What is your Definition/Meaning of Yoga?

If you have not rented or seen the documentary "Enlighten Up" by Kate Churchill yet, you must. I really enjoyed this entertaining movie that did not really answer any questions regarding Yoga and it's meaning, but kept it open to your own interpretation.
Is Yoga more spiritual or physical? Of course in Western Society, we practice more of the physical yoga, but does that mean we are not spiritual during our practice and beyond? Of course Eastern practice involves more of the meditation and God side of Yoga. This is all good too. My personal beliefs is that you cannot separate the spiritual from the physical, they are in harmony and work together.
I feel when you practice physically with your asanas, you are in the present not thinking about anything else. Your mind is clear and you are at peace in the now. So how can you say this physical practice is not spiritual?
I have been practicing and teaching Athletic Yoga for nine years. Yoga has created a stronger mind, body and soul for me. My life is very much improved in so many ways with my Yoga practice. I recommend everyone to experience Yoga and keep an open mind. Try many styles and instructors, find one that you connect with.
I am currently co-owner and instructor at Metta Yoga in the Arcadia area. Check out our new website at www.newmettayoga.com.

Namaste,

Shered

Positive Thoughts for Positive Outcomes

By now I am sure almost everyone has heard of "The Secret", what you think will become your reality. You may also know some people in your life who tend to be a bit negative. Usually these people fall on hardship one too many times. Where as your more positive friends and family seem to live much happier. It does work!!
One of my favourite quotes or sayings is "where the mind goes, energy flows". I love this quote, it is so true. If you believe you are going to fail at something, you are most likely going to fail. However, thinking the opposite of succeeding and positive thoughts, will win.
This theory or practice works with everything, including your health. If you think you are going to gain weight because of a big meal, you most likely will gain weight. If you are not enjoying your exercise routine, you most likely won't see the results you want.
So make sure you are giving only positive energy and thoughts to your health. Enjoy your food, make healthy choices and seek out a wellness program that you actually enjoy. Hiking, walking, Yoga, all modalities that are enjoyable.
Stay Positive!!
Shered

Sustainable Health

Sustainability, this is one of those new "Buzz" words for the future of this country and world. I really like it. It shows commitment to living with more conscience for our environment and ourselves.
What is Sustainable Health?

I would define this term as "Creating a balanced wellness program that sustains optimum health with minimal effort and effects on the environment. A great way to do this is to eat more responsibly (potentially eat less). Walk or hike instead of using electricity from a gym. Do Yoga that only requires a mat and peace of mind (of course a good instructor can really help). And find a wellness modality (Body Stress Release for example), that releases the stress from the body naturally for self-healing to take place. The whole "less is more" concept can create Sustainable Health without increasing your carbon footprint.

Shanti,
Sherri

My First Entry Yin and Yang

Over the weekend I had the pleasure of taking a Yin workshop with Paul and Suzee Grilley. What a great experience. I have been practicing and teaching Yoga for 8 years. Yes I started teaching Yoga almost exactly when I started taking it. Each year since then I have been attending many workshops and conferences to continue learning.
Learning the background of Yin (more relaxed yoga) was beneficial to my Yang practice. In other words, practicing Flow Yoga challenging the muscles continuously needs a balance. That is where Yin comes in. Yin focuses on stretching the joints and ligaments while relaxing the muscles.
For those of you who are type A and always "Flowing", balance your practice with Yin. Your muscles will thank you, and yes, you will see a increase in flexibility...

Namaste