitivity, or unexplained emotional distress. Insomnia or Sleep Issues: Difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or experiencing restful sleep. Relationship Strain: Difficulty forming or maintaining healthy relationships, frequent conflicts, or feelings of isolation. Repetitive Patterns: Encountering recurrent negative patterns or obstacles in various aspects of life. While this list not comprehensive, it’s by no means understated that with the way we are living, it doesn’t take a medical degree to know that something is unbalanced in our lives. Energy cleansing deals directly with stuck or stagnant energies to transform how we are living, day-to-day and moment by moment. Section 3: Techniques for Energy Cleansing Explore various techniques to cleanse and balance your energy. From meditation to crystal healing, find a practice that resonates with you. There are many practices one can do on their own to begin the process of energy cleansing. Practices like yoga, meditation, and even simply talking about what’s bothering you can bring growth and inner peace. We also need to recognize when we need help. The pharmaceutical companies would love to offer you a slew of drug remedies with long lists of side effects (and even more drugs to counteract those side effects.) While certainly taking prescriptions has its place for getting the help we need, for many cases the help we need can come from more holistic approaches. Sound Healing utilizes vibrational resonance to bring the physical body and energies into alignment, from the micro (quantum, atomic & cellular levels) to the macro (organs, glands, bodily fluids. Learn more about Sound Healing, how it works and the modalities I use, check out my blog section here and also my page here. Reiki and Pranic Healing work directly with the energies of the universe to call in healing, cleansing and alignment. Head on over to my Energy Healing page to learn more about these modalities. Crystals carry unique vibrations whose geometric patterns hold the ability to realign ourselves through intention. Herbs also work in the same way to clear negative energies and many cultures around the world utilize them for various purposes and effects. Section 4: Meditation for Energy Cleansing Immerse yourself in a guided meditation session designed to cleanse and align your energy centers. Relax, breathe, and let go of any tension. One of the most profound ways we can heal ourselves is by quieting the mind so we can tune into higher frequencies and receive guidance from the Universe. This is the power of meditation. Learn more about meditation, how it works, & how to do it yourself in my meditation blogs. Section 5: Yoga for Energy Flow Incorporate yoga into your routine to enhance the flow of energy in your body. Follow along with expert-guided poses tailored for energy balance. Learn more about Chakra Yoga in this blog. Section 7: Daily Practices for Maintenance Integrate simple daily practices into your life to maintain a harmonious energy balance. Small, consistent efforts can lead to profound changes. Conclusion: Embracing Harmony As you embark on this journey of energy cleansing, remember that it’s a continual process. Embrace the harmony within and allow it to radiate in all aspects of your life. Join the Community Connect with like-minded individuals on our community forum. Share your experiences, ask questions, and support each other on your energy cleansing journey. Mighty Community Page: https://souls-united.mn.co/share/zxeXE34mhThIRZuS?utm_source=manual

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Chakra Yoga

Chakra Yoga Wisdom: Ancient Insights for Modern Living

Chakra yoga stands at the crossroads of ancient wisdom and modern wellness, offering a transformative journey toward balance and vitality. Rooted in the rich tapestry of ancient spiritual traditions, this practice has seamlessly woven its way into contemporary yoga, bringing forth a holistic approach to physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.   At its core, chakra yoga seeks to harmonize the body’s energy centers—those mystical spinning wheels known as chakras—through a combination of mindful techniques. Through specific yoga poses, meditation, breathwork (pranayama), and focused attention, practitioners aim to unlock the potential of each chakra, fostering a profound connection between mind, body, and spirit. As a wonderful “side effect,” yoga also makes you feel really good. Chakra Muladhara David Chakra Swadhistana David Chakra Manipura David Chakra Anahata David Chakra Vishuddha David Chakra Ajna David Sahasrara-200-x-200 Chakra Yoga Opening the Gates: Yoga Poses for Chakra Activation The practice unfolds with a series of yoga poses meticulously designed to stimulate and align each chakra. From grounding poses like Mountain Pose (Tadasana) for the Root Chakra to heart-opening poses like Camel Pose (Ustrasana) for the Heart Chakra, every posture is a gateway to channeling and amplifying the unique energy of each center. As the body moves through these poses, practitioners consciously engage with the energy within, cultivating a sense of balance and vitality.   For an introductory guide to the chakras themselves, check out my other blog here. Visualization and Activation: The Power of Meditation Meditation takes center stage in the realm of chakra yoga, inviting practitioners to embark on a journey of self-discovery through visualization and activation. By focusing the mind on each chakra, individuals can tap into their inner reservoirs of strength, compassion, and intuition. Visualizing the vibrant colors associated with each energy center, such as the deep red of the Root Chakra or the serene blue of the Throat Chakra, becomes a powerful tool for deepening the connection with one’s own energy flow.   Check out my meditation section to dive into your inner world. Learn More About The Chakras; Book a Numerolgy Session Today! Mindfulness Practices: Nurturing Self-Awareness and Balance In the fast-paced rhythm of modern life, chakra yoga serves as a sanctuary for mindfulness. The practice encourages individuals (this is the key) to become keenly aware of their thoughts, emotions, and bodily sensations throughout the whole practice. Mindfulness practices, both on and off the mat, provide the compass for navigating life’s challenges with grace and equilibrium. As practitioners embrace the present moment, they cultivate a heightened sense of self-awareness, fostering a harmonious relationship with the world around them.   Yoga is a practice, just as meditation and mindfulness are. The more we practice the ability to maintain our awareness on the present moment (the only “time” we can truly experience,) the more we are able to maintain clarity when challenges or unwanted behavior patterns arise. We get to choose how we feel and react in situations instead of allowing our minds and emotions to control us. Profound Journeys Await Seekers Ancient Roots, Contemporary Blossoms: Adapting Chakra Yoga   While firmly rooted in ancient spiritual traditions, chakra yoga has gracefully adapted to the needs of the modern yogi. Contemporary interpretations and approaches have breathed new life into this practice, making it accessible to a diverse range of individuals seeking balance, clarity, and well-being.   In the symphony of chakra yoga, the journey is as significant as the destination. As each practitioner explores the alignment and activation of their energy centers, they uncover not only physical strength but also emotional resilience and spiritual insight. Ultimately, chakra yoga is an invitation to embrace the harmony within, unlocking the potential for overall health and vitality on the path to holistic well-being. Experience Chakra Yoga for Yourself, Book a Session Today! Take your education to the next level and learn from my teacher (David Goulet) in Thailand! Visit pyramidyoga.com to learn more about their next program!

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Buddha meditation with 7 Chakras

Chakras, Unlocking YOUR Energy Within

Embark on a journey of self-discovery as we explore the intricate energy centers known as chakras. Rooted in ancient wisdom and spiritual traditions, these seven main chakras govern various aspects of our physical, emotional, energetic and spiritual well-being. This knowledge has largely been guarded in the past but is now readily available here for the evolution of our species. Knowledge of the chakras is a VAST topic. This introduction is just that, the basics of the “flavors” of each energy center. I spent 2 months in an immersive Master Program to begin to comprehend each energy center and how they comprise all of reality as we know it. Hopefully this guide will serve to help you embark (or deepen) your inner journey. My knowledge of each chakra comes from Master Yogi David Goulet at Pyramid Yoga Center in Thailand. To experience this same 500 hour Master Program for yourself, check out: https://pyramidyoga.com/master-yogi-program/ Each chakra painting here is about 2 foot by 2 foot (in blacklight) painted by David Goulet. Each one took him 1 month to complete by going on an inner journey to FEEL each chakra energetically and thereby see the energetic reality of each one. Keep in mind, these are 2D representations of a 3D reality. Spend time gazing at each one without expectation to begin to experience them for yourself. 1. Root Chakra (Muladhara): The Foundation of Stability Situated at the base of the spine, the Root Chakra serves as the foundation for our energy system. Represented by the color red, it is associated with feelings of grounding, survival instincts, and a sense of stability. When balanced, the Root Chakra provides a solid base, fostering a feeling of security and connection to the earth. In fact, the element associated with Muladhara is the Earth itself and the force of gravity. Muladhara energy holds together all of reality. The associated yoga is Hatha Yoga and this is what we in the West think of when we refer to “Yoga.” Hatha yoga or body movement is only one ninth of the overall picture of the yogic system. Hatha Yoga never was a fitness system as we think of it now, yet fitness is by-product of mindful movement and breathing practices. When doing “yoga” we connect our breath with our movements, connecting our consciousness with the consciousness of the universe. We are creating an experience physically and I invite you to explore that experience moment by moment through bodily sensations. Find your resistance points in the body through movements (asanas) and then breathe into them fully and deeply. Breathe in light and love and every exhalation is an invitation to relax. Balancing Tips: Painted by myself, these shapes are known as “Sacred Geometry.” 2. Sacral Chakra (Swadhisthana): Igniting Creativity and Passion Located in the lower abdomen, the Sacral Chakra is linked to emotions, creativity, and sexuality. Its orange glow signifies a harmonious flow of energy. When balanced, this chakra enhances emotional intelligence, creativity, and a healthy expression of sensuality. The element associated with Swadhistana is water and physically we are 70% to 80% water. To connect to your fluid nature is to connect with Swadhistana. The energy here is covalence, the force that binds atoms together. The associated yoga is Jnana Yoga. Jnana Yoga has to do with achieving wisdom through the path of contemplation, thought and wisdom. It leads to understanding the emotional aspect of our being and its ruling effect on the mind. As a practice, it is an application of many different relaxation techniques, along with introspective methods for studying the emotional motives for our actions and reactions in the social world. Balancing Tips: 3. Solar Plexus Chakra (Manipura): Unleashing Personal Power Situated in the upper abdomen, the Solar Plexus Chakra radiates a yellow energy associated with personal power and confidence. A balanced Solar Plexus Chakra empowers you to assert yourself positively, fostering a strong sense of self. The element is fire itself as we have an energetic sun within each of us. Manipura energy is combustion which transforms matter from one form to another. In the body this is the process of digestion. The associated yoga is Pranayama Yoga or breathwork. Fire needs oxygen for fuel and we have the ability to turbo charge ourselves physically and energetically through conscious use of the breath. To experience this yourself or to learn more, check out my blog post about Pranayama. Balancing Tips: 4. Heart Chakra (Anahata): Embracing Love and Compassion Found at the center of the chest, the Heart Chakra is associated with love, compassion, and connection. Represented by the color green, a balanced Heart Chakra enables you to give and receive love openly, fostering harmonious relationships. The element here is air and the energy is an expansive one for growth. The opposite of Muladhara (gravity), Anahata is a force of expansion or repulsion as two magnets of the same polarity push each other away. This is also the energy center where our FEELING is located. Learning to live from the heart-space instead of all the thinky spaces leads to profound growth. The associated yoga is Karma Yoga or doing anything for the sake of giving to the greater good without expecting anything in return. Give from the heart space and you will receive more than you can imagine. Balancing Tips: 5. Throat Chakra (Vishuddha): Expressing Authenticity Situated at the throat, the Throat Chakra is associated with communication and self-expression. Its blue energy encourages truthful and authentic communication. A balanced Throat Chakra empowers you to express yourself clearly and confidently. The force here is vibration itself. The element of Vishuddha is ether but can also be equated to the electromagnetic ocean we live in. Just as fish cannot perceive the water they swim in, we too are swimming in an electromagnetic ocean of energy waves and particles. How do you think WiFi works? The yoga associated with Vishuddha is Raja Yoga or more commonly known as yoga of the mind. Try creative visualization to manifest anything

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The Art of Breathing

Breathe In, Breathe Out: Mastering the Art of Proper Breathing (aka Pranayama)

In the hustle and bustle of modern life, one often overlooks the simple yet profound act of breathing. Proper breathing techniques not only play a crucial role in sustaining life but can also have a profound impact on our overall well-being. There are a wide range of benefits to utilizing our entire breathing system. Tremendous health benefits take root in even one session alone. Other benefits include balancing and cleansing energy channels, psychological tranquility, & spiritual awakening. In this article, we will delve into the art and science of breathing, exploring various techniques that can enhance your physical and mental health. These teachings come directly from David Goulet at Pyramid Yoga Center in Koh Phangan, Thailand. This information comes from his course The Art of Breathing. Watch my 20 minute YouTube video to begin to experience these benefits for yourself: *Breathing techniques should be performed under the supervision of a qualified instructor to ensure they are being done safely and effectively. If you’re new to breath work, please be gentle and not forceful with the practices in any way. If you would like to do a session in person or online, please contact me here.* There are also a series of relevent asanas (movements) which greatly enhance breathing practices and open up related muscles and airways which are not listed here. Send me a message if you would like to have a private class. Pranayama Means Energy Control Pranayama is an ancient practice rooted in the yogic traditions of India, encompassing a range of breathing exercises designed to manipulate the flow of prana, or life force energy, within the body. The term “pranayama” is derived from two Sanskrit words: “prana,” meaning life force or vital energy, and “yama,” meaning control or expansion. This practice goes beyond the simple act of breathing for sustenance and explores the profound connection between breath, mind, and body. Pranayama techniques involve conscious regulation of the breath through various patterns of inhalation, exhalation, and retention, aiming to balance and enhance the flow of prana throughout the energy channels, or nadis, in the body. With the oxygen we absorb through our breath comes prana, the vital energy which both nourishes the nervous system and replenishes the essential forces that power the body. Though this concept has been understood for thousands of years in the East, it is only in the latter part of the 20th century that scientists have realized there are extra electrons attached to some of the molecules of the air we breathe (making them ionized). These are, in fact, the little electrical charges that add up to make our vital force: prana. We absorb this force with every breath we take. In a world where the average person is only breathing with one-tenth of their lung capacity, we do not get enough of this important energy, nor do we obtain enough oxygen. This we change with yoga. Why You Should Breathe Through the Nose: Because of the prana absorption (prana or chi, the vital life force, electromagnetic energy) which is taken in through the olfactory sense of smell – an energy that is taken directly in to the brain to empower the nervous system. Prana is in essence the energy of detachable electrons spinning around the proton of atoms. It is abundant as extra electrons found in the natural air of jungles, by the ocean, near waterfalls etc. as the movement of molecules creates the releasing of these energy “particles”. Prana or chi is basically the same power that we create in electricity through the flowing of electrons in copper wire. In humans it makes us feel positive, happy, and optimistic, creating a sense of ‘well-being’. As prana goes directly into brain, air goes to the lungs, oxygen is absorbed into the blood and taken everywhere throughout the body and it’s 50 trillion cells. The massaging effect from the movement of the diaphragm also stimulates better circulation to the legs and back. All of the internal movement also helps the cells to release CO2 from cells and interstitial fluid where it tends to accumulate and create acidic toxicity. Mindful Breathing: The Power of Presence Incorporating mindfulness into your breathing routine can amplify its benefits. By focusing your attention on each breath, you cultivate a heightened sense of awareness. Mindful breathing not only reduces stress but also improves concentration and cognitive function. In essence, our minds are very good at distracting us and keeping us “entertained,” especially when we are working. Yes, proper breathing is a type of work which requires effort. Simply notice when your thoughts drift to another place and gently, yet persistantly, bring them back to the FEELING of taking each breath. Learn to enjoy riding the waves of energy in and out. Take control of your mind and cease allowing your mind to control you. “You are creating an experience and then feeling that experience as much as possible” – David Goulet (Pyramid Yoga Center) The Foundation: Diaphragmatic (Belly) Breathing Proper breathing begins with the diaphragm, a dome-shaped muscle beneath the lungs. Diaphragmatic breathing, also known as belly breathing, involves inhaling deeply through the nose, allowing the diaphragm to expand, and exhaling fully through the nose. This technique ensures efficient oxygen exchange and promotes a sense of calm. The Benefits of Proper Belly Breathing (ADHAM PRANAYAMA) The pressure and release on abdominal organs is a gentle internal massage that stimulates better circulation of body fluids in all digestive, sexual and eliminative organs such as: stomach, pancreas, liver, gall bladder, spleen, intestines, colon, uterus, prostate, kidneys, adrenals etc. These body fluids, mostly blood and lymph have a higher (enriched) level of oxygen because of the deeper breathing in the lower lobes of the lungs, creating a rejuvenating and healing effect in the trillions of cells in all of the above glands and organs. In essence this is our life support system. In this form of breathing the air is channeled into the inferior or lower lobes of the lungs, causing the

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