|
Platinum
Psychonautical Engineer




Registered: 06/04/08
Posts: 7,575
Loc: New York
Last seen: 5 months, 3 days
|
Yoga
#12054416 - 02/18/10 02:29 PM (13 years, 11 months ago) |
|
|
I've always wanted to try it, but never do. I'm not afraid to, just nervous I guess. My ego is telling me no, but my soul is tellin me yes. I don't know anyone who does it, I don't know if that's good or bad. Well, I do, but nobody who lives near me. On one hand, knowing someone, they could bring me, but on the other hand... that would only make me more self conscious.
I guess I could do it alone, but there's something to be had from doing it with a teacher present, and with other people in the room to really get the energy flowing.
For you guys who do yoga, did you feel like this before you started? I also feel like it's easier for girls to do yoga, again... more ego issues IMO.
|
NastyDHL



Registered: 04/04/08
Posts: 3,586
Loc: New England
Last seen: 1 year, 11 days
|
|
Quote:
Platinum said: I've always wanted to try it, but never do. I'm not afraid to, just nervous I guess. My ego is telling me no, but my soul is tellin me yes. I don't know anyone who does it, I don't know if that's good or bad. Well, I do, but nobody who lives near me. On one hand, knowing someone, they could bring me, but on the other hand... that would only make me more self conscious.
I guess I could do it alone, but there's something to be had from doing it with a teacher present, and with other people in the room to really get the energy flowing.
For you guys who do yoga, did you feel like this before you started? I also feel like it's easier for girls to do yoga, again... more ego issues IMO.
been there dude.
one night i decided i'd go the next morning, bright and early. went with my roommate a bit late but the instructor saw us and invited us in and it was the best fucking thing for me.
i don't want to try and explain its benefits but its an all encompassing exercise in discipline and strength
the peace of mind was amazing. coupled with my relaxed and fluent body, i made it to 16-17, then 34-46, then 44-47, before making my final 53 free throws (basketball) finishing at 97 for 100.
|
c0sm0nautt

Registered: 05/19/08
Posts: 10,303
Loc: The Astral Realm
|
|
Your thinking of "Yoga" in the Western sense - hatha Yoga, the Yoga of Postures. Although it can be very rewarding, most Westerners leave the more important mind component out. All true Yoga, which there are many types, deals primarily with the mind. You can start by just laying in your bed and focusing on your breath. There have been many great threads on meditative techniques such as this one: http://www.shroomery.org/forums/showflat.php/Number/11425393#11425393
|
Platinum
Psychonautical Engineer




Registered: 06/04/08
Posts: 7,575
Loc: New York
Last seen: 5 months, 3 days
|
|
meditation is one thing. like for example, theres this place up the road that has Kundalini yoga on tuesday nights. one of my friends really enjoys bikram.
not really talking about meditation in the sense youre referring to. I mean postures and whatnot.
|
c0sm0nautt

Registered: 05/19/08
Posts: 10,303
Loc: The Astral Realm
|
|
Quote:
Platinum said: not really talking about meditation in the sense youre referring to. I mean postures and whatnot.
Well, the point of the postures is to facilitate a meditative state, a union of body and mind. As I said, the majority of Westerners miss this important point, and are essentially stretching.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hatha_yoga
|
Platinum
Psychonautical Engineer




Registered: 06/04/08
Posts: 7,575
Loc: New York
Last seen: 5 months, 3 days
|
|
I understand that, I do meditate.
|
yogabunny
fancy cat



Registered: 11/01/09
Posts: 11,281
Loc: Nasty Women Get Shit Done
|
|
Quote:
Platinum said: I've always wanted to try it, but never do. I'm not afraid to, just nervous I guess. My ego is telling me no, but my soul is tellin me yes. I don't know anyone who does it, I don't know if that's good or bad. Well, I do, but nobody who lives near me. On one hand, knowing someone, they could bring me, but on the other hand... that would only make me more self conscious.
I guess I could do it alone, but there's something to be had from doing it with a teacher present, and with other people in the room to really get the energy flowing.
For you guys who do yoga, did you feel like this before you started? I also feel like it's easier for girls to do yoga, again... more ego issues IMO.
it always boggles my mind that so many western men have this gender based insecurity about practicing yoga postures. mainly because it's a practice that was started like 5,000 years ago in India and was practiced by ONLY men, for a very long time.
if i were you i'd tell your ego to HUSH, and listen to your intuition.
--------------------
|
Fisherman
Tchee'ik


Registered: 10/06/08
Posts: 1,342
Loc: Glrrrrrrr!
Last seen: 11 years, 2 months
|
|
I say dont care dude, there's a reason this is a friggin immaterial world and doin fitness doesnt do shit to ya.
Jesus, somebody eat their dick already.
>.>'
Tried yoga, didnt cut it.
-------------------- EVERYTHING IS DRUGS
|
deCypher



Registered: 02/10/08
Posts: 56,232
|
|
Quote:
yogabunny said: it always boggles my mind that so many western men have this gender based insecurity about practicing yoga postures.
I never quite realized this existed until you pointed it out.
-------------------- We are all in the gutter, but some of us are looking at the stars.
 
|
c0sm0nautt

Registered: 05/19/08
Posts: 10,303
Loc: The Astral Realm
|
|
Quote:
Platinum said: I understand that, I do meditate.
I know a dude that goes to the Yoga classes at our school. Most likely to be 90%+ girls there, but I'd say fuck it who cares.
|
MOTH
Wild Woman


Registered: 06/06/03
Posts: 23,431
Loc: In the jungle
|
|
Quote:
yogabunny said:
Quote:
Platinum said: I've always wanted to try it, but never do. I'm not afraid to, just nervous I guess. My ego is telling me no, but my soul is tellin me yes. I don't know anyone who does it, I don't know if that's good or bad. Well, I do, but nobody who lives near me. On one hand, knowing someone, they could bring me, but on the other hand... that would only make me more self conscious.
I guess I could do it alone, but there's something to be had from doing it with a teacher present, and with other people in the room to really get the energy flowing.
For you guys who do yoga, did you feel like this before you started? I also feel like it's easier for girls to do yoga, again... more ego issues IMO.
it always boggles my mind that so many western men have this gender based insecurity about practicing yoga postures. mainly because it's a practice that was started like 5,000 years ago in India and was practiced by ONLY men, for a very long time.
What she said.
Practicing asana, physical postures, has helped me bring yoga into every aspect of my daily life. It's helped me realize that everything is part of yoga.
My life flows so much more smoothly when I practice. In fact I need to practice daily for this reason. But I started just with one class, to see how I liked it.
I felt like you Platinum...it took me forever to get into a class because I was anxious about what would happen. ...I'm not a guy, but I have my own share of insecurities.
Overcoming this to go to class and finding out what my body is actually capable of, and accepting and having compassion for my body for where it's at each day, and sometimes being surprised when it can do more then I expect, is a very nourishing and therapeutic experience. Plus I love the exhilaration and the peace, the power and the grace, the gentleness and the edge, which is available in every pose. It's neat...I see my mat as a magic carpet now, a safe and special place where transformation happens. The cool part is that I can take what happens there, everywhere...everything becomes part of it. The mat is a mirror...
|
shivas.wisdom
בּ




Registered: 02/19/09
Posts: 13,424
Loc: Turtle Island
Last seen: 6 minutes, 53 seconds
|
|
Yoga is worth it, but I will second c0sm0 in saying that yoga is often misunderstood-- and this is probably what leads to hesitation, or the thought that 'yoga is for girls'. Yoga is about about creating a balance throughout all your bodies [Annamaya kosha-- the material body, Manomaya kosha-- the mental body, Pranamaya kosha-- the vital energy body, Vijnanamaya kosha-- the psychic/higher mental body, Anandamaya kosha-- the transcendental body].
Asana Pranayama Mudra Bandha is a great book to purchase if you are interested in yoga. It explains many positions in an encyclopedic way, allowing you to build your own routine or use it along with a teacher. It has chapters dealing with the main elements of yoga [asana, pranayama, mudra, and bandha], but I'll give a basic intro for each element.
Note: the majority of western yoga focuses exclusively on asanas, with maybe a little focus on pranayama too-- but misses the greater picture imo.
Asana: Raja yoga equates yogasana to the stable sitting position. In this context, asanas are practised to develop the ability to sit comfortably in one position for an extended period of time, an ability necessary for meditation. Hatha yoga, however, found that certain specific body positions, asanas, open the energy channels and psychic centres. Developing control of the body through these practices enabled them to control the mind and energy. Yogasanas became tools to higher awareness, providing the stable foundation necessary for the exploration of the body, breath, mind, and higher states.
Yogasanas have often been thought of as a form of exercise. They are not exercises, but techniques which place the physical body in positions that cultivate awareness, relaxation, concentration, and meditation. Part of this process is the developement of good physical health by stretching, massaging, and stimulating pranic channels and internal organs, so asana is complementary to exercise. Before the difference between the two can be understood, it is necessary to know that exercise imposes beneficial stress on the body. Without it the muscles waste, the bones become weak, the capacity to absorb oxygen decreases, insulin insensitivity can occur, and the ability to meet the physical demands of sudden activity is lost. There are several differences in the way asana and exercise affect the body mechanisms. When yogasanas are preformed, respiration and metabolic rates slow down, the consumption of oxygen and the body temperature drop. During exercise, however, the breath and metabolism speed up, oxygen consumption rises, and the body gets hot. Yoga postures tend to arrest catabolism whereas exercise promotes it.
Pranayama: Pranayama is generally defined as breath control. Although this interpretation may seem correct in view of the practices involved, it does not convey the full meaning of the term. The word pranayama is comprised of two roots: prana and ayama. Prana means 'vital energy'. It is the force which exists in all things, whether animate or inanimate. Although closely related to the air we breath, it is more subtle than air or oxygen. Therefore, pranayama should not be considered as mere breathing exercises aimed at introducing extra oxygen into the lungs. Pranayama utilizes breathing to influence the flow of prana in the nadis, or energy channels, of the pranayama kosha. The word yama means 'control' and is used to denote various rules or codes of conduct. However, this is not the word which is joined to prana; the correct word is ayama, which has far more implications. Ayama is defined as 'extension' or 'expansion'. Thus, the word pranayama means 'extension or expansion of the dimension of prana'. The techniques of pranayama provide the method whereby the life force can be activated and regulated in order to go beyond one's normal boundaries or limitations and attain a higher state of vibratory energy and awareness.
Mudra: The Sanskrit word mudra is translated as 'gesture' or 'attitude'. Mudras can be described as psychic, emotional, devotional, and aesthetic gestures or attitudes. Yogis have experienced mudras as attitudes of energy flow, intended to link individual pranic force with universal force. The Kularnava Tantra traces the word mudra to the root mud, meaning 'delight' or 'pleasure', and dravay, the causal form of dru, which means 'to draw forth'. Mudra is also defined as a 'seal', 'short-cut', or 'circuit by-pass'. Mudras are a combination of subtle physical movements which alter mood, attitude, and perception, and which deepen awareness and concentration. A mudra may involve the whole body in a combination of asana, pranayama, bandha, and visualization techniques, or it may be a simple hand position.
Bandha: The Sanskrit word bandha means to 'hold', 'tighten', or 'lock'. These definitions precisely describe the physical action involved in bandha practices and their effect on the pranic body. The bandhas aim to lock the pranas in particular areas and redirect their flow into sushumma nadi for the purpose of spiritual awakening.
Yoga is definitely a beneficial practise-- I recommend. I think once you have a better understanding of what yoga actually is [instead of the western focus on asanas as a physical stretching exercise] than you will probably be much more comfortable getting your yoga on.
--------------------
|
EternalCowabunga
Being of Great Significance


Registered: 04/04/05
Posts: 7,152
Loc: Time and Space
|
Re: Yoga [Re: MOTH]
#12054989 - 02/18/10 04:04 PM (13 years, 11 months ago) |
|
|
yoga was awesome for me last year, it really helped me focus and rise to a higher state of consciousness. I took a yoga class and about 20% of the class was guys, I didn't feel uncomfortable at all, but I was pretty open minded going into it. I had wanted to learn Yoga for a while, doing some Yoga by myself from watching DVDs my sister had bought that I borrowed from her.
I say go for it, the benefits I got from yoga were plentiful. I no longer do yoga at the moment but I'm going through a weird patch and yoga hasn't been helping me lately, but it could be just the thing for you. If you meditate than yoga will just come naturally IMO, just go at your own pace.
--------------------
|
Fisherman
Tchee'ik


Registered: 10/06/08
Posts: 1,342
Loc: Glrrrrrrr!
Last seen: 11 years, 2 months
|
|
Lol, get yo yoga on, niggas
-------------------- EVERYTHING IS DRUGS
|
JCoke
dream observer



Registered: 02/17/04
Posts: 1,229
Loc: maryland
Last seen: 9 years, 21 days
|
Re: Yoga [Re: MOTH]
#12055005 - 02/18/10 04:06 PM (13 years, 11 months ago) |
|
|
just drop the ego's desires and meditate while doing yoga asana's, you have the potential to unite with the divine, and the potential for enlightenment, which is really worth working for.
-------------------- hello, your name is life on earth ------------------------------------
"I traveled a long way seeking God, but when I finally gave up and turned back, there He was, within me! O Lalli! Now why do you wander like a beggar? Make some effort, and He will grant you a vision of Himself in the form of bliss in your heart." -the saint of the Kashmir Shaivism tradition: Lalli.
|
LbDub


Registered: 10/24/07
Posts: 1,647
Last seen: 10 years, 1 month
|
|
Quote:
NastyDHL said:
been there dude.
one night i decided i'd go the next morning, bright and early. went with my roommate a bit late but the instructor saw us and invited us in and it was the best fucking thing for me.
i don't want to try and explain its benefits but its an all encompassing exercise in discipline and strength
the peace of mind was amazing. coupled with my relaxed and fluent body, i made it to 16-17, then 34-46, then 44-47, before making my final 53 free throws (basketball) finishing at 97 for 100.
Holy shit dude. That's some good pro-yoga RL experience right there. 97/100.. you could definitely count on 1 hand the amount of current NBA players that could do that(and I mean shooting 100 FT's, not their game average).
I myself am a guy, and have only dabbled with yoga a bit, but feel like I should try it out again. I may still have some links saved in my favorites.. hmm.
|
DimensionX
King of Birds


Registered: 09/26/07
Posts: 5,486
Loc: Australia
Last seen: 2 years, 1 day
|
Re: Yoga [Re: LbDub]
#12055413 - 02/18/10 05:10 PM (13 years, 11 months ago) |
|
|
How about learning Yoga from a book? Is this possible and worthwhile?
|
JCoke
dream observer



Registered: 02/17/04
Posts: 1,229
Loc: maryland
Last seen: 9 years, 21 days
|
|
Quote:
DimensionX said: How about learning Yoga from a book? Is this possible and worthwhile?
Yoga: the path to holistic health by B.K.S Iyengar.
that is a really good book that touches the spiritual aspects and the positions to take up, highly recomended.
i think books can help but I wanna try and find a teacher.
-------------------- hello, your name is life on earth ------------------------------------
"I traveled a long way seeking God, but when I finally gave up and turned back, there He was, within me! O Lalli! Now why do you wander like a beggar? Make some effort, and He will grant you a vision of Himself in the form of bliss in your heart." -the saint of the Kashmir Shaivism tradition: Lalli.
|
shivas.wisdom
בּ




Registered: 02/19/09
Posts: 13,424
Loc: Turtle Island
Last seen: 6 minutes, 53 seconds
|
|
Quote:
Asana Pranayama Mudra Bandha is a great book to purchase if you are interested in yoga. It explains many positions in an encyclopedic way, allowing you to build your own routine or use it along with a teacher.
This is the book I use. I don't plan to ever get a teacher-- my only teacher is Shiva, the mahayogi.
--------------------
|
DimensionX
King of Birds


Registered: 09/26/07
Posts: 5,486
Loc: Australia
Last seen: 2 years, 1 day
|
|
So you've made good progress without a teacher?
|
shivas.wisdom
בּ




Registered: 02/19/09
Posts: 13,424
Loc: Turtle Island
Last seen: 6 minutes, 53 seconds
|
|
I'm nowhere near accomplished. I still consider myself a beginner.
But I have progressed enough to perceive the improvement in my daily life and while meditating. Enough to convince me to practice further, which will surely give me more benefits, and the cycle will go on.
--------------------
|
Platinum
Psychonautical Engineer




Registered: 06/04/08
Posts: 7,575
Loc: New York
Last seen: 5 months, 3 days
|
|
Quote:
yogabunny said: it always boggles my mind that so many western men have this gender based insecurity about practicing yoga postures. mainly because it's a practice that was started like 5,000 years ago in India and was practiced by ONLY men, for a very long time.
if i were you i'd tell your ego to HUSH, and listen to your intuition.

Well, it's not so much that I think yoga is for girls, becuase I really couldn't give a shit about that. What I'm anxious about is I associate yoga with tight fitting clothes, and I'm relaly tall and skinny. I'm 6'5" and I weigh 155 lbs. Like... my ribs pop out on the regular. And I also have long limbs obviously, I'd say I'm on the cusp of being lanky.
|
MOTH
Wild Woman


Registered: 06/06/03
Posts: 23,431
Loc: In the jungle
|
|
You'll probably notice physical gains rather quickly, I would imagine.
(Not that yoga is all about the physical, but let's face it, asana makes the body beautiful.)
|
JCoke
dream observer



Registered: 02/17/04
Posts: 1,229
Loc: maryland
Last seen: 9 years, 21 days
|
Re: Yoga [Re: MOTH]
#12056496 - 02/18/10 08:02 PM (13 years, 11 months ago) |
|
|
Quote:
MOTH said: (Not that yoga is all about the physical, but let's face it, asana makes the body beautiful.)
I once heard a yoga teacher say that doing yoga for the beautiful body aspect is what the ego desires, in such case drop the ego and you will see yoga for connecting you with the devine, which is it's ultimate goal, I think were on the same page.
-------------------- hello, your name is life on earth ------------------------------------
"I traveled a long way seeking God, but when I finally gave up and turned back, there He was, within me! O Lalli! Now why do you wander like a beggar? Make some effort, and He will grant you a vision of Himself in the form of bliss in your heart." -the saint of the Kashmir Shaivism tradition: Lalli.
|
MOTH
Wild Woman


Registered: 06/06/03
Posts: 23,431
Loc: In the jungle
|
Re: Yoga [Re: JCoke]
#12056721 - 02/18/10 08:38 PM (13 years, 11 months ago) |
|
|
Quote:
JCoke said:
Quote:
MOTH said: (Not that yoga is all about the physical, but let's face it, asana makes the body beautiful.)
I once heard a yoga teacher say that doing yoga for the beautiful body aspect is what the ego desires, in such case drop the ego and you will see yoga for connecting you with the devine, which is it's ultimate goal, I think were on the same page.
I figured someone would mention that doing yoga for the beautiful body aspect is what the ego desires, but that's hardly the only reason I personally practice yoga and it's a benefit that most people are aware of because we all have ego's. I tend to lose my ego when I practice yoga, that's why I do it to begin with.
|
yogabunny
fancy cat



Registered: 11/01/09
Posts: 11,281
Loc: Nasty Women Get Shit Done
|
|
ok i have to throw a mini tantrum here.
strictly asana is not "missing the point"!!! it's just one door into the larger practice(s) of Yoga. and a mighty good one for westerners to connect with, i might add. i was listening to this keynote speech robert thurman gave a yoga journal conference and (i am totally going to butcher his beautiful and humorous words here) BUT he said something along the lines of:
so what if people come to practice asana and just view it as calasthenics, or what have you, so WHAT? at least they are doing yoga, and after a month or a few months or a year, the person will be able to feel the practice manifesting in their subtle body and subtle mind.
it's tangible. you can feel the body changing (when practiced regularly with some passion and dedication). that's one HUGE lesson i learned from my teacher training. no matter what brings someone to the practice, the benefits WILL come.
of course it's good to know that asana is just ONE practice of the greater yoga philosophy.
DimensionX I recommend "yoga, mind, body, spirit" by Donna Farhi, she describes the most essential poses in GREAT detail, offers modifications for various injuries etc, and gives a taste of philosophy. also she gives a bunch of different sequences at the end of the book.
--------------------
|
yogabunny
fancy cat



Registered: 11/01/09
Posts: 11,281
Loc: Nasty Women Get Shit Done
|
Re: Yoga [Re: JCoke]
#12056748 - 02/18/10 08:43 PM (13 years, 11 months ago) |
|
|
Quote:
JCoke said:
Quote:
MOTH said: (Not that yoga is all about the physical, but let's face it, asana makes the body beautiful.)
I once heard a yoga teacher say that doing yoga for the beautiful body aspect is what the ego desires, in such case drop the ego and you will see yoga for connecting you with the devine, which is it's ultimate goal, I think were on the same page.
again, i have to say, at least they are doing yoga.
not gonna lie, that is probably what (on the surface) drew me to the practice so many years ago, but that is definitely not what kept me coming back for 10 1/2 years!!!
--------------------
|
yogabunny
fancy cat



Registered: 11/01/09
Posts: 11,281
Loc: Nasty Women Get Shit Done
|
|
i think i need to stream a yoga class for the budding yogis of the shroomery LOL
--------------------
|
shivas.wisdom
בּ




Registered: 02/19/09
Posts: 13,424
Loc: Turtle Island
Last seen: 6 minutes, 53 seconds
|
|
Fair enough. I can agree, any yoga is better than no yoga, benefits will still arise.
I just become when I see yoga reduced to another pilates.
--------------------
|
shivas.wisdom
בּ




Registered: 02/19/09
Posts: 13,424
Loc: Turtle Island
Last seen: 6 minutes, 53 seconds
|
|
Quote:
yogabunny said: i think i need to stream a yoga class for the budding yogis of the shroomery LOL
Do you teach yoga? 10 1/2 years is a long time [at least from my point of view]
--------------------
|
yogabunny
fancy cat



Registered: 11/01/09
Posts: 11,281
Loc: Nasty Women Get Shit Done
|
|
isn't that just another trick of the ego though? "NO! you're not doing it the RIGHT WAY!!!! *tantrum* i wrote a thingy for my training about why asana is the Yoga of the west. if i can find and it doesn't totally suck, i will share.
also i highly DO recommend studying the classical texts of yoga before beginning, during and after practice . i highly DO NOT recommend starting a regular practice of asana without the guidance of an experienced teacher, unless it's the only ONLY option. even if that is your only option there are TONS of podcasts and tutorials that can be found online!!!!
--------------------
|
shivas.wisdom
בּ




Registered: 02/19/09
Posts: 13,424
Loc: Turtle Island
Last seen: 6 minutes, 53 seconds
|
|
Quote:
yogabunny said: isn't that just another trick of the ego though? "NO! you're not doing it the RIGHT WAY!!!! *tantrum* 
Ahh.. the never ending cycle of ego-- you are probably right. I mean, I'm definitely in no position to 'know' what yoga is myself anyways. I've only been practising a couple years, and not steadily either.
I'm not even sure why I see this distinction within yoga practitioners. I see the same distinction in pyschedelic use, that distinction between spiritual use and recreational use-- and I use them in both ways myself and see nothing wrong with either way, though I do see differences between both ways [however slight].
I dunno, I'll think about this. It probably is my ego and always good to catch it in the act.
Quote:
yogabunny said: i highly DO NOT recommend starting a regular practice of asana without the guidance of an experienced teacher, unless it's the only ONLY option. even if that is your only option there are TONS of podcasts and tutorials that can be found online!!!!
Why do you say this? I don't know if I've just had bad experience with bad people claiming 'guru status' but one of the main tenents I reject from all spiritual practices [and one that seems to permeate most of them] is that need to find an accomplished teacher who can guide me, before I am able to set off on my own journey.
I wonder who taught the teacher? and who taught the teachers teacher? and so on.. either someone just learned it them selves, or some entity gave them the knowledge. Either way, the same thing can happen to me, if I only try.
I can understand how an accomplished teacher would be very beneficial in guiding someone else, but I also accept the fact that the vast majority of those people who claim to be accomplished teachers are the exact opposite-- there really is no way to know if a person is correct unless you already know the correct way. So when it comes down to it I feel safer letting my self guide my self slowly.
I also remember reading that in cases where a guru can't be found, it is acceptable to take a god as guru-- and in this sense I would say shiva is my guru.
--------------------
|
yogabunny
fancy cat



Registered: 11/01/09
Posts: 11,281
Loc: Nasty Women Get Shit Done
|
|
Quote:
shivas.wisdom said:
Quote:
yogabunny said: i think i need to stream a yoga class for the budding yogis of the shroomery LOL
Do you teach yoga? 10 1/2 years is a long time [at least from my point of view]
yep i've been teaching for about 2 years. and trust me, it irks me to the bone to think there are teachers out there who don't know who Patanjali is, or what the 8 limbs of Yoga are. but, so it is.
yeah, 10 years IS a long time, but i am still a beginner, still progressing, still learning, still discovering and REdiscovering poses as I go along. i teach to learn!
--------------------
|
Silversoul
Rhizome


Registered: 01/01/05
Posts: 23,576
Loc: The Barricades
|
|
Quote:
Platinum said:
Quote:
yogabunny said: it always boggles my mind that so many western men have this gender based insecurity about practicing yoga postures. mainly because it's a practice that was started like 5,000 years ago in India and was practiced by ONLY men, for a very long time.
if i were you i'd tell your ego to HUSH, and listen to your intuition.

Well, it's not so much that I think yoga is for girls, becuase I really couldn't give a shit about that. What I'm anxious about is I associate yoga with tight fitting clothes, and I'm relaly tall and skinny. I'm 6'5" and I weigh 155 lbs. Like... my ribs pop out on the regular. And I also have long limbs obviously, I'd say I'm on the cusp of being lanky.
Tight fitting clothes? I used to wear sweat pants to yoga. If anything, I think yoga clothes should be loose-fitting and as comfortable as possible.
--------------------
|
yogabunny
fancy cat



Registered: 11/01/09
Posts: 11,281
Loc: Nasty Women Get Shit Done
|
|
Quote:
shivas.wisdom said:
Why do you say this? I don't know if I've just had bad experience with bad people claiming 'guru status' but one of the main tenents I reject from all spiritual practices [and one that seems to permeate most of them] is that need to find an accomplished teacher who can guide me, before I am able to set off on my own journey.
I wonder who taught the teacher? and who taught the teachers teacher? and so on.. either someone just learned it them selves, or some entity gave them the knowledge. Either way, the same thing can happen to me, if I only try.
I can understand how an accomplished teacher would be very beneficial in guiding someone else, but I also accept the fact that the vast majority of those people who claim to be accomplished teachers are the exact opposite-- there really is no way to know if a person is correct unless you already know the correct way. So when it comes down to it I feel safer letting my self guide my self slowly.
I also remember reading that in cases where a guru can't be found, it is acceptable to take a god as guru-- and in this sense I would say shiva is my guru.
yes, yes, true, and it that case you're really your own guru, aren't you????
i speak with regard to asana practice. like someone who has been to an accredited training program who could say "don't keep rounding your shoulders like that in this pose or your going to blow a rotator cuff"
feel me?
--------------------
|
shivas.wisdom
בּ




Registered: 02/19/09
Posts: 13,424
Loc: Turtle Island
Last seen: 6 minutes, 53 seconds
|
|
haha yea I feel ya. 
I think I'm just very anti-authority, but I definitely see the benefit from a teacher who knows whats up.
--------------------
|
yogabunny
fancy cat



Registered: 11/01/09
Posts: 11,281
Loc: Nasty Women Get Shit Done
|
|
haha, me too. that's probably why i haven't fallen in with any of the Guru's or paths that are out there. i swear it comes from being raised catholic.
also i happen to be lucky and live in a big city where i have access to some of the best teachers in the world. i am not sure that i'd still be practicing yoga without there guidance, support, love and encouragement. also, not sure that i'd have the fly lookin' downward facing dog that i do without their constant vigilance (LOL) in correcting my alignment.
my opinion can be taken with a grain of salt though. i don't know what the fuck im talking about really.
Quote:
Silversoul said:
Tight fitting clothes? I used to wear sweat pants to yoga. If anything, I think yoga clothes should be loose-fitting and as comfortable as possible.

this is sort of my mission statement as a teacher
I created this blog right after I finished my training, to promote the idea that Yoga should be free and available to one and all! Regardless of your sex, race, age, socio-economic status, height, weight, level of flexibility, etc, Yoga is for EVERYONE. You don't have to have the body of a ballet dancer like on the cover of all the magazines! And, at & Yoga for all, Yoga is free!! You don't need a membership card or fancy pants; just your beautiful self and a willingness to learn and grow.
--------------------
|
LbDub


Registered: 10/24/07
Posts: 1,647
Last seen: 10 years, 1 month
|
|
Quote:
yogabunny said: i think i need to stream a yoga class for the budding yogis of the shroomery LOL
I'd certainly watch
|
Fisherman
Tchee'ik


Registered: 10/06/08
Posts: 1,342
Loc: Glrrrrrrr!
Last seen: 11 years, 2 months
|
Re: Yoga [Re: LbDub]
#12059635 - 02/19/10 12:12 PM (13 years, 11 months ago) |
|
|
If I take yoga.
And spell it agoy.
I feel agony.
and I just keep smiling
-------------------- EVERYTHING IS DRUGS
|
dubhuman
shit abyss



Registered: 11/20/08
Posts: 1,169
Loc: NY
Last seen: 2 years, 11 months
|
|
Come to kundalini with me at the studio in the city, I promise you will love it. and how is it easier for girls to to yoga? it's very co-ed. the studio I go to is ran by a man and his wife both sat jiven.
I believe they were both taught by Yogi Bhajan himself. It's the real deal. He was actually shunned from India for bringing it to the west but thats a story I'll tell you in person.
I live near you... come with me? www.kundaliniyogaeast.com
I also have beginner DVD at my house we can try out together. I've never even tried it out! I don't have a DVD player ha!
Anyway, come, it's incredible, next on my list is a white tantric.
We just did a 3 hour chant to strengthen and prepare us for leaving the age of picses (sp?) and entering the age of aquarius. it was amazing. you have to experience it for yourself and I'd love if you came.
I miss you dude
Sat Nam
|
dubhuman
shit abyss



Registered: 11/20/08
Posts: 1,169
Loc: NY
Last seen: 2 years, 11 months
|
|
Quote:
Platinum said:
I associate yoga with tight fitting clothes, and I'm relaly tall and skinny. I'm 6'5" and I weigh 155 lbs. Like... my ribs pop out on the regular. And I also have long limbs obviously, I'd say I'm on the cusp of being lanky.
At Kunalini I wear a white T shirt, white baggy pants, and and white head peace to keep the heat and energy from leaving my head, as do most people. it is all about yousrself, you get what you put into it and only focus on yourself. it is not like any other yoga I've eber been to, for sure. you'll see
|
yogabunny
fancy cat



Registered: 11/01/09
Posts: 11,281
Loc: Nasty Women Get Shit Done
|
|
yeah and furthermore, i really hate this aesthetic that's been propagated by the media and magazines and stuff; as if all yoga practitioners must look like lithe, waif like ballerinas. as IF!!!
of course, a lot of them do because they've been practicing yoga for like 15-20 years.....
anyway, the reason yogis and yoginis (in asana based classes) wear shorts and tight fitting clothing is so that the teacher can see all the lines of your body and make the best adjustments and corrections for each student.
--------------------
|
deCypher



Registered: 02/10/08
Posts: 56,232
|
|
Quote:
yogabunny said: anyway, the reason yogis and yoginis (in asana based classes) wear shorts and tight fitting clothing is so that the teacher can see all the lines of your body and make the best adjustments and corrections for each student.
Or if you're a Guru with lustful thoughts enjoying the curves of your practitioners...
-------------------- We are all in the gutter, but some of us are looking at the stars.
 
|
yogabunny
fancy cat



Registered: 11/01/09
Posts: 11,281
Loc: Nasty Women Get Shit Done
|
|
Quote:
deCypher said:
Quote:
yogabunny said: anyway, the reason yogis and yoginis (in asana based classes) wear shorts and tight fitting clothing is so that the teacher can see all the lines of your body and make the best adjustments and corrections for each student.
Or if you're a Guru with lustful thoughts enjoying the curves of your practitioners... 
i was referring to teachers, not gurus. i am so not into the guru scene. i have problems with authoritAYE.
and, i think this is why they don't allow shorts and tank tops at a lot of the ashrams. heh.
--------------------
|
deCypher



Registered: 02/10/08
Posts: 56,232
|
|
Are there frequent problems with sexual relationships between so-called masters and students? Or are there just a few bad apples in every barrel?
-------------------- We are all in the gutter, but some of us are looking at the stars.
 
|
p4kSouL
Animals Are Cool

Registered: 01/13/05
Posts: 3,666
|
|
Yeah some of those strict rules are just not necessary.
|
p4kSouL
Animals Are Cool

Registered: 01/13/05
Posts: 3,666
|
|
Quote:
deCypher said: Are there frequent problems with sexual relationships between so-called masters and students? Or are there just a few bad apples in every barrel?
Lol, some reason there is always that old guy that ends up fingering the little kid. For some odd reason.
|
Silversoul
Rhizome


Registered: 01/01/05
Posts: 23,576
Loc: The Barricades
|
|
Quote:
deCypher said: Are there frequent problems with sexual relationships between so-called masters and students? Or are there just a few bad apples in every barrel?
Any sort of authoritative position will tend to attract power-hungry individuals. In the case of a guru, the student is supposed to put their complete trust in the person in helping them achieve enlightenment. That's why the Dalai Lama recommends observing someone's teaching style for 15 years before accepting them as a guru.
--------------------
|
deCypher



Registered: 02/10/08
Posts: 56,232
|
|
That's such a heavy fucking burden accepting the complete responsibility for this individual's quest though. And 15 years??
-------------------- We are all in the gutter, but some of us are looking at the stars.
 
|
yogabunny
fancy cat



Registered: 11/01/09
Posts: 11,281
Loc: Nasty Women Get Shit Done
|
|
Quote:
deCypher said: Are there frequent problems with sexual relationships between so-called masters and students? Or are there just a few bad apples in every barrel?
i would say the latter.
reminds me of this yoga teacher i met up at Sivananda. totally harmless, but slightly pervy old hippie who's been studying this style of Yoga for like 30 years, living on the ashrams back and forth between upstate and the bahamas.
one day he was sitting with Swami Vishu-Devananda, and seeing how much attention Swamiji received from the ladies he began day dreaming about becoming a Swami himself. Swamiji read his mind, looked over at and said "No, Sambasiva you are too much of a ladies man to be a Swami, but you will be a great Yoga teacher"
LOL.
--------------------
|
deCypher



Registered: 02/10/08
Posts: 56,232
|
|
-------------------- We are all in the gutter, but some of us are looking at the stars.
 
|
Platinum
Psychonautical Engineer




Registered: 06/04/08
Posts: 7,575
Loc: New York
Last seen: 5 months, 3 days
|
|
Quote:
dubhuman said: Come to kundalini with me at the studio in the city, I promise you will love it. and how is it easier for girls to to yoga? it's very co-ed. the studio I go to is ran by a man and his wife both sat jiven.
I believe they were both taught by Yogi Bhajan himself. It's the real deal. He was actually shunned from India for bringing it to the west but thats a story I'll tell you in person.
I live near you... come with me? www.kundaliniyogaeast.com
I also have beginner DVD at my house we can try out together. I've never even tried it out! I don't have a DVD player ha!
Anyway, come, it's incredible, next on my list is a white tantric.
We just did a 3 hour chant to strengthen and prepare us for leaving the age of picses (sp?) and entering the age of aquarius. it was amazing. you have to experience it for yourself and I'd love if you came.
I miss you dude
Sat Nam

I definitely will, probably in the summer though when I'm home from school.
|
nowwhoutthink
maybe im dreaming



Registered: 07/09/09
Posts: 6,048
Loc: 805 Saint Cloud Road Mars
|
|
sorry i dont have much to add to the thread, but ive been super interested in yoga and mediating...etc..
after a few car wrecks i thinkit would be a good thing to keep my joints stretched..and/or cause more pain?
--------------------
|
Platinum
Psychonautical Engineer




Registered: 06/04/08
Posts: 7,575
Loc: New York
Last seen: 5 months, 3 days
|
|
I would say try it and see hwo it goes. Just be aware of your body and if you feel like youre over doing it, slow down, or stop. It's worth a try though right?
|
nowwhoutthink
maybe im dreaming



Registered: 07/09/09
Posts: 6,048
Loc: 805 Saint Cloud Road Mars
|
|
totally...i go to physical rehab and well the back massage is great haha, but id like to try something at home. tired of being sore and stiff 24/7 and maybe help me decrease all my pain meds in a day.
know anything good for starters?
--------------------
|
tekramrepus


Registered: 02/20/02
Posts: 2,253
|
|
LOL at thinking yoga is postures and stretching. teehee
|
nowwhoutthink
maybe im dreaming



Registered: 07/09/09
Posts: 6,048
Loc: 805 Saint Cloud Road Mars
|
|
well im sorry to come across ignorant..realy.
i do have lot of preparing before i attempt. luckily my aunt is a therapist(or whatever they are called///yogist?) who does this daily.
--------------------
|
tekramrepus


Registered: 02/20/02
Posts: 2,253
|
|
Quote:
nowwhoutthink said: well im sorry to come across ignorant..realy.
i do have lot of preparing before i attempt. luckily my aunt is a therapist(or whatever they are called///yogist?) who does this daily.
I wasnt being mean, I was just teasing, and my reply was for everyone in this thread confusing stretching and postures with yoga hehe
|
shivas.wisdom
בּ




Registered: 02/19/09
Posts: 13,424
Loc: Turtle Island
Last seen: 6 minutes, 53 seconds
|
|
I'm sure you would be fine doing yoga. Just never push yourself to the point of causing pain-- you will feel your body straining but it should be comfortable like a deep stretch not painful, and slowly your ability will increase. I'm not too sure of what yoga would be most beneficial to start with though-- perhaps yogabunny can help you out there.
Meditation is always beneficial, and that I can give a starting tip on. 1. Sit down in any comfortable position [cross-legged is standard]. 2. Close your eyes and begin to breathe in and out, full breaths. 3. Bring your awareness to your breath. Feel it moving in your nostrils, down your throat, into your lungs, and then feel it completely saturate your body-- before breathing out and feel it leave you in a reverse process. [I find it helps to imagine it as an energy and not just simple air]. 4. Keep your focus on your breathe for as long as possible. You will find a background 'stream of consciousness' will become apparent-- where ideas will pop into your head. Don't try to shut them out, instead let them rise and fall back into the stream naturally, simply observe it. 5. Do this for as long as comfortable.. rinse and repeat another time. I am a firm believer that most of the meditative process is intuitive though, if you start with this you will fine tune it towards your own needs without even realizing.
ah, and an exercise I use to help refresh and clear my prana before meditating is this: 1. Sit down in a comfortable position. Keep your hands folded on your lap, palms up. 2. Take your right hand and use it to plug your right nostril. Breathe in one complete breath through your left nostril. Then use your right hand to plug your left nostril and breath out through the right nostril. Repeat this for a total of 3 breaths like this. 3. Same same, only breathe in through the right nostril, out through the left, for another total 3 breathes. 4. Return your right hand to your lap, and breathe in 3 full breathes through both nostrils. At this point, put your thoughts in the direction you wish to continue in [for meditation, this could be 'calmness, awareness, focus' etc] 5. Start the meditation.
--------------------
|
nowwhoutthink
maybe im dreaming



Registered: 07/09/09
Posts: 6,048
Loc: 805 Saint Cloud Road Mars
|
|
Quote:
shivas.wisdom said: I'm sure you would be fine doing yoga. Just never push yourself to the point of causing pain-- you will feel your body straining but it should be comfortable like a deep stretch not painful, and slowly your ability will increase. I'm not too sure of what yoga would be most beneficial to start with though-- perhaps yogabunny can help you out there.
Meditation is always beneficial, and that I can give a starting tip on. 1. Sit down in any comfortable position [cross-legged is standard]. 2. Close your eyes and begin to breathe in and out, full breaths. 3. Bring your awareness to your breath. Feel it moving in your nostrils, down your throat, into your lungs, and then feel it completely saturate your body-- before breathing out and feel it leave you in a reverse process. [I find it helps to imagine it as an energy and not just simple air]. 4. Keep your focus on your breathe for as long as possible. You will find a background 'stream of consciousness' will become apparent-- where ideas will pop into your head. Don't try to shut them out, instead let them rise and fall back into the stream naturally, simply observe it. 5. Do this for as long as comfortable.. rinse and repeat another time. I am a firm believer that most of the meditative process is intuitive though, if you start with this you will fine tune it towards your own needs without even realizing.
ah, and an exercise I use to help refresh and clear my prana before meditating is this: 1. Sit down in a comfortable position. Keep your hands folded on your lap, palms up. 2. Take your right hand and use it to plug your right nostril. Breathe in one complete breath through your left nostril. Then use your right hand to plug your left nostril and breath out through the right nostril. Repeat this for a total of 3 breaths like this. 3. Same same, only breathe in through the right nostril, out through the left, for another total 3 breathes. 4. Return your right hand to your lap, and breathe in 3 full breathes through both nostrils. At this point, put your thoughts in the direction you wish to continue in [for meditation, this could be 'calmness, awareness, focus' etc] 5. Start the meditation.
thanks a lot man. i will actually try that later tongight. itll be a good starter. i bet it could even help me easy off my anxiety meds and pain killers...?
and Supermarket...its all good. didnt take it mean, just was apologizing for coming off as a newb.
--------------------
|
|