During this uncertain time, more than ever, our yoga practice has a LOT to offer us. The challenges we’re facing are various and different people will, of course, be suffering in different ways and to different degrees.
But if you practice yoga, or are interested in it, now is a really good time to find new ways of taking your yoga off the mat and integrating it into your way of life. Really, that’s what yoga is — it’s never just postures on a mat. Sometimes, we need the motivation of new challenges to make us see that.
If you practise yoga or meditate regularly, you probably know what hand mudras are. However, do you understand the subtle ways in which practising them can positively influence your life?
Keep reading to learn how exactly mudras can benefit you both on and off the mat, and four particularly powerful mudras to incorporate into your daily routine.
What are you living for? This may sound like a bit of a strange question, but when did you last think about what matters most to you? Keep reading to find out why this can be a powerful exercise to help you live a happier, healthier life.
What Does It Mean to Live A Life with Purpose?
Sometimes life gets so busy that it feels like you’re just going through the motions. Running here and there to accomplish tasks on your to-do list, you may lose touch with the reason behind all you’re doing.
Have you ever found yourself so stressed about work as your perfectionist streak keeps you pushing through, putting in extra hours to ‘get more done’, even though you’re exhausted? Or maybe it’s the constant worry about your grown children, and the extra care you find you’re needing to give to your elderly parents – your not alone!
In today’s world, we’re constantly overstimulated, being bombarded with information and spending far too much time looking at screens. The pandemic dealt another blow to our wellness, leaving many of us feeling isolated, fearful, and maybe even helpless.
Do you ever feel like you don’t have enough time for yourself? Or maybe you feel disconnected from others in your life. Taking intentional steps to take care of your well-being has never been more important.
If you’re wondering how to cultivate a healthy, balanced life that has you feeling good physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually, then keep reading to learn where to start.
Have you ever felt like you have so many thoughts racing through your head that you have trouble falling asleep? Or perhaps you have difficulty focusing on certain tasks because of your busy mind.
Having a mind that is constantly busy can have harmful effects on both your physical and mental health. Keep reading to find out why, and to learn three simple yet powerful ways to take back control of your thoughts. For more help with doing this, register for my FREE 3-part video training on 24 – 26 October.
Do you feel as though the chakras are a bit of a mystery — or perhaps too ‘out there’ to be relevant to you? Don’t write them off just yet.
When you spend a little time getting to know what the chakras really are, they actually become an incredibly useful way of thinking about your energy and your body. Crucially, you discover how a deeper understanding of chakras can, in turn, help you deepen your yoga and meditation practice and enhance your wellbeing.
The chakras are seven energy centres located at different points through the body; they radiate, receive and direct energy through all of the nadis, or energy channels.
When I’m asked “Why Bali? Why do you love taking people there so much?” it’s hard to know where to start!
Bali is a beautiful and inspiring place. It’s not trying to be anything other than its authentic self, and it makes you want to be your authentic self too.
No one speaks in quiet whispers about their spiritual practices here. Spiritual life and personal growth are valued and respected. It is assumed that everyone is making efforts, every day, to live with dedication to a higher way of being.
Daily life is marked by rituals — some big, many small — which reconnect people with their deeper purpose in this world. Over and over again: connection, reconnection, connection. Spiritual life is not separate from work or education; family or friendships. Spirituality, prayer and meditation are a part of everything.
Over the last decade Bali has become known as one of the top destinations in the world for vegetarian and vegan food. People travel from around the globe to eat at its renowned restaurants and cafes, and to sip coconut water fresh from the tree.
When you come on a journey to this beautiful island with me you’ll be treated to the very best of Balinese cuisine — it’s seriously good!
Think of it this way…
Contrary to the idea that we should all be busy all the time and ‘getting things done’ at all hours of the day, entering into deep relaxation actually makes us more productive, focused and efficient.
On top of that, it reduces the chances of the body suffering from health issues that arise as a result of extended periods of stress. Yogis have known this for centuries; but now modern science is beginning to pay attention to the value of rest as well.
Next year’s retreat in Bali is focused on deep relaxation and restoring energy and joy. Each time I plan a retreat I look to new sources to weave together with the traditions of yoga and meditation; new inspiration to help you surrender yourself to the power of rest.
What Are the Scientists Saying?
Do you catch yourself humming absent-mindedly while you’re walking round a shop, or filling in paperwork? Studies show that the sounds in our environment have a direct impact on our stress levels — so it’s no surprise that lots of us make sounds to soothe our own stress, or aid our concentration.
Bhramari Pranayama is a breathing which does exactly that. It uses the creation of sound in the throat, combined with closing off the ears to external sounds, to calm the nervous system and settle the thoughts.
How Bhramari Could Help You
The steady, bee-like humming sound you create during bhramari pranayama has an instant soothing effect on the mind. It’s an ideal practice for you if you ever feel anxious or overwhelmed because its effects are so immediate.
You can use it to calm down at any time.
As well as this wonderful, speedy anxiety relief, the benefits of bhramari include:
As many of you know Nepal holds a special place in my heart, and for good reason.
It is stunningly beautiful, rich in spirituality and culture and the food is absolutely delicious!!
Oh, and did I mention that past participants have said it to be transformative, heart-opening and utterly fabulous?
For those of you who haven’t yet had the pleasure of experiencing the spiritually rich culture of this beautiful country, read on for three reasons that make it an incredible place to deepen your practice of yoga and meditation.
