The advent of Bitcoin in 2009 by an individual or group under the pseudonym Satoshi Nakamoto revolutionized financial transactions with its decentralized, peer-to-peer technology.

This groundbreaking innovation has since permeated various sectors, including online gambling. Bitcoin casinos represent a significant shift from traditional online casinos by leveraging blockchain technology to offer unique security, privacy, and flexibility advantages.

This article delves into the essential aspects of Bitcoin casinos, providing a foundational understanding for beginners and highlighting their unique benefits.

Bitcoin casinos operate primarily on blockchain technology, which ensures a transparent and immutable record of transactions. This fundamental difference differentiates them from conventional online casinos, which rely on centralized servers. At the heart of Bitcoin casinos is using cryptocurrencies for deposits, withdrawals, and gameplay, with Bitcoin being the most popular choice.

Bitcoin casinos offer several distinct advantages over their traditional counterparts, contributing to their growing popularity among online gamblers.

For those new to Bitcoin casinos, starting can seem daunting. However, the process is straightforward once you understand the basics.

Bitcoin casinos boast many games, similar to what you would find in traditional online casinos. These range from classic table games like blackjack and roulette to a vast selection of slots and live dealer games. The use of provably fair technology is a notable feature in Bitcoin casinos, allowing players to verify the fairness of each game outcome.

Bitcoin casinos represent a significant evolution in the online gambling industry, offering advantages catering to the modern players security, privacy, and efficiency needs.

From their inception following Satoshi Nakamotos blockchain innovation to their diverse and engaging gaming experiences, Bitcoin casinos have established themselves as a formidable presence in the online gambling world.

As this industry continues to grow and evolve, it presents an exciting frontier for players seeking a more secure, private, and innovative online gambling experience. Whether you are new to online gambling or looking to explore the benefits of Bitcoin casinos, the journey from Satoshi to slots is one filled with potential and excitement.

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From Satoshi to Slots: A Beginner's Guide to Bitcoin Casinos and Their Advantages - Eye On Annapolis

Bitcoin

Process has coincided with a rise in price in the past and is due to take place again on Saturday

Fri 19 Apr 2024 02.00 EDT

Satoshi Nakamoto, the pseudonymous creator of bitcoin, still has an influence on the cryptocurrency nearly 14 years after disappearing.

This week the protocol designed by Nakamoto an individual or group of individuals who went silent in December 2010 will trigger what is known as a bitcoin halving, a process that has coincided with price increases in the past. The latest halving is expected to take place on Saturday.

Here we explain what the bitcoin halving entails and its potential impact.

It is related to how bitcoins are recorded and created. Transactions in the cryptocurrency are recorded on a universally accessible ledger called a blockchain. These transactions are put on the blockchain by miners who pack them into blocks that are then linked or chained together. They do this by solving a cryptographic puzzle using specialised hardware and this is the key bit receive a reward in newly created bitcoins.

Nakamoto intended the number of bitcoins entering circulation to be finite, at 21m, so the protocol seeks to control the amount of new coins entering the market. It does this by halving the size of the miners reward every 210,000 blocks roughly every four years.

The latest halving is expected to take place in the early hours of Saturday in the US and UK, when the reward for adding a new block of transactions to the blockchain will decrease from 6.25 bitcoins to 3.125. Bitcoin of which there are more than 19m in circulation will continue to halve until the 21m point is reached, expected in 2140.

Halving reduces the supply of new bitcoins, which should in theory increase the price. It is an economic axiom that if demand for an asset remains stable while its supply decreases, its price should go up.

The past three halvings in 2020, 2016 and 2012 have resulted in an average price increase of 16% over the 60 days that followed, according to data from the asset research firm 10x Research. The 2016 halving resulted in a decrease of 6% over the following 60 days, although it then rallied strongly throughout 2017.

Markus Thielen, the head of research at 10x, says the halving is associated with price increases due to reduced supply but investors will have to wait for a price peak, which typically comes 500 days after a halving.

In recent weeks bitcoin has fallen sharply from a recent record high of more than $70,000 (56,175) to about $62,000 but it remains a strongly performing asset, up 40% so far in 2024 and more than double where it was at the same time last year.

It is worth noting that while prices ultimately rose after the 2016 and 2020 halvings, they underwent prolonged dips so-called crypto winters in 2018 and 2022 where prices underwent a prolonged dip.

The setup feels really familiar to past occasions where there has been a very sharp rally and it forms a top then breaks, says Neil Wilson, the chief analyst at the brokerage firm Finalto. Analysts at Deutsche Bank wrote on Thursday that the halving was already partially priced in by the market and that they did not expect prices to increase significantly following the halving event.

Bitcoin mining companies, which take on the energy and equipment costs of validating transactions, face a financial hit as their reward drops.

Andrew ONeill, the managing director of the digital assets research lab at the credit ratings firm S&P Global, wrote this week: The block reward remains a significant part of miners revenue, therefore halving the reward impacts profitability.

He added: Some operations will become non-profitable and will shut down as result, particularly those with higher energy costs.

To make bitcoin mining financially sustainable, S&P says, the currency will need to be used more widely throughout the global economy in order to increase miners revenues via transaction fees. However, greater use of the cryptocurrency jars with concerns that energy-intensive bitcoin mining is already environmentally unsustainable.

There is also, for bitcoins many critics, the negative impact of amateur investors being lured in by any price rise and hype that follows the halving.

Bitcoin has gained in legitimacy this year, increasing its price, with US Securities and Exchange Commission permitting exchange-traded funds (ETFs) a basket of assets that can be bought and sold like shares on an exchange that track the price of the cryptocurrency. Nonetheless, the chair of the SEC, Gary Gensler, was begrudging in giving the go-ahead, describing bitcoin as a volatile asset used for illicit activity including ransomware, money laundering, sanction evasion, and terrorist financing.

ONeill is also sceptical that there will be a price boom. The BTC [bitcoin] market is in a very different place to when the prior halvings occurred four, eight and 12 years ago, he says. Other drivers such as the growth of BTC ETFs in the US, and macro drivers such as interest rates and market liquidity, will also influence price.

Carol Alexander, a professor of finance at the University of Sussex business school, says any price boost from the halving will ultimately be illusory.

It will probably go above the all-time high but in the long run its value will be zero because there is no intrinsic value in bitcoin whatsoever, she says. Its simply a speculative asset.

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What is bitcoin halving and will it affect the price? - The Guardian

In the annals of history, tales of ordinary individuals transcending their humble beginnings to achieve extraordinary feats stand as timeless reminders of the human spirit's indomitable nature. Such is the narrative of Sudhir Kove, a name now synonymous with resilience, reinvention, and relentless pursuit of excellence. Born into the embrace of simplicity, Sudhir's childhood unfolded against the backdrop of a modest household, devoid of opulence or extravagance. Yet, within the confines of his unassuming surroundings, lay the seeds of greatness, waiting to germinate and bloom with the passage of time.

Sudhir's formative years were characterized by a voracious appetite for knowledge, nurtured by his unwavering love for reading. While his peers indulged in leisurely pursuits, Sudhir found solace in the pages of comic books, immersing himself in worlds of fantasy and imagination. Little did he know that these early literary escapades would lay the foundation for his future endeavors, shaping his intellect and igniting the spark of curiosity that would guide him on his path to greatness.

As destiny would have it, Sudhir's educational journey took a pivotal turn when he transitioned from a Marathi medium to an English medium school in the 8th grade. It was here that he encountered a new realm of possibilities, expanding his horizons and broadening his perspectives. Armed with a keen intellect and a thirst for knowledge, Sudhir excelled in academics, particularly in subjects like Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics, laying a solid groundwork for his future academic pursuits.

Fuelled by a relentless drive to carve out his own path in life, Sudhir embarked on the arduous journey of higher education, enrolling in an engineering program in Mumbai. However, the initial days of his collegiate experience were marked by anonymity and a lack of direction. Sudhir found himself adrift in a sea of faces, struggling to find his footing amidst the chaos of academic rigour and personal introspection. Yet, it was during these formative years that Sudhir's latent potential began to emerge, slowly but surely, like a phoenix rising from the ashes of self-doubt and uncertainty.

The turning point in Sudhir's life came when he stumbled upon the ancient art of graphology, the study of handwriting analysis, under the guidance of a revered Marathi guru. Intrigued by the profound insights offered by this esoteric discipline, Sudhir delved deep into its intricacies, unlocking the secrets of human behavior and personality encoded within the strokes of a pen. It was a revelation that would change the course of his life forever, propelling him on a journey of self-discovery and personal transformation.

Armed with newfound knowledge and a burning passion to share his insights with the world, Sudhir embarked on a mission to empower others, donning the mantle of a coach and consultant. Drawing upon his own experiences of personal growth and self-improvement, Sudhir sought to inspire others to unleash their full potential and embark on their own journey of self-discovery. It was a mission fueled by a sense of purpose and a deep-seated desire to make a positive impact on the lives of others.

While initially balancing his burgeoning career as a graphologist with the demands of conventional employment, Sudhir soon realized that his true calling lay in the realm of education and personal development. In a bold and courageous move, he made the decision to leave behind the security of a stable job and pursue his passion for graphology on a full-time basis. It was a leap of faith that would test his resolve and push him to the limits of his endurance, yet Sudhir remained undaunted, driven by a singular vision of success and self-actualization.

Launching his maiden batch of students with just twelve eager learners, Sudhir encountered the first of many challenges that would test his mettle as an entrepreneur and educator. Yet, in the face of adversity, he remained steadfast in his commitment to his craft, leveraging the power of technology to adapt and innovate in an ever-changing world. Little did he know that the greatest challenge of all lay just around the corner, lurking in the shadows like a specter of uncertainty and fear.

The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 brought the world to a standstill, casting a long shadow of doubt and despair over Sudhir's fledgling enterprise. With schools and businesses shuttered, and social interactions reduced to mere digital facsimiles of their former selves, Sudhir found himself at a crossroads, grappling with the daunting prospect of an uncertain future. Yet, it was in the crucible of adversity that Sudhir's true character was forged, as he rose to meet the challenges of the moment with resilience, resourcefulness, and unwavering determination.

Undeterred by the prevailing gloom and doom, Sudhir reinvented his approach, pivoting to virtual platforms to continue imparting knowledge and transforming lives in the midst of a global crisis. Leveraging the power of technology and the reach of social media, he reached out to a wider audience than ever before, transcending geographical boundaries and cultural barriers to share his message of hope and inspiration with the world. It was a testament to Sudhir's adaptability and ingenuity, as he transformed adversity into opportunity, turning the challenges of the pandemic into a springboard for growth and innovation.

As the world slowly began to emerge from the shadows of the pandemic, Sudhir found himself at the helm of a burgeoning enterprise, poised for unprecedented growth and expansion. What had once seemed like insurmountable obstacles had now become stepping stones on the path to success, as Sudhir's vision and determination propelled him towards new heights of achievement. In just a few short years, he had transformed his humble beginnings into a thriving enterprise, touching the lives of thousands with his message of empowerment and transformation.

Yet, Sudhir's journey was far from over, as he continued to push the boundaries of possibility and explore new avenues of growth and innovation. Drawing upon his diverse skill set and eclectic interests, Sudhir ventured into the realm of literature, penning two acclaimed books that would further solidify his reputation as a thought leader and innovator in his field. From the profound impact of wristwatches on human destiny to the transformative power of scientific logo design, Sudhir's literary endeavors offered insights and inspiration to readers around the world, cementing his legacy as a pioneer and visionary in the realm of personal development and self-improvement.

Services and Courses at Sudhir Kove Life Transformation Academy

Wristwatch Analysis and Therapy:

Sudhir Kove Life Transformation Academy introduces a groundbreaking course on Wristwatch Analysis and Therapy, challenging conventional perceptions by elucidating the transformative potential of timepieces. Led by expert analyst Sudhir Kove, the course equips individuals with the skills to decipher the profound impact of wristwatches on one's destiny, fostering a new generation of analysts adept at overcoming life's challenges.

Numero-Grapho:

Delving into the symbiotic relationship between numerology and graphology, Sudhir Kove Life Transformation Academy presents Numero-Grapho, a revolutionary course redefining the contours of personality analysis. Guided by Sudhir Kove's expertise, learners gain insights into the vibrational dynamics of numerology and the intricate nuances of graphological forms, offering holistic solutions for personal and professional growth.

Astrology Courses:

Unveiling the mysteries of astrology as a viable career option, Sudhir Kove Life Transformation Academy offers comprehensive courses tailored to empower aspiring astrologers. Through a blend of traditional wisdom and modern insights, students gain proficiency in the ancient science of astrology, under the mentorship of seasoned experts, charting a course towards success and fulfillment.

Scientific Logo Designing Solutions:

Transforming businesses through the art of scientific logo designing, Sudhir Kove emerges as the beacon of innovation in the realm of branding. By harnessing the principles of graphology, vastushastra, astrology, sacred geometry, and color therapy, Sudhir crafts logos that transcend mere symbols, embodying the essence and values of each enterprise.

In essence, Sudhir Kove's odyssey exemplifies the transformative power of passion, perseverance, and purpose. Through his pioneering initiatives and educational endeavors, he continues to illuminate paths, guiding countless individuals toward self-discovery and success. As Sudhir Kove Life Transformation Academy continues to flourish, it remains a testament to the boundless potential that resides within every individual, awaiting the spark of inspiration to ignite the flames of greatness.

Looking ahead, Sudhir harbors ambitious plans for the future. He envisions establishing a healing center and institute focused on Vedic science, with the aim of reaching millions of people worldwide. His unwavering commitment to knowledge dissemination and personal transformation underscores Sudhir Kove's status as a visionary leader in the field of holistic wellness and self-discovery.

(Disclaimer: ABP Network Pvt. Ltd. and/or ABP Live does not in any manner whatsoever endorse/subscribe to the contents of this article and/or views expressed herein. Reader discretion is advised.)

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Unveiling The Remarkable Journey Of Sudhir Kove: A Tale Of Triumph, Transformation, And Transcendence - ABP Live

Stephanie Wheelahan changes lives through yoga, as she did her own life after the grip of postpartum depression led to alcohol abuse.

I have a deeper capacity to deal with life and stress, said Wheelahan, sober for more than two years. I have the capacity to get through life feeling grounded through lifes happenings.

Since the yoga created such a large shift in my life, Wheelahan said, she became a trained instructor to help others and recently opened Nourished Roots Yoga at 34 Main St., Thomaston.

Whether its relief from trauma, anxiety, or every day stress that clients are seeking or just overall wellness or physical changes Wheelahan and her team of seven instructors have just the right remedy, clients say.

Wheelahan, by all accounts a gifted teacher, has created a warm, inviting space reflective of her personality, they say.

Nourished Roots Yoga cultivates an environment where growth and connection thrive. Its not just about attending classes; its about embracing a deeper practice than what you may find elsewhere, said client Sara Siminow.

Each class and instructor serve a unique purposeStephanie has created a sanctuary for mindful movement. She is the guiding force behind this space and has crafted a one of a kind environment that feels like home.

Student Nicole Ianniello said Wheelahan taught the first formal yoga class she ever took and the impact was powerful.

It was serene and beautiful, and at the end she went up to each student to chat and ask how they felt, Ianniello said. Stephanies care and ability to connect with people creates a comforting environment. Stephanie has created a studio that mirrors herself. Its a warm, inviting, and comfortable space for all people to practice.

Yoga is an ancient and complex mind and body spiritual practice that can build strength, structure, stability, Wheelahan said.

Its become a popular way of promoting overall wellness physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually, Wheelahan said. Mentally and emotionally it helps you bring into center. Youre focusing on what youre doing in the moment. It can result in better health choices, better sleep.

Wheelahan, a mom of two boys, 8 and 5, said she overcame alcohol abuse through yoga.

Wheelahan said while suffering postpartum depression after giving birth to her first son, the downward spiral began.

She knew she needed an outlet, but workouts at the gym didnt satisfy me.

I was really struggling mentally with alcohol abuse , she said. I was just a mess. I was not well.

She turned to yoga and in her case didnt use programs such as Alcoholics Anonymous or others.

Wheelahan said she has been sober for more than two years.

A year into sobriety, she studied more about yoga for recovery and it led her to a program called Y12, which stands for Yoga for the 12 Steps of Recovery.

Wheelahan became a trained instructor in that approach and plans to offer it at Nourished Roots in the fall.

She said the Y12 yoga helps people cope with anything that made a profound impact on their physical, mental, and emotional health from childhood and forward.

The language used during recovery classes differs from other yoga styles and is heavily rooted in finding comfort and support in ones own body, she said.

The class offers different options to come back to yourself, is focused on moving in a way that feels comfortable, and geared toward relaxing tension in the body, she said.

The language we use is different because its more of an invitation, Wheelahan said. If its comfortable for you, you can explore.

When teaching from a trauma informed lens its more about experienceI hope for healing, she said.

Nourished Roots yoga offers a variety of classes from beginners to experienced, she said, and most of the instructors are trauma informed.

She chose the studio name because yoga is about nourishing your roots from the inside out so one grows into the person theyre meant to be.

I love to watch people become the best versions of themselves, Wheelahan said. Most people are healing from something.

Wheelahan said she loves everything about teaching yoga.

I love the people, I love the students, I love being part of the community, she said. I love hearing how they overcame things.

Student Amber Blackthorn said the studio is revitalizing our little town, while also building community.

Its a welcoming space for all to join, whatever the goal or reason, Blackthorn said. She creates a sensation of balance, peaceful but with room for laughter.

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A CT woman used yoga to heal. Her studio 'has created a sanctuary' for others, clients say - Hartford Courant

If youve ever entered your yoga class feeling a little, um, backed up, you might be surprised to realize that you dont walk out of it the same way: There just might be something about the practice thatwhile calming your mind and soothing your musclesalso revs up your digestive system.

Its very likely that yoga students will experience effects on the GI tract, and its completely normal and natural, Valerie Lucas, registered yoga teacher and YogaSix senior master trainer, tells SELF. She knows the feeling all too well, which is why she says she skips the pre-class breakfast burrito so she doesnt end up running out in the middle of it.

All this explains why yoga can be a helpful choice for folks dealing with constipation too. While theres not a whole lot of research on the topic, theres some evidence to suggest that it can help ease the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Jill Deutsch, MD, director of the Yale Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders Program and a registered yoga teacher, tells SELF. According to a small 2014 study, when young adults with IBS took a couple of yoga classes a week, they reported improvements in constipation (plus in other symptoms like pain) over the course of six weeks.

Its tricky to pinpoint a particular feature of yoga thats responsible, Dr. Deutsch says. Its likely a combination of things, she says, pointing out that the practice can include both asana (movement) and pranayama (breath work).

The first part is obviously huge. For one, movement in general can speed up your gut motility, or how quickly waste moves through your GI tract. We understand that a body in motion means that all of its parts are in motion, Dr. Deutsch says. This might explain why you suddenly have to poop after taking your dog for a walk in the morning, or if you sometimes have to head directly to the bathroom after coming back from a long run.

Digging a little deeper into yoga specifically, theres no data to say that there is one particular pose you should be doing for gut health in general, Dr. Deutsch says. But, she says, yoga practitioners and teachers and those who work in ayurvedic medicine point to some particulars that they say can improve overall gut health, function, and motility, she says.

For example, twisting poses can be helpful, Dr. Deutsch says. The GI tract moves from the right lower abdomen up and around to the left lower abdomen in a circle, so it makes logical sense that a twist or circular motion can potentially help stimulate or improve movement through the GI tract, she explains.

Other poses that involve folding or bending forward can gently compress and release the stomach and colon, Kelly Turner, registered yoga teacher and vice president of training and experience at YogaSix, tells SELF. This internal massage can help move things along, so to speak, which is why it's not uncommon to hear the occasional flatulence in a yoga class, Turner tells SELF.

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8 Yoga Poses That'll Help You Poop (After Class, Hopefully) - Self

Quality yoga pants can often cost well over $100. Thats a hefty chunk of change, especially if you want multiple pairs to put on rotation for working out, running errands and lounging around the house. These Promover Wide-Leg Yoga Pants from Amazon Canada fix that issue. Since theyre on sale, three or four pairs are the same price as just one premium style. Plus, reviewers swear theyre ultra-comfortable, super soft and durable to boot. (Did we mention theyre flattering, too?) Read on to discover why reviewers love these yoga pants so much that theyre even wearing them to work.

Soft and stretchy, these wide-leg yoga pants are designed for movement from stretching to dancing to hiking. Made from 81 per cent polyester and 19 per cent spandex, theyre also great for lounging around the house and are comfy enough for air travel and road trips.

The thick high-rise waistband means the pants wont roll down or cut into your body and the deep side pockets can be used to stash a cellphone, credit card, keys or other small items. Bonus: Theyre easy to pull off and on, even for arthritic hands.

No matter your shape, youll probably be able to find your perfect fit with sizes ranging from X-small to 3X, plus length variations of petite, regular and tall. The petite inseam is 28 inches and is designed to fit women 53 and under. The regular inseam is 30 inches and ideal for women 54 to 59. If youre 510 or over, opt for the tall inseam at 32 inches.

On laundry day, throw them straight into the washing machine. Like other athleisure and athletic wear, theyre best hung to dry.

Choose from 19 different hues, including an array of neutral greys, browns and greens.

More than 4,700 five-star reviews cant be wrong. This durable Promover wide-leg style is comparable to premium yoga pants that are more than three times the price.

If theres any box these pants check, its super comfortable. And thats probably due to the fabric, which shoppers gush is butter soft.

The style also has a lot of stretch and is made from a lightweight-yet-solid material thats not see-through, so you dont have to worry about showing too much during downward dog.

Many reviewers say the pants are flattering and the high, wide waistband holds in the tummy and offers nice contouring a perk if youre a bit self-conscious in that area. However, some shoppers note that the pockets are a little bulky, which means the fabric doesn't always lie completely flat.

Of course, these pants arent just wearable for yoga. One reviewer says theyre her go-to for travelling and life! Many others say they easily pass for work pants.

The style washes well, sans pilling, even if its accidentally laundered with towels or denim by mistake.

If youre typically between sizes, shoppers recommend sizing down because the style runs big. Some shoppers also say the pants were too long or too short, so it's probably best to measure your inseam before buying to choose the appropriate length rather than relying on the size guide recommendations for height. Lengths run as follows: 28 inches for petite, 30 inches for regular and 32 inches for tall.

If you're looking for an ultra-comfortable pant style that can take you from yoga to the grocery store to the couch (and maybe a stop at the office in between), the Promover Wide-Leg Pants could be your saving grace. The relaxed fit flatters many body types, and the soft, stretchy fabric feels like a supportive hug. They fit a bit big, so you'll want to size down. Also, make sure you measure your inseam and select the correct length before adding to cart.

The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.

Let us know what you think by commenting below and tweeting @YahooStyleCA! Follow us on Twitter and Instagram.

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These 'flattering' yoga pants are 'butter soft' and they're under $30 on Amazon - Yahoo Canada Shine On

Suhka Center in Clarendon (staff photo by Savannah Taffe)

Suhka Center in Clarendon front entrance (staff photo by Savannah Taffe)

Suhka Center in Clarendon studio space (staff photo by Savannah Taffe)

A Clarendon yoga studio is closing its doors as its owner seeks a new location with an additional focus on fitness.

The Suhka Center, which Yelp lists as the number one Black-owned yoga studio in the D.C. area, will be leaving 1016 N. Garfield Street on Friday. Co-founder Damion Moss said high rent and a dissolved partnership with a former business partner are driving him to look elsewhere.

We had an opportunity to do something really amazing here, two brothers coming together to build a yoga studio, Moss said. We have since gone our separate ways ,and since that happened, the pivot started.

Moss plans to open a new wellness space dubbed Good Space somewhere outside of Clarendon. He wants to keep the Sukha Centers focus on yoga, lifestyle and meditation, but also incorporate a more physically rigorous approach.

I look at yoga as a practice thats very empowering, said Moss. Not just the movement but the community and philosophies, how you look at the environment and how you treat others.

Before his time at Suhka, Moss had experience in various areas of wellness and fitness. He learned Budokon, a practice that combines martial arts, yoga and fitness, and established his personal training business, which was recognized as the best in Arlington in 2023.

Moss believes his background helped distinguish Suhka from other yoga studios.

So often you hear people say, I want to go to this class to tune out the world and escape, said Moss. I say Take this class so that you can deal with the world, not escape it so that you are more comfortable to do something uncomfortable.'

No matter where he goes next, Moss plans to continue using his training and personal philosophy to help people improve their wellness.

We are committed to uplifting our community to being better, healthier, smarter about the environment, smarter about how they live their lives, and were still going to be doing that, he said.

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Clarendon yoga studio seeks to relocate and rebrand with new fitness focus - ARLnow

We live in a world where uncertainty and change abound, while rapid technological advancement ironically both expands and inhibits human connection. While several of these advancements have improved the state of the world to some degree, the negative consequences have humans facing an increasing lack of community, isolation from nature and one another, rootlessness, and disconnection from self. Mental health issues are at an all-time high, loneliness has been called a world epidemic, distraction reigns, and stress is an unwelcome frequent visitor for an increasingly disillusioned population.

In response to many of the challenges posed in modern society, which are often at odds with both human nature and the natural world (see: sitting stationary at ones desk working at a computer screen for 8 hours), a new generation is looking to ancient wisdom to provide an antidote. The past several years have seen a hopeful movement looking to indigenous practices to help solve some of the worlds biggest environmental and social problems. Described by research agency Wunderman Thompson as the Indigenous Innovation trend, this revival of ancient practices draws upon the ability of indigenous cultures to maintain balance with nature and instill a sense of community, purpose, rootedness, physical strength, and mental equilibrium to individuals.

Kinam a physical practice based on ancient prehispanic Toltec wisdom has recently gained popularity in Mexico, illuminating a path towards a more balanced and mindful existence. While Toltec mental and spiritual philosophy has previously been popularized through the teachings of authors like Don Miguel Ruiz, the physical practice of Kinam allows for a comprehensive, movement-based system that integrates bodily, emotional, and spiritual development. Kinam has drawn in individuals around the world seeking personal growth, mindfulness, physical embodiment, and deeper connection.

The Toltecs were an advanced Mesoamerican civilization that flourished in central Mexico between the 10th and 12th centuries AD, before the Mayans and Aztecs. Predating Yoga, the practice of power postures now referred to as Kinam was based on psychophysical techniques created by the Toltec shamans of ancient Mexico.

These techniques emerged based on the shamans unique perspective on the world, space, and time, centered on the belief that the world was not a set of objects in space-time as we understand it, but rather a perceptual effect. The shamans believed that to understand this reality in greater depth, it was necessary to balance four factors: body, mind, emotions and vital energy. The balance between these allows practitioners to gain access to the extraordinary capabilities to live in a higher state of consciousness. In response, the shamans created power postures and the arts of meditation, recapitulation, dreaming, and self-vigilance.

The renaissance of these practices is attributed to over 20 years of research by anthropologist Frank Diaz, and is the result of an amalgamation of Diazs archaeological study of thousands of Toltec sculptures, codices, and murals, indicating different postures, along with oral traditions gathered from indigenous communities who have passed down knowledge & variations of the practice. More recently, additional documentation of the Toltec practices was gathered from 16th and 17th-century archives found in Sevilla, Spain, gathered from Spanish conquistadors.

Despite the fascinating breadth of academic research, the Toltec teachings are ultimately understood best through practice. Recognizing the positive impact of applying these academic findings to physical practice, former principal dancer Alejandra Cobo and Pilates expert Ana Delia Benito, together with Frank Diaz, with the support of Fundacin Dond, established the Kinam Institute to bring this ancient knowledge to the world. The Kinam practice, based on Toltec balance and power postures, incorporates modern techniques of functional movement and dance, and uses psychophysical exercises to help practitioners find center, balance, and fluidity.

The positive impact of power postures on mental states has been widely researched and documented in recent years. Social psychologist Amy Cuddy suggests that adopting power poses can influence not only how others perceive us but also how we perceive ourselves. According to her research, assuming high-power poses for just a few minutes can lead to increased feelings of power and confidence, as well as changes in hormone levels associated with dominance and stress reduction.

Through the practice of postures, physical movements, manual exercises, meditation, sleep training, and breathing techniques inspired by pre-Hispanic sources, Kinam seeks to promote integral harmony and a deeper rootedness. Kinam emphasizes the importance of transitioning between postures, organizing practices into challenges, series, and sequences, and providing variations based on individual capabilities.

The physical Kinam practice begins by acknowledging the cardinal directions, a nod to the Toltecs deep reverence for the natural world. From there, practitioners move through a series of postures and exercises designed to cultivate a sense of centeredness, balance, and fluidity both physically and energetically.

Each posture represents a stage of life, explains co-founder Ana Delia Benito. This is represented through their symbolism and meaning. For example, Sprout Pose, with its depiction of a sprouting seed, symbolizes rebirth and enlightenment, which can be associated with growth and development in a persons life. The Root Posture, with its connection to the practitioners own experience and congruence, reflects the ability to incorporate achievements and learning into daily life. The Arrow Pose, with its symbolism of attention and perception, could represent a stage of focus and mental clarity. By exercising these postures, practitioners exercise their abilities to call upon these states in real life.

A key aspect of the Kinam practice is its incorporation of sleep and dreaming techniques. In Kinams symbolic framework, conscious dreaming, known as ensueo, plays a central role in training the practitioners nahual their capacity for empowered action represented as vital energy. By applying willpower and intention to the dream state, Kinam teaches practitioners to command their dreams, develop focus, and the ability to plant seeds of transformation from the realm of the subconscious.

Through these conscious/awakened dreaming practices, or ensoar as Kinam calls them, individuals can project their nahual, renew their vitality, and actively utilize the time spent sleeping, rather than passively accepting it. The texts emphasize that ensueo is not merely another dream, but a transformative state of consciousness that can lead to ecstatic experiences and a profound reconnection with the creative essence of existence. By mastering techniques like controlled dreaming, hand symbolism, and the management of emotional challenges, Kinam practitioners seek to unlock deeper layers of awareness and spiritual growth through the practice of conscious, intentional dreaming.

While the practice of Kinam offers a practical psychophysical way of interacting with the world and oneself, it also incorporates an exploration of energy work. With principles similar to chakra centers, Kinam implements practices to shift energy within the body, such as transforming or moving stagnant energy to revitalize and motivate. Furthermore, by engaging in static positions that compress certain glands to induce specific, focused perceptual states, Kinam allows practitioners to access states of consciousness outside of our normal purview. Through these techniques, we can expand other faculties of humanity, including perception of the often hidden or unseen aspects of reality says Benito.

Toltec is a way of being, says Ana Delia Benito. We can all be Toltec.

Whether youre seeking to deepen your own physical, emotional, and spiritual practice, or are a teacher looking to expand your offerings, Kinam presents an intriguing opportunity to reconnect with ancient Toltec wisdom in a modern context.

Kinam is for anyone interested in reconnecting with their physical body, vital energy, and internal wisdom, the Kinam Institute states, as well as teachers of practices such as Yoga, Chik kung, and functional training, who wish to complement their teaching.

While Kinam has enjoyed a spread throughout world cities from Mexico City to Los Angeles, in Mexico, classes are offered at Agoralucis in Polanco, Mexico City, as well as online through the studio. The Instituto Kinam also offers a six-module certification program, enabling you to become a Kinam practitioner and train others.

In a world that often feels disconnected and out of balance, the revival of Toltec practices like Kinam offers a powerful antidote. By reconnecting with ancient wisdom, Kinam provides a holistic path toward greater harmony, embodiment, spiritual growth, and awakened capabilities. As we navigate the challenges of modern life, the Toltec way of Kinam stands as a beacon, guiding us back to a more balanced and mindful existence.

Monica Belot is a writer, researcher, strategist and adjunct professor at Parsons School of Design in New York City, where she teaches in the Strategic Design & Management Program. Splitting her time between NYC and Mexico City, where she resides with her naughty silver labrador puppy Atlas, Monica writes about topics spanning everything from the human experience to travel and design research. Follow her varied scribbles on Medium at https://medium.com/@monicabelot.

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Kinam: The Toltec 'yoga' taking Mexico by storm - Mexico News Daily

By Deborah Burke Henderson, Contributing Writer

MILFORD For the average person, it might seem a stretch to move from educational training and professional work as a biomedical engineer onto the yoga mat, but Mary Greens lifelong interest in health and wellness has brought her right here, albeit through a circuitous route.

Its been a kind of dot-to-dot experience, Green quipped with a smile.

Green recalls an introduction to yoga when she was just eight years old. Although she refused to attend a class with her mother, she and her younger brother did try to copy the contorted postures pictured in The Complete Illustrated Book of Yoga, a 1960 how-to book that was kept on the coffee table. Some of the postures made such an impression that Green has been practicing yoga, on and off for decades, but most seriously engaging in the work in her mid-twenties.

As the fifth of six kids growing up in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, Green was fascinated with the creative process and building things, starting with her brothers LEGO blocks. She credits her mothers artistic nature and supportiveness as key influences in allowing her to develop this innate passion of making thingseven when things got messywhich has also carried throughout her life.

I was always drawing, painting and creating silly cartoons, Green recalled. I loved being funny and making my siblings and friends laugh.

Green credits her older brother, an engineering student at the time, with engaging her interest in math and problem-solving skills while she was in middle and high school. Later, when facing decisions about college, she felt drawn to both art and engineering and wondered how she might combine the two.

Classes in biology, anatomy, and physiology intrigued me and stimulated my passion for the workings of the human body and health and how technology might support that in terms of wellness, Green stated.

After graduating with a bachelor of science degree in biomedical engineering from Syracuse University, Green established herself in the health industry. Green worked initially as a medical research assistant in an eye-care unit at a Boston hospital and then as an engineer for a medical device company where she worked on innovative optical technology creating devices for lab instrumentation.

The company I worked for had a terrific fitness center and provided offerings in yoga, tai chi, and aerobics, Green noted. At the time, I was more interested in fast-paced exercise, but I kept coming back to yoga.

It was there that she met her future husband, a fellow engineer. They started a family and after the twins were born, Green chose to become a stay-at-home mom. As their children grew, she discovered the Kripalu Center in Lenox, Mass., and took workshops and trainings in yoga and mindfulness.

I had an aha moment there, realizing these teachings could be the perfect segue to maintain my passions and continue helping others, Green stated.

She went on to receive certification from Kripalu as a yoga instructor. Additionally, in an eight-week curriculum at the University of Massachusetts Medical Center, she experienced Jon Kabat-Zinns Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction (MSBR) technique which she found to be transformational.

For the past 16 years as a mat-based yoga instructor in workplace, educational, and community settings, Green has encouraged people to take care of themselves through mindfulness and mindful movement.

Movement implies you are in your body, Green stated. I offer guidance and instruction about making different shapes with our bodies, and always doing so with awareness of ones own experience, noticing the sensations each movement brings.

Ten years ago, the Community Center in Ashland hired Green to sub for a chair yoga instructor, and shortly thereafter, she took the position over. A typical class has 25-30 participants, ranging in age from 60 to more than 90 years old.

I sing Marys praises, Bea Riordan said. She is very welcoming and makes you feel good, no matter what your ability. I have been coming for nearly two years and find relief from my chronic back pain while I am here.

Fellow chair yoga enthusiast John Palmer, in his mid-eighties, admits he spends an inordinate amount of time sitting at his computer but finds this class a great relief.

Marys got a playful personality and keeps us smiling, said Palmer who started attending in mid-December. After completing just five consecutive classes, I noticed improvement both in my flexibility and balance.

Beyond the crucial benefits of dynamic stretching and strengthening ones overall muscles and joints during her hour-long class, Green sees great value in the community and friendship these seniors experience.

It warms my heart to see these folks care for one another, Green said. They are warm and welcoming with each other. It is a community of like-minded people who are discovering new ways to care for their bodies, find stillness, and experience life-affirming attitudes.

Green notes that the benefits of chair yoga are the same as a traditional practice: people physically get stronger, become aware of the breath and their bodies, and experience the psychological benefits of discovering a calmness in moments of stillness and gentle movement.

Recently, she was asked to teach a class in mindfulness and meditation at the center, and ten chair yoga students immediately signed up.

Even in the first session, I realized this practice will help still my racing mind and help me pay better attention to my body, Steve McCormick said. I thank my wife, Carol, for getting me here, but Im here to stay.

How does Green do it all? She credits her own daily practice.

My favorite time of day is early morning when I engage in some stretching movements and find stillness in a short meditation. I also make time to do a quick sketch, all of which sets my compass for the day. That and a good cup of coffee gets me going.

Greens advice to her students: Open and grounded, thats how we should walk in the world.

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Milford engineer turns to the yoga mat for encore career - fiftyplusadvocate

Blessing Nurses Alumni Association hosts goat yoga event for community wellness

by KHQA Staff

Blessing Nurses Alumni Association hosts goat yoga event for community wellness (Blessing Health).

Quincy, Ill. (KHQA)

A Blessing nurses' group is offering goat yoga sessions this spring.

The public is invited to register for a session of goat yoga at Blessing-Rieman College of Nursing and Health Sciences in Quincy on Saturday, May 4 at 2:00 p.m.

The goat yoga session is sponsored by the Blessing Nurses Alumni Association as part of its observance of 2024 National Nurses Week.

Goat yoga is similar to traditional yoga, during which participants follow the lead of a teacher, performing different poses designed to enhance flexibility and strength.

During a goat yoga session, baby goats, known as kids, join the human participants. Goat yoga has been proven to improve mental and physical health.

Scientific studies have confirmed the positive effects of human-animal interaction on well-being. Research has shown that spending time with animals can reduce stress levels, and even alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety.

The college is located at 3609 N. Marx Drive in Quincy. The fee to participate in the goat yoga session is $30 for adults and $14 for children 12 and under.

Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Each participant will sign a liability waiver at the start of the goat yoga session.

Participants need to bring their own yoga mat to the session if they dont want to be directly on the grass, but it is not required to participate in the class.

To register and pay the session fee, go here.

Payment may be brought the day of the goat yoga session but must be paid before the start of the class.

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Blessing Nurses Alumni Association hosts goat yoga event for community wellness - khqa.com