...While on the way to spot a friend of mine at the local YMCA, he asked why I didnt just join the gym and I explained to him that I practice Yoga and occasional calisthenics at home for my exercises and really didnt feel the need for a gym membership. His response was predictable: Yogaisnt that just stretching?

I smirked at the familiarity of the question and proceeded to explain to him the theme of this article. As I told him and for those who may not know otherwise: No, Yoga is way more than just stretching or getting into supposedly awkward looking poses and positions.

It is a combination of stretching, breathing exercises, meditation and perhaps the most overlooked limb, adherence to a proper diet.

The word yoga, from the Sanskrit word yuj means to yoke or bind and is often interpreted as a "union" or a method of discipline. Its ultimate goal is the union of man with God or the universe in one breath. Furthermore,...more

Yoga in Practice: A Peaceful Planet

...sophy. Much like the ego, within us, fundamentalism spends most of its time protecting itself from perceived threats. It does not matter whether the threat is real or pure fantasy.

As a Yoga practitioner, you are an ambassador of Yoga to any non-practitioner. Therefore, try not to judge, look at issues from at least two sides, and listen. Listening with empathy is the beginning of truly understanding your neighbors.

Recognize the right of another to defend himself or herself. Do not back someone into a corner with your philosophy, morality, or religion. Be tolerant and seek diplomatic solutions to problems befo...more

Yoga Instruction certification

...As a lover of yoga and a free-spirited lifestyle, nothing appeals more to you than becoming a yoga teacher. The first step to becoming a yoga teacher is to get your yoga instruction and certification. Once you are certified in the ways of the ancient practice of yoga, you can enjoy helping others while living your dream.

If you are ready to get your yoga instruction c...more

Teaching Peace in Yoga class

...en do you teach peace in a yoga class?

Pranayama or breath practice lends itself to the quest for peace. Guide your students to slow down their breath and become aware of the peaceful rhythm of the inhalation and exhalation. Teach your students to passively accept their breath rather than force it to become deeper. You can be more literal about it as well encouraging students to draw peace into their body with each inhalation and release tension with each exhalation. Simply following the breath brings peace to the body and mind.

When leading guided relaxation help students to become aware of the spaces in their bodies where peace already exists. Then use breath and yoga postures to expand that feeling of peace throughout the class.

Mantras are a particularly effective way to shift our minds towards peace. I love Tich Nhat Hanhs mantra from Peace is Every Step Breathing in I calm my body, Breathing out I smile. Tich Nhat Hanh teaches that peace and happine...more

Yoga Positions Older Women