One of the rumors about yoga is that it creates a youthful body, hinting at longevity.

Don’t know about that-I’ll tell you when I get there but I was reflecting on the whole age thing this week because my beloved auntie celebrated her 96th birthday (her husband is a younger man at 95!). My sister Basia, who has an incredible blog, wrote a beautiful piece about them and how significant they’ve been in our lives. (See India Ink entry for January 9, 2007, it includes one of my poems) (more…)

A while ago I heard of a “Yoga and Chocolates” class (why didn’t I think of that!) and this week The New York Times does a piece about yoga and wine retreats! That’s right, contrary to what you think a yogi should or should not be “doing”- wine has been enjoyed by many a yogini or two!

Beyond the hilarity of the debate, the issue of alcohol (as well as chocolates, sex and a number of other things; sometimes all together too!) often divides a room of yoga teachers into those who believe that the two just don’t mix, and those who think it makes a great combination.  The article reflects the sentiments in the yoga community which in turn reflect different approaches to deeper issue such as the role of stimulants, altered states, sexual pleasures, dancing, eating etc.  (more…)

There is an Indic wisdom that goes:
“Where the hand goes, the glance follows, 
Where the glances lead, the mind follows, 
Where the mind goes, there the mood follows 
Where the mood goes, there is “rasa” born.” 

Rasa is the juice of life, the essence, that which moves us - to adore, to grieve, to love, to revolt, to embrace - to be moved because we recognize it as the actual passion of our wanting to experience life.

Today I was sitting on the top step leading to my apartment because the view of the trees is absolutely amazing from there.  I often sit there when I’m having my breakfast or lunch because it’s truly the best seat in the house!  (more…)

There have always existed differences amongst the various schools of yoga. In the order of the yoga poses, how quickly you move through them, if you rest in between or if you’re encouraged to use yoga props.

Yesterday, while taking one of my favorite yoga classes, I was told that my head placement in a headstand was wrong. I tried the suggested adjustment, but immediately felt pressure on my neck and knew it was wrong. But that’s the subject of another conversation. (more…)

Never have been, even under the best circumstances: early to bed, not rushing to work in the morning- I’m just not a morning person.

Even when I was in teacher’s training at an ashram in India and the wake up call was 4am - I hated it, I admit. (more…)

There is a sanskrit word that I try to remember in my daily yoga classes - “lila.”

It suggests a playfulness toward your practice that extends to your daily living. A lightness that recognizes the dance between different energies, in your body and around you. (more…)

In the years I ran my yoginis yoga studio in Los Angeles (www.yoginis.com), I met thousands of yoga students. Most of the folks who stepped through my doors were beginners. I told them that no yoga pose would ever be as difficult as the “going to my first yoga class” pose!

I have always enjoyed working with absolute beginners in yoga class because I knew something would change from that day on. I still remember the very first yoga class I took 25 years ago! It was weird and wonderful, difficult and sweet, strange and familiar all at once. (more…)

Attended a kirtan tonight which is a session with live music, singing, chanting sacred sounds and sometimes even spontaneous dancing! (more…)

Many students have asked me if I object to the commercialization and how popular yoga has become.

Actually, I am thrilled that so many people are trying yoga poses, whether it be in in a gym or while watching a yoga video.

Although I wish everyone can find a yoga teacher who is inspiring, well-trained and compassionate, I also know that it’s possible to have a good yoga experience even in an imperfect yoga class. (more…)

In the middle of a yoga session, I ask myself, “why am I doing this?” There probably are more efficient ways to exercise, or relax at the end of the day or get through a problem area in your life.

But then I realize how yoga takes care of the whole “package”- I’m sweating and my mind is alternating between racing and calm and by the end of the session I’ve realized something about myself, my health, my relationships, my life. (more…)