Earn money with domain & hostingEarn money with domain & hosting

Yoga often helps us to carefully examine logical and illogical mind chatter. Fear can be caused by either, logical or illogical, thoughts. Sorting out our fears, and categorizing them, will give us a rational view of, an often, irrational emotion.

Logical thoughts, which strike fear into us, have been learned over time, such as: Putting our hands into a fire. We have all learned to respect extreme heat, because of our life experiences, but this is a logical reaction.

Illogical thoughts, such as phobias and unreasonable fears, which we perceive to be real, can program us for failure, or cause a state of panic. The reaction to phobias and unreasonable fears can raise the pulse rate, shorten the breath, increase perspiration, result in trembling, and in extreme cases, cause death.

If someone you know is suffering, as mentioned above, from phobias, counseling should be sought. Reactions to phobias can become an automatic conditioned response. A person who suffers with extreme reactions to phobias may no longer be able to control his or her response to it. This is why counseling will be so helpful.

In the case of Yoga being prescribed for phobias, it will help, but a doctor, therapist, or counselor, should be working in conjunction with Yoga practice. If a Yoga teacher has one of these qualifications, everything should be fine. If this is not the case, two individuals may be needed. Self-prescribing, in the case of extreme reactions to phobias, is definitely not recommended.

Yoga therapy for phobias consists of pranayama, mantra, asana, meditation, and more. The mind can be re-programmed for success, but face-to-face Yoga guidance, and professional counseling, should be sought.

Let’s look at a common fear that most of us take for granted, which might be a phobia in some, but leaves its traces in many of our personalities. We might call it “fear of rejection.” This is a fear we learned as children. We wanted to be accepted by our peers, give the right answer to our teacher, or make our parents proud of us.

For one reason, or another, we discovered disapproval. We buried it in our personality, and now we hesitate to take chances. We learn to “play it safe” and avoid taking risks for fear of rejection. This one fear has held back many creative personalities. Some artists stop producing beautiful pieces, because they imagine disapproval or listen to the wrong feedback.

How can Yoga help? All forms of Yoga bring about a state of inner tranquility. Within Jnana Yoga, the practitioner learns to see reality. One reality, which we should all learn at a younger age, is to see the truth. You cannot base the truth on the opinion of one person or even one country.

The truth is felt deep within your heart. In the case of an artist: If an artist is producing pieces for his, or her, own gratification, and it is appreciated by a small group, then this is a form of therapy for the artist. He or she is doing no harm to anyone, and does not need the approval of everyone.

One more truth to realize: You will not receive the approval of everyone you meet, but do not suppress the Albert Einstein, or Leonardo da Vinci, within, because of it.

Adults see far too much bad news in the newspapers and on television. As a result, it programs us to consider failure first. We can afford to take a calculated risk in 2008.

Copyright 2008 – Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

About the Author:
Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500, is a co-owner and the director of Yoga teacher training at: Aura Wellness Center in, Attleboro, MA. He is an author of many books on the subject of Yoga and has been a certified Master Yoga teacher since 1995. http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org

Article Source: www.find-an-article.com/index.php?page=author&author_name=Paul M. Jerard Jr.

---

[Translate]

Yoga has been helping people take control of their lives for 5,000 years, and counting. Taking control of your life is a daily obstacle, but you can easily start, right now. How do you envision your life today, tomorrow, or next week? If we ask one hundred people, we will receive one hundred different answers.

Yet, we can classify the resulting answers into the following three categories. People will say their life will be better, worse, or the same. In each case, their viewpoint is a reflection of the personality, the surrounding environment, and their attitude.

If your personality is optimistic, you will naturally look forward to each challenge “life throws at you.” If you are pessimistic, you will respond to each obstacle of life by saying: “Why me?” in every situation.

So, it is the personality, which governs the initial perspective of life’s daily struggles. In Yoga, there are many practices to help us change the personality, but we must first really want to change. You cannot change by reading about it.

You must put Yoga, knowledge, and the desire to change your life for the best, into practice. Applying what you learn separates you from the masses. Most people read, listen to their Yoga teacher, and practice a little, but they go back to the same old routine of life.

How many brilliant people, with talent and skill, have you observed who never reached their full potential? We all know a few. The reason why they never succeeded is that they never applied their intelligence, or skill, in a practical way.

Practical application of learned skills, and knowledge, is the same with Yoga, and life, in general. You could train with the ten best Yoga Gurus on the planet, but if you do not apply the teachings of Yoga to your life, or the lives of others, you are only an encyclopedia of facts.

To be knowledgeable is a wonderful thing, but this is only a reflection of potential and not a measurement of success. Some people are very successful in life, but they are not brilliant at all. As a matter of fact, many are of average intelligence, and without a college education.

How is this possible? They applied their knowledge, and that of their mentors, completely. They saw an opportunity, focused completely, and used every possible skill to accomplish the end result.

A person with limited intelligence can easily accomplish much by making friends, creating partnerships, influencing, and applying what they have learned with complete focus. Should we give up and stop learning new ideas? Of course not, but we should see the value in applying what we learn.

For example: If you are going to attend a Yoga workshop, retreat, seminar, classes, or take a Yoga course, make sure that each aspect you learn will be applied to your life, and the lives of others, who you influence.

When you choose a Yoga teacher, Guru, or Swami, choose a person who is knowledgeable of techniques you want to put into practice. Otherwise, you are wasting your time, energy, and financial resources.

Copyright 2007 – Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

About the Author:
Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500, is a co-owner and the director of Yoga teacher training at: Aura Wellness Center in, Attleboro, MA. He is an author of many books on the subject of Yoga and has been a certified Master Yoga teacher since 1995. http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org

Article Source: www.find-an-article.com/index.php?page=author&author_name=Paul M. Jerard Jr.

---

[Translate]

Recognizing your own destiny, through self-realization, is a foundation of Yoga. We often hear terms such as: “I need time to get it together,” or “I need to find myself.” This is the beginning of self-realization and the recognition of a need to find solutions.

Now, what if you find your environment is full of negative energy and the source is a friend, spouse, roommate, partner, co-worker, parent, or child? Many people may tell you to leave this situation for your own health, but you are still drawn to this person because you care for him or her. It is easy for someone else to say, “Just leave,” but this concerns your life and someone you love or care about.

Let’s look at some realistic solutions for helping those we care about and our loved ones. For a start, find the true source of negative energy and make sure you are addressing it. It may be an outside influence, chemical addiction, or chemical imbalance. Professional counseling may be needed.

The outside influence could be another person with a very powerful, but negatively charged mind, which affects the person you see every day. All you see is the affect that personality has on the person you know, but you have not met the more powerful personality.

An example of this is a pessimistic person you know from work. One day, you meet his or her “significant other” at an office party, only to discover the significant other of your co-worker is completely toxic.

Sometimes, we are the source of negativity and do not realize it. Our “soul searching sessions” should give us a reality check, but negative personalities rarely reach full self-realization or transformation. Therefore, if you are trying to help, research and be completely sure of the source.

One method for releasing negative energy, from within, is to practice Yoga in classes. The person, who is negative, must want to change, and must stay in Yoga classes for this to work. Here’s how participating in regular Yoga classes helps purge negative energy from the body, and mind, of anyone willing to go the distance.

The atmosphere of a Yoga studio, Yoga center, Ashram, or wellness center, is positive. Anyone who enters a Yoga class finds themselves immersed in optimism. Complete immersion in positive energy, and optimism, is hard to resist.

Some Yoga students often have histories of comebacks. These Yoga students have survived physical and mental hardships, when many people gave up on them. Without trying, the survivors in life become role models for all of us. Their will to survive is founded on a positive attitude.

On the other hand, a person who is a natural born pessimist may say, “That will never work.” A negative person must see reality and have a sincere desire to better him or herself. It is true that none of us will change, unless we want to.

The motivation to change ourselves for the best must occur from within. Some people receive gifts of books, audio books, DVD’s, and Yoga classes. The person, who sends these gifts, hopes the recipient will gain the benefits of all this positive energy.

It is easy to develop a “thick crust” and refuse help. To go off into a corner and refuse to change is quite natural for some of us. What can you do if a person has refused help? You can explain that negativity is the source of his or her isolation, but an outright refusal of help is an indication that you have done all you can, for the moment.

Copyright 2007 – Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

About the Author:
Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500, is a co-owner and the director of Yoga teacher training at: Aura Wellness Center in, Attleboro, MA. He is an author of many books on the subject of Yoga and has been a certified Master Yoga teacher since 1995. http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org

Article Source: www.find-an-article.com/index.php?page=author&author_name=Paul M. Jerard Jr.

---

[Translate]

Within the practice of Yoga are the keys to happiness. Daily life is filled with what we think about. If we imagine a difficult day filled with problems, challenges, and obstacles, we will find what we seek. We are not in complete control of the universe, but our frame of mind has much to do with our happiness, and even more to do with the outcome of daily situations.

Consider this: What we perceive as problems, challenges, and obstacles, are life’s lessons – if we are willing to listen. We may find ourselves “thrown into” an unexpected situation, which challenges our ability to be happy.

So, how do we handle an inherent fear of the unknown? Fear of the unknown is a basic fear, which all people have, to some degree, and it is justified. We learn to fear those things that can harm us as children, and the unknown can sometimes cause us harm. We would be foolish to ignore fire once our fingers are burned.

The key to happiness, when facing problems, challenges, and obstacles, is to see the lesson. Of course, you want to find a solution, but you should enjoy the journey as a student of life. Sometimes, life’s lessons are too much for one person to handle alone.

This is why we have friendships, families, partnerships, and marriages. When a group of people band together, with the common goal to solve a problem, then a solution will be found. This practice is a concerted group effort to solve something, which we perceive as an obstacle.

Yoga has taught us to do much more than wishful thinking. When a large group of people band together, meditate, and discuss solutions, positive action will be a result of this effort. A large group may have difficulty working together in harmony. Smaller groups, or individuals, will have their own perception of an important agenda.

As an example of this, which of these issues do you think is more important: global warming, social injustice, world peace, good medical care for all, ending poverty, or putting food on the table? Chances are, someone right next to you, sees one of these issues, or one that I have not mentioned, more importantly than you do.

So, successful outcomes to finding solutions depend upon a state of mutual happiness and respect within a group. The concept of collective thought has always had people who object to it. Yet, a lone wolf may not survive, where a wolf pack can flourish.

Establish happy relationships, meditate upon happy thoughts, pray, and work in harmony with others. Your reward will be a successful and happy life.

Copyright 2008 – Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

About the Author:
Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500, is a co-owner and the director of Yoga teacher training at: Aura Wellness Center in, Attleboro, MA. He is an author of many books on the subject of Yoga and has been a certified Master Yoga teacher since 1995. http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org

Article Source: www.find-an-article.com/index.php?page=author&author_name=Paul M. Jerard Jr.

---

[Translate]

When you leave your Yoga class, you go out into the real world. Maybe someone says something rude, you get cut off on the highway, or you feel someone is taking advantage of your good nature. It is only human to feel a need for retribution, if an injustice has been done to you; but at what cost to you?

The cost of carrying a grudge causes you stress, anxiety, and wears on your health. A person who carries the need for revenge, over a long period of time, is also carrying a huge burden. Revenge is a “slow burning” form of anger and hatred, which becomes our personal baggage. The pain of carrying a grudge can ruin mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual health.

So, how can Yoga help you in this situation? Yoga has many ways to purge tension, stress, and anxiety, from the body and mind. One method might be to practice a small sequence of physically-challenging Asanas and focus on Ujjayi Pranayama.

As you inhale, draw forgiveness into your being. As you exhale, release your anger, tension, and frustration. You should practice this for a minimum of twenty minutes. A standing series, Sun Salutations (Surya Namaskar), or any sequence of postures, which you find challenging, is good enough.

Some people claim that forgiving another person is very difficult, but to hold a grudge, and wait for revenge, is even more difficult. It takes so much energy, and is such a strain on your health, to maintain angry thoughts, over a long period of time. It only makes sense to let go of resentment for your own health.

We are in control of the entire situation. Forgiveness is a virtue, and you can easily grant pardon for a fault. We forgive our pets, children, friends, and family members, for their imperfections. After all, none of us is perfect.

Forgiveness is as abundant as air, and eventually, it should come from the heart. Even though logic tells you to quit bearing a grudge, your heart might desire a little revenge. Usually, the heart is accurate, but in matters of anger and revenge, let logical thoughts dictate your actions.

Within Yogic philosophy, are many solid principles and virtues, which create happiness and well-being. Forgiving, acts of loving kindness, tolerance, and mercy, are universal principles, which improve the lives of everyone who practices them.

Taking positive action is much more powerful than talking about it. We do not need to wish for the ability to forgive, perform acts of loving kindness, become tolerant, or show mercy. All we have to do is practice these principles – daily.

Copyright 2007 – Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

About the Author:
Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500, is a co-owner and the director of Yoga teacher training at: Aura Wellness Center in, Attleboro, MA. He is an author of many books on the subject of Yoga and has been a certified Master Yoga teacher since 1995. http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org

Article Source: www.find-an-article.com/index.php?page=author&author_name=Paul M. Jerard Jr.

---

[Translate]

Yoga is a very ancient form of exercise which has great abilities to provide solutions to several health related problems even today. This is the reason why great many numbers of people have been practicing yoga regularly for years and living a healthy life, not just healthy body but also healthy mind.

Yoga aims at working towards bringing a balance in mind and body of a person, ‘yoga’ the word itself means union, i.e. union of body and mind for a healthy living. There is no organ in the body that yoga exercises do not address. Yoga exercises can give relief virtually from any ailment, relating to any organ of the body.

This applies even to gastrointestinal problems faced by us regularly. Yoga for digestive system has a set of exercises or positions, ‘asanas’ that can provide you complete relief, be it the ‘IBS’ or irritable bowel syndrome, diarrhea, constipation, heartburns, etc.
Yoga and ayurveda in combination can not just give you relief but also provide you with perfect medication and complete cure from several stomach and digestive order related ailments.

Yoga for digestive disorders is a set of exercises; your yoga instructor will teach you. These ‘asana’ require to be done exactly as taught by the instructor so that you can get complete relief from your problems, the instructor will teach you how long you require to remain in a certain position, the breathing during this position and the way to bring yourself to normal position.

Yoga exercises are not like allopathic medicines which generally provide you short term but instantaneous relief, these exercises will take a week to become completely effective, but you can be assured that you will be completely cured from your gastro-intestinal problems. As a beginner you will have to work towards perfecting your asanas once that it done, you are allowed to practice yoga all by yourself at home.

Yoga therapy prescribes several asanas that might affect your digestion problems, these range to deep breathing exercises to increase oxygen in blood as well as bring breathing in sync with the metabolic system (pranayam) as well as several asanas that address stomach problems directly like the ‘Dhanurasana’ which makes you put entire weight on your stomach, thus toning stomach muscles and making these stronger as well as to digest food better and cleanse system of left over food, etc. for beginners there are asanas like the ‘ardha dharnurasan’ half of the dhanurasan where you require to lift only the upper torso to rest its weight on stomach.

Almost all gastro-intestinal ailments like the ulcers, indigestion, GERD, digestive disorders, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, etc. everything can be treated by yoga exercises. You can start feeling the change within a day or two of starting the exercises.

About the Author:
Kevin Pederson manages websites on nutrition, diet and health. Sports Nutrition is a food system that is essential for an athlete or player and is something to be taken seriously to overcome the stress and energy deficiency.

Article Source: www.find-an-article.com/index.php?page=author&author_name=Kevin Pederson

---

[Translate]

Could Yoga have all the answers to anxiety? Why is it that anxiety, stress, and unhappiness take over so many people’s lives? If you listen to a “doubting Thomas,” nothing works, but if you read below, you will see some solutions.

In fact, all forms of Yoga are good for our mental health. This does not mean that anxiety will disappear, but Yoga gives us the tools to put anxiety in the “back seat,” while we determine a positive direction in life. The struggle for direction is within our minds. We must be aware of the struggle from within.

Pessimistic thought is not productive, yet there are many pessimists ruled by “the dark side.” For them, nothing will work because they already have the “Why me” attitude. Everything is against them, or so they think, and that is where the problem lies.

Unless you can master your thinking, you will not suppress negative thoughts. How does Yoga do this? The principle is simple. Let’s use 21st century jargon to give you a clear picture. Yoga is an ancient, but constantly evolving, science of life. The Yoga practitioner “reprograms” his or her thoughts.

Your mind is your best friend, and your worst enemy, at the same time. When you attend Yoga classes regularly, under the guidance of a competent Yoga teacher, your mind and body become charged with positive energy.

If you look at the facial expressions of Yoga students after a class, you will notice they are in a state of bliss. If this is not the case, they have not found the right place yet. There is no need to be discouraged. We find what we seek in life.

Many of us have heard a co-worker or friend say, “I would love to try a Yoga class, but I don’t have time for Yoga practice.” Here’s another good one: “I’m going to start eating better lunches, when I have time to pack one.”

The problem is a perceived lack of time, which has become an excuse for bad health habits. As most of us know, you cannot put a price tag on good health, but when your health is poor, you will pay anything for a day without pain or even less pain.

The worst part about a perceived lack of time is that the real issue is lack of control over our bad habits. This is one of many reasons for anxiety. To live a healthier lifestyle will establish control of our habits and reduce anxiety altogether.

Let’s look at some strategies for ridding or reducing anxiety in your life. Many people do not write a “to do list” at the beginning of a day. This entails having the discipline to plan our day. If you do this the night before, and pack a lunch, you will take back control of your day.

When you have a “to do list,” you will have extra time. This is because you spend less time wondering, “What should I do now?” Some of the most successful people on this planet have created a habit of time management, which has drastically lowered their anxiety levels.

Lastly, when someone has extra time, the effects of a regular Yoga class, a walk, or a healthy lunch, will add up over time.

Copyright 2007 – Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

About the Author:
Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500, is a co-owner and the director of Yoga teacher training at: Aura Wellness Center in, Attleboro, MA. He is an author of many books on the subject of Yoga and has been a certified Master Yoga teacher since 1995. To download a free Yoga e-Book, visit: http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org

Article Source: www.find-an-article.com/index.php?page=author&author_name=Paul M. Jerard Jr.

---

[Translate]

Perhaps yoga certification is something you’ve often dreamed of. For those who dream of it, many don’t pursue it because they think it isn’t feasible. The combination of cost plus the time it takes to complete training may be discouraging. However, many people don’t realize that yoga instructor training can be completed in a home study course. This option makes it easy for those who hold jobs and still desire to study for yoga certification.

Both on-site and off-site training have different advantages. Comparing the two styles may help you to make an informed choice. It may also make it possible for you to realize a dream that may have once seemed impossible.

When comparing on-site to off-site yoga training, consider the following:

* What are my study goals? In other words, what do you hope to gain from your study program? If you want to eventually teach yoga in a formal setting, you’ll need to find a course which will lead to yoga certification. This means taking a course which meets the minimum requirements for yoga teachers. Some home-study courses do not offer certification, since they do not cover all training required for certification. Many home study courses do offer diplomas; which are recognized by prospective employers as the equivalent of on-site yoga certification.

Perhaps your goal is merely to deepen your understanding of the practice of yoga, or to study a particular branch of yoga more intensely. In this case, receiving yoga certification may not be a high priority for you. This opens up more possibilities in the way of off-site training. Make sure that you have a full understanding of what your qualifications will be after taking a particular yoga course.

* Is cost and time a factor for me? On-site yoga certification courses typically require you to be available for the duration of the course (usually around two to three weeks). For working people, this may be difficult or impossible. Doing an off-site course means that you won’t need to take time off from work. You may also have more flexibility when it comes to completing the course. Work at your own pace, on your own time. A home-study yoga course is usually considerably inexpensive. On-site courses often run thousands of dollars. Once you factor in travel costs and money lost in wages, the final price tag is fairly substantial.

* How much “hands on” training will I get? To become a Certified Yoga Teacher (CYT), a certain number of hours must be devoted to hands-on training. This usually involves observing an experienced teacher in action, assisting in teaching a yoga class, etc. On-site courses are typically very hands-on. The higher quality off-site courses may have a community, teacher forum, Blog, regular newsletter, and Email or telephone support. Some hands-on training is important, so when possible, study with local teachers to enhance the practical component of your training.

* How much support will I get from my instructor? In an on-site course, students are in close, regular contact with an instructor. That means there is always someone there to troubleshoot with, ask questions of and to demonstrate things live and in person. Off-site yoga courses lack this characteristic. This doesn’t mean that an off-site course won’t give you the kind of training that you need. Rather, look for one that gives unrestricted access to an instructor (by phone, Email, etc.). You’ll fare better than choosing one that offers little in the way of support.

Once you evaluate your own situation, weigh your needs and resources against available courses. You’ll have a better idea whether to choose on or off-site yoga training. No matter which you pick, quality content is the key to your success. Choose wisely and the results will be worth the investment.

Copyright 2008 – Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

About the Author:
Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500, is a co-owner and the director of Yoga teacher training at: Aura Wellness Center in, Attleboro, MA. He is an author of many books on the subject of Yoga and has been a certified Master Yoga teacher since 1995. http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org

Article Source: www.find-an-article.com/index.php?page=author&author_name=Paul M. Jerard Jr.

---

[Translate]

For those who regularly practice, or teach, Yoga, the idea of letting the mind wander into the world of addictions may seem far away. but all of us know someone who has been engaged in some sort of battle against addictions. Many times, we think of tobacco, alcohol, and drug dependency.

There are many more bad habits, which have become deeply embedded into our society. As state-sanctioned gambling became readily available, at the local convenience store, it is now possible to see your neighbors spend their entire paychecks on scratch tickets. Gambling can cause bankruptcy quicker than a “bad economy.” As a result, families suffer or fall apart.

In children, over consumption of food, television, excessive video game play, and over use of the Internet, can result in poor social skills, obesity, and a negative self-image. Of course, this can also happen to adults, but it is more easily noticed in children, because they are monitored at home or in school.

Where do we start to help a society, which accepts addictions as somewhat normal? Institutions, which offer therapy, and counseling, can easily be found in any community. It is up to Yoga teachers to network with them. Yoga instruction offers anyone the opportunity to focus the mind.

When we are not in charge of our mind, it is easy to become addicted to something. We no longer see moderation as a reality. The mindset of an addict has lost any sense of moderation.

The vice, or substance abuse, may also stem from a lack of ability to cope with a challenging situation. Life is full of challenges, but the death of a loved one, job loss, financial hardship, or divorce, can potentially cause anyone to have difficulty coping with the situation.

Yoga sessions offer many solutions for those who need coping skills. Beyond the ability of focusing one’s mind, a good habit can easily take the place of a bad one.

There are a few steps to consider, if we want to eliminate an addiction. The first step, “on the road to recovery,” is recognition that a real problem exists. Then, a plan of action, in the form of a firm resolution, to change, is the second step to be taken. At this point, counseling should also be a consideration.

The importance of outside encouragement should never be under estimated. If you cannot go it alone, counseling is an excellent option. If you are just trying to find a group of health-minded people, a local Yoga class may be all you need.

Copyright 2007 – Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

About the Author:
Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500, is a co-owner and the director of Yoga teacher training at: Aura Wellness Center in, Attleboro, MA. He is an author of many books on the subject of Yoga and has been a certified Master Yoga teacher since 1995. http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org

Article Source: www.find-an-article.com/index.php?page=author&author_name=Paul M. Jerard Jr.

---

[Translate]