Yoga Lessons

Ahimsa is the yogic practice of non-violence, which includes physical, mental, and emotional violence towards others and ourselves. Viewed in this broad context, ahimsa can be a challenging and overwhelming… Read More→

The ancient yogis understood that desire (kama) was a legitimate goal and an essential part of a balanced life. But they also saw that excess desire created impurities in the… Read More→

The Sanskrit word Jaya translates into both “victory” and “self-mastery.” Self mastery is the ability to harness and control your physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. The practice of yoga inherently… Read More→

This new year my intention is to cultivate more Sattva (equanimity) in my life. Sattva is one of the three gunas (qualities) that together create the essential aspects of all… Read More→

Humility (Vinaya) is a deceptively cloaked virtue that when present gives one true greatness while eliminating the perils of pride and arrogance. At its core, humility is the fundamental respect… Read More→

Mindfulness (Smriti) is a practice of turning your awareness and focus to what is happening in the present moment. This is a very useful tool to incorporate during yoga poses,… Read More→

We often find our mind in a state of all-pointedness, focusing on countless different directions, distractions and thoughts. The yogis tell us that this state of all-pointedness scatters our awareness… Read More→

Yoga is a process towards looking inward to develop insight, awareness and understanding. To do this, we must practice Shani– the slowing down between impulse and reaction. This slowing down… Read More→

Awareness (samvedana) is an essential practice in yoga. Conscious attention to detail is important while practicing yoga poses to create proper alignment and to prevent injury. And cultivating moment-to-moment awareness… Read More→

Creating a sankalpa (intention or prayer) at the beginning of your yoga practice can bring a deeper focus and power, especially if this intention remains active throughout the practice. We… Read More→

One of the five niyamas (internal observances) of Patanjali’s yoga sutras, contentment is considered an essential and fundamental yogic practice. Samtosha (contentment) can be practiced while holding yoga poses by… Read More→

The breath is our link from the external to the internal, from the unconscious to the conscious. When we connect, control and regulate the breath we can consciously effect the… Read More→