Satya Yoga

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• Yoga Sutra 2:46

  By Shirly Oh | November 8th, 2010

  sthira sukham asanam

  The posture of the body during the practise and at other times (as also the posture of the mind, or altitude to life) should be firm and pleasant.

  Unsteadiness of the body/limbs is an indication of the unsteadiness of the mind.

  Patanjali (the writer of Yoga Sutras) gave us three hints based on this sutra:

  1. Keep practise mild and steady.
  Do not overdo or give up practise too easily. Similarly in life, we tend to burn out ourselves with too many commitments, resulting in frustration or resignation. Instead, we should pace ourselves and learn to practise sincerely. The results will be more desirable and long lasting.

  2. Meditation
  Instead of thinking meditation as sitting down for long hours, think meditation as slowing down, increasing concentration, doing less and focusing in the things that we do (instead of multi tasking). Again this helps to increase steadiness in our postures.

  3. Connect the mind with the postures.
  When we connect with our mind, this mind gives us the strength to stay grounded and focus. When our attention is flowing in one direction, this gives us tremendous energy and power. We become less distracted and diverted in the things that we do. When we practise asanas, keep the mind steady to avoid restlessness.

  Think when you experience discomfort in practicing, balance may be challenging or the mind may be disturbed. Breathe and observe the internal activity. Keep practising. Gradually the pose becomes more pleasant and steady. Most importantly avoid working with the postures mechanically or with violence.

  We can interpret postures/asanas/practise with our relationship with people. When there is no conflict (disturbances, fluctuations), the relationship will be long lasting. But when unhappiness, it takes time to mend the relationship and build trust.

  Be firm and centered yourself –
  in practise/postures/relationships.

  So that even when there is conflict, you will find comfort and inner joy. When you are at peace with yourself, you wouldn’t be drawn into conflict or arguments. You will radiate peace and joy and inner happiness.

  Keep practicing.

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• Excuse me!

  By Adeline Lum | November 8th, 2010

  Whooosh! We are almost at the end of 2010.

  How many of your goals set at the beginning of 2010 have been fulfilled? It is always interesting that we like to set a long list of goals at the beginning of each year and realize towards the end that nothing much has been achieved.

  Yet, we set the same long list the following year.

  We probably have a list of creative excuses throughout the years. How many times have we allowed excuses to diminish the light of our goals?

  “I am too busy with this…I’ve no time for that…” In the end, we have done nothing much for our well-being. We are still as lost, as empty, as drained as the last few years.

  Let us do something different for the coming year. Instead of laying out too many goals, let’s just stick to ONE goal – to eliminate all the excuses we have been using over the past years.

  Let us say aloud to everyone, “I am going to take charge of my health and it starts RIGHT NOW!”

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• Cholesterol: Not only the big sized issues

  By Adeline Lum | November 8th, 2010

  We know that high cholesterol is bad for your health, but how much do we really know about it?

  There are many misperceptions that cholesterol problems are only for oversized people. This is definitely not the case.

  Recently, the welfare departments in companies started offering health check-ups for their workforce in Singapore.

  Many were caught by surprise! “I am not overweight, I exercise regularly, why is my cholesterol level so much higher than the rest?”

  So what has gone wrong?

  First, let us understand how cholesterol works.

  Cholesterol can be found in our body system as a form of waxy fat – like substance. It helps with the formation of cell membranes and manufacture of hormones. However, we only need a small amount of cholesterol for all these functions. Cholesterol does not dissolve in the blood stream; it is transported in and out by carriers.

  There are 2 carriers in our cholesterol.

  High Density Lipoproteins (HDL) or the good cholesterol
  HDL helps to transport excess cholesterol away from the arteries, to the liver and out of our body. With its high density, HDL is more mobile to fulfill its function.
  
  Food sources: nuts, soy, beans, vegetables…

  Low Density Lipoproteins (LDL) or the bad cholesterol
  Having too much LDL causes the formation of plagues build up on the artery walls which usually is the cause of health issues. Due to its low density, LDL causes too much cholesterol being stored in the blood stream.

  Food sources: animal meats and fats, trans-fats, saturated fats, fried food, butter and margarines…

  Our bodies always carry some amount of HDL and LDL at any one time. So, when does cholesterol start giving problems?

  When the level of HDL < LDL
  When there is too little HDL to help transport cholesterol out of the blood stream, as LDL does not do most of the job, this results in clogging of the artery walls; or Atherosclerosis, Stroke, Heart Attack.

  If you are not overweight, do exercise regularly and still have bad cholesterol level, you may want to check out your diet and the type of food you eat. Many people misunderstand that if they exercise regularly, they will be able to indulge in any junk food they want. But they tend to forget that their body will absorb the bad nutrients into the small intestines and blood stream as well.

  If you are overweight, eat healthy but do not exercise regularly, you may want to start a good workout plan. One may make healthy food choices, but overeat them. This also causes excessive cholesterol to build up, and slows down the body system. Exercising helps the body to maintain its metabolism rate and keeps the body functions moving at a regular pace.

  If you are overweight and eat unhealthily, please relook into your health now!

  How yoga helps?

  Sun Salutation will heat up the body system, release sweat, expand the blood vessels and arteries, strengthen and reduce the plague layers on the walls. Backbends and twisting are excellent to revitalize a lazy body, a great massage for the liver and improves blood circulation.

  Pranayama (breathing techniques) helps to increase the stability of the mind and awareness of our health by helping us to make good choices in terms of diet. With practice, Pranayama increases the strength of our mind to overcome the cravings of bad eating habits. This is very essential, so that we can trust ourselves to make sound decisions outside yoga classes.

  See what you’re eating. Know what you’re doing.

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• Reel time: Groundhog Day (effects)

  By Shirly Oh | September 9th, 2010

  Groundhog Day is a movie about a weatherman doomed to repeat the same day over and over again. After indulging in hedonism (sensual pleasures) and numerous suicide attempts, he begins to reexamine his life and priorities.

  

  The movie may seems a little ridiculous and unimaginable in the beginning but somehow it got me thinking - is it possible that we are living the Groundhog Day without realizing it.

  Everyday we wake up, go to school / work, come home, watch the tv or news and go to sleep. Come the weekend, perhaps shopping, watching movies, social gatherings etc. Day after day, month after month, year after year, doesn’t it seem like the Groundhog Day effect?

  Do we call this leading a simple life or being complacent?

  Complacency leads to non-action. We begin to take things for granted when we become comfortable with familiarity. We become dull, predictable and lazy. We stop moving forward and start moving in circles. Soon we get trapped in our own trap.

  Is there something you’ve always wanted to do/learn, but you are always too busy to get started?

  Is there someone you want to catch up with but never find the time to meet up?

  Is there an unfulfilled dream you have but think that it is impossible to achieve (for whatever reason)?

  If I have the belief that I can do it, I shall surely acquire the capacity to do it even if I may not have it at the beginning.
  ~ Mahatma Gandhi

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• Define Your Own Spirituality

  By Shirly Oh | September 9th, 2010

  Spirituality sounds scary or perhaps it is a subject many would prefer not want to talk about. I belonged to the latter. I used to think spirituality equates to religion. However, recently, spirituality took on a new meaning in my life. Here are some definitions of spirituality from various sources:

  • Whatever makes you feel peaceful, joyful and content is spirituality.

  • The definition of spirituality is that which relates to or affects the human spirit or soul as opposed to material or physical things.

  • Spirituality touches that part of you that is not dependant on material things or physical comforts.

  • Spirituality is about self-discovery, a journey to discover our inner self.

  • Spirituality embraces all the world religions, but at the same time, is not constrained by any religious dogmas or forms.

  • Through practising spirituality we seek to develop an inner shrine in our own heart.

  The list goes on and there are many interesting and enlightening articles and debates on spirituality (vs religion).

  Some link yoga with spirituality and some even shun yoga, worrying about being ‘convert’ to Hinduism. Yoga is not a religion; anyone can practise yoga and benefit from the teachings of yoga and its philosophy. In fact if we read the above definitions, we will realize that spirituality and yoga are in many ways alike and connected – it is about self-realisation, being mindful and the unity of our body, mind and spirit to attain happiness and inner peace.

  Perhaps it is time we review our perspective (about our definition) on spirituality and embrace it with an open mind (and heart).

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• Yoga Sutra 2:26

  By Adeline Lum | September 9th, 2010

  Vivekakhyatiraviplava hanopayah
  Clear, distinct, unimpaired discriminative knowledge is the means of liberation from this alliance.

  It is essential for us to practice discrimination constantly. We are not referring to judging people of different skin colour, from different country of origin, who speak different languages, who practice different cultures or believe in various religions etc.

  Discrimination knowledge, in the practice of yoga neither applies to the physical level nor at the intellectual level. This skill of discernment is operating in the world of intuition. As intellect moves through the mind; the intuition activates through the heart.

  Ignorance (avidya) is the source of all pain and unhappiness. The endless flow of discriminative actions and knowledge will destroy the source of the pain and seed of confusion.

  Intellectual knowledge can be gained easily through education, and viveka can be realized through daily thoughts and practice actions in our life. It is something we don’t just get from books or learn in school, which makes it more subtle to be tapped on.

  Where can we start acquiring this divine knowledge?

  Discrimination is a course of sorting out between this and that. This categorization process may begin at the most external level of our relationship with the world. As the sutra goes on and presents the method of Ashtanga Yoga or 8 Limbs of Yoga.

  At the most superficial level approach, we can look into the first and second limbs of yoga:

  1) Yama (attitude towards our environment)
  - Non-violence (ahimsa)
  - Truthfulness (satya)
  - Non stealing (asteya)
  - Live in moderation (brahmacarya)
  - Non greediness (aparigraha)
  
  2) Niyama (attitude towards ourselves)
  - Cleanliness (saucha)
  - Contentment (santosha)
  - Removal of impurities through good habits (tapas)
  - Self-study (svadhyaya)
  - Action done in service (Ishvaraa pranidhana)

  There are times we wonder why are we struggling so much to get close to our target; or thinking if the goal is drifting away from our sight. Using our discrimination power will ease our path towards our goal. In most cases, the target is always there, it’s us who create the diversions and get lost in the process.

  We start our day having too many decisions, constantly. Instead of using your intellect to analyse a situation; try turning to your heart for intuition to help you discriminate what is good for you.

  Say to your mind, “Mind, going this direction is not useful. This will bring nothing but unending pain and greater ignorance of truth. Mind, you need to let go of this, and go in the other direction.” Source: http://www.swamiji.com

  Look out for the next few articles for practical approach towards Yama and Niyama in everyday life.

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• Early Degeneration of Spine

  By Adeline Lum | September 9th, 2010

  Our body suffers wear and tear as we grow older. Degeneration of the spine may be a common disease, but early degeneration is not. There may be no one reason that is causing this, but perhaps the accumulation of our daily activities. Whether we are standing, sitting, running, walking, sleeping or working; our posture plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy spine.

  Our spine is made up of vertebras. In between the vertebras, there is a gel-like layer – intervertebral disk. Normal disks are well hydrated, holding 80% water content that helps to cushion any forces applied to the spine.

  During degeneration, the intervertebral disk becomes thinner. A span of over 79 years is considered a normal part of aging. However, this has been shortened and the disease can be found in people in their early 20s. Pain can happen anywhere, in our joints, ligaments, muscles, nerves, bones and tissues.

  Early detection of early degeneration is important. If left untreated, the condition will worsen to include – herniation, compression of nerve roots, spondylitis just to name a few.

  How can yoga help?

  Yoga can help prevent, or rather slow down the rate of degeneration. Various poses can help to keep the intervertebral disk active. Yoga sequences consistently work on the strength and flexibility of the spine for its operation.

  If one is already suffering from any of the spinal diseases, one should not be afraid of the practice. It is very common for those experiencing pain, to avoid too much movement of the spine. This may not help at all. In such cases, it may worsen the condition. Although doctors may conclude that there is no complete cure, nonetheless, yoga may assist with the degree of mobility and management of the discomforts.

  Forward bends, twists, backbends in standing, sitting, prone and supine poses have shown to help relieve and strengthen the specific area. Pranayama is often introduced to help release the mental tension built up from the physical level (in this case).

  Different parts of the spine govern different functions of the body; and signs of potential degeneration should not be ignored. When you take care of the spine, almost half of your health is being taken care of.

  Yoga is the fountain of youth. You’re only as young as your spine is flexible. ~ Bob Harper

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• Heart of a mouse

  By Shirly Oh | August 8th, 2010

  A mouse was in constant distress because of its fear of the cat. A magician took pity on it and turned it into a cat. But then it became afraid of the dog. So the magician turned it into a dog. Then it began to fear the panther, so the magician turned it into a panther. Where upon it was full of fear for the hunter. At this point, the magician gave up. He turned it into a mouse again saying, “Nothing I do for you is going to be of any help because you have the heart of a mouse.”
  by Anthony De Mello

  A simple short story with very powerful message. As long as we have fear, it will swallow us and limit our capacity in everything we do. I have learned that it is energy consuming/draining and does not help in any way with progression in life. The human mind is so tricky, we often conditioned ourselves (to have fears and self doubts) without realising!

  QUIT looking at back at the past and thinking about the future. Keep focusing on the NOW, the present moment. Sometimes when we think and read into everything too much, we may end up missing opportunities, only to regret or wish that we had done it earlier!

  It is perfectly normal to be afraid and have fears, as long as we do not allow them to limit us. There’s a saying – the only way to overcome/conquer your fears is to face your fears! We only live once. Don’t be a mouse.

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• A Disciplined Mind

  By Shirly Oh | August 8th, 2010

  Yoga Sutra Pantajali verse 1.12 abhyasa vairagyabhyam tat nirodhah
  These thought patterns are mastered through practice (abhyasa) and non-attachment (vairagya).

  Jo finally decided to lose her extra pounds – her motivation – to look and feel good. Her plan – to engage a personal trainer and to lose 5 kg by the end of 3 months. It was not an easy start for Jo as she could hardly recall when was the last time she exercised. Nevertheless the desire to gain control of her health (and body) drove her to exercise 6 times a week at 7am every morning. Jo has also taken a step further to change her diet by eating more greens and fruits. 8 months later, she is 8kg lighter, 2 dress size down and most importantly she feels stronger and healthier than before.

  Jo’s story relates very well to the sutra. Even though her initial motivation was to lose weight, eventually it was her (improving) health that drove her consistent exercise regime. Through her persistency and undeterred faith, her efforts finally paid off. Now regular exercise and healthy eat habits are part her life.

  The quality of our life is not dependent on the weighing scale but how we live each day by making the right choice for our body, mind and spirit! Most importantly, like Jo, having the disciplined mind, consistency and determination towards a higher goal – self-love and respect.

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• Self-love to Weight Loss

  By Adeline Lum | August 2nd, 2010

  When looking in the mirror, what do you first see in the reflection? The first thing your eyes will focus on is the excessive fat. The next moment, you stare at the fat and wish you could just cut the fat away!

  “Weight loss” hangs on the lips of most women. It’s a struggle that never seems to come to an end. Weight management is not a destination; rather it’s the supervision of the lifestyle and health.

  Many people carry a negative attitude towards their weight problem. When the underlying emotion is depressing, it is natural that the solution to the current problem they think of becomes harmful to the health. Only a handful holds a positive attitude towards their weight problem. They see to improve the current situation with constructive solutions.

  One thought leads to heaven. One thought leads to hell. It’s a matter of perception. Negative thoughts lead us to look for the fastest but often costly solutions.

  Weight management can be enjoyed - start by loving yourself. There is no short cut to weight loss and ask yourself honestly, how long can you stick to crash diets? Crash diets are meant to crash you. Not eating, binging and vomiting leads to self-destruction. These temporary methods give us false hope and short-term results. When they fail, the body, mental and emotion suffers.

  It is definitely not easy to lose weight with no self-love. Without self-love, there’s no self- discipline and faith; which makes it a real challenge to shed the excess weight.

  Accept what is happening to you without compliance. Understand that whether you like it or not, it’s part of you, so take it with love. Be aware that with every option, you are taking it with the basis of loving yourself. Avoid self-blame if you give in to temptations but instead keep trying!

  Be patient if the process is taking a little longer because your body needs time for a good change, be persistent!
  Weight loss gives us a good platform to begin self-love and being patient with ourselves. Appreciate this excellent time to train our mental strength, self-discipline and one-pointed focus towards a goal.

  After all, what’s happiness if we can’t manage ourselves well?

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