#Learn Yoga in India

[michelehauswirth]

How to Choose a School for Yoga Teacher Training in India

Selecting the ideal yoga teacher training school in India demands thoughtful consideration. Assess factors like accreditation, experienced instructors, curriculum relevance, and class size. Delve into the location's atmosphere, accommodation options, and student testimonials. Investigate the school's teaching philosophy to ensure alignment with your vision. A discerning choice ensures a transformative and authentic journey toward becoming a certified yoga instructor in the vibrant and spiritually rich landscape of India.

[theshivguru]

Support Education in Rural India 🙏

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[oorjayiiyoga]

Join 100hours Ashtanga Yoga Teacher Training in Goa, India with Oorjayii Yoga!

A 100-hour Ashtanga Yoga Teacher Training (AYTT) is a comprehensive program designed to provide participants with a strong foundation in the practice and teaching of the Ashtanga Yoga Primary Series.

Overview of Ashtanga Yoga Introduction to Ashtanga Yoga, its history, and lineage Understanding the philosophy and principles of Ashtanga Yoga Exploring the Eight Limbs of Yoga as outlined by Patanjali

Asana Practice In-depth study and practice of the Primary Series of Ashtanga Yoga Proper alignment, technique, and modifications for each asana Sequencing and structure of the Ashtanga Yoga series

Breath and Movement Synchronization Introduction to Vinyasa, the linking of breath and movement Understanding the importance of breath in Ashtanga Yoga Exploring the concept of Bandhas (energy locks) and their application

Ashtanga Yoga Philosophy Exploring the philosophical foundations of Ashtanga Yoga Study of key yogic texts such as the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali

Anatomy and Physiology Understanding the concepts of self-discipline, self-study, and surrender Anatomy and Physiology Basic anatomy and physiology relevant to Ashtanga Yoga Understanding the movement and mechanics of the body in the asanas Injury prevention and modifications for different body types

Adjustments and Assists Techniques for safe and effective adjustments and assists in Ashtanga Yoga Developing sensitivity and awareness in providing hands-on assistance Ethical considerations and boundaries in physical touch

Teaching Methodology Principles of effective teaching in Ashtanga Yoga Developing clear and concise verbal cues and instructions Sequencing and structuring a class in the Ashtanga tradition

Pranayama and Meditation Introduction to pranayama (breathing techniques) and its role in Ashtanga Yoga Yoga Ethics and Lifestyle Techniques for developing a steady breath and cultivating prana (life force) Introduction to meditation and its integration into the practice and teaching

Practicum and Teaching Practice Opportunities for supervised teaching practice Providing and receiving feedback on teaching skills Developing confidence and presence as a yoga teacher

Yoga Ethics and Lifestyle Understanding the ethical guidelines and principles of being a yoga teacher Exploring the concept of Ahimsa (non-violence) and its application in daily life Incorporating yogic principles into personal and professional life

[prakashyoga]

Discover the transformative power of yoga and meditation in our new course

In today's fast-paced world filled with constant stress and anxiety, it is vital to find ways to achieve inner peace and balance in our lives. Yoga and meditation have emerged as powerful tools to help individuals cope with the challenges of modern life and rediscover their true selves. PrakashYoga, a renowned institution known for its holistic approach to yoga and meditation, is excited to offer a new course that promises to transform lives through the practice of these ancient disciplines.

There are several alternatives to fit your unique requirements and goals, whether you prefer the ease of online learning or the immersion experience of studying in India. You may experience yoga's transformational power and set off on a path of self-discovery, healing, and development by making an investment in your yoga education and making a regular practice.

One of the unique features of our course in yoga and meditation is the flexibility it offers. As a distance yoga course learning program, you have the freedom to study at your own pace and convenience, without having to disrupt your daily routine. Whether you are a busy professional, a stay-at-home parent, or a student looking to enhance your well-being, our Lonavala yoga course is designed to accommodate your needs and schedule.

Our training covers a wide range of subjects, including the philosophy and background of meditation as well as the foundations of yoga poses and breathing exercises. In addition to strengthening your attention and concentration, you'll discover how to cultivate mindfulness and forge closer ties with both the outside world and yourself. Our knowledgeable teachers will walk you through every step of the process and provide you the information and resources you need to make positive changes in your life.

PrakashYoga, a haven of calm and tranquility where people may lose themselves in the practice of yoga and meditation, is situated in the peaceful environs of Lonavala. Our course is available online, but even so, you will experience the spirit of our retreat center as you study under our knowledgeable instructors and make connections with a global network of people who are passionate about personal development and self-discovery.

As you progress through the course, you will notice the transformative power of yoga and meditation unfolding within you. You will feel a sense of calm and serenity washing over you, relieving you of the burdens of stress and anxiety that have been weighing you down. Your body will become stronger and more flexible, your mind clearer and more focused, and your spirit elevated to a higher state of consciousness.

You will discover your true potential and draw from your boundless creative and energetic stores by practicing yoga and meditation. You'll experience a renewed feeling of clarity and purpose that will help you make life-improving decisions and realize your dreams.

At PrakashYoga, we are committed to helping you on your journey towards self-realization and personal transformation. Our yoga and meditation course is a doorway to a new way of living and being in the world, not merely a set of instructions. Come along with us on this incredible journey and learn yoga course that will change your life, and discover the countless opportunities that lie ahead of you.

In conclusion, the transformative power of yoga and meditation is unparalleled in its ability to heal the body, mind, and spirit. With PrakashYoga's distance learning course, you have the opportunity to embark on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth that will change your life forever. Seize the chance to reach your full potential and become the finest version of yourself.

[fitnessmattes]

https://www.launchora.com/story/how-a-personal-training-course-can-boost-your-care

[yogaayurvedaschool]

Yoga Ayurveda school offers best online Yoga classes for Everyone private &group classes are available

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[burst-of-iridescent]

South Asian and Hindu Influences in ATLA (Part 2)

disclaimer: i was raised culturally and religiously hindu, and though i've tried to do my research for this post and pair it with my own cultural knowledge, i'm not an expert on hinduism by any means. should i mess up, please let me know.

please also be aware that many of the concepts discussed in this post overlap heavily with religions such as buddhism and jainism, which might have different interpretations and representations. as i'm not from those religions or cultures, i don't want to speak on them, but if anyone with that knowledge wishes to add on, please feel free.

Part 1

In the previous post, I discussed some of the things ATLA got right in its depictions of desi and hindu cultures. unfortunately, they also got plenty of things wrong - often in ways that leaned towards racist caricatures - so let's break them down, starting with...

Guru Pathik

both the word "guru" and name "pathik" come from sanskrit. pathik means "traveler" or "he who knows the way" while guru is a term for a guide or mentor, similar to a teacher.

gurus were responsible for the very first education systems in ancient india, setting up institutions called gurukuls. students, referred to as disciples, would often spend years living with and learning from their gurus in these gurukuls, studying vedic and buddhist texts, philosophy, music and even martial arts.

however, their learning was not limited merely to academic study, as gurus were also responsible for guiding the spiritual evolution of their disciples. it was common for disciples to meditate, practice yoga, fast for days or weeks, and complete mundane household chores every day in order to instill them with self-discipline and help them achieve enlightenment and spiritual awareness. the relationship between a guru and his disciple was considered a sacred, holy bond, far exceeding that of a mere teacher and student.

aang's training with guru pathik mirrors some of these elements. similar to real gurus, pathik takes on the role of aang's spiritual mentor. he guides aang in unblocking his chakras and mastering the avatar state through meditation, fasting, and self-reflection - all of which are practices that would have likely been encouraged in disciples by their gurus.

pathik's design also takes inspiration from sadhus, holy men who renounced their worldly ties to follow a path of spiritual discipline. the guru's simple, nondescript clothing and hair are reflective of the ascetic lifestyle sadhus are expected to lead, giving up material belongings and desires in order to achieve spiritual enlightenment and, ultimately, liberation from the reincarnation cycle.

unfortunately, this is where the respectful references end because everything else about guru pathik was insensitive at best and stereotypical at worst.

it is extremely distasteful that the guru speaks with an overexaggerated indian accent, even though the iranian-indian actor who plays him has a naturally british accent. why not just hire an actual indian voice actor if the intention was to make pathik sound authentic? besides, i doubt authenticity was the sole intention, given that the purposeful distortion of indian accents was a common racist trope played for comedy in early 2000s children's media (see: phineas and ferb, diary of a wimpy kid, jessie... the list goes on).

furthermore, while pathik is presented a wise and respected figure within this episode, his next (and last) appearance in the show is entirely the opposite.

in the episode nightmares and daydreams, pathik appears in aang's nightmare with six hands, holding what appears to be a veena (a classical indian music instrument). this references the iconography of the hindu deity Saraswati, the goddess of wisdom and knowledge. the embodiment of divine enlightenment, learning, insight and truth, Saraswati is a member of the Tridevi (the female version of the Trimurti), one of the most respected and revered goddesses in the Hindu pantheon... and her likeness is used for a cheap laugh on a character who's already treated as a caricature.

that's bad enough on its own, but when you consider that guru pathik is the only explicitly south asian coded character in the entire show, it's downright insulting. for a show that took so many of its foundational concepts from south asia and hinduism and yet provided almost no desi representation in return, this is just rubbing salt in the wound.

Chakras

"chakra", meaning "circle" or "wheel of life" in sanskrit, refers to sources of energy found in the human body. chakra points are aligned along the spine, with energy flowing from the lowest to the highest point. the energy pooled at the lowest chakra is called kundalini, and the aim is to release this energy to the highest chakra in order to achieve spiritual enlightenment and consciousness.

the number of chakras varies in different religions, with buddhism referencing five chakras while hinduism has seven. atla draws from the latter influence, so let's take a look at the seven chakras:

Muladhara (the Root Chakra). located at the base of the spine, this chakra deals with our basest instincts and is linked to the element of earth.

Swadhisthana (the Sacral Chakra). located just below the navel, this chakra deals with emotional intensity and pleasure and is linked to the element of water.

Manipura (the Solar Plexus Chakra). located in the stomach, this chakra deals with willpower and self-acceptance and is linked to the element of fire.

Anahata (the Heart Chakra). located in the heart, this chakra deals with love, compassion and forgiveness and is linked to the element of air. in the show, this chakra is blocked by aang's grief over the loss of the air nomads, which is a nice elemental allusion.

Vishudda (the Throat Chakra). located at the base of the throat, this chakra deals with communication and honesty and is linked to the fifth classical element of space. the show calls this the Sound Chakra, though i'm unsure where they got that from.

Ajna (the Third Eye Chakra). located in the centre of the forehead, this chakra deals with spirituality and insight and is also linked to the element of space. the show calls it the Light Chakra, which is fairly close.

Sahasrara (the Crown Chakra). located at the very top of the head, this chakra deals with pure cosmic consciousness and is also linked to the element of space. it makes perfect sense that this would be the final chakra aang has to unblock in order to connect with the avatar spirit, since the crown chakra is meant to be the point of communion with one's deepest, truest self.

the show follows these associations and descriptions almost verbatim, and does a good job linking the individual chakras to their associated struggles in aang's arc.

Cosmic Energy

the idea of chakras is associated with the concept of shakti, which refers to the life-giving energy that flows throughout the universe and within every individual.

the idea of shakti is a fundamentally unifying one, stating that all living beings are connected to one another and the universe through the cosmic energy that flows through us all. this philosophy is referenced both in the swamp episode and in guru pathik telling aang that the greatest illusion in the world is that of separation - after all, how can there be any real separation when every life is sustained by the same force?

this is also why aang needing to let go of katara did not, as he mistakenly assumed, mean he had to stop loving her. rather, the point of shedding earthly attachment is to allow one to become more attuned to shakti, both within oneself and others. ironically, in letting go of katara and allowing himself to commune with the divine energy of the universe instead, aang would have been more connected to her - not less.

The Avatar State

according to hinduism, there are five classical elements known as pancha bhuta that form the foundations of all creation: air, water, earth, fire, and space/atmosphere.

obviously, atla borrows this concept in making a world entirely based on the four classical elements. but looking at how the avatar spirit is portrayed as a giant version of aang suspended in mid-air, far above the earth, it's possible that this could reference the fifth liminal element of space as well.

admittedly this might be a bit of a reach, but personally i find it a neat piece of worldbuilding that could further explain the power of the avatar. compared to anyone else who might be able to master only one element, mastering all five means having control of every building block of the world. this would allow the avatar to be far more attuned to the spiritual energy within the universe - and themselves - as a result, setting in motion the endless cycle of death and rebirth that would connect their soul even across lifetimes.

[sosuigeneris]

Socialite series: Manufacturing your Personality

So you want to get into high society. I can give you a guideline as to how you can do that. 

I was born in high society, in India. I know how these systems work. Even across cultures, they’re quite similar. I know some German, Asian, American high society people. Certain things are very similar across continents. 

You can permanently secure your position by two ways: marriage, or by becoming somebody. 

In Indian high society, there’s two kinds of people: those who have lineage, and those who are rich. 

Those who have lineage are those (mostly bankrupt) Maharajas, artists, singers, musicians, poets for generations - it’s an art form or royalty handed down to their children. They have ✨culture, a legacy✨ that can only be obtained by birth. They want to mingle with the business rich so that they get access to the opportunities they need for their livelihoods. 

The business rich can be new or old money. It doesn’t matter. Their businesses are family businesses. They have money, but may lack class. Don’t be mistaken that only new money can be “tacky” - I know plenty of influential, old money families who are equally classless and tacky. 

They want to mingle with the lineage crowd because they need that ✨culture✨ to be seen as someone. They want to be associated with them, to improve their reputations. By connecting to the artistic and musical world, it shows that they have class and persona. 

Both groups, as you see, need each other. You may ask - can’t there be families where there’s both?

Yes there can. But that is not common. 

Let’s say you take the route of dating someone who is of high society, and are hoping to convert that into marriage. I’ll be very honest with you - you have to seriously stand out for Asian and Middle Eastern high society families to accept you if you lack both lineage and money. 

You need to have a strong educational background - you need to go to a great college or masters, or whatever - otherwise this is really not going to happen. This is requirement number 1. If you don’t have this, don’t even bother reading the rest. 

And in Asian and ME families, remember one thing. Marriages are between families, NOT individuals. You have to impress the family, the family’s friends, their maids and barbers and god knows who else. 

And here are Cherry’s insider tips, just for you, to fit right in. If you fit in comfortably, it makes your life and everyone else’s life easier. 

Extrovert tendencies 

don’t be intimidated by people, don’t be shy or awkward 

It’s better to mix in being a combination of “social + slightly bored” like “it’s nice to meet you, but I wouldn’t die to be here.” 

Be open without jumping around like a Disney kid. Being “overexcited” or jumpy, smiling and laughing at just about everything comes across as weird in some cultures, IF that’s not how you genuinely are. That might work in the US, but not everywhere else. 

If I had to very simply define an extrovert - approach new people with ease, learn the art of small talk and be a good listener. 

Confident 

have a sense of self: career, hobbies, likes or dislikes, experiences

Be a multi faceted person. Do things that YOU like. If you like reading Japanese literature and collecting quartz, great! That’s your thing! 

Good communication skills

articulate, small talk abilities, good listener, curious, engaging

be able to tell little stories about yourself without giving everything away 

Well dressed 

do an image consultation for your colours, understand your body shape type and find a style that works for you

Create a capsule wardrobe that is timeless 

Remember - modesty is ALWAYS the best idea for any event. 

Posture - stand up straight, be able to walk in heels, sit without slouching

if you don’t know how to walk in heels, learn to. Practice it. 

Sit up straight, do some yoga or something for good posture 

Maintenance- good skin, hair, fit body, skin, nails, teeth; good hygiene; smell good 

hygiene comes first. Shower regularly, wash your hair as often as needed. 

Put on perfume. 

Find a make up style that works for you. Again, this takes practice. It took me years to figure out what kind of eyeliner works on my eyes and that bronzer doesn’t suit me at all. Crazy make up, unnatural hair colours, visible tattoos or piercings will not sit well in these societies. 

Etiquette 

dining etiquette- learn how to eat properly. This is not just for white culture but for other cultures as well. Understand broadly how popular cultures etiquettes work - Japanese eating etiquettes, European fork and knife etiquette, Korean drinking etiquette, Indian and Middle Eastern etiquette, etc. 

giving appropriate gifts to the host - bottle of wine or flowers 

Learn thank you etiquette- shoot a text message to the host thanking them for the event 

Intelligence

Show that you have some sort of a personality. 

Stay updated with current affairs

know your line of work and the relevant people (top companies, CEOs, etc), trends happening in your industry 

Be open to learning new things  

Put together

have a routine, show some form of discipline. 

This can be done by committing to something long term, such as healthy habits - exercise, reading, waking up early. 

Keep a watch on what you say 

people, especially women, who come across as bratty are seen as a big no no and can come across as exhausting and blood sucking. Zip it. 

Don’t talk about your failures, vulnerabilities, mistakes or mishaps. That’s confidential. 

Don’t complain or be snotty or a potty mouth. 

Do not put other people down in front of people who are not your absolute close friends. 

Poise (this is for your mental health and wellbeing)

Don’t be over eager. Being overly friendly can be seen as submissiveness. 

You’re overly friendly with someone because you want to be accepted by them. Acceptance only happens when you’re familiar with one another. When you become too familiar, it becomes a breeding ground for disrespect. Boundaries get crossed easily. 

Body language

practice practice and practice. 

Video yourself and have a fake conversation with someone. Or maybe FaceTime a friend and record yourself and see how you react to things. 

I used to watch those “try not to laugh/ get angry/ cry” videos to maintain a strong facial expression at all times. Not everyone deserves to see you vulnerable. 

Social media 

Take. Shit. Down. 

Go private if you don’t make money of social media. You’re perceived as more mysterious if you’re a private account. 

Remember, even if you’re private, it doesn’t mean that your pictures aren’t being shared. Someone’s taken a screenshot at some point for SURE or shown your account to someone else. Don’t give anyone anything to talk about. 

Don’t upload every second of every day. 

Don’t upload anything questionable- your break ups, your new boyfriend, girls nights, clubbing, your latest shopping spree etc etc. Keep things halal. Think of it this way - if your boss were to see those photos, how would you feel?

Overexposing yourself on social media comes across as desperate for attention. Limit that.

Cherry 🍒

[johnwickb1tsch]

young!Constantine x witch!Reader imagine

Imagine you’re a psychic, and an earth witch. And…you’re the love of John Constantine's life. You met in India a long time ago, when you were learning about Ayurvedic healing, and he was doing research on Rakshasa demon possessions. In the common area on the roof of your hostel in Varanasi, it was as though your eyes were glued to him. You couldn’t look away–and neither could he. Something tugged at you, like there was a string tied to your insides, and the other end of it was wrapped around that man’s finger.

He tried to play it cool by throwing a snide comment your way when you sat nearby. “Let me guess. You’re taking a year off to find yourself and learn yoga.” You threw it right back, taking in this handsome weirdo in his pressed white shirt, with his gorgeously fluffy raven hair and eyes that could steal a woman’s soul. He had a stack of books at his elbow, one of which you were wary to see was a Bible. “Let me guess, missionary boy here thinks he’s going to save some polytheists whose perfectly good religion predates Christianity by five thousand years?”

The corner of his mouth quirked in kudos, those dark eyes shining for you. “Actually, I’m a demon hunter. Know any, little witch?”

You bantered the rest of the evening, the lights of the sacred city around you, a cool night breeze coming off the Ganges, while he pretended to read and you toyed with your Tarot cards. You continued to snipe at each other through the hall, going back to your rooms, all the way until you grabbed him by his stupidly dashing shirt and kissed him–just to shut him up, of course. You certainly didn’t expect him to kiss you back like he meant to devour you, pinning you against the door of your room until you managed to fumble out your key. You barely made it under the mosquito netting before you fucked like it was imperative you try out the whole Kama Sutra by morning. (OK, maybe you had been learning a little yoga. He never ridiculed you for it again…)

The rest was history. You were inseparable from that day, and you were fire together–and water. You balanced each other out–his magic and your magic meshed. You completed each other in a way you didn’t entirely understand, but you felt it though, and nothing had ever felt so right. Though he didn’t tell you about being damned, you saw the scars on his wrists, and you sensed he had a rough childhood. You felt the sorrow of it hovering over him like a dark cloud, and all you wanted in the world was to chase it away for him. Sitting in a secluded alcove of the Red Fort with his arm around your shoulders, he admitted to you that for the first time in longer than he could remember, he felt happy, with you. 

You had a grand adventure traveling around the Great Subcontinent, reveling in its wonders from the Himalayas to Tamil Nadu, until you had a close brush with that demon he was tracking, and Constantine realized how utterly it would destroy him, if something happened to you because of his calling. He pushed you away when it was time for you to fly home, even though it killed something inside him to let you go.

For years, you feel like you are bleeding out from a wound that will not heal, after losing him. Eventually you manage to make a life for yourself, living in your little cottage in the woods, growing your plants and making your potions, healing people and caring for animals…but you never love again, the way you loved John Constantine.

You hear whispers of him here and there, you know he’s become a legend in his field. You wonder if he ever thinks of you, the way you still think of him. 

The answer to that, is every day that ends with y. He misses you like a severed limb, but he takes some twisted comfort in imagining that you are safe, far away from him.

But when you start having visions of him sitting in a pool of blood and glass, dying, you have to go to him. You know he’ll be mad–but you always had a knack for talking him down--or fighting him, if you have to. He needs your help, whether he likes it or not…

TBC?

[survivalove]

Katara the selfcare queen

Every canon instance or mention (that i can rmr) of Katara indulging in selfcare in the middle of a war because I find it quite amusing yet fascinating.

I may or may not have made a post like this before but I wanted to expand on it.

1. Skincare routine

In 1x14, The Fortuneteller, Katara reveals she has a special seaweed lotion that she carries with her for soft skin. (Avatar Extras also made a point of saying that it smells…?) She even offers to get Aunt Wu some, as if she has extra. So my question is, who is this plug that she gets her steady supply of seaweed lotion from? 😭

Real-life: Seaweed has been used in skincare for thousands of years, first recorded in ancient Chile. Nowadays, seaweed extract is pretty common in skincare products especially from emerging brands in Nunavik and Iqaluit, Canada.

My headcanon: This is probably a recipe Katara picked up from the older women of her tribe, so she just plucks some seaweed whenever the gaang stops by a body of water. And she definitely makes it in cute glass jars and shares it with her fellow healers in the Republic City Hospital ✨selfcare queen✨

2. Spa Day

I just find this funny because when and how did she even find this spa? How long has she been going by herself? Look how comfortable she is like dhjfjcd she’s definitely a regular and they all know her.

Real-life: Saunas are pretty modern, starting up in Finland around 1112. (In canon, I think a firebender and a waterbender run a sauna in Republic City so hey.) Mudbaths on the other hand have been around for centuries and people have been doing it at any naturally occurring hot spring they can found. I don’t even have to tell you about massages so

My headcanon: Katara always knows where the spas and selfcare places are wherever they go. I definitely think she scooped up some stuff at the perfume abbey in season 1 (because she’s a kleptomaniac). I also headcanon she would have a spa setup in the back of Republic City Hospital because selfcare is healthcare too. Also, Aang gives her massages at home and he’s surprisingly good at it, but, Katara sucks at massages and Aang never lets her do it to him after that one time 💀

3. Yoga

In 3x11, Nightmares & Daydreams, Katara teaches Aang yoga to de-stress in a hot spring. My thing is, when did she learn about yoga and how often does she do it? We needed the Katara yoga mini shorts special. The kids would’ve loved it.

Real life: Yoga originating from ancient India is practised in a variety of forms in Hinduism, Jainism and Buddhism. The poses they do are the Upward Salute and the Wide Legged Forward Bend.

My headcanon: I imagine Katara must have read about this at the Air Nomad Section of the Spirit Library, given the cultural heritage. Knowing her she found a yoga scroll and swiped it (can you say klepto?). This is another selfcare thing she does with Aang because it’s his culture! They do it every Saturday until he starts complaining about his old bones 😅

4. Hair care

Katara also wears a special cap on her head when doing yoga which I assume is to protect her hair from the steam 🤔 I just found it very interesting since we hardly see her hair covered. Then I also realized Katara is the only character shown actually combing her hair and styling it like 4 times: from the bun-braid, to the formal earth kingdom look, to her fire nation look and finally the bun with her hair out.

Real life: I typed so many things and I finally found something similar called a chinoiserie satin skull cap? (sorry pic limit). It’s similar in design and even has a tassel like Katara’s. Focusing on her hairstyles, the signature “hair loopies” are actually based on a traditional Inuit style known as qilliqti and her earth kingdom look is based on a traditional Manchurian style called liangbatou.

My headcanon: Like Katara’s mysterious seaweed lotion recipe, she probably makes several haircare products for herself, and has a major hair routine. So, it would make sense she wears protective caps from time to time. I also think both Hama and Katara are tied to the myth of Senna, the Inuit sea goddess, through the comb Katara uses which I headcanon is the identical comb Hama had in her home (again klepto).

If there’s any more selfcare moments I left out, please feel free to share or reply with your own Katara ✨selfcare queen✨ headcanons!

[michelehauswirth]

Guide to 200-Hour Yoga Teacher Training in India

Embark on an enriching journey of self-discovery and transformation with a 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training course in India, the birthplace of Yoga. Immerse yourself in the ancient wisdom of Yoga philosophy, deepen your practice with asana (posture) refinement, and gain the skills to confidently guide others on their own Yoga paths. This guide also includes insider tips on choosing the right yoga school, navigating the application process, and making the most of your yoga teacher training experience in India.

[am-i-the-asshole-official]

WIBTA if i (19) told my mom (54) not to travel to learn to become a yoga instructor?

my family is fairly wealthy. not crazy levels, but my parents own their home, lease a small cabin, and we go on a family vacation (as in plane tickets) once a year. my mom is one of the top employment lawyers in our area and my dad is a public school teacher. she was the first person in her family to go to university.

both my parents have been doing yoga on and off for at least a decade at this point, and my mom decided she wants to do training to become a yoga instructor on top of practicing law. i thought, that's great! something to help her manage her stress and keep her motivated to exercise!

turns out, she wants to travel and do a four week program in india, bali, or thailand. we live in canada. my mother is white and british. i don't think this is a great look. when she first told me, i said something along the lines of "oh... how colonial of you" but i think she thought i was kidding.

i've been considering telling her that i don't really approve of this and asking her to instead donate the money she would have spent on the journey to a palestine relief fund or something, and do the training locally.

this is where the real potential assholery comes in: in january to may this year, i spent about 9000 dollars on a mental-breakdown-inspired trip to france, which i paid for myself after working full-time in a warehouse for several months. i might be an asshole, and i might be a hypocrite. i don't know.

What are these acronyms?

[eatmangoesnekkid]

The male body has to make pilgrimages to sit at the feet of men, the masters and gurus. The only thing that the female has to do is to keep communication open to nature and come home to her body. --India Ame'ye, Author

This is absolutely no shade to men or male bodies. Men and male bodies are valuable, beautiful, and necessary. However, it's a reminder that what we've been taught to believe is real and true around spirituality ( and pretty much everything else) was born from the male mind and never meant for us in the first place. Please consider no longer prioritizing the advice or perspectives of men. You can consider it if you like, but do not center it until you filter what's being said or exemplified through the channels of your own female body. Even with yoga, the female body works best with more flowy practices as oppose to sharp rigidity. Come home to your body and trust your heart and soul.

Since the beginning of time, most gynecologists have been men. Men have been writing women's stories for centuries. We became less and less embodied and trapped and stagnated in our root and sacral chakras, looking for daddy doctor to save us, which did one of three things: 1. caused us to attract lovers who only want to fuck but don't want to love on or care for us 2. made us sexually confused, sexually performative, or incompetent/stuck in our heads, dissociated from our bodies and libidos, and see our bodies as tools/containers for male pleasure. 3. made it difficult for to us to relax comfortable in our grown bodies and just be without stimulants and entertainment.

Now we love the root and sacral chakras. No chakra heirarchy is allowed in this work. Just know though that when your energy is not moving, it's impossible for you to feel good in your body. That is one of the biggest issues I find. Many women just do not feel good in their bodies. When you don't feel good, you constantly reach out into the external world for its distractions, subjected to its bullshit and lies because you haven't learned to cultivate your own energy. You must begin to midwife yourself through the chronic over-stimulation and boredom and begin to script your life consciously. Such a profound version of love. Self-love.

This work is not a quick-fix. It is journey that won't happen overnight at first until suddenly, one day, there is a quantum leap, then another one. It calls for us to be more available to SIMPLE activities like "belly breathing" or "breast stroking with emotion" to begin the masterful process of raising our energy up and beyond the root and sacral, allowing it infuse into our heart. This is one of many ways we open up our hearts, Loved Ones. You no longer need to blame men or women or any relationship style for what is going on within you because you can just go inside and penetrate your breasts, eyes, etc. with more loving energy that projects out to create a higher frequency and quality of magnetism. This is what I will teach you when it's time.

It may sound too good to be true, but when women (and other womb holders) start prioritizing our health and happiness through simple acts like "feet work," it changes the world, men included. That's because the male body is primally-wired to be influenced and impacted by the happiness of the female. If women are happy, generally men (children, animals, and the natural world) get on board and become happier. Start listening to your female body more and developing a more inward focus in these times so that you can cultivate your energy and orbit this magic to recalibrate the world. The microcosmic orbit.

Care for your nervous system and cultivate greater inner peace so that you can create a more peaceful impact upon the world. What are you letting go off? What's is your heart's deepest desire when you truly get quieter and really listen? What does it look and feel like to create a life of your highest wellbeing?

One Loveliness,India

[vitalisingvinyasa]

Exploring the Diverse World of Yoga: A Guide to Different Types

Yoga, a practice that originated in ancient India, has evolved into a variety of styles and disciplines, each offering unique benefits. Whether you're seeking physical fitness, mental clarity, or spiritual growth, there's a type of yoga that can meet your needs. Here's a comprehensive guide to some of the most popular forms of yoga practiced today.

1. Hatha Yoga

Hatha Yoga is one of the most widely practiced forms of yoga in the Western world. It encompasses a broad category of physical postures (asanas) and breathing techniques (pranayama). Hatha is typically slower-paced and focuses on alignment and breathing.

Benefits: Improves flexibility, builds strength, enhances balance, reduces stress.

Best For: Beginners looking to learn the basics of yoga.

2. Vinyasa Yoga

Vinyasa, often referred to as "flow" yoga, involves a sequence of poses that flow smoothly into one another, synchronized with the breath. This dynamic and fluid form of yoga is known for its creative sequencing and variety.

Benefits: Enhances cardiovascular health, improves flexibility and strength, boosts mental focus.

Best For: Those who enjoy a more vigorous and fast-paced workout.

3. Ashtanga Yoga

Ashtanga Yoga is a rigorous style of yoga that follows a specific sequence of postures and is practiced in a continuous, flowing manner. It involves synchronizing breath with a progressive series of postures to produce intense internal heat and purify the body.

Benefits: Increases strength and stamina, enhances flexibility, promotes discipline and mental clarity.

Best For: Experienced practitioners seeking a challenging and structured practice.

4. Iyengar Yoga

Founded by B.K.S. Iyengar, this form of yoga emphasizes precise alignment and detailed instructions. Iyengar Yoga often uses props such as blocks, straps, and chairs to help students achieve perfect alignment and deeper stretches.

Benefits: Improves posture, enhances structural alignment, increases strength and flexibility.

Best For: Individuals recovering from injuries or those who prefer a meticulous approach to their practice.

5. Bikram Yoga

Bikram Yoga, also known as hot yoga, consists of a fixed sequence of 26 postures practiced in a room heated to around 105°F (40°C) with 40% humidity. This intense environment aims to replicate the heat of India and promotes detoxification through sweating.

Benefits: Enhances flexibility, promotes detoxification, aids in weight loss, improves cardiovascular fitness.

Best For: Those who enjoy heat and intense physical challenges.

6. Kundalini Yoga

Kundalini Yoga focuses on awakening the kundalini energy, which is believed to be coiled at the base of the spine. This style combines postures, breath control, chanting, and meditation to unlock this energy and achieve spiritual enlightenment.

Benefits: Enhances spiritual growth, boosts mental clarity, increases energy levels, reduces stress.

Best For: Individuals interested in the spiritual and meditative aspects of yoga.

7. Yin Yoga

Yin Yoga is a slow-paced style where poses are held for extended periods, typically three to five minutes or longer. It targets the deep connective tissues and fascia, promoting flexibility and joint health.

Benefits: Improves flexibility and circulation, reduces stress, balances the body's energy systems.

Best For: Those looking for a deeply relaxing and meditative practice.

8. Restorative Yoga

Restorative Yoga involves a few gentle poses, supported by props that are held for extended periods. This practice is designed to activate the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting deep relaxation and healing.

Benefits: Reduces stress, enhances relaxation, aids in recovery from illness or injury.

Best For: Individuals seeking a gentle and therapeutic approach to yoga.

9. Power Yoga

Power Yoga is a vigorous, fitness-based approach to Vinyasa yoga. It emphasizes strength and flexibility and is often used as a cardio workout.

Benefits: Builds muscle strength, enhances cardiovascular health, improves flexibility and balance.

Best For: Those looking for a physically intense workout.

10. Jivamukti Yoga

Jivamukti Yoga combines vigorous Vinyasa-style sequences with spiritual teachings, meditation, and chanting. It places a strong emphasis on ethical and environmental considerations.

Benefits: Enhances physical fitness, promotes spiritual growth, fosters a sense of community.

Best For: Practitioners interested in integrating physical, spiritual, and ethical aspects of yoga.

Conclusion

With such a diverse array of yoga styles available, there's something to suit every individual's needs and preferences. Whether you're looking for a physically demanding workout, a gentle stretch, or a spiritual journey, exploring different types of yoga can help you find the perfect fit for your practice. Start with one that resonates with you, and don't hesitate to try others as your practice evolves.

Namaste!

[proudhinduforever]

Sanatani Saints

PART 1

I will be starting a new Series on Hindu saints who have inspired many people and guided their disciples towards moksha.

Most of the contents are choosen excerpts from the internet. I will be adding my lines too.

I'm choosing Neem Karoli baba today.

Neem Karoli baba was born in wealthy brahmin family. It is believed that Maharajji had acquired all the knowledge by the time he was 17 years old. It is said that Lord Hanuman was his Guru. He visited many places in India and was known by different names in different states. During his visit to Maa Tara Tarini Shakti Peeth in Ganjam, the local people addressed him as Hanumanji, Miracle Baba.It is said that once Baba was travelling in a train. He did not have a ticket. Due to which the TT officer caught him. Since he did not have a ticket, the officer asked him to get down at the next station. The name of the station was Neem Karoli. The village near the station is known as Neem Karoli. Baba was made to get down from the train and the officer ordered the driver to drive the train. Baba did not go anywhere from there. He sat down near the train with a tong on the ground. The driver tried a lot but the train did not move ahead. The train was not moving at all. Then all the people sitting in the train said that this is Baba's wrath. The reason for making them get off the train is that the train is not moving. Then the senior officer who was familiar with Baba apologized to Baba and asked both the driver and the ticket checker to apologize to Baba. Everyone together convinced Baba and apologized to him. After apologizing, Baba respectfully sat on the train. But he put a condition that a station will be built at this place. So that it becomes easy for the villagers to come by train because people used to come there from miles away. Only then they could sit in the train. They promised Baba and a station named Neem Karoli was built there. From here the miraculous stories of Baba became famous and from this place Baba's name started becoming known all over the world as Neem Karoli Baba. From here Baba got the name Neem Karoli.

He inspired many people such as Steve Jobs and Mark Zuckerberg. Neem Karoli Baba was a lifelong adept of bhakti yoga, and encouraged service to others (seva) as the highest form of unconditional devotion to God. Baba would say that attachment and ego are the greatest hindrances to the realisation of God and that "a learned man and a fool are alike as long as there is attachment and ego in the physical body." He would advise people to surrender to God's will above everything else so that they might develop love and faith in him and thereby be free of unnecessary worries in life.

He was an ardent devotee of Lord Hanuman.

🙏🙏 JAI BABA NEEM KAROLI 🙏🙏

Below is one of my favorite bhajans which reminds me of him.