Caution: It is important in this exercise that the thoracic spine is stretched and the spinal column evenly arched. It should be avoided if pain in the lumbar spine, high blood pressure or heart disease.

When the holidays set in and the pace slows down, we all know that new resoloutions are in the air. Here's a simple, quick an effective practice that will keep you healthy, bright and cheerful. 10 rounds performed morning, and evening are the best medicine you'll ever find for body, mind and soul.

http://www.yogaindailylife.org.au/pages/khatu-pranamand returning back through the same positions in reverse order, is 1 round. 

Pranayama is the conscious and deliberate control and regulation of the breath.

'Prana' means 'breath' 'ayam' means 'to control', 'to regulate' With each breath we absorb not only oxygen, but also Prana, cosmic energy, the Universal Power that creates, preserves and changes. 

Before Bhastrika Pranayama is attempted, each of the four levels of Nadi Shodhana Pranayama (Levels 1- 4 of YIDL System) should have been practiced for at least three months. Bhastrika should be practiced only under the guidance of an experienced yoga teacher.

Bhastrika Pranayama refreshes body and mind and has a rejuvenating influence upon the whole body and improves memory. Circulation is stimulated and the increased blood supply to the head improves eyesight and hearing. The lungs are strengthened and it is beneficial for bronchitis, as the respiratory system is quickly and deeply purified. The Digestive function is stimulated, improving metabolism. This breathing technique also activates the solar plexus and influences strongly on Manipura Chakra.

Did you know Neti is an amazing way to ward of allergies, and cleanse the whole head and sinuses. It's an ancient practice, and if you do it right, it even feels nice. Warm salted water is poured through the nasal passage from one side of the nose to the other, cleaning out muck and toxins. Followed by a breathing technique you feel much more fresh and aware. Come in and we'll happily show you how it's done.

PHALAHARI diet derives from the sanskrt word Phal, which means fruit. During past centuries as well as today, many yogis take only fruits, a little milk and nuts.

In this diet it is advisible to eat only fruits and vegetables (no bananas and no potatos), some nuts, a little yellow mung dhal and some tofu. Also little milk or yoghurt each a day.

There are great changes in the body  when you take a phalahari diet - you become more flexible, and the digestive process is quicker - the body de-toxifies faster, and you experience less joint and body pains.

It is advisible to follow this kind of diet for a minimum 3 weeks, or 3 months for better results, and if you really want to improve your health and loose weight, than one year. When you are starting it can be a challenge, but always remember you can eat as much as you like, even 5 times a day!

SANTOSHA = CONTENTMENT

Santhosa is the second principle of Niyama (Niyama means "to follow something").
You are discontent with too many things, with your flat, your job, your husband or wife, your children, your neighbourhood and the money you earn. You are not even content with your yoga path. It leads you nowhere. However, you should be content and take things as they are. In English you say "Take it easy", although it isn`t always so easy. It is only easy to say so. But being content is the aim of yoga, attaining inner happiness and overcoming the restlessness of mind.

There is a Hindi saying:

SANTOSHI NAR SADA SUKHI

The one who is content is always happy.