Sunday, August 23, 2020

5 Yoga Poses That Beat the Heat

 This cooling, calming sequence will leave you feeling lighter.
The dog days of summer are officially here, and you might find yourself feeling overheated, frazzled, and frustrated. Soothing, grounding yoga poses can help you  stand taller, and have a cooler head. 
 
Viparita Karani (Legs-up-the-Wall Pose)
From, seated bring one side hip as close as possible to the baseboard of the wall, swing your legs up the wall until you are reclined on your back with your hips close to the wall. Extend your legs up the wall. You can bend your knees slightly, especially if your hamstrings feel tight. This posture is good for low back pain and revitalizing the body. Optional prop: A folded blanket can feel really great under your sacrum. Remain in the pose for 5-20 minutes. 


Anantasana (Side-Reclining Pose)
Lie on the floor on your right. Press actively through your right heel, flex the ankle, and use the outside of the foot to stabilize the position. Bend your right elbow and support your head in your palm. Slide the elbow away from your torso to stretch the armpit. Externally rotate your left leg so the toes point toward the ceiling, then bend and draw the knee toward your torso. Step the left foot outside of your right knee. 
Optional: Reach across the inside of the leg and take hold of the left big toe with your index and middle fingers. Secure the grip by wrapping the thumb around the two fingers. (If you're not able to comfortably hold the toe, loop a strap around the sole and hold the strap.) On an inhale, extend the leg up toward the ceiling. Hold the pose for 1-2 minutes, then repeat on the other side. 

Parighasana (Gate Pose)
Stand on your knees. You could pad your knees with a mat or blanket. Elongate your right leg out to the right, with the heel of your foot on the floor and your toes stretching away from your body. Make sure the right leg is straight, with the knee facing the ceiling and the ankle in line with your right hip. Ground the right foot strongly. Place the left knee directly below the left hip.
Stretch both arms out to your sides, palms facing downward. In your front body, reach from your sternum through your chest muscles, lengthening along your biceps all the way into your thumbs. Be careful not to poke your rib cage forward. Feel the back body extend from the thoracic spine into the pinkies. Inhale and feel some lightness in the side body; exhale and bend at the waist, dropping the right palm down to the lower right leg and stretching the left arm up, palm facing downward. This pose energizes and lightens the side body and invites the breath to become truly three-dimensional. Hold the pose for 1-2 minutes, then repeat on the other side. 

Sunday, August 16, 2020

16 Habits of Happy People

Happiness does not come from money, a perfect body, or even your ideal spouse.
 
Many say that true happiness comes from within – but is there a secret to drawing this happiness outward? The truth is that happy people tend to follow a few key habits, and these habits create equanimity, space, and a sense of fulfillment in life, regardless of their exterior circumstances.


Here are 16 habits of happy people: 
 

1. They stay social

Keep the relationships that are a positive influence and make time to visit with those individuals. Happy and successful people surround themselves with like-minded individuals. This also means letting go of any relationships that are negative or draining.
 

2. They don’t sweat the small stuff

Shake it off! If the problem you are upset about will be irrelevant in a year, month, week, or even a day – why even bother to sweat it in the first place?
 

3. They enjoy simple pleasures

The best things in life are free. Take time to notice the sunset, flowers blooming, or a child’s laughter. When we take time to stop and smell the roses, we enable ourselves to experience bursts of happiness.
 

4. They meditate

Even if it is for just 5 minutes a day – take time to meditate to calm your nerves and support your inner peace. This will also help you work through negative thoughts and emotions in a positive, healthy way.

5. They practice gratitude

A way to deal with stress and the bad moments is to approach each situation with gratitude. By acknowledging what we are thankful for, we bring our focus back to all the good that’s already in our lives, which is the basis for attracting more good things.
 

6. They see things a bit diffently

Anytime the word “problem” comes into your mind, change your outlook to see it as an opportunity to change your life for the better. Words like “problem” and “impossible” can be easily erased from your vocabulary.
 People who are truly happy don’t have problems, they have challenges. They don’t see things as impossible, they know that if they want it bad enough it can be done.
 

7. They embrace reality

Nothing is ever perfect, and we have to learn to accept what we cannot change. Happy people learn that in order to move forward, we need to go through setbacks. Happy people are ok with this and accept it as simply part of the process. 

 

8. They live in the present

Be present! Do not waste your energy by dwelling on something that has already happened, or be anxious about something that may not happen at all. Take the time to be in the here and now. You’ll experience so much more out of life!
 

9. They don’t hold grudges

When you hold a grudge, you are holding onto negative emotions like hate and anger. This takes up space and energy that could be spent on something worthwhile. We need to forgive and forget to build upon our foundation of happiness.
 

10. They don’t give excuses

Do not blame anyone else for your actions – take responsibility instead. Remember to use failures as moments of opportunities and a time for a change – this is empowering. Everything is figureoutable, so no excuses!
 

11. They treat themselves

When something really good happens, reward yourself! Happy people treat themselves as someone that deserves to be celebrated. You are worthy – remember that.
 

12. They dream big

Never limit yourself, or create restrictions. When you dream big, you become more positive and optimistic, which gives you the push and power to do absolutely anything you desire.

13. They take ownership

Never let anyone dictate how you should live your life! Taking ownership in all areas of your life allows you to have much more control over the outcome and is incredibly empowering and rewarding.
 

14. They eat well

Your body is a temple! Junk food can make you feel lazy and apathetic. When you eat right, your body feels right, which can help prime your mind and increase energy levels.
 Eat less sugar. You’re already sweet enough.
 

15. They are kind

This quote by Wendy Mass puts being kind into perspective: “Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about.” Spreading kindness is contagious and it also produces feel-good hormones.

 

16. They do yoga

The time spent on your mat can make you feel more satisfied in all areas of your life. Physical exercise has been proven to reduce stress, and a consistent yoga practice also helps cultivate a positive mindstate. Inversion poses in particular are great for stimulating your brain and increasing serotonin levels.

 

 

There you have it – 16 habits to be the happiest version of yourself. You can be happy starting now, and no one can stop you except for yourself. Go out in the world, and start living! Smile – happiness looks gorgeous on you!!  


https://www.yogiapproved.com/life/16-habits-of-happy-people/?vgo_ee=E6QM4dr50flkXHJH1g87QL35hO7C%2FF3J%2FgQB9Uu3XAY%3D

Also 

www.soyoga.com.sg

and

www.miniyogi.com

Tuesday, August 11, 2020

15 Benefits of Walking Meditation

 When Sir Isaac Newton described the natural Law of Motion, he observed that bodies in motion tend to stay moving unless another force acts on it. Newton was referring to celestial bodies, but the same law applies to human bodies. Do you regularly keep your body moving, or does the cozy recliner often get in your way? Sir Isaac probably did not have walking meditation in mind when he developed his theory, but it certainly is a healthy habit to try.

Fitness experts have recommended walking as an ideal exercise for losing weight and toning your body. Walking is part of our daily activities, and it’s something that almost anyone can do. You don’t need any special equipment, and you can walk anywhere.

WHAT IS WALKING MEDITATION?

If you want to boost the benefits of your walking routine, you might consider adding meditation. Walking meditation is an ideal way to improve yourself physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Once you get comfortable with meditation, you’ll find that it will come as naturally as walking does.


Also known as mindful walking, walking meditation is a concept steeped into ancient Buddhism. It has been observed in the Buddhist cultures of Eastern Asia and continues to this day. These early cultures understood the inseparable bond between body, mind, and spirit thousands of years before Western science.

GETTING STARTED ON THE RIGHT FOOT

You don’t need special training or expensive gym equipment to start reaping the benefits of mindful walking. Whether you are strolling under the gaze of forest trees or taking a short walk to the post office, you can bring mindfulness to every step. These are some basic methods that you can modify to your preference.

• CHOOSE A PLEASANT LOCATION

Are you inspired by the stunning beauty of nature and breathing fresh air? Parks and forests are excellent places for walking meditation. If you have a city route, you can still notice the colorful houses and other attractive sites along the way. You can even practice while you are walking indoors through long corridors or while shopping in the mall.

• BE MINDFUL OF EACH STEP

Walking is so much of a part of your daily life that you don’t need to think about how to do it. Have you ever noticed the complex patterns of movement that involves your entire body? When you mindfully walk, you become aware of lifting your foot, pushing off with the other, and moving your legs, arms, and head.

While you’re walking, be aware of each breath and your heartbeat. Breathe naturally and intentionally while you inhale positive energy and exhale negativity. Feel your muscles and joints as they work together to move your body forward.

• PRACTICE BRINGING YOUR MIND INTO FOCUS

When you are walking, try to focus your mind on the present moment. Notice your breathing and each gentle movement of your body. If your mind wanders, bring it gently back to the present. At this minute, be grateful for who you are and the blessings around you.

• WHAT’S YOUR SPEED?

You needn’t be a marathon runner to benefit from walking meditation. Medical experts often recommend walking over running since the latter can cause damage to joints and bones. You can pace yourself between a stroll and a quick power walk.

If your legs and arms are moving at an even stride for 30-45 minutes, you can optimize your walking meditation routine. The idea is to get your body and mind moving in sync. You’re not in a competition, and the goal isn’t to exhaust yourself.

• MAKING MINDFUL WALKING A DAILY HABIT

Sure, there may be days that you can’t get outdoors to walk because of weather or busy schedules. You can still practice mindful walking while doing household chores or on your job. Simply be conscious of your steps, breathing, and being present in the moment.

POTENTIAL BENEFITS OF MEDITATION WALKING

Unlike some forms of Western fitness regimens, meditation walking, and other Eastern forms take a holistic approach to well-being. By walking and meditating for about 10,000 steps per day, you may soon notice its positive affect. These are ten benefits that mindful walking may offer.

1. HELP YOU LOSE WEIGHT AND TONE YOUR MUSCLES

Did you know that walking is an excellent practice for losing weight, lower blood pressure, and getting your body in shape? Walking helps burn fat, build muscle, and tighten loose skin. As you meditate, you can express gratitude for your body and enjoy the present moment of bringing it optimal health.

2. IMPROVE YOUR CIRCULATION

Do you want an efficient cardio workout without going to the gym? Walking increases your pulse and breathing, so it’s beneficial for your heart and lungs. Keeping your body moving can also increase and improve circulation throughout your body.

3. LOWER YOUR BLOOD PRESSURE AND BLOOD SUGAR LEVELS

When you do exercises such as mindful walking, it can also reduce your blood glucose levels. If you are trying to control or reverse Type 2 diabetes, it may be a valuable support. Regular walking and meditating have also been shown to lower blood pressure if you have hypertension.

4. MAKE YOUR DAILY EXERCISE FUN

Boredom is the enemy of any healthy habit, including walking. As you blend meditation with your walking routine, you may notice many beautiful things that you’ve failed to see. Notice the sky, trees, and wonders of nature as if you were seeing them for the first time.

5. INSPIRE YOUR GRATITUDE

Soon, you will look forward to your daily walks and meditations. Practicing gratitude brings you joy and puts the fun into your journey. If your brain perceives a pleasurable activity, you are more apt to turn it into a healthy habit.

6. BOOST YOUR CREATIVITY

Have you ever been inspired by nature or been dazzled by a random idea while walking down a pathway? Mindful walking helps clear your mind of stagnant negativity, and you can experience greater mental clarity. You are also more apt to remember your ideas and creative rushes.

7. IMPROVE YOUR QUALITY OF SLEEP

If you tire yourself with physical activity, you will be more ready for a good night’s sleep. However, endless mind chatter may keep you tossing and turning regardless of how exhausted you are. Blending meditation with walking can help soothe your brain and improve your sleep quality.

8. IMPROVE YOUR SENSE OF WELL-BEING

How do you feel right now? If your body, mind, and spirit are unbalanced, you feel the unrest deep inside your soul. Meditation walking addresses all three aspects of your personality and can offer you a sense of well-being that continues with practice.

9. HELP LIFT YOUR DEPRESSION

For years, people who battled depression weren’t comfortable discussing it because of society’s negative attitudes. Are you among the estimated 7.1 percent of Americans with this prevalent mental illness? In addition to medication and therapy, many professional healthcare providers recommend exercise for their depressed patients.

Mindful walking can increase dopamine production in your brain, which can boost your mood. During your meditative journey, you can practice gratitude and be present. These actions may help you lift through the dark clouds of depression to feel the sunrays of joy.

10. REDUCE YOUR ANXIETY

Like depression, anxiety, and panic are other mental issues that people often decline to discuss. Anxiety is an unseen phantom that haunts your mind with fear and uncertainty. Multiple studies have shown positive results in patients with anxiety who meditate.

Their anxiety and panic levels are often reduced. When they team it with physical exercise like walking, the anti-anxiety benefits were noticeable.

11. REDUCE PANIC

Often, this disorder materializes as a crippling panic attack that makes you feel like you are dying. Sometimes, just worrying about having a panic attack can bring on one. Mindful walking is a great way to minimize panic.

12. IMPROVE YOUR DIGESTION

Do you know that sluggish feeling you get after you’ve overdone it at mealtime? No wonder so many people opt for a walk after a heavy dinner. Walking involves your whole body, including your stomach and digestive system.

It can help your food move quickly through your system instead of building up to create painful gas and indigestion. Relaxing your mind with mediation can also ease the nerves and tension in the colon, making you less likely to have constipation.

13. RAISE YOUR ENERGY LEVELS

Your energy level, or metabolism, is dependent on many internal and external variables. If you have a sedentary lifestyle and are steeped in negative thoughts and emotions, your energy levels will be dismal. Addressing physical and mental problems can be the key to a much-needed energy boost.

14. SLOW YOU DOWN

Are you exhausted from going at a frantic pace each day? Mindful walking can encourage you to relax and slow your life down. It will allow you to enjoy each moment as they come.

15. IMPROVE YOUR CONCENTRATION

When you are out walking and meditating, you can train your mind to concentrate. Your brain will learn to filter stray thoughts. You may see a difference when you are focusing at home, school, or work.


Source: https://www.powerofpositivity.com/walking-meditation-benefits-get-started/

Also follow www.soyoga.com.sg

and

www.miniyogi.com


Sunday, July 26, 2020

How to create your own essential oil rollers

An aromatherapy roll-on bottle is probably one of the best tools that you can have for using your essential oils topically. It is incredibly versatile, simple to use, and great to carry with you. In knowing that essential oils are wonderful for so many different things, you can use them to create several blends that are ready to use right when you need it. From skincare to stress relief to headaches, you can create a natural remedy roll-on for almost any everyday issue. Once you know the general safety parameters, you will feel confident making rollers for you and your family, it’s actually very easy.

Supplies
Roll-on bottles
Funnel
Labels
Carrier oil
Essential oils of your choice
The essential oils that you choose for the roller depends on what you want to use it for. If you are a bit timid about creating your own blends, you could easily use one of the My Pure Earth premade blends. For example, if you love diffusing Stress Less at home, but would enjoy bringing that scent with you for use at work, you can simply just choose the Stress Less blend as your essential oil.
f you would like to get creative and begin using single essential oils to make blends, you would need to choose the oils based on their therapies. This might be peppermint and ginger for tummy troubles, rosemary and lemon for focus, or lavender and orange for relaxation. There are so many different options; this is where it gets really fun!
There are a few different carrier oils (fatty nut/seed oils that help “carry” the essential oils into your skin) you can choose from to use in your rollers and this may depend on your desired use as well. One of the most common options is Fractionated Coconut oil. This oil is odourless, light on the skin, and has a long shelf life. Another popular choice is Jojoba oil. Acting very similar to our skin’s natural oils, this carrier is great for all skin types and can help hydration. When making a blend for the skin, you may want to consider where you are applying it. For example, if you are making an anti-ageing roller for the face, you can use some Evening Primrose oil to help nourish delicate skin; giving the essential oils you are using an added boost of therapy.
Diluting Your Oils Safely
As you probably already know, you should dilute your essential oils when using them topically. They are very potent and are not water-soluble, so using a carrier oil makes them safer to use on your skin. When creating your roller, you have to take into account who will be using it and why. The number of drops you use will vary based on if you are applying to a child, adult, pet, or even an elderly person. It will also depend on whether you are using the blend for an everyday therapy or an acute application. Lastly, you will also have to remember that some oils are hot oils and must be diluted to an extremely low rate for topical use.
  • 1% Dilution: Recommended for children (2-10), the elderly, dogs/horses, and facial applications. In a 10 ml roller, this is 3 drops
  • 2%: Recommended for daily therapeutic use, bath and body applications. In a 10 ml roller, this is 6 drops
  • 5%: Short term use like topical treatment of pain. In a 10 ml roller. This is 15 drops
  • 10%: Short term acute situation like rashes, bites, skin infections. In a 10 ml roller. This is 30 drops
*We do not recommend topical use for infants/children under the age of one. A healthy baby between the age of one and two can use a .5% dilution rate for once in a while situations, not for daily use. Some of these safe oils would be lavender, chamomile, and frankincense.
Creating Your Roller
Once you have determined what you want to make and who it’s for, it is time to put it all together. If you are following a recipe, you can just go ahead and begin. If you are creating your own blend, you may want to experiment with the essential oils first and make sure the blend smells good first. Then all you have to do is drop the essential oils into the bottle, use the funnel to pour in the carrier oil, pop the roller fitment into the bottle, and screw the cap on. Remember to label the bottle with what the blend is for, and that’s it!
To use your new aromatherapy tool, roll onto the area as needed. When using essential oils for emotional support, we recommend applying to pulse points. When using them for physical issues, you want to apply directly to the affected area.
Post your creations below, we would love to hear about them!

Source: https://mypureearth.com/create-essential-oil-rollers/?utm_campaign=Essential%20Oil%20Roller%20Bottle%20%28WZNuNH%29&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Newsletter_UPDATED&_ke=eyJrbF9lbWFpbCI6ICJzb3BoaWVAc295b2dhLmNvbS5zZyIsICJrbF9jb21wYW55X2lkIjogIlJ5THVYaSJ9
Also www.soyoga.com.sg
and
www.miniyogi.com

Sunday, July 19, 2020

Boost Your Mood With These 10 Daily Habits

It’s challenging to stay positive when you look at the world around you and all the chaos that ensues. However, you can keep an optimistic outlook no matter what others are doing. Sure, the cares of life and raising a family can be overwhelming to even the most energetic person. Here’s how to boost your mood despite your circumstances.
What’s the first thing that you do when you get up in the morning?

A study found that 74 percent of the population checks their phone before they go to bed, and first thing when they wake up in the morning. While it’s good to connect to the outside world, you must draw the line.
Social media has news from around the globe running on your walls. You get weather updates, see recent horrific events in your area, and even catch up on a few family squabbles. Plus, you also see the massive amounts of posts from people making their lives appear way more glamorous than they are.
Already, you’re starting your day on the wrong foot. When you ingest all this negativity into your spirit, you ask for a dark cloud to hang around you all day. Why not start a new routine that will boost your mood and give you a whole new outlook on life?

CHANGE YOUR DAILY HABITS FOR SUCCESS

If you see the world through negative lenses, then you are going to be negative. However, if you choose to see the good and positive things around you, you’ll be the optimist that people want to be around. To get started, here are ten habits that you should incorporate into every day.

1. MAKE YOUR BED

Do you make your bed every day? A study found that over 74 percent of the American population takes time to tidy their bed in the morning. If you’re one of the 26 percent that feels your just going to get back into it, so why bother, then you need to think again.
Making your bed is such a small thing that can have a significant impact. When your home is neat and tidy, you will feel better about your day. Add something like starting a load of laundry and picking up the living room, and when you come home from work, you will have a sense of accomplishment. Plus, you can ease your mind knowing that your home is a haven.

2. EAT A NUTRITIOUS BREAKFAST

You’ve always been told that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and research shows it’s true. Remember the famous quote from Adelle Davis stating that you should eat your breakfast like you were a king? Skipping this meal has been shown to cause eating way more throughout the day than if you eat breakfast.
Your body needs food to fuel you for the activities of the day. You need to consume about 25 percent of your daily calories during this meal. Studies show if you don’t eat, it can have a significant impact on your cognitive performance throughout the day.
However, a fascinating thing that came from this study was that people who skipped breakfast missed out on the cortisol awakening response, also known as diurnal rhythm. Thus, eating this vital meal can put you in a better mood.

3. SAY YOUR MORNING AFFIRMATIONS

Have you ever heard the saying, “The power of life and death is in the tongue?” You can speak things into existence. For instance, let’s say a child received verbal abuse in a home where they heard they would never amount to anything.
If that child grows up thinking he is a loser, will never have a good job, and will never be anything in life, then chances are he won’t. You have the power to change things just by the words you speak.
Instead of getting up and complaining about your arthritis or your aching head, why not start saying things like “I feel great.” “I am going to have a good day today.” You will be surprised about how different your mood becomes when you speak positivity into the atmosphere with morning affirmations.

4. GET MOVING

While it may be tempting to keep your pajamas on, grab a coffee, and cuddle on the couch for a binge session, you need to get your body moving. Exercise helps to stimulate the chemicals in your brain that trigger your mood response. Did you know that many people can avoid antidepressant medications by merely incorporating an exercise routine into their life?

5. USE HYGGE TO CALM YOURSELF

The Danish people use Hygge in their life to bring tranquility and calm. It essentially means to enjoy the simple things in life. Rather than looking for some big thrill to find your contentment, why not look to nature and see the beauty all around you?
Something as fascinating as a gorgeous rose in your garden can give you a sense of appreciation. Brew a fresh cup of tea and sit outside watching the birds. It will boost your mood just being out in the fresh air and communing with nature.

6. OPEN BLINDS AND CURTAINS TO LET THE SUNSHINE IN

First thing in the morning, you need to open the blinds and curtains and let the sun stream into your abode. Not only will it start your day on a bright and cheery note, but it will also help improve your Vitamin D3 levels.
Sunlight is a natural killer and can help destroy harmful bacteria in your home, and you can turn off the lights and rely on nature’s illumination. Saving money is always a good thing. Lastly, the sunshine can warm up your bones and help you to reduce chronic pain. You get all these benefits from nature, and it doesn’t cost you one penny.

7. FIND THINGS TO DO OTHER THAN SCROLL SOCIAL MEDIA/VIDEO GAMES

Do you find that you are glued to a phone, computer, television, or video game all day long? While it’s okay to have a little screen time, Americans have become obsessed with technology.
The American Pediatric Association recommends that children only have two hours of screen time each day. Shockingly that includes all electronic devices put together. How much do you and your children spend on gaming devices and other technological forms of entertainment?
There are a plethora of problems that can be caused by too much technology, including social isolation. When you’re tied to a screen, you can’t get out there and mingle with people like you should. Put down the electronics and watch your mood soar.

8. EAT DARK CHOCOLATE

Who would have ever thought that experts would suggest that you should eat chocolate each day? Dark chocolate is much different than the milk varieties as it has tryptophan in it. Tryptophan is an amino acid that can act as a mood-lifting serotonin medication.
No wonder people always reach for chocolate when they feel sad. The recommended amount is 2 ounces each day, so make sure you don’t overdo it.

9. UTILIZE JOURNALING

Journaling is a great way to write down all your thoughts and feelings from the day. Have you ever found a journal after a loved one has died, and you read every page like it was the best novel ever written? Journaling not only helps you, but it’s something you can leave for future generations too.
When you write down your feelings, you are releasing them. Many therapists suggest writing letters to loved ones who have passed to make amends, and the same concept applies here. There’s something about putting it down on paper that makes everything feel better.

10. USE MEDITATION TO CLEAR NEGATIVITY

If you don’t meditate daily, then you must add this activity to your routine. Meditation is a great way to calm the mind and body and re-center. The great thing is that you can meditate anytime you feel like you need to calm yourself or regroup.
There is a lot of negative things that get ingested into your spirit during the day. You want to make sure that you don’t let those things affect you. By learning the proper way to meditate, you can change your whole mood as you learn how to become more grounded and positive.

FINAL THOUGHTS ON TAKING CONTROL OF YOUR MOOD

When you take control of your day using mood-boosting habits, you will no longer allow negativity, and the cares of life to weigh you down. Will you get sad at times? Sure, everyone has down days.
Thankfully, you can learn little tips and tricks that can help you push through those depressing days and get on to better ones—always using nature as your guide. When you sense your off-balance, and like your life is going crazy, you should walk barefoot and feel the earth beneath your feet.
There’s something very grounding about walking barefoot in the grass. The sunshine is another powerful thing that can help destroy negativity as the vast brightness washes it away. Make a pact and start today to make changes that will boost your mood.
Source: https://www.powerofpositivity.com/mood-boost-with-these-10-daily-habits/Also follow
https://www.soyoga.com.sg
and
https://www.miniyogi.com