Yoga is an ancient science developed for the attainment of maximum human potential. The word yoga means “to yoke or join together, union”. Through the practice of yoga, which has been handed down over many generations, one can achieve a sense of unity with that which is divine in all of us. Yoga is not a religion, but practicing it does produce a sense of awe and curiosity about the spiritual aspects of existence.

Physical Yoga postures, or asanas, can be done by anyone at any stage of life to assist in maintaining health and vitality, mental and emotional balance, and a sense of inner peace and calm. Hatha Yoga focuses on the practice of postures and breathing techniques to accomplish these aims.

The physical yoga practice comprises only a small part of yoga. Meditation, chanting, and breathing techniques, moral and ethical codes for living, cleansing and purification routines, spiritual study and devotion are all paths within the discipline of yoga.

Many persons begin a yoga practice for exoteric or physical reasons, such as simple stress reduction, relaxation, greater flexibility, etc. After the experience of yoga is truly felt by the person, it often leads her/him to an interest in and a deeper understanding of some of the more esoteric aspects and benefits of yoga. These are to be experienced by the individual according to his/her constitution and level of interest. Some people really enjoy pranayama (breathwork), others become intrigued with reading and studying sacred texts, still others like to chant and work with sounds.

Yoga is open to everyone, at whatever stage one would like to embrace it. There is truly a place for everyone within the practice of yoga, and a yoga style or school suitable for everyone, from kid’s yoga to chair yoga for seniors.

AUM BHU BHUWAH SWAHA,
TAT SAVITUR VARENYAM
BHARGO DEVASAYA DHEEMAHI
DHIYO YO NAHA PRACHODAYAT.

May Divine Spirit illuminate our intellect to lead us along the righteous path

About My Teacher, Raji Thron

My teaching style is vinyasa flow, with creative integration of yoga styles. Raji Thron of Yoga Synthesis™ has been a major influence on me as a yoga teacher.

Yoga Synthesis™, as developed by Raji Thron, is a unique approach to Hatha Yoga, which creatively integrates diverse techniques, including dynamic movement synchronized with breath, static holding of postures emphasizing proper engagement and alignment, and supported poses.

Yoga Synthesis™ applies the principles of body mechanics, alignment, intelligent postural sequencing, Yogic breathing techniques, internal awareness, and focused intention. Classes are Vinyasa based, using flowing sequences of postures synchronized with mindful breathing to progressively warm and open the body.

Yoga LInks

Information About Mantras (chants): www.kofibusia.com/mantras/

Information About Yantras (visual images): www.sanatansociety.com/ (Students of Harish Johari)

General Inspiration: www.dailyom.com, www.ompalace.ca, yogajournal.com

Here’s a short outline of some of the major schools and styles of yoga practiced today and what to expect from each.

Iyengar Yoga, as developed by B.K.S. Iyengar, is very precise, using alignment principles, props and therapeutic applications. www.bksiyengar.com

Anusara Yoga comes out of the Iyengar school, with a strong emphasis on alignment. Anusara emphasizes the idea of “flowing with Grace,” “going with the flow,” “following your heart”. www.anusara.com

"Viniyoga" (as developed by T.K.V. Desikachar, after T Krishnamacharya) and Vinyasa styles both use breath and movement synchronization in flowing sequences, either flowing back and forth between poses or linking longer series of poses. Viniyoga particularly is known as an individual customized practice with adaptations to suit individual needs. http://kym.org/

Ashtanga Yoga, as taught by Pattabhi Jois, links longer series of poses in a very specific sequence. It is known for being a dynamic and aerobic form of yoga. http://kpjayi.org/

Classical Hatha Yoga schools, such as Shivananda Yoga, Integral Yoga, Kripalu Yoga, Dharma Yoga Center, generally place less emphasis on alignment instruction and focus on longer holding and slower movements. www.yogaville.org, http://www.iyiny.org/, www.dharmayogacenter.com

Kundalini Yoga, as taught by Yogi Bhajan, is known for its fast movement and breath form, with a main emphasis in raising one’s vital energy up the spine. goldenbridgeyoga.com

Bikram Yoga, developed by Bikram Choudhoury, is a specific series of postures, practiced in a hot, steamy room. Also known as hot yoga. www.bikramyoga.com/