Welcome to the Living Practice – Winter
Edition 2002
Editor’s Letter with Megan McCarver
Defragmenting Yoga by Arun Deva
Yoga Is Good by Cheri Reeder
Spiritual Article 4 - How to Lead a Spiritual Life or How to
be Spiritual – Rajayoga by Neel Kulkarni
Another Healthy Habit from Megan McCarver
Beets and Carrots gifted by Journey to the Soul
Music Review
A Note From YogaEverywhere
Yoga Classified
Past Issues of the Living Practice
Dear
Lovely Viewers,
Have you
noticed how the world’s interpretation of yoga takes many turns and twists over
time? More importantly, however, is how your understanding of yoga has refined
itself gradually through your personal practice. Almost daily, I redefine the
meaning of yoga for me. For today it teaches me to embrace the gift of my
physical body, allowing appreciation of my limitations and obstacles. Today the
feeling I get from practicing yoga is one of harmony as well as the strength
that comes from having moments of balance in my life. Cut and dry, yoga teaches
me how to replace my stress with relief!
What do you think? I believe that
Yogaeverywhere’s community of yoga viewers, teachers, students, and observers
share a relationship with yoga and have insights that we can all enjoy.
I want to know what yoga is to you. For January, I thought it would be a great way to say goodbye to the tumultuous year of 2002 with an issue dedicated to “what yoga is to me”. Of course, there is no right answer, only your interpretations through your life experience. We want to hear your opinion and to celebrate the many different pathways to yoga. When you send in your eMail, please share your definition of yoga in 50 words or less and (optionally) attach a small digital photo of yourself. Be sure to include your name, state, country and link (if you have one).
Hey, did you notice I changed www.YogaEverywhere.com a little
bit. Please tell me how you like it and
where you would like her to grow in 2003.
As always … I personally thank you for your support and devotion to yoga
everywhere.
God bless you and your families,
megan and gary mccarver
Defragmenting
Yoga by Arun Deva
The question of Yoga’s integrity as it transitions into the
American psyche is one that has become the “cover issue” of many magazines,
conversations and debates within the community. As a naturalized American
citizen of Indian birth and a yoga teacher/student to boot, I have often been
asked for my views.
I spent the formulative years of my life in India but it is
in America that my practice matured. Most of my teachers have been Americans.
There was a gap between my study of Yoga in India and that in America that
stretches over a decade. A decade in which I immersed myself in what I thought
was the “western way of life.” It took a critical turn in my health to bring me
back to my practice and ever since then I have been trying to integrate the
lessons of the past and the ones being learned here and now. I have tried in
the past to address this same question for this same magazine and have not been
successful in doing so.
Many great teachers from India have been to these shores,
bringing its profound message in myriad ways. From them have sprung different
schools of practice. Call this the flowering of yoga in America or call it the
fragmentation, the truth is what we do with it from now on will determine which
path we take. Swami Vivekananda, Paramahamsa Yogananda, Swami Rama and other
luminaries were the carriers of the flame. We are the keepers of the flame.
Just as there are many different schools here, there are different schools in
India. Here, though, life is faster and attention spans are short. In Ayurveda
we would call this collective memory a Vata memory. Quick, intuitive and
short-lived. If Yoga is to continue to grow in a way that is respectful of its
roots, we must remember its lessons even as we spread out our branches. We are
now the keepers of the flame and this flame is American. This Yoga will grow
its own branches and bear its own fruit and display its own beautiful flowers.
What tree do we want to plant? Will it be organic, grown in clean soil or will
we chemically feed it so we can make it a viable commercial tool? These are
questions no Indian teacher can answer, for this is America’s Yoga, America’s
child and it is up to the American Yoga community to raise it as it sees fit.
As one who sees it from both sides of the mirror, I marvel
over how the boom here has affected the Indian psyche, creating a boom there!
Was this an effect foreseen by the Indian Gurus who brought
it here? It is a question we may ask that does us no service. The reality is
that it is up to us now how we present “our” Yoga to the world and even more
importantly to the land that gave it birth and then sent it lovingly and
trustingly to us.
Which brings me to the title of this ruminative piece.
Recently, Yoga Journal has been running a series on this very same debate. I
have been following it with great interest but no great insights. That is until
this last one: “Yoga, Inc.” Towards the end of the piece they quote a global
management consultant, Barry Minkin, on whether Yoga in America will peak and
whether it is a trend. As he compared Yoga to other “products” and even the
peaking of martial arts, he brought up a significant pointer that heralds that
“peaking.” He calls it the “fragmentation” of the original importation. This
“fragmentation” is what leads eventually to its collapse.
America has its own character. It’s own nature. Part of this
nature is the ability to commercialize everything it touches. It is built on
the premise of personal wealth and the celebration of the right to pursue this
goal as an individual. Yoga is built on the premise that as long as we
subscribe to the theory that we are separate, we will remain separate and as
long as we remain so, we will continue to be subjected to “dukkha.” It is in
seeking our higher self that we gain some measure of “sukkha.”
When Yoga teachers here begin to tout there own brand of
Yoga over another’s, no matter how deeply they believe their path is the
“correct” one, they do a tremendous disservice to the founding principles of
Yoga’s philosophy. Anyone who has studied Ayurveda, as should all serious
teachers of Yoga, knows that there is never just one path, just one goal. This
is where the true synthesis of the genius of America and the truth of Yoga will
give birth to a new sensibility in the American psyche that blends the power of
the individual drive with the desire to work for the good of all.
We are at a crossroads today. Will we choose the path of
fragmentation and allow Yoga to turn into just another trend that sparked a promise
before it went back to being studied by just a handful, each seeking his own
path, or will we come together as a community, honoring each other and
presenting a model to the rest of the country that shows the power of unity,
respect and purity of purpose.
American Yoga is no longer a child. It is growing up. And it
is growing up in the public’s eye. What have we raised? Will it be a troubled
youth or mature into all that we have dreamt for it? It is up to us and the
answer lies not in comparing it to its roots, as it must grow to be its own
entity. The answer lies in whether we honor it enough that its parents will be
proud of how it has grown. I say that as an Indian by birth and an American by
choice. We must stand together as a community. Not only seeking in our own way
the same truths but also honoring and defending each ones path. I believe this
is the destiny the founders had in mind when they left their homes and they’re
all to come teach us the path of “Union.”
Yoga Is Good by Cheri Reeder
The best way to
begin your yoga practice is one or two days per week.
Why is yoga an important part of a healthier life? The first benefit comes from
simply giving yourself the gift of that hour, honoring yourself in this busy
world for a change. Yoga, at its roots is an ancient way of life, has been
practiced through the ages, and is now perfect for the most modern urban yogi.
For those of us who don't have time to do everything it takes to maintain our
health yoga has it all... 1. The aerobic class I've been meaning to take.
2. The muscle-training workout I missed. 3. The stretching my trainer said to
do. 4. The deep relaxation & stress release my doctor keeps recommending 5.
An hour of meditation I keep trying to fit in. 6. The deep breathing I once learned
about. 7. Touching that blissful place inside, and remembering where it is for
easy access later. 8. Balance...learning to balance our lives!
You see, I didn't even mention opening the flow of energy through your body to
improve all functions of the body systems. Don't you feel healthier already?
Cheri, Yoga
instructor, San Diego ~ for questions or a class to join call (619) 743-3181
Spirituality
Article 4 - How to Lead a Spiritual Life or How to be Spiritual – Karmayoga by
Neel Kulkarni
Salutations to Lord Ganesha. In the
'Spirituality - Article 1' (www.yogaeverywhere.com/eNews/january2002.htm),
we saw what is meant by Spiritual Life or Spirituality. Then, in the
‘Spirituality – Article 2’ (posted in April’s Living Practice www.yogaeverywhere.com/eNews/April2002.htm),
we started with ways of actually leading a spiritual life and stated certain
salient features of them. Then, in the 'Spirituality - Article 3 (posted in
August’s Living Practice
www.yogaeverywhere.com/eNews/August2002.htm), we saw one one specific way of Spirituality, called as ‘Rajayoga’.
In this article, we shall see another specific way, called as ‘Karmayoga’.
Once a person truly realizes existence of the Spirit and develops an intense
desire to realize it, he or she takes up one of the paths as a main path
depending on the person’s nature. A person of action or working nature takes up
Karmayoga or the path of action.
The word ‘Karma’ in Sanskrit, translated here as ‘Action’ in English, has three
aspects. 1. ‘Kruti’ meaning the action which is actually performed and
perceived. 2. ‘Kaaran’ meaning the cause which gives birth to the ‘Kruti’, the
performed action. 3. ‘Uddesha’ meaning the purpose or the objective behind the
performed action. 4. ‘Phalam’ meaning the result of the performed action.
All the actions performed prior to the Spiritual Realization, whether the
action is good or bad, have only one cause, which is the ‘unfulfilled desire’,
called as ‘Vaasana’ in Sanskrit. The collection of all ‘Vaasanas’ prior to the
present time is called as ‘Sanchita Karma’ or ‘Accumulated Karma’. When a being
is born, a portion of the Accumulated Karma is taken and a body suitable to
satisfy that portion of Karma, is assumed. The portion of Karma which is
assumed at any particular birth or incarnation, is called as ‘Prarabdha Karrma’
meaning ‘Destined Karma’ or simply Destiny. The purpose of the objective behind
the performed action gives birth to the new Vaasana. This is called as
‘Kriyamaana Karma’ meaning the ‘Karama which is currently being formed’. This
‘Kriyamaana Karma’ is then added to the ‘Sanchita Karma’, the ‘Accumulated
Karma’. The being which performs the action has NO control over the result of
that action. Also, the actual action itself is not crucial in spirituality.
This way there is increase or decrease in the ‘Sanchita Karma’ or the ‘Accumulated
Karma’ and there are new birth-death life cycles, or incarnations. However,
when a person has truly taken the path of Spiritual Realization, there is no
‘Vaasana’ or Ego in the persons performed action. Therefore, such a performed
action does not result in ‘Kriyamana Karma’, thus reducing the ‘Sanchita Karma’
with time. Such a performed action is called as ‘Nishkaama Karma’ or the
‘Selfless Action’. To facilitate the selfless action, the student of
spirituality tries to do all actions for the benefit of others. This is called,
‘Paropakaar’ or ‘Action for the benefit of others’. Also, the actions of such
student are limited to the ‘senses’ without involving egoism. These actions are
done with the feeling, ‘Na Aham Kinchid Karomi’ meaning ‘I do nothing’ (Shrimad
Bhagavadgita). This kind of spiritual practice involving selfless action is
called ‘Karmayoga’ or the path of action.
When the ‘Sanchita Karma’ or the ‘Accumulated Karma’ is reduced to zero, the
being does not take another birth for the fulfillment of ‘Vaasana’ or
‘unfulfilled desire;. It becomes self realized and merges with the God.
However, out of spontaneity this Godhood, from time to time, takes a birth for
the good of living beings, for maintaining the good regime, called as ‘Dharma’.
Such a born being is called as ‘Saint’ or ‘Incarnation of God’. All the
performed actions of saints are for the good of the living beings. It does not
result in new Karma.
Neel Kulkarni, born in India, has studied Yoga in Classical Style for over 31
years and taught for over 24 years in many countries and to variety of
audience. He completed his Health and Yoga studies in 1999, and opened his Yoga
School, which gives many types of Yoga Classes including Hatha, Meditation,
Chanting, Philosophy, and Sports. Neel holds B.S. and M.S. in Aerospace
Engineering from an International Ivy League and has worked as Computer
Consultant for 21 years in many countries. Please visit Neel at www.authenticyoga.com/
Beets and Carrots gifted by Journey to the Soul
Hello and happy fall!
Three large Beets grated
Three large carrots grated
Tsp cumin
Tsp, garam Masala
Pinch of asafetida
Salt to taste
Ghee or oil for frying
Combine all ingredients except salt in a frying pan and fry
until beets and carrots are cooked. Add
salt and a bit of water and cook to blend the salt.
Fall is a time when the metabolism and digestion tend to
slow down, but using garam Masala and cumin and asafetida help to combat these
vata or air related problems.
This recipe helps to keep one healthy during the fall. Root vegetables help to keep one grounded and can combat allergy and reparatory related problems that occur during the fall. Cooking with ghee helps to keep the mucus membranes and skin healthy during fall and also helps to keep the mind calm. Ghee is wonderful for enhancing mental clarity and is the only fat that according to Ayurveda does not increase cholesterol or harm the liver. In fact, it is a blood purifier and liver cleanser.
Christine and Venkat teach vegetarian cooking classes and create herb and spice mixtures designed for balancing the body throughout the seasons. They have also written several cookbooks on the subject of vegetarian and Ayurvedic cooking. It is their hope that as each individual finds peace the world to will become a place of peace.
Another Healthy Habit from Megan McCarver
A Big hello to YogaEverywhere viewers throughout the world. Here is
another “healthy habit” that if you have not already incorporated into your
lifestyle, try it for thirty days and maybe it too will become a
"habit" you’ll want to keep!
Your habit for November / December: Express gratitude to
yourself every chance you get. You may say “what does that mean?” Well, it is
the season of Thanksgiving here in America and thoughts of thankfulness abound!
Many of us tend to give to others all year round, isn’t it finally time that
you say thank-you to yourself? Say thank you to yourself by choosing social and
family events this holiday season that enrich you (not deplete you)! Instead of
going to Uncle Paul’s house out of obligation try spending that precious time
with your favorite friends and family.
Megan is the founder and creator of www.YogaEverywhere.com. She presently teaches privately to students in Southern California. Megan is also available to teach yoga for your business or community group. Her specialty is introducing people to the yoga community in a gentle and kind fashion and working with the senior spiritually matured population. For more information please eMail Megan today.
Yoga Music Review
Music during your yoga practice should not demand your attention nor
should it distract you from your breath. The best music to enhance your
practice stabilizes your attention while supporting your breath. Here is this
month’s pick for your yoga practice music collection.
Yoga Chant is a double CD with study guide
enclosed (twenty page-ish mini instructional booklet) bringing Yoga into your
living room. Practical and user friendly requiring no props, only mindful
breath and attention. This CD by Shiva Rea is great for home yoga practice and
especially for leading you into meditation and pranayama. Shiva’s kind and
loving voice will clearly instruct you through a vinyasa flow, accompanied by
Jai Uttal chanting with friends. I recommend this CD for students of all levels
and for teachers too. Two thumbs up!
Name of CD: Yoga Chant
By: Shiva Rea with artist Jai Uttal and
Ben Leinbach
A Note From YogaEverywhere
Please continue to share your teachings, articles and insights with YogaEverywhere. Currently YogaEverywhere.com does not pay for articles submitted, but knowing that The Living Practice touches so many lives each month … your submissions will do great service to yoga practioners everywhere. Please try to keep submissions under 300 words and include a short biography (3-4 sentences long and a small photo of yourself if you have one available).