It has been five years since the United Nations started observing International Yoga Day. During this brief time, yoga as a practice has gained an astonishing amount of acknowledgement and popularity.

Most nations have acknowledged that yoga boosts physical health, and stimulates emotional and intellectual growth.

Similar to Ayurveda, yoga is a priceless boon the world has received from the ancient rishis of Bharat.

The meaning of the word yoga is coming together or joining. Yoga brings together our body, breath, mind and awareness in the proper way.

If we can control our body, we will be able to control our breath. If we can control our breath, we will be able to control our mind. If we can control the mind, we will be able to rise to self-realisation.

This is the way of yoga. It uses gross elements to control subtle elements. Then using these subtle elements, it controls even subtler ones.

In this way, it continues to control subtler and subtler elements. Our ancient rishis teach us that by gaining victory over the body, mind and intellect, yoga can help us attain completeness.

Even if one is unable to achieve completeness, yoga still plays a great role in daily life. Perhaps most importantly, it can help keep us in good health.

Yoga can help us purify our inner faculties, glands and nerves, and promote their smooth functioning.

In everyday life, too, yoga helps to increase our efficiency, health and happiness. In these modern times, when lifestyle diseases and mental illness are on the rise, the relevance of yoga continues to steadily increase.

The average human lifespan has increased, aided by new medicines and treatment options. However, our health is declining due to poor lifestyle choices.

Good health is not the mere absence of disease; it is the ability to work for long hours without tiring, having mental peace, clear memory and a sharp intellect. Yoga is a practical system through which we can achieve this.

There is a difference between physical health and mental health. While the body needs exercise and movement to keep fit, the mind needs to remain still. However, in modern society, work requiring the body is decreasing, and the thoughts and agitations of the mind are growing.

This is harmful to the body and mind. Yoga is a scientific system that helps us increase the efficiency and agility of the body and the mind. Surya Namaskara and other asanas, meditation and pranayama are all part of this.

Through pranayama and other asanas, one can balance the bodys prana-sakti and through this, we can improve our health. In addition to this, yoga asanas and meditation relax the body, calm the mind and still its thoughts.

People can choose the technique that suits them best. In these trying times, when coronavirus is threatening the entire world, yoga is even more relevant than ever. It is when humanitys immunity decreases that such diseases are able to take root in society. Yoga, on the other hand, is a good way to enhance our bodys immunity.

For yoga to be effective and provide us with strong immunity, we also have to follow a proper diet. If even one person in the home learns yoga, they will be able to teach everyone else in the family. If everyone in the home practices yoga and meditation, the entire atmosphere of the home will be transformed.

For this to happen though, the principle behind yoga has to be understood as well. Then, conflicts will decrease. Love and cooperation will increase.

There is one more thing that Amma would like to stress. Yoga is not like an ordinary physical exercise routine that you practice for one or two hours a day. It is a comprehensive way of life that gives a high level of importance to dharmic values and principles.

Yoga brings success in both material life as well as in spiritual life. Whichever spiritual path you pursue, yoga will definitely help you.

Regardless of the country, human nature remains the same. Therefore, the practice of yoga can help one and all, irrespective of nationality or religion.

May we be able to use this priceless wealth bestowed on the human race by the ancient rishis of Bharat in the right way.

(The writer is a world-renowned spiritual leader and humanitarian)

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Yoga: The priceless wealth - The New Indian Express

Tokyo-bound Lovlina Borgohain is waiting to join national camp as virtual training keeps the Assamese boxer on her toes.

Indian boxer Lovlina Borgohain is one of India's rising boxing stars.

The 22-year-old, who has two bronze medals at the World Championships, won the national welterweight trials to travel to Amman, Jordan for the Asian boxing Olympic qualifiers in March.

Lovlina Borgohain enjoyed a brilliant outing there, qualifying for her maiden Olympic Games at Tokyo next year, and was subsequently ranked third in the world in the 69kg category.

The Olympic Channel caught up with the Indian boxer, who is back home in Assam, to learn how she has been dealing with the national lockdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

When was the last time you were indoors for this long?

It is the first time for me to be at home for so many months at a stretch.

Earlier, I had to go away to camps and tournaments after barely a two-day break, so the lockdown has treated me well.

How do you spend your time at home?

I try to keep myself busy throughout the day. One thing I have done is analyse a lot of opponents videos to know more about them.

Other than that, I occasionally cook at home, do some yoga and read.

So, which book(s) did you enjoy reading?

I have been reading a lot of local Assamese literature, some of the short stories are amazing.

Any new skill that you have tried out?

No, not really.

Actually, my two elder sisters and their kids had come home to visit my parents before the lockdown. So, chit-chatting with them takes up a lot of my free time (chuckles).

Your preferred way to workout from home.

I don't really have a favourite workout per se, cannot really pinpoint one.

If I had to pick one, Id say the daily stretching before my exercises is something I love. It really relaxes my body every day.

How useful have the video calls with the Boxing Federation of India (BFI) been?

I feel that has been a good initiative from them. It helped us connect with everyone, even though it was virtual.

The BFI has been helpful with tips for training and techniques, informing us about doping and the medications to avoid, so those aspects are good.

First thing you will do after lockdown ends?

Obviously, my first priority is preparing for the Tokyo Olympics, so I really want to get back to the national camp once this ends.

There is a sporting environment there and it will allow us to do proper training with specific instructions, which is what I need a year from the Games.

Continued here:
Yoga, books and family help Lovlina Borgohain make the most of lockdown - Olympic Channel

MARION The towns recreation programs will begin to hold yoga sessions, private tennis and private sailing lessons. Programs are open and available to the public. Registration for sailing and tennis are first come, first served.

No pre-registration required for yoga. Participants are asked to bring their own mat, none will be provided. Social distancing will be enforced as required by the state.

Yoga at the bandshell:This class is open and encouraged for all levels. This class will focus on stress reduction, breathwork, stretching, strengthening, and balance. Cost is $10. Proceeds benefit Damien's Place Food Pantry and Friends of Marion Recreation

Sundays: July 5 to August 23, 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.Thursdays: July 9 to August 20, 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Yoga at Silvershell Beach:This hour-long session is suitable for all ages and abilities. Bring a towel and or yoga mat, sunscreen, water, and a light scarf or shirt if needed. Cost is $10

Tuesdays, 8 a.m.Mondays and Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m.

Family yoga:Mondays from 5:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Silvershell Beach

Over the Net Tennis Lessons: Private tennis lessons for up to three players in the same household, four days a week. All ages are welcome. Lessons will be tailored based on skill level and on what students want to learn.Sessions run from July 13 to August 20.The cost is $175/week, which includes one hour of instruction for each day.

Session 1: July 13 to July 16Session 2: July 20 to July 23Session 3: July 27 to July 30Session 4: August 3 to August 6Session 5: August 10 to August 13Session 6: August 17 to August 20

Lesson makeup day is Fridays. To register, call Marion Recreation at 508.748.3537

Sailing Lessons on Sippican Harbor: Private sailing lessons for up tothreein the same household. The program will teach basic sailing skills including boat handling, how to identify parts of the boat, boating terms, and basic knots. Classes will be tailored to fit the needs of those enrolled. Students are encouraged to bring water, a hat, and sun block. Personal flotation devices will be provided. This program is for all ages.Individual private sailing instruction is also available at an hourly rate.

Session 1: July 13 to July 16Session 2: July 20 to July 23Session 3: July 27 to July 30Session 4: August 3 to August 6Session 5: August 10 to August 13Session 6: August 17 to August

To register, call Marion Recreation at 508.748.3537

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Marion Recreation starts yoga, tennis and sailing summer programs - Sippican Week

When you think of yoga, what comes to mind? Do you think of yoga pants, a clean yoga mat and a soothing studio? What about the types of people who do yoga? Are they young, able-bodied and white?

When Paul Winfield, a local yogi and author, returned to his hometown of Baton Rouge from Puerto Rico, he noticed microaggressions and a lack of diversity at local yoga studios. As he finalized his yoga teacher training in 2019, he decided to open his own yoga studio where all people, no matter their race, size or mobility, could feel welcome.

You dont need legs or arms to do yoga, Winfield says. You can actually lay in your bed and do yoga in your mind, and you will get the benefits from it. No physical challenge is a challenge. No ability or lack thereof is an impediment to success.

Winfield opened More & More I Am Yoga Studio on Juneteenth 2019. Juneteenth celebrates the emancipation of the last enslaved African Americans in the Confederacy. So it was a special date for Winfield to open a yoga studio in a primarily black area. He aimed to provide a safe space in north Baton Rouge for locals to practice yoga in a judgement-free and inclusive studio.

When locals step into the studio, that is exactly what they feel. Students are comfortable. They wear everything from cozy sweatsuits to yoga leggings and a T-shirt. No two students look the same. They are different ages, experience levels and backgrounds.

The quaint studio on Florida Boulevard offers different styles of yoga classes, including power yoga, restorative and intermediate. Locals can drop in for a single class or register for an unlimited membership for $50 a month. Students and seniors get a discounted membership rate for $40 a month.

Winfield wants to encourage people to practice yoga consistently. The meaning of the studio name was chosen to motivate yogis to grow in their practice by applying themselves more and more each day. He wants the studio to be a place where people can start where they are, with their current resources and not feel like they have to perform in exclusive, all-white settings.

Its important to have a space that is here for a part of the city that is not appreciated and people are never given hope or told you can, Winfield says. This is a space for them to get that message and experience.

More & More I Am Yoga Studio is at 1714Florida Blvd. moreiam.org

This article was originally published in the July 2020 issue of 225 Magazine.

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Meet More & More I am Yoga Studio: the inclusive yoga studio in north Baton Rouge that aims to make yoga accessible for everyone - [225] - 225...

Whether its due to too much sitting, too little movement (or a job that requires lots of it), or simply stress, our bodies are feeling stiff. Thats where stretching workouts come in big, since they can make tight or shortened muscles feel a whole lot better.

Spending just 15 minutes to go through a stretch routine can provide oxygen-rich blood throughout the body to help alleviate tightness where you may be feeling it, Mia Caine, a certified yoga instructor and founder of Health is Wellth in Miami, Florida, tells SELF.

Along with relieving tightness, stretching workouts can also help you move more smoothly by improving your range of motion and increasing your flexibility. But dont worry: It doesnt mean youll have to train with advanced stretching moves, like splitsunless thats your goal, Caine says.

Whether were talking about those challenging flexibility moves that really push your body, or the gentle, easing routines that simply make your muscles feel more fluid and relaxed, the same rule holds true: Whatever stretching you decide to do, it is important to work from where you are, breathe, and gently move your way through any tension you might feel, says Caine. But most importantly, never push yourself into feeling any kind of pain, as that can lead to injury.

So, how do you get started? If the only stretching youre familiar with is the old grade-school standby of touch your toes, weve got you covered. Here, 22 stretching videos and workouts, from 5 minute in-bed routines to muscle-specific sequences recommended by yoga and Pilates expertsall available on YouTube. Best part? Theyre all free, too.

This yoga sequence is great for anyone who runs or needs extra recovery after a good cardio workout. Youll focus on your lower body to stretch out tight hips, hamstrings, calves and more.

Length: 30 minutes

What to expect: A recovery session thats great for many kinds of sports

This workout is great for people who are tight through the legs and hips and are active, like runners, cyclists, triathletes, rock climbers, or weight lifters. So many of us get caught up in moving faster, lifting harder, and jumping higher, but [engaging in] movement that is gentle not only can reduce soreness, but can often also calm the mind. I love Adriene's soothing presence and find that although she is a yogi and very bendy herself, this workout is very accessible for those who are naturally tight. Christie Wang, PMA certified Pilates instructor in Boston

Try the workout.

This short stretching routine focuses on loosening up your shoulders and back using a lacrosse or tennis ball.

Length: 5 minutes

What to expect: A recovery routine using a lacrosse ball

I love this workout because it uses a lacrosse ball or tennis ball, which helps to deepen the stretch. You're using the prop as a way to break up the fascia [connective tissue] around your muscles, which can get super stiff from sitting or working out a ton. Using a lacrosse ball will give you a more targeted release than a foam roller, and is more space effective if you live in a small apartment. This workout is super quick, and I love Charlee's form cues to help you find the right spot. It helps target release in some key areas that get tight from sitting all dayyour back, hips, and shoulders. Wang

Try the workout.

Use this quick hip mobility routine to loosen tight hip flexors while also challenging your core.

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22 Stretching Workouts on YouTube That Will Loosen Up Your Tight Muscles - Self

Bhagavad Gita does not subscribe to the view that action is an obstacle to spiritual freedom. It has rather declared that even while remaining fully active in the world of cut-throat competition, one can still keep his inner life anchored in the Divine.

And even while living in the Supreme Self, one can still continue to be fully active in the outer world. This becomes possible when one works in the spirit of karma yoga.Karma yoga is the means of obtaining serenity of mind through selfless performance of works. It is that path of spiritual evolution which highlights the importance of fulfilling all of ones duties without any attachment to the actions or the results thereof. In Gita, Krishana has described the concept of karma yoga in detail. It has been explained as to how one can attain worldly glory and also spiritual growth by doing work with dedication and detachment.

Though chapter three has formally been designated as karma yoga, many other shlokas of different chapters also deal with this subject.A word of caution here. Karma yoga is not the same thing as the doctrine of karma.

Whereas the former relates to the performance of ones duties in a detached manner, the latter refers to the principle which states that every cause has an equal effect.Shloka 2.47 conveys the essential message of karma yoga.

In this famous verse it has been stated that one has the right only to action, and never at all to its fruits. Let not the fruits of action be ones motive ; and at the same time one should never be attached to inaction.

In other words, no one can have complete control over the outcome of an activity. But one should never abandon a work which ought to be done by him. One has a right to choose his actions. But he has no right to choose the results of those actions. He can do whatever he wants to do. He can indulge in noble or evil deeds. But once having done those deeds, he cannot evade or avoid the fruits of those actions.

The result of an action is inherent in the action itself. But how, when and in what shape one obtains those rewards is decided not by ones expectations and desires but by nature. Nature determines results of actions not through any arbitrary diktats but by well defined principles.

One can only strive to understand those principles but no one can ever think of controlling them.Success or failure in any venture depends not only upon the individual concerned but also on many other factors. Apart from the personal efforts, various other forces of nature play an important role in determining the results of ones actions. These forces are governed by the laws of nature. Since nature carries on its work in accordance with these laws, under the will of Ishvara, the Supreme Lord ; these laws are not biased in favour of or against any one.

Therefore, one should never react negatively even if the results obtained are totally contrary to his expectations. One should cultivate an attitude of glad acceptance.The sole purpose of ones actions should not be the rewards of those actions. One must act with the understanding that work is its own reward. Action is for self-fulfilment. Instead of working for narrow selfish interests, one must work keeping in view the larger good.

Gita is a mandate for action. It has cautioned that one should never be attached to inaction. Inertia can never lead to perfection. However arduous, painful or unpleasant ones assigned work may be, one must not run away from it.Krishna has time and again underlined the need for action. At the same time, the importance of detachment from actions and their results has been emphasised.

He has taught that duty must be performed devotedly and wholeheartedly, but without a sense of attachment. Regarding the sense of attachment, it has been explained that all kinds of works are carried out by the three gunas, the modes of material nature.

But ones ego considers itself to be the doer of all actions. It attributes to itself ones talents, skills, actions and their results. When one identifies oneself with the ego, he attaches himself to them all.

He thus remains entangled in various actions. But he who has gained the knowledge of the self always remains aware that the works are done by the body, mind and the intelligence ; and the soul is different from all of them.

He is thus relieved from the false identification of the self with the works. He realises that as the soul, he is actionless and the actions do not belong to him. Accordingly, he does all his assigned work as a matter of duty without any attachment to the works and their results.

He does not give any credit or discredit to himself for various successes or failures of life. He is, thus, not carried away by the ups and downs of life. He who is unattached to works, he is untouched by sorrow. There is great joy in whatever he does.

Link:
Karma Yoga- The Path of Action - Daily Pioneer

Try these Yoga asanas to keep your immunity boosted during the monsoon season |  Photo Credit: iStock Images

New Delhi: The monsoons herald a special time of the year leaving the trees and plants looking dewy and fresh. For many, the rainy season is a time to spend time indoors with family whilst enjoying the beautiful weather. The rains also bring with it a variety of water-borne diseases which puts your immune system to the test. When you practice yoga regularly, it builds your immunity, improves the functioning of the organs and makes you more resistant to any infections or illnesses.

Additionally, yoga also increases endorphins which are feel-good chemicals produced within the body. Stress impacts immunity in a big way, and with yoga, you can improve your state of mind, and enjoy better health. Yoga and meditation practices impact the body and the mind positively, thereby improving your immunity. Here are some yogic practices that you can adopt into your everyday life to keep your immunity at an all-time high during the monsoon season and throughout the year.

Surya Namaskar or the Sun Salutation comprises of a total of 24 counts, done with 12 steps for each side. As Surya Namaskar represents the energy of the Sun, which is said to be contained in the right side of the body, the Surya Namaskar hence begins with the right leg. Repeat the same twelve steps to the left side to finish one complete cycle. Start with a minimum of 4-5 cycles and increase it gradually.

Step to perform the Surya Namaskar

Repeat the 12 steps to the other side to make one complete cycle.

Word of Advice

Formation

Fold your legs at your knees and ensure that your feet are placed firmly on the floor Place your palms next to your ears, with fingers pointing forward Inhale, put pressure on your palms and legs and lift your entire body up to form an arch Allow your head to fall gently behind and keep your neck relaxed Keep your body weight evenly distributed between your four limbs Breathing Methodology Inhale while lifting the body up.

Word of Advice

The posture is not recommended for practitioners suffering from any kind of back injury or spinal problems. Those who have a condition of glaucoma, and/or high blood pressure should avoid this pose.

Formation of the posture

Yoga improves your respiratory system and overall health. As a gateway to good health, yoga roots out stress from your life which is one of the leading killers of immunity. Stress is known to dull your mind, and weaken your senses. Through yoga, you are directed to a positive state of mental and physical health. Include Surya Namaskar, Chandra Namaskar along with breathing techniques like Kapal Bhati pranayama in your yoga practice.

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Grand Master Akshar is a guest contributor. Views expressed are personal.

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Try these Yoga asanas to keep your immunity boosted during the monsoon season - Times Now

The actress and mother-of-one shared some of her go-to beauty and skincare tips that help her achieveflawless skin in an exclusive interview with Pinkvilla. Check it out!

An actress known for her diverse roles in cinema with films like Tum Mile and Rang De Basanti, Soha Ali Khan has time-and-again proved that she knows how to ace the role of the girl-next-door. What helps her keep this image up, apart from her acting, is her flawless glowing skin and luscious hair. Through her pregnancy with daughter Inayaa too, the actress didn't seem to have any breakouts and her skin only improved with time! Though she does workout and is always hydrating herself, the actress told Pinkvilla exclusively, "I'm lucky to have been blessed with good skin genetically."

She doesn't discredit her hard work when it comes to looking after her skin though! Now that she, like everybody else is isolating, we were curious about her current skincare regimen. "It's mostly a mix of habits. Washing and moisturising my face before I sleep and using face masks/sheets from time-to-time." But that's not all. The actress also believes it is important to eat healthy and nutritious food to keep the skin healthy from inside. "So I don't forget to include foods such as berries, avocados, tomatoes and almonds which are all known to enhance skin health," she revealed.

While the world was under lockdown, DIY methods became the go-to for beauty and skincare experts. The actress too embraced using natural ingredients for her skin. "Coconut oil has been a staple throughout the years for my skin and hair. Recently, I discovered and indulged in a matcha face pack, it was something different yet worked wonders for my skin."

Not just that, the actress also believes in exercising for the skin! At home, Soha reveals that she has, "Been using SPF and trying inverted postures in Yoga, which is good for the skin and blood circulation." And if there is one ingredient that Soha believes in that boosts skin health, it has to be almonds. "They contain healthy fats and Vitamin E which have shown to impart anti-ageing properties that may benefit skin health," said the doting mother about a kitchen staple she has and will continue to include in her routine.

What is something you have picked up during the lockdown and will continue to practice for better skin? Comment below and let us know.

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EXCLUSIVE: Soha Ali Khan owes her blemish free skin to inverted yoga postures and coconut oil - PINKVILLA

Photo provided by the City of Roseburg

July 2, 2020 11:00 a.m.

Yoga in the Park will return to Stewart Park in Roseburg beginning next week.

A release from the City of Roseburg Parks and Recreation Department said free classes will start on July 11th. The classes are open to all experience levels. Hosted by Summer Fry and other local yoga instructors, the release said students can expect fun, yet gentle yoga classes that aim to strengthen core muscles, which lead to better balance and wellbeing.

Classes will be every Saturday from 10:00 am. to 11:00 a.m. Those attending should be prepared with a yoga mat, blanket, and a strap or belt. It is recommended that students refrain from eating or drinking, at least one hour prior to the class.

Classes are held on the lawn east of the band shell. The release said there is plenty of space to allow for healthy social distancing.

For more information, call the City of Roseburg Parks and Recreation Department.

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YOGA IN THE PARK RETURNS NEXT WEEK - kqennewsradio.com

The McGraw League outdoor basketball courts are the home of Scioto Countys newest yoga class, Yoga on the Courts.

Jacob Smith | Daily Times

PORTSMOUTH Scioto Countys newest hot spot for yoga is located at a place many may already be familiar with.

Yoga on the Courts, hosted at the McGraw League outdoor basketball courts, will begin its third week of weekly classes Wednesday at their location at 1321 State Route 140. For 31 years, the McGraw outdoor basketball courts have been used for basketball but now have a new purpose.

Kurt McGraw, league director for the McGraw Basketball League, ran with the multipurpose idea of a weekly yoga class at his courts and began the first set of classes just nine days ago.

Ive been wanting to do this out here for a long time, McGraw said. Its a nice setting in the evening, its outside. Our climate doesnt allow us to have classes outside during the winter, but I enjoy practicing outside any chance I get.

Each week the class has gained attendees as social distancing guidelines as part of Ohios Responsible Restart Ohio initiative remain in place.

McGraw first practiced yoga himself after a lasting back injury would not quite recover as quickly as he would have liked. Now, he sees the method of exercise in a completely different light.

Most people are intimidated by yoga, I was for years, McGraw said. How I got into practicing yoga was I hurt my back and tried everything from chiropractic to physical therapy, and the best thing that did anything and helped was the yoga practice. I was a believer right from there.

Barbara Duncan, a longtime yoga instructor at Shawnee State University, SOMCs Life Center, and Iron Body Fitness, was tabbed by McGraw to instruct the classes during their initial stages.

Ive been to Barbaras classes many times, McGraw said. Shes been teaching and practicing at Shawnee, at the LIFE Center, working with Portsmouths football team and many sports programs. Ive always really enjoyed her classes and shes excited about this.

McGraw also mentioned that Yoga on the Courts is looking for additional certified yoga instructors to teach classes at different times during the morning and evening, potentially three-four days a week.

Anyone wishing to participate in the exercise in future classes needs only bring a $10 class fee, a personal mat and a positive attitude.

Were going to do some beginning classes for anyone new, McGraw said. People that dont know or dont have any experience with something tend to be afraid, but theres no fear with starting this for the first time.

The McGraw League outdoor basketball courts are the home of Scioto Countys newest yoga class, Yoga on the Courts.

https://www.portsmouth-dailytimes.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/28/2020/07/web1_McGraw-league-courts.jpgThe McGraw League outdoor basketball courts are the home of Scioto Countys newest yoga class, Yoga on the Courts. Jacob Smith | Daily Times

Reach Jacob Smith at (740) 353-3101 ext. 1930, by email at jsmith@aimmediamidwest.com, or on Twitter @JacobSmithPDT 2020 Portsmouth Daily Times, all rights reserved

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Yoga on the Courts off to hot start - Portsmouth Daily Times