The Yoga of Truth

Within the nine main styles of Yoga from India is one contemplative discipline which requires us to witness life without personal attachment to outcome. This form of Yoga is known as "Jnana." How can one really make a commitment to witnessing life without attachment?

There are monks and priests, who witness life without attachment, but it is difficult for the average person to study Holy Scriptures all day and be unattached to the material world. Would one have to become a monk, nun, or priest to truly practice Jnana Yoga?

Jnana is also called the "Yoga of Knowledge." You do not have to become a monk, nun, or priest to pursue knowledge. However, your mind goes through a constant training exercise when practicing Jnana Yoga. The reason being - our perception of truth is subject to our past judgments, and training, up to this point in time.

Consider this list of questions, without becoming upset. Try to see both sides of the issue, without judgment. Notice how people become angered, if they firmly believe that one side of the issue is the only truth, and there should be no questions concerning these matters.

Is religion good for humanity?

Which religion is good for humanity?

Is national health care a good idea?

Is God male, female, or far beyond the limitations of gender?

Is democracy the best form of government at this time?

Is there one God, or are there many Gods?

Religion and politics are very "hot" issues, and they stir up strong feelings. This volatile mix of political and religious questions is not meant to excite anyone, but it will. The point to be made here is that the truth is hard to decipher when we cannot control our minds.

It is easy for the ego to run down a list and choose right or left on every issue. Humans have made war on each other over religion and politics for thousands of years. Yet, religion and politics have helped us advance as a species. The truth comes to us when we suppress the ego, and it takes constant discipline.

With the study of Jnana Yoga, one learns to understand one's self. Jnana is not the only way to come to terms with one's self, but it allows for inquiry into "Who are we?," without going into a state of emotional turmoil. Training the mind to react logically, during real life situations, is a constant challenge. Jnana Yoga is one of many proven methods to discipline the mind.
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Exercise For Feeling Happier And Living Healthier - Bikram Yoga In NYC

By Earnestine Bond

A series of slow and controlled movements concluded by graceful poses, sweat trickling down every part of the body and the sound of deep and conscious breathing is what Bikram Yoga in NYC may appear to be on the outside, although in essence, its potential benefits outweigh the physical exertion by far.

Bikram's fame spread rapidly through the early 1970 studios and mushrooming practices, into the hearts and homes of Hollywood stars like Madonna, Demi Moore and George Clooney to name but a few. Upon attending a class, it is therefore a usual sight to see celebrities amongst the sweaty bodies.

Bikram Choudhury, its multi-millionaire founder and 'owner', is surrounded by controversy, obviously sparked by his elegant fleet of Rolls Royces and Bentleys. However unapologetic he appears to be about his growing empire, many debates still rage about his stringent copyright laws on the exercise and levies charged for outside instructors to profit from its teaching.

A set structure of twenty-six poses is performed in a heated room exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit, which equates to approximately 40.6 degrees Celsius (each session lasts 90 minutes). Exercising under this extreme heat is thought to decrease the risk of injury or muscle strain and encourage deeper and longer stretching. 2 distinct breathing exercises function as an introduction and end to the class, as is common with all forms of yoga and/or meditation.

The poses, are called 'asanas', and are based upon two fundamental dynamics, according to Choudhury. These are extension and compression. What is meant by these terms is that with every pose, a particular body part is compressed, thus decreasing blood flow to the area or cutting it off completely. Another part of the body is therefore completely extended. When the pose ends, a rapid rush of blood to the previously compressed areas, occurs due to the pressure, causing an increased flow of oxygenated blood to the whole body. This results in an increase in circulation and has detoxifying effects on the body.

Positive effects extend passed the obvious benefit of weight-loss, although even the extent of this benefit is varied according to each person's individual anatomical make-up. Other benefits include muscle toning, increased flexibility and better sleep.

This form of yoga has expanded across the world, where many swear by its benefits, despite controversies surrounding its associations with sex and sensuality. Although it does not suit the taste or physicality of every practitioner, for those who practice it regularly, it is nothing short of a wonder-worker.

Bikram Yoga NYC

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