Guru Pourmina for my Yogi-Guruji – The Late Shri Radha Kant Jha

Giant amounts of Gratitude for my Yogi-Guruji The Late Shri Radha Kant Jha. For his blessings in all forms that he shared with me. The previous post is for my first Indian Yoga Teacher: Dr. Tripathi in Benares, India. It had been a life long dream to study yoga in India and when I found out about Benares Hindu University from a professional colleague of my husband [again and again my story always shows how Randy always finds a way to make my dreams come true!] who is from this ancient city and school (Dr. Alakananda Mukerji) the dream began to come true. More about that experience in another post as this one is to be dedicated to Shri Jhaji as his Ranchi students refer to him. I was feeling so positive after starting my studies in the oldest city in continuity for human history, Benares. Benares Hindu University (BHU) is one of the oldest schools, and I was blessed by Dr. R.H. Singh as he directed me to study in English with Dr. Tripathi.

Then here on US soil a Yogi came looking for me!! The year was 2000 and it was the 108th year since the first Yogi had reached the USA and the Indian government sent a delegation of 108 Yogis from different paths to commemorate the occasion at the United Nations. Shri Jhaji was a member of this delegation and his daughter was then living in White Plains a town near me. In his spare time he would call local yoga studios to see if he could volunteer his services. One day I answered the phone to his request and could not believe my ears. We arranged to meet the next day at his daughter’s home and I was to bring him over to my studio to see if he felt comfortable in the setting. On the arranged day, time and location I sat in my car awaiting to meet this Indian Yogi. I was perplexed as I was waiting quite a while until then I saw a person who I could make out to be this Yogi come rushing towards the car. We made our introductory greetings and then he apologized for being late and his excuse knocked me over! He had rushed away from the UN delegation of 108 Yogis in New York City to rush back to Westchester to meet me and the commute to suburbia took longer than he expected!! I felt embarrassed that he would leave such a prominent gathering of such international spiritual significance to come meet little ole me. When I expressed this to him he had a very convincing manner to help me to understand that it was perfectly alright and as it should be, our meeting was important. Its importance I still am recognizing years later after he is no more in his physical form, the blessings keep washing over me. He did also let me know that there were public forums that he could invite me to attend to meet the congregation of Yogis in New York City with him and that was one of many amazing experiences that Shri Jhaji shared with me. When we went to a big program in the city for the Yogi delegation Shri Jhaji spent time on the dais as well as sitting with me in the audience and I felt like a Yogini celebrity. He always made great efforts to introduce me to those he knew.

Shri Jhaji went to great extents to meet all the Indian American organizations in the USA and especially New York City and Westchester. He regularly attended the Arya Samaj group in White Plains and always asked me to join him and I did not. Shri Jhaji did in fact feel comfortable in my studio and with my yoga student participants so much that he was present for all six days per week and some days I conducted two classes a day. So I thought he should at least have one day Sunday for rest from me and my gang and to share with his daughter and her family. On the occasion of his one year anniversary of Mahasamadhi his daughter Vineeta asked me to join her for a home puja to remember him and I did. She asked me at that time to go with her to the Arya Samaj as she also had not ever attended with him and he so wished that we both would attend. So we did find the next meet date and attended. Immediatley I felt such acceptance from the whole group. I have spent many years attending regularly and often now do meet the members at other functions. I have formed some great friendships with a few members that are ever-present in my life now and it is all thanks to Shri Jhaji.

I could go on for days blogging here with remembrances of Shri Jhaji but I will try to be kind to those following this blog and be brief. I can find other occasions to share about Shri Jhaji. I am so grateful for all the times we shared teaching together. I learned so much only because it was the right time for it all to happen. It was the right time for me to answer the telephone when he first called. It was the right time for him to leave the delegation to meet me. It was the right time in my teaching career as I had been practicing since I was very young and now mature. I had been teaching after being certified for about ten years then. I had been to India and could have reference to many things he would be explaining to me. My lessons came as we taught the classes together. I can’t quite remember it exactly somehow he would start the class always with the Sanskrit invocations, which I was then hesitant to install as many of my students were so very American and resistant….that all has changed….I even learned classical hindustani vocal music with harmonium to lead the invocations all due to his teachings. Somewhere we would trade-off and each one lead different parts. He always began the class and ended with Yoga Nidra and closing invocations. This went on for many months about 8 or so before he returned to India. But somewhere in those 8 months I began to channel his teachings so well that I was able to lead the classes in all components and my own students watched this process and my blossoming. One day he said, as he confirmed the beginning of the shaktipat transference, that he knew he passed on his powers to me so much that I had now had more powers to lead the practice than he. When he said this I had just concluded the practice and was in tears of bliss and my students commented on the whole experience they felt in their bodies and witnessed. This all is and was too much to bear for I am known to be a funky open fun-loving person but I really am humble in all respects. But I cannot express with words what his teaching has and continues to provide for me and those who practice with me, it is still unravelling. As I mature in my practice I know more about so much more including: shavasana, (corpse pose) from seeing my favorite brother and my mother’s transition and also Shri Jhaji. I know more about how spirit transcends, how to honor spirits and to keep the energy close for guidance and support and so I find I do not fear death the more I honor these spirits. Of course there are more who have been there as a guide for me as my favorite Grandmother walks with me always since I was 17. I guess I will just end this here by saying that there will be more forthcoming and that as I age I do so with pride and gratitude so there is no need to hide any aspect of my being older. I learned a wonderful practice in India that when it is one’s own birthday the gifts are given to others for sharing the occasions to show one’s own gratitude for their own life. Dhanyavad and Namaste

Shout-out to My first Yoga Teacher in Varanasi India – Dr. Tripathi

So much Gratitude for my first Yoga Teacher in India – Dr. K.M. Tripathi at Benares Hindu University for a million reasons including sharing of techniques, scientific information and yogic teaching confidence and lifelong fraternity and now for joining my blog!!

Benefits of Mango for health….

I found this information from a sister WordPress Blogger Dr. Manisha Deokar and thought I would share it. Mangoes are so delicious and have many health benefits that include: protein,fat, carbohydrates, carotenes, vitamin B1, B2, B3, vitamin C, folic acid, calcium magnesium, iron, zinc and potassium. Due to the high levels of vitamin C this boost the immune system. For those who need to gain weight there are about 75 calories per 100 grams. Also, those who are diabetic and concerned with managing weight make intake mango as is a fiber rich food which is safe to eat for diabetics. Mangos have a lower glycemic index and do not spike blood sugar levels, however do limit intake to maximum of 100 grams. Digestive benefits include digestive enzymes that help break down proteins that aid in digestion; according to ayurveda this is a natural laxative food. Mangoes are rich in Vitamin A which promotes good eyesight. For the memory glutamine acid boost memory levels. For beauty: regular ingestion makes the skin soft, shiny and fair. Use of mango pulp as a facial mask helps to reduce acne. For hormonal health levels of vitamin E helps to regulate sexual hormones and an aid to sex drive. Vitamin C levels found in mangoes help to repair tissues and keep organs healthy for reproductive organs for both sexes. Ayurveda uses for illness includes: vitamin A deficiency, heat stroke, anemia, uncontrolled bleeding, burns and anti-cancer.  The picture is an Alphonso mango that is available only certain times of the year but in most markets there are varieties from other regions that are almost as delicious.  (n.b. thanks again Dr. Manisha Deokar and also to Liz  my new blogger friend.)

Here’s to your good health!!! Namaste

Ayurveda: The Science of Aliveness – YouTube

Ayurveda: The Science of Aliveness – YouTube.

Have a look at what my favorite Yogi – Sadhguru has to say about Ayurveda.  (Just click the text below the pix to see the video.) This science is about honoring our lives and treating ourselves well in a holistic manner so as to prevent illness from occurring .  Equally important is what Sadhguru says about aging gracefully and living long in a healthy fashion with full vigor vs. being sustained on medications and devices.  Living with honor for ourselves and others that’s the Yogic way of living with Grace.  Please honor your Blessings and stay well, Namaskaram

Neti pot time….Ayurveda tune-up for seasonal changes….

This is my Neti pot from Kaivalyadham Ashram, India, its ceramic, small, the right aperture for my nostrils and adorable. (Note: there are some plastic pots which are good for traveling too.)

Ayurveda is the sister scientific practice to hatha yoga.  The science of keeping the life force at its optimal levels with natural tune-ups.  Ayurveda is an intricate mandala (complete circle) of healing practices that braid together and form a potent synergy of rejuvenation and rebirth.  Existing in our body, as well as, in all living organisms are the five elements organized in a particular pattern known as the doshas.  (See the earlier post about how to learn about your Dosha- August 5th.)  There are three main doshas: Vata, Pitta and Kapha and they relate to: air, fire and water principles.  Ayurveda is a natural science that causes no harm and is used to uplift our own healing powers.  The human body like all living organisms maintains a delicate homeostasis.  This science of ayurveda is a process of balancing the doshas from effects of disease in a systematic act of cajoling, tempering, shocking and nurturing the body.  In ayurveda  excesses are  never forcibly removed.  An intricate weave of knowledge about the seasonal effects on the tissues, the precise time the dosha changes, the overall condition of the person, which phase of the moon is present, as well as the signals from nature all contribute to the findings of one’s constitution: well-being or lack of well-being.  The mandala or full spectrum of practices may include: yoga postures, pranayama, Kriya/meditation, cleansing kriyas and healing treatments,  and diet.  This mandala (all-inclusive circle) of regimen followed with regularity and in conformance with nature (seasons, etc.) will not only restore health but allow us to live life at optimal levels.  When practicing yoga on a regular basis, meaning that some continuity of the sadhana is maintained daily (pranayama, Kriya and/or asana) we then are able to claim our inherent birthright.  Hence: Neti!!!

Jala Neti is the classical term for what is  now called  Neti pot use (as Oprah made so many aware and willing to try this safe nasal irrigation practice.  For years I tried to get students to use the neti practice and was looked at like a Martian – I am grateful for Oprah using her celebrity for health benefits.)  It is a vessel that is filled with warm water used to wash/irrigate the nasal passages.  There are plastic, ceramic and metal products on the market.  One can even use a plastic water bottle.  I prefer the ceramic as it can be boiled on the stove easily without any harmful particles breaking down like with plastic.  On YouTube there are hundreds of how-to videos to see how to use the neti pot.  I recommend starting with barely warm water only.  Standing over the bathroom sink hold your head on an angle so that as you pass the water into one nostril a stream will flow out of the opposite nostril.   And reverse for the other side.  Sometimes it may feel like a big relief if a blockage is cleared, sometimes it may be shocking and tears may flow.  The benefits are too many and I will list a few here but no matter what your first experience do try to stick with it as it gets better every time.  Those with structural blockage and regular nose bleeds should not attempt this practice.

Benefits of Neti cleansing are many and include the following.  Removal of mucus and pollution from nasal passages and sinuses which allows air to flow without obstructions.  It helps prevent and manage respiratory tract diseases such as: asthma, pneumonia, bronchitis, and pulmonary tuberculosis.  It helps to relieve allergies, colds and sinusitis.  Various disorders of the eyes, ears, throat, hay fever, tonsillitis and inflammation of the adenoids and mucus membranes.  Neti cleansing relieves muscular tension of the face, nervous ticks, and Bell’s palsy and helps the user to maintain a youthful facial appearance.  It has a cooling and soothing effect on the brain and useful for those who suffer from epilepsy and migraines.   It alleviates anxiety, anger and depression, removes drowsiness and makes the head feel fresh.  Neti stimulates the various nerve endings in the nose, improving the activities of the brain.  A balance is achieved between the right and left nostrils as well as the right and left brain hemispheres.  This brings a state of harmony and balance throughout the entire body including circulation and digestion systems especially.  It helps to awaken the third eye area for higher powers of intuition.  Note that with regular daily use will bring about the effects stated above, do know that a one time process cannot affect changes so easily.

Now for some specifics on the neti practice.  Remember to pick a pot that will not contaminate the water which is used for nasal irrigation.  But I do recommend that one try with a plastic water bottle or small tea-pot before making any purchases. The Himalayan  Institute has a kit that can be purchased online.  I like the ceramic pots sold by Sinus Support.com (Baraka), as these are like art work – pottery with beautiful colors and the aperture is correct for the nose opening (I have purchased these for family and friends.)  Some health food stores sell products made in China that don’t fit at all….they should have gone to the source India!!! (Once I was visiting a friend in Paris and they took me over to an artist’s home, while there I used their bathroom and was so impressed to see a pure silver neti pot above the sink!!! Of course I asked about it and they said when they were having some custom jewelry crafted in India they had this pot custom-made.)

Next thing is to place in your vessel warm water that is comfortable for your body temperature.   After some time of regular use with only warm water then salt may be introduced.  A special salt, not table salt, as it has to be fine enough to be absorbed  into the fluid.  For this one must purchase online or in a health store.  The amount must be found that will ensure the proper osmotic balance to the body’s fluids so to minimize any irritation to the membranes.  If any painful or burning sensation is felt the amount needs adjusting.  Keep the mouth open while doing the cleansing and hold the head to one side as mentioned above.  No force should be used.  Just try to do a little for one side and reverse and take breaks in between, sit down, rest, blow your nose and continue again.  It’s best to do this first thing after rising in the morning.  It may be practiced twice or three times daily.  Try not to practice directly after meals.  If I notice any congestion beginning or I have been around any germs I want to stay clear of I may  do three sets: water only, then salt and thirdly with a product called Vacho Veda (a Himalayan Institute product available online and in stores).  For those who are yoga teachers, healers, healing therapists who have contact with others energies this is a good clearing tool so that you may stay free and clear, keeping your healing powers untainted and at a high level.  I started my Autumn seasonal regimen today with Jala Neti and will add a few other components in the next few days.  There are many other things that could be written and shared here about the Neti practice but I thought I would start with this, please do share your experiences and comments here.  Do feel free to share this with family and friends so we may keep more folks free of unnecessary illness and discomfort.  Namaskaram

Watch my Favorite Teacher & Yogi – Sadhguru – “No Fear in the Now” – on YouTube

No Fear in the Now – YouTube.

This is a quick glimpse of my favorite Yogi Sadhguru on YouTube it is less than two minutes, please do have a watch and be inspired!!! Just click the link above….

Namaste

About the importance of keeping our systems alkaline

Namaste, in one of the last posts mention was made about morning regimens such as taking Apple Cider Vinegar, ACV. I just wanted to share more about how this inexpensive product works wonders. I recommend the Bragg products as they are organic and high quality. When our systems become acidic from too much sugar, salt, caffeine, stress, medicines the levels of oxygen are lowered in our cells and the immune fighting powers are depressed. When we find ourselves acidic it is easy for illnesses like: sore throat, colds, flu, and allergies, Many other conditions may be reduced or eliminated when a regular daily regimen begins. The recommendation is to take 2-3 tablespoons of the apple cider vinegar and mix with about eight ounces of water. I use warm water, but some may choose any temperature and some add honey or stevia until they become accustomed to the taste. In about 6 weeks of daily intake morning and night one may find conditions such as: acne, artery plaque, high toxic levels, hunger cravings for salty and sugary foods, dull complexion, rashes and itchy scalp and athlete’s foot, reversing! For those over 50 the creaky bones become less as it helps removes crystals and toxins from joints, and tissues. Some may find the taste a bit strong in the beginning. Hopefully by learning about caring for the body at the cellular level one begins to appreciate what substances help to keep the energy at its highest. When the cells are fully oxygenated cancers and virus cannot survive and are eliminated naturally. The Bragg company hosts a website with a wealth of information as well as products may be ordered safely there. Health food stores also carry some of the products and usually ACV is available. It is a challenge to make changes and it is good to try putting a new regimen in place just temporarily. Once the benefits are realized and felt it is very easy to understand it better as it is then a positive experience. We learn and understand best from real experiences. The ACV is very inexpensive trial and perhaps just take two weeks to see if any noticeable changes occur. The only side effect for some is just getting used to the taste, and perhaps the taste buds will adjust to relish things that do our bodies good over other seductive flavors with little or no benefits. Here’s to your good health OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM. Namaste

Omlinkblog is available on Kindle

Amazon.com: omlinkblog: Kindle Store: Anjali Yogini/ Julie Broglin.

By clicking the link above its possible to have Omlinkblog on Kindle service.  Instead of viewing via email Kindle will allow you to review new and old posts easily.  The free app can be downloaded to your smartphone, iPad or iPod, laptop or computer.  The service costs only .99cents from Amazon.com  Feel free to share this with friends and family.

Can you guess what the Secret for success with the Yamas is?

At last, yes this is the final reading from John McAfee’s book, “The Secret of the Yamas.”  Here is a quote from this chapter: ” If we observe ourselves in our relationships – through our actions, thoughts and feelings as they are happening-then we will catch a glimpse of the ego.  In that light of awareness the ego will vanish, and in its place a profound silence will blossom.  In that silence is all beauty.  It is infinite, unknowable and not separate from ourselves.  It is immortality.”

Thanks for being a part of listening to my readings and I hope they have provided some useful food for thought and the quieting of mental chatter.  I do hope you may continue to stop by here on a regular basis as a subscriber.  I also look forward to your comments about your experiences and ideas.  Namaskaram

Some tips about the secret…

After finishing the chapters on the five Yamas from John McAfee’s book, “The Secret of the Yamas,” the above link is a continuation of my readings.  Getting to the core of this self-discipline Yama practice that Shri Patanjali layed out for us so long ago begins with McAfee’s summation.  A quote from this chapter:

“…It is an illusion to believe that fundamental change requires time, that we must work diligently toward a goal and gradually become better, wiser, happier, and more spiritual.  Such an approach uses the present moment as a tool to obtain future fulfillment; the present is used for planning, dreaming, working toward a result.  Consequently, our lives are lived in the future and we are in constant relationship to the past; and the field of life – the present moment – is missed entirely…”

Namaste