“The way we construe pain, happens in the brain …our perception of pain is shaped by brain circuits that are constantly filtering the information coming from our sensory nerves”. Studies for the the efficacy and benefits of yoga therapy are showing promising results for chronic back pain, cancer, auto-immune disorders and even with substance abuse.
yoga
What is Metta and how do I do it?
This post is written by my friend, Deb Sheahan, a Buddhist meditation practitioner. What is Metta Meditation “Metta” comes to us from an ancient Indian language called Pali, and it translates as lovingkindness or friendliness. Normally, when we think about meditation we imagine sitting in silence and focusing on something pretty neutral like the breath, physical sensations, a guided voice, or our own inner mantra. Metta is different in that it is an active form of meditation where instead of focusing on the breath, vocal guidance or mantra, we focus on… Continue Reading What is Metta and how do I do it?
Fists in your Sleep. What Does it Mean?
Besides our face, I think hands are the most expressive instruments we have to convey thoughts. We can talk with our hands and even signify emotions. Fisted hands often symbolize anger. So what does it mean if you wake up with balled fists? I actually didn’t even know I was doing it until I had such intense cramping in my forearms that I lost my ability to grip a suitcase on a recent trip. Doing what I do, I knew that my Body was obviously telling me something, so I… Continue Reading Fists in your Sleep. What Does it Mean?
Can College Hurt Your Knees?
If you’re the parent of a college-bound student or graduate, I am guessing that your knees weren’t the first thing to hurt! Speaking for myself with one of each, I would say that my pocketbook and heart (not in that order) took more of a beating. But even if you and your pocketbook have not suffered college, I bet you have at least experienced a home or job re-location, or even a change in marital status? Because those, too, can wreak havoc on the knees. At this point I have… Continue Reading Can College Hurt Your Knees?
How Can We Prevent Yoga Injuries?
Yoga is growing – since 2001*, the amount of people who practice yoga has doubled! However, so has the amount of yoga related injuries. I recently published an article in Granby Living about this after wondering how we can practice and teach yoga safer, and I learned that most yoga related injuries are due to: Practicing too long at a time. Practicing too much without rest between practices. Practicing too hard causing excess strain on specific joints. Practicing what is contraindicated for your specific body. Overall, however, yoga is a… Continue Reading How Can We Prevent Yoga Injuries?