Antara Kumbhaka (Kumbhaka Antara)

Sanskrit: Antara – interior, within Kumbhaka – suspension, holding Holding the inhalation Benefits: Expands the lungs and chest Calms the mind Contraindications: Breath retention is not recommended for those living with glaucoma, untreated high blood...

Asteya

The third Yama, Asteya, is translated as non-stealing. Deep practice with it encourages not to desire the belongings, conditions, ideas, or anything else of another. In Buddhist practice this is echoed by the second grave precept, “Be giving. Do not...

Ahimsa

I first really put my mind to what Ahimsa means to me when I wrote about it back in December 2007 as part of my preparations to receive the first five Buddhist precepts in the spring of 2008. There are several areas where the Yamas, as written down by Patanjali, and...

Sukhasana

Sanskrit: Sukha – Ease, easy Easy Pose (“pose of ease”) In the Iyengar system of nomenclature, Sukhasana and Swastikasana are two names for the same pose. Swastikasana is Sanskrit for Crossed-Limbs Pose. However, a variation of Siddhasana may also be...

Adho Mukha Svanasana

Sanskrit: Adho – downward Mukha – facing Svana – dog Downward-Facing Dog Pose Benefits: If held for a longer duration energy is restored to someone who is feeling fatigued. This pose is very calming despite the energizing effect on the body. Relieves...