In practice, we learn how to deepen the breath and keep a full breath in movement and in still poses.  We learn how to use the breath to create and balance energy in the body.  As best we can, we invite the mind to become present with our breath and with our bodies, moment by moment, letting go of the pull to judge, to explain, to plan.   Perhaps, we notice how the body is always changing; as we watch sensation, we will see discomfort change, we will see flexibility change, we will see balance change.  The same happens with emotions, as we let them rise and pass without becoming swept away by them. 

     Class after class, as we continue practicing, the body may become stronger, more flexible.  Balance and posture may improve.  Perhaps we'll experience a change in a health condition we've been working with.  But these are only side effects.  The deeper benefits come in how we live our lives "off the mat".  We begin to apply everything we've learned "on the mat" to our everyday lives, from our daily chores to our relationships and making life decisions.  

     Yoga means union.  Union of the mind, body, and spirit.  Union with the divine.  Union with truth.  Union with your higher power.  Union with breath.   Find the words that make sense to you.  Everyone's experience is unique.

Resources for your yoga practice 

Begin practicing yoga at home - this CD can support you:

Relax and Renew - a CD led by Kristie Karlof with music by local singer-songwriter, Chelsea Berry.  

     This CD offers two tracks to guide you in personal practice outside of yoga class: a twenty minute breathing exercise and a twenty minute guided relaxation.   Use these recordings at home, bring them on the train with your I-Pod, or download them on your computer to use at your desk.   The first track, a breathing exercise, can give you that boost of energy in the middle of your day or help guide you into a centered yoga practice.  The guided relaxation can be used at the end of your day to help you find restorative sleep.  You could also use this recording at the end of your personal yoga practice.  

     Whether you use these recordings on their own or in combination with practicing yoga, they can be a useful tool to creating deeper well-being in your life.  Deep, fluid breathing brings much-needed energy to the body, supports your respiratory and circulatory systems, and calms the mind.   Practicing deep relaxation, the body can release layers of tension and stress, creating the space for natural healing.   As you practice these regularly, you may find that you're more resilient in stressful times and better able to handle challenge in your day-to-day life.   You may find that your sleep is more restful, and you have more energy during the day, simply from taking the time to focus on your breath and relax.   It's that simple.  

     CD's are $7.00.  For ordering information, email Kristie.

Read about the philosophy and practice of Kripalu Yoga:

     Finally, we have a resource for Kripalu Yoga in our bookstores, and its highly recommended!    It was released a few years ago, Kripalu Yoga: A guide to Practice On and Off the Mat, written by Shobhan Richard Faulds and senior Kripalu teachers.    The book provides a thorough introduction to Kripalu Yoga, in its philosophy, specific breathing practices and postures, and how the practice can extend to our daily lives.    Its a great companion to a weekly class, allowing you to deepen your knowledge of this style of yoga and perhaps giving you some support for a home practice and bringing the philosophy of yoga into the rest of your life.   

Its easy to order the book online through the Kripalu Centers web site, but you can also find it in many bookstores.  Best wishes with your further exploration of yoga!

Visit the Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health.

Give yourself the gift of a retreat at Kripalu!   Explore introspective workshops, meditation, yoga, and various other movement classes.   Relax and unwind in the sauna and whirlpool.  Nourish yourself with healthy, delicious meals and quiet walks in the Berkshires.

          We have visited Kripalu as a group in the past.  We hope to plan another group trip in the future.   Not only can we carpool, but we also get a group discount!  

To read more about Kripalu, check out their web site:  www.kripalu.org