Athletes who do Yoga

Yoga not only enhances your mind and peacefulness, but it also enhances your body physically. Athletes in every sport practice yoga. It keeps athletes focused and and stretches their muscles. Some of the most well known athletes in the world practice yoga every single day.

LeBron James

LeBron James is arguably the best basketball player in the world. James is also does yoga nearly everyday. James said that yoga helps him clear his mind, and helps him focus. Yoga also helped James's lower back injury go away. James credits his great shape and endurance to practicing yoga.

Ray Lewis

Recently retired middle linebacker, Ray Lewis is known as one of the best linebackers of all-time. He is aggressive and his heart gets in the game. Lewis said to ESPN in 2010, "I do it for a lifestyle, and that's a better motivation." Lewis was known as one of the most emotional football players of all-time, and yoga cleared his mind.

Coach K doing the downward dog

Not only do players do yoga, but coaches as well. The historic Duke and USA basketball team head coach Mike Krzyzewski is a yoga goer. Coach K has been practicing yoga for years. On the sideline, it is rare for Coach K to show his emotional side, and that is because he keeps his cool and learned to do that from yoga.

Athletes from all different sports and ages practice yoga. Whether it is a football player, basketball star or even a legendary head coach. Yoga can help anyone in anyway, it just clears your mind.

Namaste.

Yoga and Pediatric Care

Recently, yoga has been seen in pediatric care. In physical education classes in some schools, they have added yoga as a class. Yoga has been seen to help students in physical exercise and breathing and mental relief also. 

Many high school students have also taken up yoga. High school is known as one of the most stressful times of ones life, and yoga can help. Yoga is a major stress relief and can mellow done any high school student. Yoga has also helped kids with ADHD. It helps them out by calming them down, and taking out all of their energy. 

As you can seen, yoga can help anyone at any age. Whether you are six, or if you are 18 yoga will help you. 

Namaste.  

The Eight Limbs of Yoga

Yoga is one of the only spiritual practices that lets the human body become one with its own mind. Therefore, there are the eight limbs of yoga. The eight limbs of yoga each have their own personal meaning, and purpose. The eight limb path of yoga helps you form a stronger bond with your own body and mind, and will help yoga be more meaningful for you.

1. Yama
- By definition, Yama is the Hindu God of death and the lord of the unknown world, but in yoga terms it is different. Yama is universal mortality, which is also a lot of different things. In short terms, Yama is just being a good person, and doing good deeds and just treating people the way you want to be treated.
2. Niyama
- Niyama means laws, or rules. Like Yama, there are a lot of other Niyama in all, but Niyama can be more personal and reach home more. Niyama tells you to be a pure person, and to use the energy you have for good use only. Niyama is also saying one should get to know themselves better, and just to be a relaxed person.
3. Asanas
- Now this is really the first physical limb of yoga. What Asanas means is body postures. This limb is telling us that each position that yoga offers we should try, even if it is extremely difficult, it is worth trying because it can only help your body.
4. Pranayama
- Breathing is so key in Yoga. Every breathe you take effects how the whole class or session of yoga goes. What this limb means is that you should control your breathing, so it doesn't get out of control and you just stay relaxed.
5. Pratyahara
- In simple context, this Pratyahara means drawing back, or retreat. But, as the fifth limb of Yoga what this means is withdrawal oneself. This limb is telling you to control your sense during yoga, and just to withdrawal all your sense from any object that is external.
6. Dharana
- This limb is basically concentration. What this limb is telling you to do is to focus on just one object while performing Yoga, and never lose focus.
7. Dhyana 
- This is one of the most important stages in Yoga. What it is telling you to do is have a straight meditation throughout Yoga. You should have a focused flow, and not get distracted.
8. Samadhi
- Samadhi is the final step in Yoga. What this means is to bring everything together. You have sadly come to an end in your Yoga experience, so you need to bring everything together.

Yoga is an art that involves your mind and your body. Following the eight limb path helps everyone have a better Yoga experience.

Namaste.

Iyengar Yoga

Iyengar Yoga is one of the most popular kinds of yoga. This specific yoga can benefit you in so many ways. With over 200 different poses, Iyengar Yoga is very classic. In this specific yoga, standing poses are most popular, and you rarely sit down.

This style of yoga is also one of the most beneficial styles. This yoga not only improves your balance, but it also helps your body recover from various injuries and strengthens your body. If you are looking for a yoga that can help align your body properly, then Iyengar Yoga is for you. Beginners also tend to love this kind of yoga, since it is not challenging on the body.

Overall,
Iyengar Yoga is relaxing, and it only helps your body. So why not give it a shot.

Top 3 Most Difficult Poses in Yoga

Yoga is supposed to be relaxing, but if you want a challenge you can have a challenge. Some of these poses look impossible, but if you want to give them a shot, I'll help explain them. My top three hardest yoga poses are: Sage Koundinya I, Firefly Pose and Peacock Pose. 

Sage Koundinya I

The Sage Koundinya I is nearly impossible. The style of this pose is you are in a push-up position, with one leg balanced in the air, and the other leg bent and next to your knee. This is hard to explain, so I will post a picture. This pose is very difficult to hold, but if you can do it, you are definitely a yoga guru.  

Firefly 

The next pose is the Firefly Pose. With this pose, what you have to do is have your hands parallel to your legs. Then you lower your hands to the ground, lift yourself up with your arms and lower your back. Once again, I added a picture since it is hard to explain. With this pose, you hold it for 15 seconds or longer. If you can even hold it for more than 15 seconds, kudos to you. 

Peacock 

Lastly, we have the Peacock Pose. This pose is similar to the Sage Koundinya I, but there is one difference. Just like the Sage Koundinya I, you have to hold yourself up with your hands, but you don't have to move your legs. You generally hold this pose for 10 seconds, but if you can hold it for longer, good for you, that is a challenge. 

All three of these poses are as advanced as you get in yoga. If you are just started out yoga, please don't do these poses because it won't end well for anyone. 

Namaste.

The Benefits of Practicing Yoga

Yoga has been being practiced for 5,000 years. About 11 million Americans practice this old tradition, and benefit very deeply from it. Say you have never tried yoga, it is something you should try, because it can't hurt not trying.

One of the best benefits of yoga is all health related. If you practice yoga weekly, you will enhance your breathing, flexibility, strength and posture. Yoga has many different styles, and each different variation of yoga can help in a different way. Strength wise, yoga can build strength in your core, hamstring and quadriceps. Yoga requires a lot of breathing, so this enhances relaxation in your body and mind. 

Yoga can help clear your mind as well. Even if you've only done one class of yoga, you will feel less stressed. Yoga provides relief on the mind, and will help you feel unstressed about anything. After a yoga class, you will feel happier, and more concentrated. Recent studies have shown that yoga has boost the hormone oxytocin, which makes you happier.

After trying yoga, some people just hate it. Whether or not you are one of those people who hates yoga, you can't deny that it is not good for you. If you have never tried yoga, why wouldn't you try, it can't hurt. 

Namaste. 

Top 3 Yoga Studios in America

As a yoga goer, you should always be on the look out for the best yoga studios near you. Whether you are on vacation somewhere, or just moved to town you should look into the best yoga studios. I am here to tell you my top three yoga studios in America. They are: Yoga Works (California and New York), PranaVayu Yoga (Boston) and Tranquil Space (Washington DC).

With 22 California locations and five New York locations, Yoga Works has elite yoga studios on the east and west coast. Something unique about Yoga Works is they offer many different classes. They offer various classes from private to beginner and even offer retreats. If you are interested in attending a yoga class at Yoga Works, you can visit there website here.
David Magone is known as one of the worlds best yoga instructors. Based in Boston, Magone's studio PranaVayu is one of Boston's best. At this studio, three classes are offered which are Base Level, Accelerated Level and Mangalem Yantra Yoga. Each of these levels starts off at a beginner pace, but as you get going the class gets harder and harder. PranaVayu offers clinics for any yoga goers. If you would like to read more about PranaVayu, and the amazing instructor David Magone, click here.

Lastly, located in Washington DC, Tranquil Space is a top yoga studio. Located right in the heart of Washington DC, it can get pretty hectic in the political filled area. That is why this studio is so perfect. Founder of Tranquil Space, Kimberly Wilson is one of the best yoga instructors in America. She has built a team that can teach anyone any kind of yoga that they would like. If you are interested in attending a class at Tranquil Space, click here.

You shouldn't choose a yoga studio based on a ranking, you should choose a yoga studio based on your own choice. Find a studio that is for you, and stick with that.

Namaste.

Top 3 Yoga Retreats

Once in awhile, everyone needs to get away. When you have a relaxing vacation, yoga is something that I think is a must have. I am here to tell you the top three yoga retreats in America. My top three are: Stowe Mountain Ranch Resort, Esalen Institute and Kalani Oceanside Retreat.

View from Stowe Mt. Ranch Resort

Located in Vermont, Stowe Mountain Ranch Resort is one of my favorite yoga retreats. Stowe is located up in the mountains of Vermont, and gives you a very nature and homey feel. At the resort, they either offer indoor yoga, or outdoor yoga looking over the amazing Stowe mountains. Rates for the Resort do vary, so if you are interested click here.

Esalen Institute

If you need a spiritual trip anytime of the year, the Esalen Institute is the perfect place for you. Located in Big Sur, California the Institute overlooks the coast of California. The Esalen Institute offers workshops on reflecting, but if you are looking for alone time, you can have that. Prices range from $130-$725 depending on which program you choose to do. If you are interested in going to Esalen Institute, click here.

Kalani Oceanside Retreat

I doubt there is more of a perfect place than Hawaii. Located on the Big Island, Kalani Oceanside Retreat is a premier yoga retreat place. Whether you want to do individual yoga, or group yoga you can choose to do any while over looking the beautiful Hawaiian ocean. At Kalani Oceanside Retreat, prices start at $95 a night. Click here if you are interested.

No matter where you live or what you do, alone time is so crucial. No matter how you like to spend your alone time, you should be able to find your zen. That is why yoga retreats can be so good for you own mind.

Namaste.

Top 3 Yoga DVDs

In our world today, we all have busy schedules, and can't get to the yoga studio. That is why there are yoga DVDs. Whenever I am not able to make it to a yoga studio, I always pop one of these DVDs in, and yoga away. My top 3 favorite DVDs to use are: Marisa Tomei: Core & Curves, Yoga for Every Body and Jillian Michaels' Yoga Meltdown. 

Marisa Tomei: Core & Curves

Lets start off with Marisa Tomei: Core & Curves. First, I think having a celebrity leading you in a workout is pretty cool, even if it is through a video. Tomei works you hard in this DVD. You work on body definition, leg workouts and finally ten moves in ten minutes. This is more workout than yoga, but I still get a yoga feel from the video. You might be a little sore the next day, but it is worth it. If you are interested in working out with Marisa Tomei, click here to purchase the DVD. 

Yoga for Every Body

If you are looking for a traditional yoga video, Yoga for Every Body is for you. Led by J.J. Gormley, she takes her time in making sure you can understand the pose, and the DVD moves at a slow pace. If you are just starting out yoga, this video will be perfect for you, since it grows with you and gets challenging as it proceeds. If you are interested in this video, click here. 

Jillian Michaels' Yoga Meltdown

Lastly, I had to add Jillian Michaels' Yoga Meltdown. I am sure no yoga DVD can get as intense as this one. This DVD comes with two 30 minute workouts. In the video, there is traditional yoga, but Michaels' adds her cliche hardcore training to yoga, which really makes this a workout. If you are interested in working your butt off with Jillian Michaels, click here. 

Missing one of your yoga classes is no fun. That is why these DVDs are available so no matter where you are, you can always practice yoga. 

Namaste.  

Top 3 Yoga Mat Bags

Lily Tote Bag

Having a yoga bag is not a necessity, but it can always be helpful to have. Personally, after a long yoga class it is nice to put all of your materials into a bag, instead of having to carry everything and be all over the place. My personal three favorite yoga mat bags have to be: Lolë Lily Tote Bag, Hotdog Rollback and Manduka Seeker Mat Bag.

There is not a bag that can do more than Lily Tote Bag. This bag can fit a 13 inch laptop, a pair of shoes, plus your yoga mat! Not only can that bag do all of that, but you can also take part of the bag off and carry it as a cosmetic bag. Lastly, this bag can also turn into a backpack. This backpack can be used for nearly anything, but it is perfect for yoga. If you are interested in purchasing one of these do it all bags, click here.

Hotdog Rollback

The Hotdog Rollback has to be one of the most unique bags there are. With many small compartments, this bag can fit nearly everything. It can fit any size yoga mat, plus nice work clothes since it has a hanger. Even though this bag looks very bulky, it is one of the lightest weight bags out there. The bag can hold anything from your water bottle, wallet and car keys and they all won't get lost deep in the bag. If you are interested in purchasing this unique style bag, click here.

Manduka's Seeker Mat Bag

Lastly, there is Manduka's Seeker Mat Bag. This bag offers a unique feature that no other bag offers. You can carry this bag in any way you'd like because of the one strap the bag offers. This bag doesn't have a wow factor, but it can do everything you need a bag to do. This bag can fit any size yoga mat, and all of your personal needs easily. If you are looking for a traditional yoga mat, this is the one for you. Click here if you are interested in buying.

All yoga mats are made to do the same thing. What you want to find in a yoga mat is the easiest way for you to walk around with all of your yoga materials.

Namaste.

I'm Finally on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram!

Hello my fellow yoga goers!

I have finally gotten a Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

If you want to see to see what yoga materials are the best and are on the run, like and follow my Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages!

Namaste.

How to Prepare Yourself for Hot Yoga

Hot yoga may be one of the most exhilarating and exhausting styles of yoga. Hot yoga, which can also be known as Bikram Yoga is when you do about twenty-six different posturers and two breathing exercises. Going into your first hot yoga class can be nerve racking (it was for me), and I'm going to tell you how to prepare yourself for the first class.

Before the class, make sure you are drinking a lot of water. You do not want to enter this class un-hydrated, since this type of yoga is quite the workout. As well as drinking a lot, I would not come to class before eating a large meal, since you will be working your body. Be sure to be relaxed as you enter the classroom. As you should know when entering the room, it will be very hot! It can be up to 105 degrees fahrenheit! During this class, you should bring a yoga mat that can handle when not getting wet. The Jade Harmony Professional Yoga Mat is perfect for this class because it does not get slippery when wet.

When you start the class, prepare to sweat. I would come to class in a tank top and shorts, so you can let your body breath easier. Your body will be working very hard in this hot temperature and your body is not used to this. If you do experience any discomfort, I would recommend getting the instructors name, and taking a break.

Finally, after the long and sweaty class you are done. First, give yourself a pat on the back for finishing the most intensive style of yoga there is out there. After the class, you will most likely be pretty tired, but you can also feel energized and if so, good for you! Make sure when you are done with the class to still drink lots of water, since you were just sweating greatly.

Overall, hot yoga is a thrilling experience that all yoga goers should have. If you do experience this, kudos to you, since it is a hard, but rewarding experience.

Namaste.

Top 3 Yoga Pants (Men)

Finding comfort as a man who does yoga can be hard to come by. That is why the pants a man should choose is key. The options for men's yoga pants is very limited, but they options are still great. My top three men's yoga pants are: Lululemon Smash Pants, Prana Sutra Pants and the Hyde Men's Original Fit.

Lulu Lemon Smash Pants

The Lululemon Smash Pants are not only perfect for yoga, they are also perfect for just hanging around. These pants offer great support and comfort for a man. The material used for these pants are very stretchy, so you can move around any way your body will let you.

Prana's Sutra Pants

Prana's Sutra Pants for men are extremely comfortable. Not only are they comfortable, these pants are good for the environment and were made from natural elements. Something perfect about these pants are if you don't love yoga, you can still wear the pants!

Hyde Men's Orignal Fit

Hyde Men's Original Fit pants are an one of a kind. These pants are very loose and relaxing, and have a great overall fit. The pants are weaved which makes them more stylish. If you are looking for a relaxing look at yoga, these pants are perfect.

Overall, as I've said yoga pants are a key part of yoga, especially for guys. The pants you choose are your choice, but make sure to choose the pants that fit you best.

Namaste.

Top 3 Yoga Pants (Women)

What you wear for yoga can impact your yoga experience very much. Some yoga goers prefer the loose fit pants, or some people want a tight fit. No matter what you prefer, there are many different styles out there for everyone. My personal 3 favorites are Mobility Pants, Lolë Salutation Pants or Warrior Yoga Leggings.

Mobility Pants

Mobility pants are perfect for some yoga goers. These pants are not too tight, and not too loose. The capri style pants come in multiple lively colors and and offer the most support pants can support.

Second, the Lolë Salutation Pants are great as well. If you are looking for a tighter fit than the mobility pants, but not too tight these pants are perfect. These pants also have a unique touch to them. You can cut them to your preferred length without damage. The unique pants also have pockets in them, if you like that as well.

Warrior Yoga Pants

If you are looking for very traditional yoga leggings, the Warrior Yoga Leggings are for you. These leggings fit with your body the way they are supposed to, and go a great length. If you enjoy standing out in the crowd, these leggings have three diamonds cut on the outside of the calf for design.

 No matter if you enjoy loose or tight pants, long or short you should look for      pants that comfort you. Comfort is the most important part of yoga, and that is  what you should look for in yoga pants.

Namaste.

Top Yoga Mats of 2013

Jade Yoga Mats

Yoga mats are the most important part of yoga. It is the only thing I would think you need, besides having your body. The feeling you should want from a yoga mat varies for different people, but in the end what everyone wants is comfort. There are three specific mats that I would like to focus on today which are: Jade Harmony Professional Yoga Mat, Manduka PROlite Yoga Mat and the Jade Fusion Yoga Mat.

My personal favorite has to be the Jade Harmony Professional Yoga Mat. This mat has a nice natural surface that provides great comfort and has fantastic traction with wet and dry surfaces, so you can do yoga anywhere with this mat! The one problem one might find with this mat is the open cell technology used to create this mat still has bacteria and oils, but it hasn't been a problem with me. On the bright side, not only can this mat be used for any kind of yoga, it is also perfect for Pilates.

Manduka Yoga Mats

The Manduka PROlite Yoga Mat is also a one of a kind mat. This mat is very easy to cary around and extremely easy to clean. A problem I have run into a couple times is when this mat gets wet, it becomes very slippery. Since the mat gets slippery, hot yoga would not be preferable, but every other kind of yoga is great for this mat, especially outdoor yoga.

Lastly, the Jade Fusion Yoga Mat is great also. This specific mat is perfect for any kind of yoga, and you really have a natural feel when using it. Jade Yoga's mats want to give their user the natural feeling of doing yoga, and this mat does that perfectly. Even though this mat has a lot of perks, it does have a few cons. This mat is not easy to carry around, and when you get it wet it is a hassle to get dry.

When someone does yoga, they should find a mat that fits them. Everyone should have a natural feel with there, and not just choose the best one.

Namaste.