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As an
antidote to the frantic pace of modern life, it is
understandable that Yoga is so popular. Yoga, which
literally means to yoke or unite, is more than just
a way to reduce stress and create equanimity---in
reality, it is a comprehensive system whose far
reaching goal is to re-link the individual
personality to her/his divine origin.
Hatha
Yoga, practiced by many celebrities such as Kareem
Abdul Jabar, Sting, Carole King, and the Miami
Dolphin's star quarterback Dan Marino, emphasizes
physical postures and breath techniques which
according to medical studies result in increased
blood circulation, body flexibility, and enhanced
body detoxification. Other forms of yoga include:
Karma Yoga, the path of right action; Raja Yoga,
which focuses on control of the mind; Bhakti Yoga,
the path of devotion and purification of the heart;
and Surat Shabd Yoga, which re-connects its
practitioners to the inner light and cosmic
sound.
No matter
what Yogic path one chooses, however, it is
recommended by all Yoga teachers that when
practicing Yoga one creates a sacred space. Natural
cotton clothing, candles, fragrant plants, and a
devotional altar all contribute to the perfect
atmosphere.
There are
numerous yoga centers that offer daily classes and
regular workshops. The Integral Yoga Institute (New
York, NY), Iyengar Institute (San Francisco) &
The Center for Yoga (Los Angeles, CA) are but a
few. For more advanced students, there are also
dozens of residential training centers, many in
breathtakingly beautiful suroundings, which include
the world-famous 3HO Foundation, Sivananda Yoga
Center in Quebec (Canada) and the Kripalu Yoga
Center in the Berkshire Mountains of
Massachusettes.
Why not
treat yourself to an enriching and serene vacation
at one of the spectacular retreats listed in our
Favorite
Yoga Links area...or locate a
local yoga teacher/center in your area at
Yoga.com.
Important Note: We are
constantly up-dating the listings in each of our
City
& State Guides. Please contact
Peter (peter@vegetarianusa.com) if you
find listings that are out-of-date. We would
appreciate receiving the correct address, tel #
& website.
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