#yoga for women empowerment

[townpostin]

International Yoga Day: Basti Vikas Samiti to Organize Major Yoga Camp at Agrico

Massive yoga camp to be held on June 21 at Agrico Transport Ground with participation expected from thousands. Jamshedpur prepares for a grand celebration of International Yoga Day with a large-scale yoga camp organized by Basti Vikas Samiti. JAMSHEDPUR – As preparations intensify for the 10th International Yoga Day, Jamshedpur is set to host a massive yoga camp at Agrico Transport Ground on June…

[fitnfemme]

The Benefits Of Yoga For Women 

Unlock the health benefits of yoga with this post! #Yoga #Women #Fitness

Yoga is becoming increasingly popular amongst women due to its physical and mental health benefits. From increasing flexibility and strength to reducing stress and building self-confidence, there is no doubt that yoga can offer a range of benefits for women. Here are just a few of the ways yoga can benefit women: 1. Improved Flexibility: Regular practice of yoga helps to increase your range of…

[vazayoga]

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[healthyher23]

Active Living: Empowering Through Exercise

Physical activity is a game-changer for women's health. Engage in activities you enjoy, whether it's dancing, hiking, or yoga. Incorporate strength training to enhance bone density and muscle tone. Regular exercise reduces stress, boosts mood, and supports cardiovascular health, paving the way for a vibrant and empowered lifestyle.

[1shirt2shirtredshirtdeadshirt]

Sexism in TOS: Worst Offender, or Progressive in Retrospect in Comparison?

I see a lot of folks claim that TOS was the most sexist of the Star Trek shows by a landslide -- and while I agree that it definitely suffered from the sexism of the times, I also have other perspectives to share to give some food for thought.

I am of course not insinuating that TOS isn't sexist -- it is, but I have to ask folks to consider the breadth and depth of Berman's sexism in his run and ask yourself: Was Gene Roddenberry genuinely more sexist in his storytelling and delivery than Rick Berman?

I'm not telling you to feel one way or the other, but all I ask is that you hear me out and consider some perspectives and make your own balanced assessments. Nobody is obligated to share my opinion, but it means a lot just to have folks hear it and see their thoughts on the subject. So here is what I was originally responding to:

Someone's response to this photo:

"Devil's advocate. This was a part of the popular form of cardio during the production time of TNG. Yes, it was heavily sexualised by men, but so is literally every other way women work out. Men have been caught taking pictures of women while trying to do dead lifts, running on tracks and working on sled machines. They post them online to share too. The fact is, there is no way a woman can be shown working out without it going there. And yeah,t hat includes the combat forms of workout they do in Star Trek. Just look at how Dax dresses when she spars with Worf. Yes, they're dating, but still, same goes when 7 does and any other female.

Aerobics routines like this were made dirty and cringy. This was what women wore then by and large. This is how the workout was done. We make it cringy."

My response to them:

"I respect your take, but I disagree on a few fronts.

The miniskirt was chosen by the TOS female cast, not the male cast, specifically requested by Grace LW and affirmed by Nichelle and Majel who would go on to vehemently defend the miniskirt over the years as comfortable and embraced by them.

Grace said it was comfortable and seen as a symbol of female sexual empowerment during the 60s and thought it would be a progressive garment (and turns out that it was, as it was later adapted and worn by male crew as a skant on TNG) -- FYI those were designed by a gay man and Gene approved them.

This was also supposed to be Spock's TMP outfit:

Literally lingerie.

We saw both Uhura (who saves Kirk in from Marlena Mirror Mirror) and Yeoman Landon (the first to initiate combat with a classic Kirk-esque kick to help the Captain being attacked in The Apple) carry out their combat training in their Starfleet uniforms without ever being made to change into any ridiculous workout gear.

In fact, I'd argue Jim Kirk was sexualized even more than the ladies of the week on the show and I saw his naked body more than anyone else's on a fairly regular basis. He wore red yoga tights while topless in Charlie X while the women wore full length gymnastic suits that covered their entire body. If anything, it went out of its way to avoid sexualizing women practicing fitness in those scenes and instead focused on Kirk.

Gene confessed that he asked to have Shatner filmed in suggestive/provocative ways to "give something to the ladies", so he -- as he said -- liked to "film him walking away" or have him conveniently busting out of his shirts in just about every episode as it were, because Shatner apparently had great assets. LOL

Gene made an effort to at least sexualize both if he was going to sexualize one, and he carried that attitude forward in wanting the m/m and f/f scenes in the background on Risa for TNG. He also insisted that the men and women wear skimpy outfits on THAT TNG planet. You know the one. LOL I mean the dudes even had on less than the women:

Gene also gave permission to K/S shippers to have their conventions back in the 70s when he was asked for permission. Gene and Nimoy felt with all the skimpy outfits they had the ladies wear, why not let the ladies and gay men have their fun, too? It's how we ended up with moments like this:

Yes, those are two people dressed up as Kirk and Spock's penises doing interpretive dance. Gene didn't give two damns. LOL

In my eyes, that was a very progressive take on Gene's part for the 60s. It was actually PARAMOUNT STUDIOS who had the big problem with K/S stories and vehemently tried to shut them down. Gene literally hired slash authors on his payroll and even had several slash stories/writers published in his official Star Trek books (The New Voyages & The New Voyages II).

I feel I saw Uhura and women in TOS engaged in more physical combat/altercations defending themselves that Troi or Bev were shown holding their own.

In fact, Kirk used to get furious when someone would "dress up" his female crew members without their consent (Trelane episode, Shore Leave episode) because like his male crew members, he wanted them to be treated professionally and to also have his male crew act professionally.

Berman brought some of his own personal biases into Star Trek that in some ways regressed it. While TOS had blatant sexism and was called on it time and again, that show was made in the 60s -- a solid 21 years before TNG. We as a modern audience understood why some of it was cringe/sexist due to the time period -- look at any other media coming out in the 60s and Star Trek was miles ahead of what other shows were doing.

Compare that to Berman who was churning sexist stuff out when women like Starbuck and Scully were simultaneously on screen on other programs airing, and we had already had Sigourney Weaver and other strong women in Holywood playing respectful roles.

In my eyes, there was no need of the sexism seen in TNG but especially VOY and ENT. There was no excuse for it when other shows were writing women far better and a number of those weren't even set in the future like Trek was, making it age even faster due to having those dated perspectives frequently highlighted.

In the Center Seat documentary as well as "The Fifty Year Mission" book you will find cast members, writers and other studio alumni who attest to this. Some discussions from "The Fifty Year Mission":

"First, Berman was supposed to have been a real sleaze ball . . . According to Terry Farrel, he would go on constantly about how her breasts weren't big enough, how she should do something about it, and how his secretary was a good example to follow as she had huge breasts. She even had to have fittings to get larger bras, and that was all done at his behest.

Later Berman and Braga developed a name for Jeri Ryan's character prior Seven of Nine. They originally called the character "perineum" which if you look it up it is the area between the anus and the scrotum. Later they floated the name "6 of 9". I mean, what does it tell you about where these two were coming from in the development of this character if they had names like that put forward in all seriousness for her?"

Gene Roddenberry also had some of his own more progressive ideas for TNG cut or watered down by Berman. Roddenberry agreed TNG should have homosexual relationships and representation at a con in the 80s and insisted on it in a meeting with his writers -- something Berman later would not honor. Gene wanted the AIDS episode, showing m/m and f/f in the Riza scenes -- these were some of Roddenberry's requests to include in TNG that Berman later stonewalled.

Berman's era was sadly dated by his own misogynist bias, IMO, to the point that it can somewhat hurt the shows he worked on through his cringe egoism and blatant disrespect toward his female cast.

There is a reason why Gene could keep female actresses working with him and Berman had a revolving door of women that he couldn't seem to keep working for him -- he was abhorrent to women, on and off set. Gene wasn't perfect at all, he had a lot of issues himself -- but Berman was a whole other level. Just look at what he did to poor Jolene Blalock, Marina Sirtis and his toxic commenting on her body weight which exacerbated her struggles with eating disorders, or how he treated and talked to Terry Farrell.

Anyway, just some food for thought. I'm not saying anyone is wrong regarding a take like that, but there are a variety of ways to look at this. Gene Roddenberry isn't a saint by any means, but it definitely bothers me how folks will tote the Berman era as if it were the lesser of two evils or the more progressive depiction of women when I felt there were far more concerning portrayals of women in his era with far less justification.

(P.S: I don't event want to go near the sheer amount of "creepy old dude/villain preys on innocent/naïve/scared young woman or little girl" stories there were in Berman's era, either. But that's a whole other can of worms I can write about in a part 2.)

[simmerkate]

XTRA Interactions Mods

Introducing "Xtra Interactions," a mod for The Sims 4 that expands the range of social interactions available to your Sims! Developed with the goal of adding depth and realism to your Sims' social lives, this mod introduces 13 new dynamic interactions that delve into various aspects of contemporary conversations and interactions.

"F Bomb": Sometimes, emotions can run high, and Sims now have the option to express their frustration or anger with a straightforward and powerful statement. Use this interaction when your Sims need to release some built-up tension!

"Backhanded Compliment": Not all compliments are created equal. Sims can now deliver a compliment with a subtle hint of sarcasm or hidden meaning. Watch the recipient's reaction as your Sim walks the fine line between praise and critique.

"Body Positivity Conversation": Promote self-love and acceptance among your Sims by engaging in heartfelt discussions about body positivity. Encourage a healthy body image and help your Sims develop a more positive relationship with their own appearance.

"Discuss Fitness Apps": In the digital age, fitness has gone mobile! Sims can now chat about their favorite fitness apps, sharing tips, and exchanging experiences to stay motivated and reach their health goals.

"Discuss Fitness Classes": Exercise is more fun with company! Sims can engage in conversations about various fitness classes, from yoga to cardio workouts, and discuss the benefits and challenges of each.

"Engage in Mindfulness": Encourage your Sims to take a moment for themselves and embrace the practice of mindfulness. This interaction allows Sims to discuss and learn about techniques to reduce stress and enhance their overall well-being.

"Female Empowerment": Foster empowerment and gender equality among your Sims. Initiate conversations that focus on the strength, achievements, and challenges faced by women, inspiring your Sims to break barriers and pursue their dreams.

"Flirty Fight": Love and passion can take many forms. Sims can engage in playful, flirtatious banter that adds a spicy twist to their romantic relationships. Sparks will fly as they exchange teasing remarks and engage in light-hearted arguments.

"Spill The Tea": Keep your Sims in the loop with the latest gossip and scandals by engaging in juicy conversations. Share secrets, rumors, and intriguing tidbits that add an element of drama to your Sims' social lives.

"Stand Up Against Gender Inequality": Promote equality and social justice by encouraging your Sims to voice their opinions on gender inequality. This interaction allows them to express their concerns, share stories, and discuss ways to combat discrimination.

"Talk About the Living Crisis": Engage your Sims in thought-provoking conversations about the pressing challenges of the living crisis. Delve into the impact of declining real disposable incomes, adjusted for inflation, taxes, and benefits, that individuals and households have faced.

"Throw Shade": Sims with a mischievous streak can now throw shade at each other in a playful and sassy manner. This interaction adds a touch of humor and wit to your Sims' conversations, ensuring they never run out of snappy comebacks.

"Xtra Interactions" is a must-have mod for players seeking a deeper and more engaging social experience in The Sims 4. Expand your Sims' conversational repertoire and explore new avenues of interaction that reflect the complexity of the real world. Unleash the power of words and emotions in your virtual neighborhood, and watch as your Sims' relationships and social lives flourish with newfound depth and realism.

Follow me on insta @SimmerKatex

Curseforge (xx) FREE

[talonabraxas]

Vajrayogini

Newari Paubha Thangka

The Vajrayogini Mantra: Benefits, Practice, Empowerment

The Vajrayogini is a tantric deity in Buddhism who represents the path that leads to female Buddhahood. She is regarded as the goddess of grace as well as destruction as she destroys the illusions of the ego.Vajrayogini is a 16-year-old female dakini embodying divine wisdom. She is a feisty manifestation of the divine feminine.

There are several representations of Vajrayogini, but she is mostly depicted as a young and naked tantric deity, blood red (representing her inner fire), wearing ornaments of the human skeleton, a necklace of skulls(representing 16 vowels and 32 consonants that symbolizes purity of speech).

She stands fiercely, holding a flaying knife in her right hand, using it to cut off all attachments. In her left hand, she holds a skull cup filled with mahasukha(eternal bliss); she pours these out to her devotees with compassion. She is surrounded by beaming flames of awareness. She looks up towards the pristine realm of Khechara and drinks from the skullcap on her left hand.

Practices related to Vajrayogini and the Vajrayogini mantra are often kept a secret, as anyone with limited knowledge can easily misinterpret it. The Vajrayogini practice is a sacred practice which requires guidance . If these practices are misinterpreted then the practitioners will have to face the severities including ; health issues, mental disturbance and spiritual regressions as well.

Vajrayogini Short Mantra oṃ va jra yo gi nī hūṃ pha ṭ svā hā oṃ vajrayoginī hūṃ phaṭ svāhā

This Vajrayogini mantra holds immense significance in Tibetan Buddhism. It comes from Anuttara Yoga tantra and should be recited with proper guidance and instructions. Like any other Tibetan Buddhist mantra; this Vajrayogini mantra can be a powerful tool for self-transformation, healing and liberation from samsara. This mantra is especially beneficial for women as they can relate more to the female deities.

Understanding the Vajrayogini Mantra Meaning

om om om sarva buddha dakiniyé benza warnaniye benza bairotsaniyé hung hung hung phat phat phat soha

oṃ va jra yo gi nī hūṃ pha ṭ svā hā

oṃ vajrayoginī hūṃ phaṭ svāhā

According to the Vajrayarahi tantra, after understanding this mantra, if one recites it 36 times every day, they can benefit from this not only in this lifetime but at the bardo state and lifetimes after that as well.

Each syllable and word in this mantra holds meaning and significance. Let's dissect them to get a better understanding.

OM- Om is a sacred syllable regarded as the universal sound. Om is indicative of the nature of the consciousness or the ultimate reality.

Vajrayogini: Vajrayogini is a fierce goddess embodying divine wisdom.

Hum-Hum is a seed syllable that is associated with Vajrayogini. This syllable is indicative of essence and her power. This is used to invoke her presence and blessings.

Phat-Phat is a dynamic syllable used as a shield against negative forces and dispels obstacles along the way.

Svaha: This is a commonly used syllable in Buddhism and Hinduism. This is used to seal the mantra and make an offering towards the deity while expressing one’s dedication and surrender.

All the mantras and practices related to Vajrayogini are often regarded as a secret and should not be chanted without instruction. Vajrayogini mantras are widespread all over the internet today, but you should not risk chanting these without proper guidance from a Guru.

[laraactive]

Embrace Your Active Lifestyle with Lara Active: Your Ultimate Guide to Sports Hijab and Islamic Activewear in Dubai

Are you a Muslim woman in Dubai looking to stay active while maintaining your modesty? Lara Active offers a wide range of sports hijabs and Islamic activewear designed specifically for you. Whether you're hitting the gym, going for a run, or practicing yoga, we've got you covered with stylish and comfortable options that prioritize performance and comfort.

Why Choose Lara Active?

At Lara Active, we understand the importance of combining faith with fitness. Our sports hijabs are crafted from lightweight, breathable fabrics that wick away sweat and provide maximum coverage without compromising on style. Whether you prefer a snug fit for intense workouts or a more relaxed style for everyday wear, our collection caters to your unique needs.

Our Product Range

Sports Hijabs: Explore our selection of sports hijabs meticulously designed to cater to your active lifestyle. Our hijabs feature adjustable designs, moisture-wicking materials, and innovative construction techniques that ensure comfort and performance without compromising on style.

Islamic Activewear: Dive into our modest activewear collection, which includes womens long sleeve t-shirts, tees, joggers, training pants, and hoodies. Each piece is crafted with attention to detail, offering flexibility, breathability, and modesty in equal measure. Whether you're at the gym, on a morning jog, or enjoying outdoor activities with family, our activewear provides the perfect balance of comfort and style.

Running Hijab: Introducing our specialized Running Hijab, engineered with lightweight, breathable fabric to enhance your running experience. Designed for optimal performance and comfort, our running hijab stays securely in place mile after mile, allowing you to focus solely on achieving your fitness goals.

Hijab for Gym: Find the perfect hijab for your gym sessions that offers sweat-wicking properties and stays securely in place, so you can focus on your workout without distractions.

Shopping Experience

Shopping with Lara Active is easy and convenient. Browse our online store or visit our showroom in Dubai to see and feel the quality of our products firsthand. Our knowledgeable staff are ready to assist you in finding the right sports hijab or activewear that suits your preferences and activities.

Stay Connected

Follow us on social media and subscribe to our newsletter to stay updated on the latest trends in Islamic activewear and sports hijabs. Join our community of active Muslim women in Dubai who prioritize both fitness and modesty.

Conclusion

At Lara Active, we believe in empowering women to embrace their active lifestyles while upholding their values of modesty and faith. Our sports hijabs and Islamic activewear are more than just clothing—they're a symbol of confidence, empowerment, and self-expression. Whether you're running errands around the city or pushing your limits at the gym, Lara Active is here to support your journey with products that are as functional as they are fashionable. Visit Lara Active today and discover how our exceptional range of sports hijabs and Islamic activewear can elevate your fitness journey in Dubai and beyond.

[tarzantips]

Pregnancy and Self-Care: Prioritizing Your Well-Being

Since being pregnant is an amazing experience that is full of joy and excitement, there are changes and challenges along the way. Expectant mothers need to put their health first by practicing self-care during this exciting time.

Let's cover and discuss easy yet powerful strategies to guarantee a happy and healthy pregnancy.

Pregnancy and Self-Care during Pregnancy

1. Nutrition (Fueling Your Body and Baby)

Good nutrition is the foundation of a healthy pregnancy. Make sure your diet is well-balanced and full of important nutrients, such as protein, calcium, iron, and folic acid.

Within your meals, include a range of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, as well as lean proteins. Regular small meals can help stabilize your energy levels and help you manage your nausea.

2. Hydration (Water for Two)

It is critical to stay hydrated when pregnant. Water supports the increased blood volume, helps digestion, and maintains amniotic fluid levels stable.

Try to drink 8 to 10 glasses of water a day, and carry a reusable bottle as a reminder to stay hydrated. This is importance of self-care during pregnancy.

3. Regular Exercise (Nurturing Your Body)

Pregnancy and self-care exercise can reduce discomfort, elevate mood, and enhance general well-being. Take part in low-impact exercises like yoga for pregnant women, swimming, or walking.

Before beginning any new fitness routine, speak with your doctor. Pay attention to your body and change the level of difficulty as necessary.

4. Adequate Rest (The Power of Sleep)

It is hard work growing a tiny human, so getting enough sleep is essential. Get 7 to 9 hours of sleep every night.

Create a relaxing sleep environment, stick to a nightly schedule, pregnancy self-care products and think about using pillows to support your evolving body. Good sleep is important for both mental and physical health.

Read: Prenatal Yoga - Benefits for Mom and Baby

5. Stress Management (Finding Calm Amidst Chaos)

Stress is a normal part of pregnancy, and it can cause a wide range of emotions. On the other hand, ongoing anxiety can be harmful to both you and your child.

Use stress-reduction strategies like meditation, deep breathing, or mild exercise. Be in the company of a network of friends and family who are there to support you during pregnancy and self-care at home.

6. Regular Prenatal Check-ups (Partnering with Doctor)

Regular prenatal visits are essential for keeping an eye on the mother's and the unborn child's health. Please keep your appointments, talk to the doctor about any worries, and do as they advise.

Frequent tests help in the early detection and treatment of possible problems.

7. Educate Yourself (Empowerment through Knowledge)

Since knowledge is power, being aware of the changes your body is going through can help you feel less anxious.

Read trustworthy pregnancy books, take prenatal classes, and keep up with birthing procedures. Being informed allows you to make decisions that are best for both your health and your child's health.

How does a man feels when his wife is pregnant?

A man frequently experiences a range of emotions when his wife becomes pregnant. Becoming a parent and looking forward to meeting the baby is exciting. Also, some men may experience a little stress or worry, particularly if it is their first child.

They might want to know how being a father will affect them and how their lives will change in general. A man could also feel required to provide for and take care of his pregnant spouse.

All in all, as the couple starts this new and exciting chapter in their lives together, the emotions can vary from excitement and eagerness to a hint of fear.

Do husbands love their pregnant wives?

Yes, most husbands have a strong love for their pregnant wives. Pregnancy can deepen a couple's emotional connection as they travel through this journey together.

 A feeling of love and connection can be developed by the excitement of bringing a new member of the family into the home and the excitement of becoming parents.

In besides attending prenatal visits and actively helping with the baby's arrival preparations, husbands can show their love for their wives through providing support during pregnancy.

While every person and relationship is different, many husbands discover during pregnancy that they have greater respect for their wives because they understand the courage and stamina needed to carry and raise a child.

more >>>

[brandireed]

RED LIPSTICK & AN ATTITUDE.

Brandi Alexis Reed,Atlanta, 41 is a divorced & single mother to Libby. She is a former pro figure skater and wrestler as well as a former CBO in All Elite Wrestling. Brandi is the CBO(Chief Bikini Officer) to her own swimwear line called Confection Swimwear. Brandi also has her own wine, Whoa Baby!. She also opened up her own yoga studio after getting certified as an yoga instructor. Brandi wanted to have her career and home life blend together so she opened an yoga studio. Brandi is an LGBTQ+ Ally. She is a big believer in Women Empowerment especially WOC.

Her most important,"job" is being Libby's mom..

Brandi will be played a mix of Kayfabe and non Kayfabe.

Connections Are Welcome.

[townpostin]

Yoga for Empowerment: Arka Jain University Celebrates International Yoga Day

Campus-wide session promotes holistic health awareness among students, faculty, and staff Yoga instructor Poonam Verma leads an empowering session, highlighting yoga’s benefits for women’s strength and flexibility. JAMSHEDPUR – Arka Jain University hosted a yoga session to mark International Yoga Day, focusing on holistic health and women’s empowerment. Arka Jain University celebrated…

[abhayam-dada]

About Consort in Karma Mudra

Aside from the sexual aspect of Buddhist ethics and discipline though, a Buddhist teacher (I refer to teachers here because they are supposed to have more developed inner qualities than that of a student), and especially a lama who gives Vajrayana empowerments and teachings, is also supposed to maintain three sets of other Buddhist vows: the Individual Liberation Vows (or Pratimoksha vows), the Bodhisattva Vows and the Vajrayana Vows (or root downfalls). None of these are that easy to maintain and if they are breached, must be purified correctly and genuinely. Turning to the subject of women though, how, if at all, do these three types of vows have a particular reference, or application, to women?...

"The secondary Vajrayana root vows mention the downfalls about women in the context of consort (or Karmamudra ) practice. In the last few decades, there has been more written recently in the English language (by women) about women and consort practice, such as Passionate Enlightenment by Miranda Shaw, "Travellers in Space" by June Campbell, the "Love and Liberation" Autobiographical Writings of Sera Khandro by Sarah H. Jacoby and a recent academic article by Holly Gayley, Revisiting the Secret Consort ( gsang yum ) in Tibetan Buddhism . Shaw, in particular, effectively claims that a genuine consort lama relation would be mutually fulfilling and equal. However, judging by recent sex scandals of male Buddhist lamas ‘abusing’ and ‘using’ female students (including nuns) for casual sexual encounters and pleasure, it is clear that the ‘consort’ relation (and even the term itself) is still too often misunderstood and misused. Even though I have not read his new book about the tantric sexual union practice, Karmamudra : "The Yoga of Bliss: Sexuality in Tibetan Buddhism and Medicine", the author Dr Nida Chenagtsang states that the reason he wrote it was to educate and inform people about what an actual Karmamudra practice is and is not, in order to protect people from such worldly and abusive relations. As it stated in the article ‘ Monastic Abuse: The Tragic Case of Kalu Rinpoche’, consort practise is a very particular kind of physical (and/or energetic union) that is undertaken for the sake of enlightenment and not for sexual pleasure only. It is also an activity that involves a high level of yogic competency and expertise on the part of the lama, and in addition, the female consort is supposed to have certain qualities, such as vows, an understanding of emptiness and empowerments.

Qualifications and consent

The secondary root Vajrayana downfalls state that the vajrayana master or teacher, should not pick UNQUALIFIED consorts and also must not FORCE a consort. These terms are not so clear either, but generally speaking the texts and tantras refer to the woman (or consort) having a certain minimum level of attributes, for example, someone that has no vows, no stable practice, or has wrong views or not much understanding of emptiness etc would not be suitable. But what is meant by ‘force’ here? Certainly, physical rape and coercion or blackmail would be examples of forcing someone. But what about when a lama uses visualisations and mantras, and their own tantric yogic tsa-lung practice to literally overpower and intoxicate a woman to feel very sexual and thus do sexual things towards and with that lama they might not normally do? This kind of experience happens more often than people might know or be aware of. For example, some deity practices like Kurukulle, if done by a practitioner with certain skills, would allow them to gain access to a woman in this way, like putting a drug in her drink, so that they lose all ability to think clearly and become totally overwhelmed with sexual desire and arousal. Yet, as one article says about Kurukulle: ”Despite depictions of her magnetizing powers as “magical,” they are not for the corrupted purpose of attracting a mate, or money, or luxuries. Like other emanations of Tara, she is about the “activities” of compassion, in this case attracting and enchanting.” Source : Text of Tsering Wangmo.

[vazayoga]

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✨ Imagine a life filled with boundless energy, increased self-confidence, and a deep sense of inner peace. Vazayoga will empower you to live life to the fullest and become the best version of yourself. 🌺

🌟 Ready to take the first step towards your transformation? 🌟

💥 Join Vazayoga today and embark on a life-changing journey that will ignite your inner spark and lead you to a path of self-discovery and growth! 🌈

💫 Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to work with the Best Transformation Coach - Vazayoga! ✨

[haggishlyhagging]

According to Google Trends, the word "empowerment" hit a high in 2004 and 2005, as it became more deeply entrenched everywhere—feminist discourse, consumer marketing, corporate culture. "Empowering" joined "synergy," "scalable," and "drill-down" in boardroom conferences, vision statements, and business plans, and was eventually called "the most condescending transitive verb ever" by Forbes. It's become the name of a range of businesses, a national fitness event, and an almost mind-boggling number of yoga studios. It's become a company-jargon fave at Microsoft, with former and current CEOs Steve Ballmer and Satya Nadella both using it to impressively vague effect in memos and public talks. (At Microsoft's annual Convergence event in 2015, Nadella told attendees, "We are in the empowering business," and added that the tech giant's goal was "empowering you as individuals and organizations across every vertical and every size of business, and any part of the world, to drive your agenda and do the things you want to do for your business.")

Elsewhere in discourses and debates around sex as both an activity and a commodity, "empowerment" has become a sort of shorthand that might mean "I'm proud of doing this thing," but also might mean "This thing is not the ideal thing, but it's a lot better than some of the alternatives." Feeling empowered by stripping, for instance, was a big theme among moonlighting academics or otherwise privileged young women in the late 1990s and early 2000s, and you can find countless memoirs about what they discovered about themselves in the world of the sexual marketplace; the same is true of prostitution, with blogs like Belle de Jour, College Call Girl, and books like Tracy Quan's Diary of a Manhattan Call Girl. There was a point in the mid-to-late 2000s when you couldn't swing a cat through Barnes & Noble without knocking a slew of sex-work memoirs off the shelves: Lily Burana’s Strip City, Diablo Cody's Candy Girl, Jillian Lauren's Some Girl, Michelle Tea's Rent Girl, Shawna Kenny's I Was a Teenage Dominatrix, Melissa Febos's Whip Smart, and Sarah Katherine Lewis's Indecent among them. The crucial thing these often incredibly absorbing and well-written books had in common? All were written by young, white, and no-longer-hustling sex workers.

I want to be clear that standing with sex workers on the principle that sex work is work is an issue whose importance cannot be overstated, and also clear that my complete lack of expertise on the subject makes it well beyond the scope of this book. But I am interested in the idea that "empowerment" is so often used as a reflexive defense mechanism in discussions of this kind of sex-work experience, but less so in describing the less written-about experiences of people whose time in the industry is less finite and less bookworthy—transgender women, exploited teenagers and trafficked foreigners, men and women forced into sex work by poverty, abuse, or addiction. And I'm fascinated by the fact that we see thousands of pop culture products in which women are empowered by a sex industry that does not have their empowerment in mind, but far fewer in which they are empowered to make sexual choices on their own terms, outside of a status quo in which women's bodies are commodities to be bought and sold. Indecent author Sarah Katherine Lewis has written that, during her time as a stripper, "I felt empowered—as a woman, as a feminist, as a human being by the money I made, not by the work I did"; but hers is just one story. Belle de Jour and other sex workers have written about truly enjoying their work. If the market were just as welcoming of narratives in which young women were empowered by their careers as, say, electricians—if personal memoirs about a youthful, self-determining layover in the electrical trades were a thing publishers clamored for—then a handful of empowered sex workers would be no big thing. Until that's the case, it's worth questioning why the word is so often the first line of defense.

-Andi Zeisler, We Were Feminists Once

[pcosdiva123]

PCOS Diet And Weight Loss in Us

Title: Empowering Women with PCOS: The Role of Diet and Weight Loss Strategies in the US by PCOS Diva

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) affects millions of women worldwide, with prevalence rates as high as 10% in some populations. Among the myriad of symptoms and challenges associated with PCOS, weight management and dietary concerns stand out as crucial areas of focus. In the United States, PCOS Diva emerges as a beacon of hope and guidance, offering invaluable resources and support for women navigating the complexities of PCOS, particularly in terms of diet and weight loss strategies.

PCOS Diva recognizes that diet plays a pivotal role in managing PCOS symptoms and optimizing overall health. With this understanding, PCOS Diva advocates for a holistic approach to nutrition that goes beyond mere calorie counting or restrictive dieting. Instead, emphasis is placed on nourishing the body with whole, nutrient-dense foods that support hormone balance, regulate insulin levels, and promote sustainable weight loss.

Central to the PCOS Diva approach is the concept of the PCOS-friendly diet, which focuses on balancing macronutrients, selecting low-glycemic index foods, and prioritizing nutrient-rich options. By incorporating lean proteins, healthy fats, complex carbohydrates, and plenty of fruits and vegetables, women with PCOS can stabilize blood sugar levels, improve insulin sensitivity, and mitigate the metabolic disturbances associated with the condition.

Moreover, PCOS Diva recognizes the individualized nature of dietary needs and preferences among women with PCOS. Rather than prescribing a one-size-fits-all approach, PCOS Diva offers personalized guidance and flexible meal plans that empower women to make informed choices based on their unique circumstances and health goals. Whether following a gluten-free, dairy-free, or Mediterranean-inspired diet, women with PCOS can find support and resources tailored to their specific dietary preferences and requirements.

In addition to dietary considerations, PCOS Diva highlights the importance of incorporating regular physical activity into a comprehensive PCOS management plan. Exercise not only aids in weight management but also helps regulate menstrual cycles, reduce insulin resistance, and improve mood and energy levels. From gentle yoga and Pilates to high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and strength training, PCOS Diva encourages women to find enjoyable forms of exercise that fit their lifestyle and preferences.

Furthermore, PCOS Diva recognizes that sustainable weight loss is not just about counting calories or following a rigid diet plan; it's about cultivating a positive mindset, building healthy habits, and fostering self-care practices that support long-term well-being. Through coaching programs, support groups, and inspirational success stories, PCOS Diva empowers women with the knowledge, tools, and motivation needed to embark on their journey towards a healthier, happier life.

In conclusion, PCOS Diva serves as a beacon of empowerment and support for women with PCOS in the United States, particularly in the realms of diet and weight loss strategies. By advocating for a holistic approach to nutrition, personalized meal planning, and embracing physical activity as an essential component of PCOS management, PCOS Diva equips women with the resources and guidance needed to thrive despite the challenges of PCOS. With a focus on empowerment, education, and community support, PCOS Diva continues to inspire and uplift women as they navigate the complexities of living with PCOS and reclaim their health and vitality.

[lingshanhermit]

Lingshan Hermit: Rationality and Sensibility

The previous Vajrayana masters all emphasized that Vajrayana is a practice suitable for those with the highest capacity. Dzongsar Jamyang Khyentse Chökyi Rgya mtsho Rinpoche said: Among one million Vajrayana practitioners, there may only be one who truly understands Vajrayana.

The implicit meaning behind these words is that Vajrayana is not suitable for those with middling or lower capacities. However, not everyone is smart enough to understand this. I’ve seen many Vajrayana practitioners who, upon hearing this, think to themselves: I must be one of highest capacity since I’ve received empowerments and have the good fortune to encounter such a sublime teaching. But the very fact of having such thoughts is proof enough that you are far from having supreme capacity.

For a long period in the past, Vajrayana was taught secretly. Vajrayana masters practiced in isolated places, passing down precious teachings only to those few who were able to correctly understand and practice them – even today such people remain extremely rare.

As for me, Vajrayana is the most difficult Buddhist teaching to comprehend. It requires exceptional wisdom, extensive knowledge of Buddhist teachings, and exceptionally strong capacity for integration. Nowadays many who claim to practice Vajrayana completely lack genuine understanding of what it entails. By this I mean not that they don’t know how to visualize, chant mantras or do retreats, but that they don’t know how to actually practice Vajrayana. They are unable to correctly understand Vajrayana theory or apply Vajrayana methods in their practice. Their practice becomes hijacked by the self, becoming a tool for demons.

A major reason why Vajrayana has become so popular nowadays is that most who "practice" it don't actually understand it. Many mistakenly believe Vajrayana practice doesn't require renunciation, abandoning desire, avoiding women, or even drinking alcohol or eating meat. So they quickly plunge into Vajrayana, becoming its enthusiastic supporters. Compared to the image of ascetic hardship associated with Chinese Buddhism, for these people Vajrayana is practically heaven for indulging their desires - a complete misunderstanding. Sometimes I think that if people truly understood what Vajrayana practice entails, what one has to renounce on the path, there's no way they would choose Vajrayana. Vajrayana requires relinquishing far more than other vehicles. Although much of the publicity says Vajrayana doesn't require ascetic hardship, I've never met a Vajrayana practitioner who attained realization by taking it easy.

Demons also love Vajrayana, since there are so many things in it that they can manipulate to make their subjects of those who claim to practice it. Unlike in other vehicles, they can transform would-be Vajrayana practitioners into their slaves with almost zero effort, making them appear to practice when in fact they have gone far astray. This is far more terrifying than ordinary tricks - you don't realize you've gone astray at all, not even realizing your true state as you believe you are seriously practicing. Due to the unique theoretical characteristics of Vajrayana, Vajrayana practitioners can come up with endless excuses to justify themselves. Without proper understanding, Vajrayana theory can become a complete defense of greed, anger and delusion, transformed entirely into guards and attendants of the self. But correctly comprehending Vajrayana theory is tremendously difficult, requiring massive investments of time, energy and merit. Over the years I’ve seen many without proper preparation in Buddhism plunge into the Vajrayana world - a potentially disastrous move for themselves and others.

For Vajrayana practitioners, the most difficult part of practice isn't visualization, Vajrayana’s complex theories, but Guru Yoga. Guru yoga is the most sublime Vajrayana practice, but also the most difficult. Over the years, most failures I’ve observed were due to inadequacies here. Many Vajrayana practitioners don’t actually understand the principle of seeing the Guru as the path itself. Because it is the most difficult point to comprehend, almost completely contradicting modern concepts of freedom and democracy that we are raised with. Whenever I watch the facial expressions of modern liberal democrats when they first hear about the Vajrayana approach of seeing the Guru as the path itself, I observe their psychological reaction to something that utterly opposes their usual belief system - extremely shocking. Although they may not voice it openly, it absolutely conflicts with their inner sense of independence and freedom. This sows tremendous latent dangers. If you don’t have exceptional wisdom (rest assured almost no one does), there is no way to come to terms with it. Because on the surface it sounds like you must give up personal autonomy and simply obey the Guru's every command, like a slave who must knock down his house in the middle of the night if so ordered. Strangely though, I’ve found most people's expressions don’t change much when they hear this theory, either because they didn’t really understand it, or because they are used to putting on false pretenses, or simply have no intention to actually apply it. In any case, no one raises doubts or says “this contradicts my usual ideas of freedom.” Not openly voicing doubts doesn’t mean they aren’t there. People are just used to hiding their true thoughts. This sows huge latent dangers - if you don’t genuinely understand the rationale behind seeing the Guru as the path itself (which there’s a 99% chance you don’t), but deceive yourself into thinking you understand, convincing yourself and the Guru that you understand when you don’t, the consequences can be tremendously dangerous. The buried landmines you’ve laid will inevitably explode at some point in the future, leading to irreversible damage. Seeing the Guru as the path starts as painful at first, with the Guru grinding away at your faults. Over time these ordeals intensify beyond what you can bear without proper preparation and dharma understanding to make sense of what is happening. Losing one’s sanity due to pain can lead to tremendous mistakes.

Therefore, for those who are not properly prepared or haven’t grasped Vajrayana theory, getting involved in Vajrayana practice may be the most mistaken decision you ever make in this life. I’ve seen many "practitioners" who didn’t understand Vajrayana theory from the beginning, yet oddly showed no interest in clarifying their confusion. Later I understood this comes from being raised in a culture where asking questions is shameful and admitting you don’t understand is even more shameful – essentially admitting defeat in their cultural mindset. So they take great care not to reveal their ignorance, even to themselves. Of course when hearing dharma instructions that don’t make sense, they don’t think to ask questions, but assume it’s their own fault for not understanding. Then they keep pretending to practice until they can’t take it anymore. For such people, they tend to apply emotional reactivity when rationality is required, and rational analysis when a sensibility is appropriate. Vajrayana practice, especially Guru yoga, sometimes requires rational discernment while at other times pure sensibility. Some wrongly assume Guru yoga is purely emotional, but without rational understanding one cannot grasp Vajrayana theory. I’ve observed many practitioners make this mistake - using rationality instead of sensibility and vice versa at the wrong times. A genuine Vajrayana practitioner knows when rational analysis is appropriate versus when sensibility is needed - applying them incorrectly can be fatally disastrous. When to apply one versus the other is an extremely vast topic we can explore separately. Employing rationality does pose one danger: when your knowledge is insufficient, your rationality can become poisonous. If you are truly learned and widely exposed, your experiences can aid you in understanding the dharma. But what is most terrifying is when those with narrow life experience use their limited rationality to judge the instructions of the Guru and Buddhadharma. In the past people have asked me whether rationality poses an obstacle to Vajrayana practice. Rationality itself is never an obstacle, only when combined with insufficient knowledge does it become one. Just as science itself isn’t a problem, only when held as the ultimate authoritative answer does it become an obstacle.

I remember once the Guru explained a Guru yoga practice of Jigten Sumgon Rinpoche which involved reciting a verse of prayer, then reciting a mantra circle, then another prayer verse and mantra circle in succession. In this way, 1 million mantra recitations complete 100,000 recitations of the prayer. At this point one very rationally-minded student raised an objection - "But this way you only recite the prayer verses 10,000 times, not 100,000!" The Guru glanced at him and said "Oh, I see." I don’t know what language could describe this person. The Guru said you recite it 100,000 times, so that means you recite it 100,000 times. But due to narrowly clinging to mathematical concepts, you insist it was only 10,000. You think the Guru miscalculated, meaning you consider the Buddha to be wrong. In Vajrayana the Guru is seen as a Buddha - so you really think a Buddha made a math error? You must be quite amazing. I’ve seen this kind of thing happen many times, with disciples attempting to openly correct what they see as factual or common sense errors by the Guru. I can hardly imagine a more suicidal move, as they rob themselves of the potential such occasions provide to break free from the limits of their own minds. Although they may recite aspirational prayers to not see any action of the Guru as anything other than perfect, and to understand everything the Guru says, they don't actually apply this in practice. Seeing the Guru as prone to error means you don't see him as infallible truth. Not only is this a tremendous lost opportunity, but at crucial junctures it can lead to irreversible mistakes that will send you straight to the worst lower rebirths.

So when is it appropriate to apply rational discernment? In the initial stages, when you first encounter the dharma, you should scrutinize it and the teacher to validate their authenticity. But this also hides dangers - your rationality may be inadequate for accurate assessment if your knowledge is insufficient. In actuality most are unable to complete this task successfully, either due to intellectual limitations or lack of sincere effort. I’ve met many with substandard educations (and I don’t mean high school dropouts - they may hold advanced University degrees and high paying jobs) who lack basic critical thinking skills and open-mindedness. Constrained by the limits instilled during their training, bound by narrow rationality, such persons’ intellect becomes an obstacle to progressing in the dharma, unable to even pass the first test. If one maintains an attitude of curiosity and openness towards existence while accumulating merit, they will see many thought-provoking things that reveal the deeper truth of reality. When such persons eventually connect with the dharma, this aids them in validating its authenticity. However, I’ve met many who seem to completely lack curiosity beyond their teenage years, ceasing to learn or update their views. Holding the arrogant attitude that they already grasp the nature of everything, they neither contemplate nor study, refusing to explore. They relate to others solely in terms of personal benefit, believing there are no saints, that anyone claiming to be a holy being is putting on an act that disappears when they go home. It’s not hard to imagine what happens when such persons dabble in Vajrayana practice.

The first type will carefully consider their choice, possessing sufficient knowledge and life experience to place the teachings and Guru under scrutiny, eventually concluding the path is genuine. The latter type actually believes in nothing, only their own habits and assumptions, having coasted through life without ever taking anything too seriously, including dharma practice or the teacher. No need to scrutinize or validate anything - to them participating in Vajrayana is no different than getting a gym membership. But the two are completely incomparable. Not showing up at the gym leads to no consequences, but failing to live up to your tantric commitments accrues heavy karmic ripening.

Initial rational analysis is a tool for scrutinizing the authenticity of the teachings and the teacher, but once this investigation is complete it must be set aside in order for the path to yield results. Persons strongly habituated to purely intellectual analysis will face considerable hardship in Vajrayana – better to stick with sutra teachings that emphasize conceptual understanding. In Vajrayana the Guru is not just the embodiment of truth but truth itself. If he declares rancid fish blended with orange juice to be the most delicious drink, you should happily partake. If after fully convincing yourself of the truth of the Guru you still try to logically critique everything he says, you will face tremendous obstacles in the future. Of course having the courage and discernment to see a flesh and blood human as infallible truth worthy of complete trust is itself immensely difficult, requiring tremendous bravery and intelligence. Abandoning self-importance was never easy – it’s like breaking bones and resetting them. Not only abandoning self-importance, we find it excruciatingly hard to abandon even tiny habits we know cause harm. Thus only the very few of greatest capacity have ever been able to bear what Vajrayana demands – the same holds true even today. I witnessed many declare their wish to offer their body, speech and mind to the Guru when Vajrayana was gaining popularity more than a decade ago. I don’t believe they actually understood the implications, because they seemed shocked when things became unbearably painful down the line. The reality is most don’t comprehend what Vajrayana practice entails or what the role of the Guru is relative to that of disciples, not grasping what commitments mean or seeing the Guru as the path itself. Yet somehow they entered into guru-disciple bonds lacking this basic foundation – the cause of later catastrophes.

Lingshan Hermit, written September 16, 2022

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灵山居士：理性与感性