tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76441159774929864752024-03-08T03:02:57.542-08:00Anne's Yoga & EFTAnnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920955826954338403noreply@blogger.comBlogger29125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7644115977492986475.post-37631963877475469882019-11-29T06:19:00.001-08:002019-11-29T06:28:07.916-08:00Benefits of the YOGA SANGA Yoga Retreat<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;"></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>1. Connect with Nature</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
No matter the weather –
this is a chance to connect with nature and all things natural. Leave behind
the hustle and bustle of city life, immerse yourself in natural surroundings
and take advantage of them.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>2. Disconnect from Technology</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A retreat is a perfect opportunity to do a digital detox.
Tell your family where you will be and mention that they may not hear from your
for those days away. Mention that just for safety, if there is any form of
emergency family will be notified; however, you will be in a safe environment.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>3. Take stock of Current Life </b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Going on retreat allows you to take a step back from the
stresses of daily life and often after a few days of relaxing, the brain is
clearer and important decisions can be made to help you re-evaluate.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>4. Deepen your Yoga Practice</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Yoga Retreat offers multiple classes per day. One can
partake in every class without distractions of everyday life. Perhaps this
means going deeper within on a mental and spiritual level, maybe it is on a
physical level. Your choice!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>5. Spend time with Experts in the Field</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Talking with the Yoga instructors; interacting in workshops with
the presenters and sharing meals in the dining room with other experts, leads
to deeper knowledge and solutions to unanswered questions. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>6. Surround Yourself with Positive Energy</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Taking part in a yoga retreat allows you to leave behind all
negative vibes and stress. On an organised retreat you don’t even have to think
about what to eat next... it is all provided with uplifting positive vibes. You
will be surrounded by positive thoughts, feelings, conversations and like-minded
people.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>7. Healing</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A yoga retreat can be healing for your mental and physical health.
Going on retreat can change your life, and help you to deal with any emotional
and mental issues you may be having. It can also be healing for your body if
you’ve experienced injury.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>8. Get a Taste of Living with Purpose</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
By choosing to take part (or not) in classes, workshops or
events on the retreat; by partaking in healthy meals and activities; by
experiencing love, compassion and kindness of others; by interacting with
like-minded people – these are the things that can change your outlook on life!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>9. Introduction to new Healthy ways of Eating</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
On the retreat healthy vegetarian /vegan food is offered
with an option of choices, but all considered for health and well-being. Meal
and food ideas to take into life back at home are vast. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>10. Really Relax</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A reason to go on a yoga retreat is to give yourself an
opportunity to truly relax. Planning a vacation can be hard work, and sometimes
it’s difficult to disconnect and really restore your reserves. On a yoga
retreat, you can genuinely escape and have nothing to do but concentrate on the
retreat.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><i><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">TREAT yourself !!!</span></i></b><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b>See you on the
Yoga Sanga Retreat</b>:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><a href="http://www.yogafestival.co.za/">www.yogafestival.co.za</a></div>
<!--[if !mso]>
<style>
v\:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);}
o\:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);}
w\:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);}
.shape {behavior:url(#default#VML);}
</style>
<![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-GB</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>AR-SA</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:DontVertAlignCellWithSp/>
<w:DontBreakConstrainedForcedTables/>
<w:DontVertAlignInTxbx/>
<w:Word11KerningPairs/>
<w:CachedColBalance/>
</w:Compatibility>
<w:BrowserLevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="267">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0cm;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:10.0pt;
font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";
mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;}
</style>
<![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:shapedefaults v:ext="edit" spidmax="1028"/>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:shapelayout v:ext="edit">
<o:idmap v:ext="edit" data="1"/>
</o:shapelayout></xml><![endif]-->Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920955826954338403noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7644115977492986475.post-71836035939544672752014-03-17T08:48:00.001-07:002014-03-17T08:51:48.663-07:00Tips for the New Yoga Teacher<br />
When asked what it takes to be a good yoga teacher, <br />
Seane Corn, an acclaimed yoga teacher, replied: <br />
“Having a committed personal yoga practice helps”<br />
<br />
With that in mind here are some useful tips:<br />
<br />
1. Remember why you are teaching yoga: <br />
Most likely you decided to teach yoga because of YOUR love of yoga. It is up to you to impart this to your yoga pupils, so that they also develop this love of yoga.<br />
<br />
2. Remember what yoga is:<br />
Bringing harmony and balance to all levels of our being! Union, integration, balance!<br />
<br />
3. Teach what you know:<br />
Even though you may not be able to do a practice properly if you know how to teach it properly you can teach it! Be focussed while teaching. Be clear, simple and straightforward.<br />
<br />
4. Be adaptable and prepared:<br />
Prepare your classes ahead of time and stick to the plan, but at the same time be prepared to change or adapt something if the need arises. Have options for beginners and more practiced pupils.<br />
<br />
5. Remember they are people, you are teaching:<br />
They have feelings, emotions and want to feel good. Make the class about them - not you. Be engaged with your pupils. Do not get so involved in your practice in front of the class that the people are neglected or ignored.<br />
<br />
6. Make eye contact with your pupils:<br />
Watch students and walk around your class. If need be make soft physical contact to help correct a pose.<br />
<br />
7. In the beginning keep it simple:<br />
Teach asanas and pranayama that you know well yourself. As you incorporate more involved practices into your personal practice and become skilled at them, then introduce them into your class teaching. Repetition can be a good thing for newbies.<br />
<br />
8. It’s not about you – be a light unto those attending your classes!<br />
Ask yourself again: ‘Why am I teaching yoga?’<br />
<br />
For Yoga Teacher training: http://www.asanga.org.za<br />
Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920955826954338403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7644115977492986475.post-77402735697824510972013-08-18T09:15:00.000-07:002014-03-17T08:57:28.864-07:00Yoga for Recovering Injured FootIn a hurry to get out of the shower to close a banging door on a windy stormy morning, I kicked my left toes against the ridge of the shower door. Oweeee, yoweeee…. was that sore and blood all over, and the worst of it all – I had a Yoga class to teach 20 minutes hence. Cleaned it up, wrapped torn toes with a band-aid, took loads of arnica, other homeopathic remedies and of course my own home-made FlexiBod (for healing and restoring muscles, ligaments and joints) and hobbled off to the class. Ironically the theme for the week’s classes – was – you guessed it – feet…. Grounded-ness; stability; taking weight down through our feet; balance; deep gratitude for what our feet do for us each and every day. Managed to get through that one hobbling and wobbling.<br />
<br />
Repeated the remedies all through the day as well as binding the toes (thought by now, one was broken) and added a few rounds of tapping - for the pain, the discomfort, the bruising, the embarrassment of kicking the shower after 20 years of daily use, the thought of a lengthy recovery period if a toe was broken… and other aspects that presented themselves. The following day I taught the yoga class and still my achy, oh-so-sore toes and foot, but it wasn’t as bad as I had expected it to be! The next day I was scheduled to teach for an extra long yoga class/workshop – two and half hours of “Yoga for the Core” – managed to get through it okay but by the end the foot was super-sore. After the class continued the remedy/tapping routine and took some rest. Was amazed that there was hardly any bruising, swelling was already down, and when there was no pressure on it – no pain either. The following morning apart from the lacerations it felt astoundingly better, just a bit of a bruised feeling in that second toe and under the foot in that vicinity. Even went for a long walk with the dog. Yay….<br />
<br />
But never-the-less now have to plan the week’s morning Yoga classes, so decided to do a routine that does not require putting much pressure on the feet or too much standing, etc (quite the opposite of last week’s classes!) So here it is – a ‘floor yoga class’ for a winter’s morning:<br />
<br />
• Centre in Sukhasana<br />
• Kapalabhati – 3 rounds<br />
• Optional Sithali 3x (cooling breaths for those with the hot-flush reaction)<br />
• Neck & shoulder looseners<br />
• Baddha konasana and variations for opening the hips and preparing the lower back<br />
• Side bends in sukhasana<br />
• Twists in sukhasana<br />
• Baddha konasana forward bend<br />
• Janu sirshasana<br />
• Pascimottanasana<br />
• Uppavista konasana<br />
• Gomukhasana for shoulders and upper back<br />
• Navasana and variations<br />
• Rolling ball with all variations; ending with plough to pascimottanasana rolls - 6x each<br />
• Sarvangasana to plough to bridge to matsyasana sequence<br />
• Apanasana both legs 4x<br />
• Cobra sequence to warm up and energise<br />
• Balasana<br />
• Sit up for pranayama: repeat kapalabhati and sithali as above<br />
• Yoga nidra in Savasana<br />
<br />
Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920955826954338403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7644115977492986475.post-28837973868234093792013-04-05T07:57:00.000-07:002013-04-05T07:59:08.679-07:00Ayurveda Routine for AutumnMany of us in the Western Cape enjoy the beautiful, cooler days of Autumn – I know this is my most favourite season. Instinctively as the days and nights become cooler we feel the need to change our eating and life-style patterns. Perhaps we add a blanket to the bed, a warmer top and socks in the evenings, and start making more stew-like or soup dishes for our main meals.<br />
<br />
Autumn is predominantly a Vata-type season – cool, dry, light, rough are some of the qualities of vata and these attributes start to show within and without our bodies. Perhaps you notice the rough skin on your heels after the sandal season of summer. Vata dosha is the dosha of movement and thus it governs the other two doshas - pitta and kapha, and at this time of year if not carefully pacified will cause aggravation to the other two if it becomes imbalanced.<br />
<br />
Vata is responsible for all movement within the body – think of neuron impulses of the nervous system, the movement of wastes out of the body, the breath flowing in and out, blood flowing through the blood vessels, even speaking uses the attributes of vata, and these are a few amongst many other functions relating to movement. Vata is seated in the colon (predominantly) therefore any aggravation or imbalance will most likely manifest here first, with symptoms such as bloating, gas, constipation. Other signs of vata imbalance are dry lips, dryness inside the nostrils, dry or parched skin, erratic sleep patterns, irregular appetite, stress and tiredness. If you notice any of these changes it is time to start a vata-pacifying regime and routine.<br />
<br />
In autumn, we look to bring balance to the vata dosha by focusing on the opposite qualities to those of vata. Choose grounding, warming, moisturising and nourishing foods and lifestyle to offset the dryness and cold. Stillness such as meditation and routine, regularity and rest bring harmony once again.<br />
<br />
All these tips are especially significant to do if your predominant dosha is vata, or you are in the vata stage of life (older age).<br />
<br />
Ayurveda for Autumn Summary:<br />
• Focus on warming, nourishing foods, rich in oils and ghee, warming spices such as ginger, cumin and cinnamon. Have warm soft breakfasts such as porridge to which you can also add some spice. To help you sleep, have a warm milk drink at the end of the day with some ginger, a grating of nutmeg and a bit of sugar added. Avoid dry foods like breakfast cereals, dry muesli, pop corn, and stay away from ice cold drinks and foods. Stick to regular meal times and for better digestion, try to have the main meal near midday each day. <br />
• Stay hydrated by drinking sufficient pure water each day.<br />
• Take care of your skin by self-massaging the whole body daily with warming sesame oil. Try nourishing face masks made with natural ingredients from your kitchen. See below.<br />
• Increase times of stillness and meditation in your day, let this be a time to connect with yourself and settle any movement. Also reduce anything that contributes to excess movement, for example travelling, rushing around and fast and vigorous sports or yoga. Slow down by going for a walk in nature, practice calming and grounding yoga poses, do slow deep balancing pranayama, meditate, write in your journal, listen to beautiful music, etc.<br />
<br />
Nourishing facial mask: Take 2 Tbs honey and blend well with 2tsp milk<br />
Apply to face, leave for 10-15minutes then wash off with lukewarm water.<br />
<br />
Use almond oil with a few drops of vata pacifying essential oil blend to the face and leave on overnight.<br />
Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920955826954338403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7644115977492986475.post-67074515613617210992012-03-05T08:14:00.000-08:002012-03-05T08:16:34.308-08:00What is Yoga Therapy?Over the weekend a group of Yoga Teachers gathered to start a new training journey, which will take 3 years to complete. Their goal is to become qualified as: Yoga Therapy Teachers.<br /><br />One afternoon we sat discussing the concept of yoga therapy – how does it differ from attending a normal yoga class; why is it carried out on a one-on-one basis; all these questions required an answer.<br /><br />The definition by International Association of Yoga Therapy is:<br /><br />“Yoga therapy is the process of empowering individuals to progress toward<br /><br />improved health and wellbeing through the application of the<br /><br />teachings and practices of yoga”.<br /><br />It seems even many practitioners of yoga do not know how beneficial yoga is! Not only is yoga an ‘exercise system’ as most class attendees think, but it is a powerful way of transformation for body, mind and soul. Yoga is both a science and an art. Yoga is a scientific system of self-investigation, self- transformation, and self-realization that originated in India, over 5000 years ago. The art is dependant on the skilled Yoga Teacher who puts it together into a sequence that supports and balances all levels of the practitioner’s being. A Yoga Therapy teacher who works with a person in a one-on-one situation plans the session to directly benefit that particular person’s constitution and imbalances within that.<br /><br />If you attend a yoga class and develop a problem – whether it be physical, internal, mental, or anything else discuss it with your teacher first! Perhaps you need not go for that painful, costly surgery that is recommended by the Surgeon you just visited! Unless it is an emergency, Yoga Therapy may just be able to help.<br /><br />The Yoga Therapy teacher requires specialized training and skill development to support the relationship between the yoga practitioner and teacher to effect positive change for the individual. Perhaps you should approach your Yoga Teacher as a first resort and not the last resort…. If she is skilled at yoga therapy you may be pleasantly surprised at the wonderful benefits you can gain.<br /><br />"Yoga is preventative, maintaining and corrective…<br /><br />so where ever you are on your healing journey …<br /><br />YOGA is best!"Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920955826954338403noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7644115977492986475.post-29938117454868818592012-01-25T14:42:00.000-08:002012-01-25T15:02:43.830-08:00How does a Yogi view 'Life after Death'Today I was asked an interesting question from a Christian's perspective: What do yogis believe happens to them after dying? An interesting topic to start this blog run for 2012!<br /><br />I am no expert on what happens after death.... just as no-one else can be either, as no-one knows until they experience it and then are not here to tell the rest of us. <br /><br />As I said in my interview in the Yoga Awakening Africa magazine (http://yoganewsletters.wordpress.com/2011/11/02/yaa-interview-anne-combrinck/) I am not religious but respect all religions. The spirituality that I practice is an inward worship of God and reverence for all that is. I do however, hold Jesus (who attained what is referred to as Christ-consciousness, hence his title - Jesus Christ) in the highest esteem as my opinion of him is that he was most definitely a well-practised 'yogi' in all respects (Chap 3 of Patanjali's - Yoga Sutras - describes the gifts given to one who attains the highest states of consciousness (samyama=dharana, dhyana, samadhi), such as he demonstrated with various 'miracles' he performed. His example in life has influenced humanity for 2000 years and that says something in itself. <br /> <br />Modern day yogis can be of any religion or no religion so may have differing beliefs dependant on that! The origins of yoga come from the country of India where the predominant religion is Hinduism and hence many think that Yogis "believe" the same as in Hinduism, which is the belief in reincarnation -taking on another physical body depending on their karma 'accrued' in this life-time. I prefer not to have 'beliefs' as 'knowing' is readily available to each of us if we can still the mind sufficiently to tap into it.<br /><br />After this long explanation.... the question 'what happens to us after death?' boils down to the religion/beliefs of the one who practices yoga.Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920955826954338403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7644115977492986475.post-81101844840013434772011-11-19T07:17:00.000-08:002011-11-21T00:43:25.107-08:00FlexiBod (not only for increased flexibility)Not many people in the 'yoga/EFT' world know that I am an ex-chemist, because I don't often talk about it. I loved being a scientist and chemist but chose to give it up due to the passion I have for Yoga and also the toxins that I worked with in the laboratory. Dreadful things like mercury, lead, cadmium, vanadium, aluminium, tin, to mention only a few!!<br /><br />So a few years ago when I was going through a particularly 'stiff and sore' phase I decided to research and manufacture a natural product for this. As the guinea pig I took it for a number of months and had good results. Muscle pains disappeared, feet aches were non-existent, and the bonus increased flexibility - good for yoga - that's for sure! My students noticed and soon I was making it for them too..... and still do!! It has also morphed into another product for elderly pets... called (you guessed) "FlexiPet"<br /><br />Here is a basic run down of the product - a beautiful light green powder, which is swallowed down with a glass of water (or put into the pets food).<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div align="left"><strong>Flexibod - Nutritional Supplement</strong><br /><br /><span style="font-size:78%;">Formulated by Anne Combrinck (ex Analytical Chemist) with natural ingredients that have been well researched, tried and tested.<br /><br /></span>Contains MSM, Spirulina, Barley Grass, Vitamin C, Calcium, Magnesium, Trace Minerals & Tissue salts<br /><br />What it does:<br />· Increases flexibility throughout the body –good for yoga! Less joint & muscle stiffness<br />· Reduces recovery time if you injure a muscle, tendon or ligament<br />· Increases energy <br />· Promotes elasticity, strength, and the general health of our bodies' tissues<br />· Detoxifies at cellular level<br />· Balances acid/alkali levels reducing joint problems<br />· Relieves inflammation<br />· Boosts the immune system, fights free radicals<br />· Healthy metabolic processes such as tissue growth, digestive metabolism, and water retention<br />· Trace minerals aid absorption and effectiveness of other constituents<br />· Improves collagen repair in skin & other tissues (no more wrinkles?)<br />· Delays aging effect<br />· Speeds up wound recovery, treats constipation, eliminates excess fat<br />· Contains organic iron – helpful for anaemia<br />· Spirulina is a probiotic that protects intestinal flora, improves digestion<br />· Barley green is anti-arthritic, anti-gout & anti-carcinogenic. It is a cell food.<br />· Reduces joint, muscle and 'bone' pains</div><br /><div align="left"></div><br /><div align="left">These are only some of the benefits!!<br /><br />To take – before breakfast – on tongue (or mix 1 teaspoon into a small quantity of water or fruit juice, swallow) and then follow with a full glass of water – the taste is tolerable - but oh so worth it.</div>Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920955826954338403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7644115977492986475.post-43071823898951584842011-11-08T04:00:00.001-08:002011-11-08T04:04:00.908-08:00Pregnancy Yoga - More Information<strong>Pregnancy Yoga<br /></strong><br />Pregnancy Yoga classes, taught by a Yoga Teacher with additional and specialised training in this field, provide opportunities for expectant women to develop greater vitality and awareness of their bodies. These classes also deepen their relationship with their unborn baby. Gentle postures, breathing, visualization and relaxation are learned which cultivate, flexibility, calmness and confidence in preparation for labour and childbirth. Women are empowered to develop their ability to access greater relaxation, comfort, and enjoyment. Calm, strength and flexibility ease the birthing process, thus reducing pain and increasing the joy of giving birth. With the guidance of the Pregnancy Yoga Teacher, women prepare for an active, normal and natural birth.<br /><br /><strong>Birth and Nurturing the Baby are Natural</strong><br />It may seem strange that a mother needs to prepare for birth and motherhood; after all they are completely natural, instinctive and biological functions. Women’s bodies are ideally designed and adapted to carry, give birth to and nourish their young, just like any other mammal. However, unlike other mammals, humans appear to be the only species that has such difficulty fulfilling this instinctive potential.<br /><br />This has not always been the case though. Many cultures, throughout the ages, have honoured and respected the power of women to give birth and nurture their young as central to life. It is only in our ‘modernized’ world that the power of women as birth-givers has been steadily degraded and replaced by the science of obstetrics.<br /><br /><strong>Why Practice Yoga in Pregnancy?<br /></strong>Attending yoga classes that are specifically adapted for the pregnant woman, means that a conscious choice has been made to devote some time to honouring and nurturing yourself and your unborn baby during this special time. As yoga brings your mind and awareness into your body it awakens the awareness of your baby inside and deepens your connection with your child. You will feel more in touch with your inner self, more connected to nature, and you begin to discover that the power to give birth and nurture your baby lies within yourself. This is also very helpful after the birth.<br /><br /><strong>Physically …<br /></strong>During pregnancy, energy levels fluctuate and may leave you feeling exhausted for no reason. Your body is using enormous amounts of energy to ‘create’ a brand new human being, and misusing your body can result in excess tiredness. Physically, yoga teaches how to keep the posture correct as the centre of gravity changes throughout the nine months; it strengthens the back, tummy, shoulder, arm and leg muscles to be able to carry the baby comfortably and easily; it keeps you fit and thus an adequate supply of oxygen and nutrients flowing around the body and to the baby; it improves circulation of other fluids in the body helping to prevent swollen ankles and other oedemas. These seem to be ‘side benefits’ when you consider how yoga prepares the body physically for the birth. It helps to open up the hips and pelvis, creates more flexibility, and strengthens muscles that are needed for the ‘pushing’ stage of labour. After all, what does ‘labour’ mean – hard physical work! Therefore it makes sense to prepare the body with stretching, breathing and physical exercise.<br /><br /><strong>Mentally and Emotionally ….</strong><br />On other levels, yoga helps to bring your whole being into balance. It influences the mind and body positively, benefiting you emotionally. Yoga especially with a focus on breathing quietens the mind, allowing you to feel more peaceful within yourself. It is calming and reduces anxiety - you feel more present in your body and thus mentally and emotionally balanced.<br /><br />Pregnancy is a natural state of ecstasy and celebration. There are many peaceful and blissful times to be enjoyed during these months. Yoga can help you make the most of the contentment, well-being and fulfilment which women can experience when they are pregnant. Its benefits will continue in the many pleasurable hours you will spend with your baby after the birth.<br /><br /><strong>Preparing for Birth and Coping with Labour</strong><br />In most traditional societies, women are encouraged in pregnancy to build up their strength and improve their fitness in readiness for the birth. On the whole they give birth easily, and we can do the same.<br /><br />The processes of birth are involuntary, they happen without your conscious control. The sensations experienced during the hours of labour as your body opens to give birth are very powerful. They take you to your limits of endurance. There are times of extremes both pain and pleasure, ecstatic highs and deep dark lows involved in the extraordinary inner journey which brings your baby to birth. Yoga is a wonderful preparation for this. It teaches you to make space between thoughts to focus on what you are feeling in your body and to surrender and let go, which is exactly what you need to do during labour.<br /><br />Breathing lies at the very heart of yoga practice – without mindfulness of breath the postures are lifeless and static. In Pregnancy Yoga classes breathing correctly and deeply, as well as using the breath as a focus, is learned. Breathing properly throughout pregnancy and labour are important for your baby, who is depending on you for his/her oxygen supply. To be able to concentrate on the breath – the source of all life – can help you get through the most difficult times in your labour.<br /><br />Many of the yoga postures learned in the class are similar to the positions women instinctively assume in labour. These positions are then spontaneously applied during the labour allowing comfort and ease for the different stages.<br /><br /><strong>Overall Benefits of Pregnancy Yoga</strong><br />All in all the practice of yoga brings awareness of breath, body, mind and feelings, which enables the mother-to-be to stay in harmony with her child throughout her pregnancy. It gives her the confidence to follow her instincts while giving birth and as a mother.<br /><br />Anne Combrinck, a Yoga Teacher and mother, used yoga to prepare for her son’s birth and has been teaching yoga to pregnant (and post-natal) women for many years. (This article originally written for SA Journal of Natural Medicine)<br /><br />She also trains Yoga Teachers, and facilitates a workshop to further train Yoga Teachers to specialise in Pregnancy Yoga Teaching.Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920955826954338403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7644115977492986475.post-37839219079907574652011-11-08T03:02:00.001-08:002011-11-08T03:53:52.146-08:00Babies are an InspirationPregnancy Yoga Teacher training is such a fun course. Even though there is soooo much information to share and the time goes past so quickly, I love, love, love teaching this course.<br /><br />The best part about this course is that everyone is so enthusiastic about new life - babies seem to inspire people in general but women particularly. This year there are 7 beautiful Yoga Teachers coming together to learn how to teach Pregnant women, couples and the Moms with their babies afterwards. After one weekend of intensive training we are about a quarter of the way through, and have dealt with pre-conception and fertility, and the 3 trimesters of pregnancy.<br /><br />The following weekend will cover Couples Yoga for Mom-to-be and Partner; Yoga for the Labour and Birth; Post-natal Yoga for the moms; and Moms and Babies Yoga, which incorporates some baby massage. On these weekends we go through the practical aspects of teaching yoga for these stages and after the weekend get-togethers there is time for on-line theory study before the final examination.Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920955826954338403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7644115977492986475.post-26580894801360068852011-11-08T02:49:00.000-08:002011-11-08T03:01:52.619-08:00Oh my, the year has flown by!Cannot believe I have neglected my blog for so long..... I am sorry. Could it be the Falcon was so overwhelming I didn't think to write again...LOL<br /><br />Well it's not that I haven't been writing - I contributed to a blog that we call "Metawomen" for the group of awsome women that meet once a month to discuss, dance, shake, meditate, build fires, have fun, and share eats and tea with. All of us around that age... you guessed it... metamorphosis = change.<br /><br />I also wrote a few articles for Journals and mags, and of course, most time-consuming of all - my training manuals that are always in the process of being up-dated or completely re-written or completely written from scratch, as I download the information so beautifully stored in the RAM of my brain.<br /><br />Will there be more time to contribute to this blog... always have the intention... we'll see.Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920955826954338403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7644115977492986475.post-5542189357499397622011-01-21T05:47:00.000-08:002014-03-17T08:59:00.318-07:00The FalconYesterday (14 Jan 2011) a Peregrine Falcon flew into our plate glass window. By the time we reached him he was lying on his back, wings sprawled, feet curled up, eyes closed and not breathing. I detected a very feint heart-beat that was dwindling fast. I turned him over - his little head lolling to the side, wrapped my hands around him and 'sent' healing energy into his body, with my son assisting and unbeknown to me doing the same. The heart beat became stronger and eventually was pounding in his chest as he briefly opened his eyes and was horrified by these 2 humans glaring and holding him. A little water laced with Rescue Remedy dropped into his beak, and more healing as I used surrogate EFT tapping with his fear, injuries, and 'concussion'.<br />
<br />
He again opened his eyes this time the pupil dilated then some sort of focus seemed to happen, it was time to stand back from this strong beak and sharp powerful talons.....wings gave a half-hearted flap and he moved 4 inches, to get away from us. We stood back, giving him his space. Another minute or so and another more vigorous flutter, this time he moved and few feet away, and I was scared he would accidently fly into the pool. So we closed in on him again and 'guided him' towards a safer garden area, only a few feet away. He sat for a few more minutes with wings spread open in the sunlight. Still tapping I could see him looking back at us. Then enough eneegy to fly ... hovering just over the pool, didn't think he would make it but he did and landed on the wall of the pool... that was close. Martin said to tap for the fear of flying after he had sat there for a long time, this I did and continued tapping for the trauma, the fear it may happen again, the hurt, and soreness, feeling stupid for not seeing the glass, etc. He turned and stared straight into my eyes, looking alert, and in one swoop flew up, circled over the pool and through the gap of the trees and away he went!<br />
<br />
All three of us felt honoured to have been part of this magnificent bird's healing .....<br />
<br />
What a lesson this falcon gives... (from Animal Totems: Dictionary of Birds)<br />
Falcon represents: Power of insight, agility, discernment and how to attach opportunities in life, discern when and how to strike when needed. Falcon teaches swiftness with control and exactness in movement. Timing is everything for falcon. Is it time to take chances? He will teach timing in your spiritual and physical life. Falcon will teach to see your environment with mental and spiritual clarity.Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920955826954338403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7644115977492986475.post-15170846686676334052010-12-13T04:45:00.000-08:002010-12-13T05:09:33.101-08:00End of another yearWell, tomorrow is the last yoga class for this year. It has been a good year, new people joining the yoga classes and the dedicated students continuing on with enthusiasm. Workshops were full and feedback from them was so great. Everyone wants more of those, where we go deeper into different postures and other aspects of yoga. I know that I will thoroughly enjoy teaching them again as I love it when others are keen to learn more about yoga.<br /><br /><br /><br />So now planning for next year will go full-steam ahead while on vacation/retreat in the country. Definately going to do another Yoga Teacher training - so many applications from both within South Africa and far away places all over the globe- and with my blood-iron levels normalising, maybe this year I will have the strength to teach it again. It is a wonderfully powerful course and most attendees have a life-changing experience. Always makes me so proud to see how they come in as 'green' yoga practitioners and leave confident & capable to share the yoga teachings with others. They learn so much more than just teaching asanas, they learn a new way of living - the yoga life-style. This is it - <em>live your yoga</em> - it is part of all aspects of everyday life, not only a practice on the mat!<br /><br /><br /><br />So here's to a wonderful Christmas and a fantastic 2011....Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920955826954338403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7644115977492986475.post-90761439132983736382010-11-01T09:10:00.000-07:002010-11-01T09:17:55.340-07:00New Year Yoga Retreat<div align="left"><br />Hi Everyone,<br />We are going to run a relaxing, beautiful retreat 4 -8 Jan 2011, to start the year on a more spiritual note. <em>Please, forward this on to anyone who may be interested!<br /></em><br /><span style="color:#ffff66;">Please note:</span> If a non-yoga practising spouse/other wants to join you - they are quite welcome. There is a pool, sauna, games room with TV, etc available for them to relax and enjoy while you're yoga-ing. This is a retreat so nothing is compulsory, however they may join in with anything (maybe a time to be introduced to yoga??)<br /><br />This will be a <span style="color:#33ff33;">luxurious retreat</span> with good food, beautiful sunsets, mountain walks, swimming, yoga-related activities and of course, meditation and yoga.<br /><span style="font-size:85%;color:#cccccc;">See advert below and have a look at the web page referred to (costs, dates...).</span><br /><br /><span style="color:#ffcccc;">PS we are only taking 15 people - so book soon!<br /></div></span>**********************************************************************************<br /><div align="center">4-8 January 2011 - a 4-day Yoga Retreat </div><div align="center"><em>in the most beautiful part of South Africa, Stellenbosch</em></div><br />* Consider having a spiritual New Year and set the tone for 2011.<br />* Spend time rejuvenating and re-energising yourself.<br />* Deepen your yoga practise and re-discover your peaceful centre within.<br /><br />This New Year Yoga Retreat may be exactly what you need.<br /><br />This retreat is designed to deepen your yoga practice, re-connect with nature, have some quiet time and enjoy the company of like-minded people.<br /><div align="center"><br />Webpage to look at: <a href="http://www.asanga.org.za/retreat.htm">http://www.asanga.org.za/retreat.htm</a><br /></div><div align="center"><em>Run by:</em> Anne & Martin Combrinck <span style="font-size:85%;">(together 38 years experience)</span></div><div align="center"><em>from:</em> Ananda Sanga Yoga Centre<br />Somerset West, Western Cape, South Africa</div><div align="center">Tel: +27 21 855-1470</div><div align="center"><a href="http://www.asanga.org.za/">www.asanga.org.za</a></div>Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920955826954338403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7644115977492986475.post-75881506099427594652010-10-27T03:50:00.000-07:002010-10-27T05:55:38.555-07:00Iron Deficiency Anaemia in VegetariansLong time – no blog! Well I <em>was</em> surprised, with a heavenly holiday away….. but possibly the main reason is exhaustion, all the time, everyday. Not pleasant. Also an array of other symptoms which shall be covered below.<br /><br />A trip to the local Integrative Medicine doctor and a whole gamut of blood tests revealed among lesser evils “dangerously low” iron and haemoglobin levels, as well as a very low red blood cell count and of those remaining- badly deformed. Well that explained it – no oxygen in the blood = no energy! All the pranayama in the world is of no benefit because there is nothing for the O2 to attach to in the blood. An emergency drip was set up right there in the Dr’s room and a few hours later, I returned home feeling cold but pleased that the cause to all these ‘niggles’ had been found.<br /><br />Now 3 months later and 5 double-dose Iron drips later, as well as Vitamin B complex and homeopathic injections I am preparing for another blood test on Friday. What will it be – iron up to normal yet – well it doesn’t feel that way, but I suppose it is much better than before. Some noticeable differences for me are reduction of Restless Leg Syndrome, hair not falling out, slightly better memory, nails not so brittle, sleep much improved. Other symptoms comprise dizziness, tinnitus, dull headaches, never mind the pale face and skin lesions – is all this iron deficiency related? – seems so, according to research that I am doing.<br /><br />What is the cause I ask myself and the doc? All the other tests have revealed no loss of internal blood, menstruation has been over for about a year and half (menopaused!), so why the low iron? He says it can only be accumulative over years of being a woman and vegetarian! I think it is because I am not assimilating iron well, as I have always eaten pretty healthily as a veg! So a whole new avenue of research opens up…<br /><br />A friend suggests allowing the villi in the small intestine time to recover from any damage by going Gluten-free. That is: give up wheat, barley, rye and oats. I have never been a big bread eater, so I go for it – not so easy – I discover there are very few days that our daily diet is free of these ingredients. That muffin, croissant or even granola for breakfast; chapattis that I have expertly learned to roll and cook; barley soup (so good for the kidneys); oatmeal –cookies/crunchies/ snack bars; cous cous; pasta; etc – guess what all have gluten. What is left – rice, brown rice, millet, corn/maize (mealies we call it in South Africa) and rice cakes and corn cakes… and more rice. But rice and corn are constipating aren’t they? Never having suffered from this new malady – now I count myself in. On top of that Iron supplements are also contributing – for 10 days after each drip I cannot go! Pain and suffering – these add to the exhaustion! Tried every iron supplement available – this week I’m on Pregnancy Vitamins (they are high in iron, and surely pregnant women must be able to evacuate). Eat some meat, someone else and the doctor says…. That doesn’t work either as my digestive system cannot tolerate meat after thirty years of being vegetarian, so gave up on that one too.<br /><br />Ayurveda suggests a variety of herbs – none of which are available here; Chinese Medicine suggests low blood chi (energy) – and once again meat and grain products; herbal medicine lists many herbs and vegetables which I luckily have growing in my garden so include more of these into meals and drinks. Someone says spirulina is the miracle food (algae) – and as this is in a product that I manufacture, I take some of the raw ingredient and make it into a drink with molasses and orange juice (for Vit C) every morning. Barley green is another suggestions – only the kernel contains gluten – so I incorporate some of that too.<br /><br />What more can a girl do? We will see the results next week when the blood tests are analysed.Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920955826954338403noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7644115977492986475.post-5279945201781912152010-04-20T05:54:00.000-07:002010-04-20T06:07:18.170-07:00Yoga MeditationOn Monday 19 april 2010, we started a new Meditation 4-week Course. A group of dedicated people from all walks of life got together, for the first meeting. We had introductions and some sharing, to get to know one another better. Then launched straight into the first lesson<br /><br /><em><strong>What is Meditation?</strong></em><br />Meditation is the final goal of yoga practitioners - a state of inner joy and peace. It is the ultimate on the ashtanga yoga path. Patanjali, the ancient sage, writes about this in the 'Yoga Sutra' a book, which is the guide to most serious yoga practitioners.<br /><br />Meditation is a most natural and rewarding human activity, but the practice has been 'forgotten' by most adults. Practised on a daily basis it produces astonishing results on all levels of your being: physical, mental, emotional and spiritual. It connects you with your inner powers of vitality, clarity and love.<br /> <br />Although the process of meditation can be stated simply, the actual attainment of the deepest states requires dedication and discipline. However, even a little practise of meditation will give immediate results.<br /><br />Meditation is not:<br />- a mental escape into a state of passivity;<br />- a form of mental speculation;<br />- sluggish day dreaming.<br /><br />Meditation is directing your consciousness inward - to find the source of all life's manifestations. Meditation can be seen as a tool to attain your goal. This goal can be anything worthwhile you wish to achieve or obtain. It is a goal for progress towards which body, mind and spirit are disciplined, refined, and perfected by psycho-physiological techniques, many of which provide health, relaxation, and self-mastery, quite apart from the mystical end-goal for which they are a preparation.Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920955826954338403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7644115977492986475.post-6601808949013371662010-03-10T03:41:00.000-08:002010-03-10T03:44:25.630-08:00Rain Dance or Rain Prayer ?Experiencing a heat wave is no fun when it has gone on for so long.... everything so dry, dusty and parched. Plants and veges dying and scorched from the hot sun - a result of global warming - who knows?? I remember reading a book a long, long time ago ....<br /><br />In ‘Lost Mode of Prayer’, Gregg Braden describes an ancient form of prayer that has no words or outward expressions, which he got from the indigenous people of South America: When praying for rain – become the rain, feel it, experience it and become it….. This is what we did in Yoga classes the last few days and woohoo it WORKS!<br /><br />In the relaxation (Savasana) after relaxing through the body, I got them to visualise themselves lying on a lush, green lawn looking up into the blue sky. Clouds began to gather and soon rain drizzled down, we felt it and enjoyed it. The rain got harder and it almost went through us filling us and we became rain....<br /><br />12 hours later a soaking rain which is still pouring down (hours & hours) - so grateful, thanks, thank you Universe, deep appreciation!Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920955826954338403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7644115977492986475.post-21055185173854032362010-02-10T06:24:00.000-08:002010-02-10T06:29:02.746-08:00Yoga Morning<div align="center">Saturday Yoga IntensiveAt Ananda Sanga</div><div align="center">When: Saturday:13 Feb 2010 Start: 9.00am to 11.30am </div><div align="center"></div><div align="center">CORE WORK Yoga</div><br />It will be New Moon time this Saturday/Sunday. New Moon is a time to set goals, to go inward, to become more grounded. It is a time to cultivate ‘what we want more of’ in our lives; more love, more joy, greater abundance, greater peace, better health……<br /><br />Get rid of those spare middle tyres? Let’s go!<br /><br />In this Intensive 2½ hour class we will:<br />• Be going into the deep core muscles – abdominals & stabilisers<br />• Incorporate a new Moon Salutation vinyasa (flow) for core strength<br />• Be using the breath to strengthen the abs<br />• End the class with an Inner work meditation in Savasana<br />• Commune together with tea & muffins afterwards- hope you can make it.<br /><br />Please book soon - for Intermediate Yogis and Courageous beginnersAnnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920955826954338403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7644115977492986475.post-31600371431896180012010-01-26T03:29:00.000-08:002010-01-26T03:33:46.728-08:00Tapping for HaitiEven though the time has gone by - keep tapping for Haiti. Use the script below or create your own.... those people and the country need your input. Not to mention the Rescue workers and teams<br /><br />Lots of love to All - TAP, TAP, TapAnnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920955826954338403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7644115977492986475.post-7804527999342135222010-01-15T04:45:00.000-08:002010-01-15T05:17:25.659-08:00Tapping for Haiti DisasterThe Earthquake in Haiti has stirred up many emotions within that country and for those of us who have watched and heard reports via TV & radio. Join me Friday (15 Jan2010) or Sat (16 Jan 2010) at 6.00pm SA time to do a few rounds of tapping for healing of Haitians and yourself - some ideas below:<br /><br />Set Up:<br />KC: "Even tho the earthquake caused so much loss & destruction in Haiti, the Earth is still a beautiful place.<br /><br />"Even tho the people in Haiti are suffering physically and emotionally, I choose to believe that things happen for the best.<br /><br />"Even tho there is chaos in Haiti, I accept this and choose to remain peaceful and calm."<br /><br />EyeBrow: The earthquake destruction in Haiti<br />OuterEye: People suffering in Haiti<br />UnderEye: Loss and Chaos in Haiti<br />UnderNose: Physical pain and suffering of the people in Haiti<br />UnderLip: Emotional pain & suffering of the people in Haiti<br />CollarBone: Natural disaster in Haiti<br />UnderArm: Massive earthquake caused suffering in Haiti<br />Ribcage: Anger that so many people have to die and suffer in Haiti<br /><br />By releasing my negative emotions towards the disaster, I can change which will result in global change ("Be the change you want to see" - Mahatma Ghandi) - continue tapping:<br /><br />EB: I choose to release my sadness for the people of Haiti<br />OE: I choose to release all anger for those who have suffered & died in Haiti<br />UE: I choose to release all grief for those who survived the loss of family & friends in Haiti<br />UN: I choose to release my suffering for those in Haiti<br />UL: I choose to be calm and peaceful for those in Haiti<br />CB: I choose to believe that everything happens for the best<br />UA: The Earth is doing her best to correct global warming<br />RC: May Haiti experience healing through this planetary correction.<br /><br />Last round - positive statements:<br /><br />EB: The Earth is a beautiful place<br />OE: The Earth is correcting imbalances<br />UE: Everything returns to peace<br />UN: Everything returns to harmony<br />UL: People's awareness increases to uplift the Earth<br />CB: I love this Earth<br />UA: I am at peace<br />RC: I am peaceful and calm.<br /><br />May peace, joy and love prevail on Earth....Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920955826954338403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7644115977492986475.post-8999920070525063992009-09-30T05:51:00.000-07:002009-09-30T06:02:17.496-07:00Yoga DayEvery couple of months I host a morning of <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">Intensive Yoga</span></strong> - which is a 2 1/2 hour class going deeper into the asanas and pranayama, and also a longer yoga nidra (relaxation). This is a chance to let go enough to experience postures that you may never have achieved before. Usually we have a theme for example: "Opening the Heart", etc but this next one on Saturday, 10 October is "Whole Body/Mind Experience". After the bliss of the class, there is a chance to have tea and a muffin with other participants, and continue the 'vibe' with like-minded people.<br /><br />This time we (Martin & I) will follow with a workshop on <strong><span style="color:#ffff00;">Ayurveda</span></strong> in the afternoon - learn a bit about your body/mind type and how to achieve well-being by making simple life-style and dietry changes. Living in harmony with nature and knowing your specific body/mind type makes it so much easier.<br /><br />Join us for either or both workshops by contacting us.Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920955826954338403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7644115977492986475.post-64358023884421864882009-09-29T02:50:00.000-07:002009-09-29T05:52:40.677-07:00Yoga & EFT?Hi Everyone,<br />Ghandi said: "Happiness occurs when what you think, what you say and what you do are in perfect harmony." - not so easy is it?<br /><br />Basically, this means that you need to live your truth. That is what yoga is all about - living according to your truth incorporating values & morals. Contrary to what a lot of people think Yoga is not just an exercise system. It is a whole being experience resulting in a balanced life in all areas like, body, mind, emotions, family, society & spirit.<br /><br />To get the emotions - fears, phobias, doubts, etc - in balance and get yourself feeling whole again try a session of EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) - in an hour you can get through a mighty lot of issues and they're gone for good. Sometimes the emotions block us and result in physical stiffness, aches and pains or even chronic illnesses.<br /><br />Hope to see you - book an appointment -<br />-AnneAnnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920955826954338403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7644115977492986475.post-31903615449700998112009-09-22T07:28:00.000-07:002009-09-22T07:34:40.351-07:00EFT for HayfeverSo far tapping away the hayfever is working - with the new garden and all the flowers that will bloom in spring and summer we have to eradicate hayfever. Keeping the meridians in balance seems to be the answer. - Yippee!Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920955826954338403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7644115977492986475.post-70332134735663330742009-09-22T07:20:00.000-07:002009-09-22T07:27:11.137-07:00Organic VegTransformed the garden this last week. Looking good. Mostly indigenous plants, replaced the lawn. Ground covers, colour and then the vegetable patch. Planted 140 veges and herbs - should have a wonderful crop and not too far in the future either. They love all the compost and water, and of course, sunshine which has been out for the past 2 days.<br /><br />Ananda Sanga Yoga students - love it - what a difference a garden can make. Soon we will be able to feel the peaceful vibes and enjoy all the lovely colours and variety of flowers and plants.<br /><br />Now to continue with the other half - which is bad need of beautifying - to match the rest! Fun, fun, fun in the sun!Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920955826954338403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7644115977492986475.post-80718237258875387052009-09-16T06:54:00.000-07:002009-09-16T07:03:33.007-07:00Wednesday Talks at Ananda SangaTonight is the September 09 Talk. It is on Ayurveda - just the introduction as we will follow it with a workshop on October the 10th.<br /><br />The five elements that make up everything are combined in different ratios in us too. Our mind/body type is dependant on these ratios, and once we know this info we can adapt and adjust our lives accordingly. We then live in harmony and balance, much happier and healthier.<br /><br />Perhaps a few changes to diet, exercise and lifestyle can make all the difference even if you seem to be following a 'healthy' regime now.<br /><br />Why not join us - to learn more !Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920955826954338403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7644115977492986475.post-31793484349670581632009-09-08T03:11:00.000-07:002009-09-08T03:14:08.070-07:00Patanjali<div align="center">The wave forgets the truth that it is ocean, </div><div align="center">thinking itself to be the grand shape, which it has temporarily taken.</div><div align="center">For a while, it takes on the rupa (form) of wave.</div><div align="center">Finally, it remembers its true rupa (form) of ocean.</div><div align="center">The two coexist, though one is true, and the other, though beautiful, is only relatively true.</div><div align="center">So too, we humans forget our true nature,but, through yoga, can remember.</div><div align="center">- Swami Janeshwarananda on Patanjali sutras -</div>Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920955826954338403noreply@blogger.com0