Yoga

Laura's practice is based on the Sivananda Yoga Vedanta lineage of Swami Vishnudevananda, who closely observed the lifestyles and needs of people in the west and synthesized the ancient wisdom of yoga into five basic principles that could easily be incorporated into one’s own lifestyle to provide the foundation for healthy living. It is around these five principles that the activities at the Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre are based.

Proper Exercises (Asanas) – Yoga poses help develop a strong, healthy body by enhancing flexibility and improving circulation. The Yogic physical exercises are called Asanas, a term which means steady pose. This is because the Yoga Asana (or posture) is meant to be held for some time. However this is quite an advanced practice. Initially, our concern is simply to increase body flexibility.

Proper Breathing (Pranayama) – Deep, conscious breathing reduces stress and many diseases. Yoga teaches us how to use the lungs to their maximum capacity and how to control the breath. Proper breathing should be deep, slow and rhythmical. This increases vitality and mental clarity.

Proper Relaxation (Savasan)- Helps keep the body from going into overload mode, easing worry and fatigue. During complete relaxation, there is practically no energy or “Prana” being consumed, althouth a little is keeping the body in normal condition while the remaining portion is being stored and conserved.

Proper Diet– Eating simple, healthy foods that are easy to digest notably have a positive effect on the mind and body, as well as the environment and other living beings. The Yogi is concerned with the subtle effect that food has on his mind and astral body. He therefore avoids foods which are overly stimulating, preferring those which render the mind calm and the intellect sharp. One who seriously takes to the path of Yoga would avoid ingesting meats, fish, eggs, onions, garlic, coffee, tea (except herbal), alcohol and drugs.

Positive Thinking and Meditation – These are the true keys to achieving peace of mind and eliminating negativity in our lives.