Chaturanga Dandasana

Sanskrit: Chatur – Four Anga – A limb Danda – Staff Four-Limbed Staff Posture Benefits: Strengthens the arms Develops power and mobility in the wrists Tones the muscles of the abdomen and core Contraindications: Those suffering a wrist injury or...

Utthita Trikonasana

Sanskrit: Tri – Tri/Three Kona – angle (Utthita – extended) (Extended) Triangle Pose Benefits: Stretches and strengthens ankles, legs, and hips Opens the chest & shoulders Increases flexibility in the back and spine Improves circulation to...

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...