Breathful Bliss: Hatha Yoga’s Respiratory Magic

by Tirtha Acharya | Mar 31, 2024 | Yoga

Introduction: The Quest for Breathful Bliss

In the serene realm of Hatha Yoga, practitioners embark on a quest for “Breathful Bliss,” where the gentle rhythm of breath becomes a gateway to profound contentment and joy. Rooted in ancient wisdom and modern science, the union of breath and movement in Hatha Yoga offers a transformative journey towards inner peace and holistic well-being. Join us as we explore the magical realm of “Breathful Bliss” and discover how Hatha Yoga’s respiratory magic can uplift the spirit and restore balance to mind, body, and heart.

Breathful Bliss in Hatha Yoga: A Symphony of Breath and Movement

Within the tranquil flows of Hatha Yoga sequences, practitioners experience the art of synchronizing breath and movement, creating a harmonious symphony of mind-body connection. Guided by skilled instructors, students embark on a journey of self-discovery, exploring the depths of various postures while infusing each movement with intention and mindfulness. Through gentle, deliberate flows that blend elements of yin yoga, breathwork, and revitalizing energy, practitioners uncover a pathway to inner peace and grounding, finding solace and serenity in the sacred union of breath and motion.

Exploring Mood and Emotion in Hatha Yoga: A Journey Within

Each session of Hatha Yoga, infused with the essence of “Breathful Bliss,” offers a unique exploration of mood and emotion, inviting practitioners to delve into the nuances of their inner landscape. From invigorating sequences designed to awaken the senses and energize the body, to soothing poses that promote relaxation and tranquility, these mood-focused flows cater to the diverse needs and aspirations of students. Whether seeking a morning boost of vitality or an evening wind-down, practitioners find sanctuary on the mat, where breath and movement converge to cultivate a profound sense of well-being and joy.

The Transformative Power of Breathful Bliss: Awakening Vitality

Ideal for intermediate and advanced yogis seeking a daily dose of happiness and energy, Hatha Yoga flows infused with Breathful Bliss provide a transformative journey into the heart of self-awareness and vitality. Through harmonious sequences that honor the sacred union of breath and motion, practitioners deepen their mind-body connection, nurturing a state of blissful presence that extends far beyond the confines of the yoga mat. Step into the world of Hatha Flow, where each inhalation and exhalation becomes a celebration of life’s infinite possibilities, and discover the transformative power of Breathful Bliss.

Conclusion: Embracing the Magic of Breathful Bliss

As we conclude our exploration of Hatha Yoga’s respiratory magic and the quest for Breathful Bliss, may you carry with you a renewed sense of wonder and gratitude for the gift of breath and movement. Through the practice of Hatha Yoga, may you continue to cultivate inner peace, vitality, and joy, harnessing the transformative power of Breathful Bliss to navigate life’s journey with grace and resilience. Embrace each breath as a reminder of your innate connection to the universe, and may your practice be a source of inspiration and liberation on the path to holistic well-being.

Moon Gaze Meditation- The moonlight meditation

by Tirtha Acharya | Mar 23, 2024 | Yoga

Moon Gaze Meditation – Meditation is one of the most peaceful things you can do to manage stress and well-being. There are different types of meditation that you can do depending on your needs. One of the prevalent forms of meditation which has been around since ancient times but now is getting popular is the moon gaze meditation.

If you’re wondering what it’s all about, then don’t worry. We’ve got you covered. Through this blog, we shall take a look at what moon gaze meditation is and other matters associated with it. So without further delay, let’s dive into it.

The Art of Moon Gaze Meditation:

 Moon gaze meditation is also known as lunar meditation and it’s a peaceful practice. In this, you observe the divine beauty of the moon. It’s a form of mindfulness meditation where you gaze at the moon and allow its light to wash over you. While doing that, it leaves you in a state of peace and serenity.

This practice can be traced back centuries through various cultures and traditions. Its prominence is mostly attributed to its ability to awaken the spirit, calm the mind, and strengthen the connection with nature.

Connecting with Lunar Energy:

The distinguishing aspect of moon gaze meditation is the ability to connect with the moon. With its bright presence in the night sky, it captivates your imagination and leaves you in a state of peace. When you engage in moon gaze meditation, you tap into the serene energies of the moon and become a part of cosmic delight. It’s a unique and easy way to release stress, and tension, and be present in the moment.

History of Moon Gaze Meditation:

 The history of moon gaze meditation dates back to ancient civilizations such as the Babylonians, Mayans, and Egyptians. People of these cultures observed the moon cycles and developed spiritual practices to worship it. For instance, the Babylonians used lunar calendars to track agricultural cycles and religious festivals. Likewise, the Egyptians associated specific deities with each phase of the moon.

Benefits of Moon Gaze Meditation:

• Reduces anxiety and promotes relaxation
• Enhances creativity and intuition
• Deepens spiritual connection
• Aligns with the natural rhythms of the universe
• Promotes inner peace and tranquility
• Enhances emotional healing and self-discovery
• Cultivates mindfulness
• Develops cosmic wisdom

How to Practice Moon Gaze Meditation:

Here are some basic points that you can use to practice moon gaze meditation.

1. Find a quiet outdoor space with a clear picture of the moon.
2. Be comfortable in a seated or lying position. Inhale and exhale while allowing your body to relax and unwind.
3. Gently gaze at the moon and relax your eyes. Focus on your breathing and be mindful in the moment.
4. Tune into the sensations of the present moment. Try to free yourself from any distractions.
5. Stay as long as you like while basking in the glow of the moon.

As we finish exploring the moon gaze meditation, we encourage you to carry the magic of the moon with you. Whether you’re looking at the stars or observing nature’s beauty, keep the moon’s presence in your heart. Let this practice bring you peace and let it guide you through life’s dark moments.

Aqua Asana- Water Yoga

by Tirtha Acharya | Mar 10, 2024 | Yoga

The world of fitness is constantly changing and aqua asana is a prime example of that. For newbies, it might seem like something extraordinary, but to the seasoned eye, it’s quite simple. It’s a derivation of traditional yoga where only the setting of performing yoga is changed. Instead of performing it on land, aqua asana takes place in water. In this blog, we shall take a look at what aqua asana is and the many questions associated with it.

Exploring Aqua Asana:

Aqua asana is commonly known as water yoga and as the name suggests, is practiced in water. This dynamic practice combines different postures of yoga with the therapeutic benefits of water. The water supports your body which makes it easier to move around and stretch. It’s as simple as plain yoga but with the advantage of water resistance.

This yoga practice is mostly suitable for people who have a hard time moving around. Also, it’s helpful for those who have joint pain and back problems. Plus, it’s a cool way to stay active during the hot weather!

Benefits of Aqua Asana:

The benefits of aqua asana are outlined below

• Suitable for people with joint issues
• Improves flexibility
• Greater strength
• Stress relief
• Promotes cardiovascular health
• Greater balance and coordination
• Proper mind and body connection
• Suitable for all fitness levels
• Tool for rehabilitation

Getting Started with Aqua Asana:

Here are some points that you should consider when starting Aqua Asana

1. Search for a suitable location where you can comfortably practice aqua asana. You can look for a pool or shallow body of water.
2. Choose comfortable attire that doesn’t restrict your movement.
3. Begin with a gentle warm-up and gradually proceed to the main practice. You can spend a few minutes swimming or walking to prepare your body.
4. Once you are warmed up, focus on your breath. Inhale deeply, exhale slowly and allow your breath to guide you through the movements.
5. Commence with basic poses and gradually proceed to difficult ones.
6. Pay close attention to the poses and understand your body’s sensations and limitations.
7. You might need to modify certain poses depending on your body’s abilities. Be sure to use props to assist you with stability and balance.
8. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your aqua asana practice to remain hydrated.
9. Listen to your body and understand its limitations. Don’t exert yourself too much.

Safety Precautions and Considerations:

Here are some considerations that you need to follow when practicing Aqua asana

• Maintain proper form
• Listen to your body
• Be mindful of your surrounding
• Avoid overexertion
• Seek professional guidance
• Find a partner

Common poses of aqua asana:

Some common poses of aqua asana are given below:

1. Floating Lotus: Sit comfortably in the water with your legs crossed and hands resting on your knees. Close your eyes and focus on your breath as you gently float on the surface of the water.

2. Water Warrior: Stand in chest-deep water with your feet hip-width apart. Extend your arms overhead, palms facing each other, and bend your knees to lower into a warrior pose.

3. Aqua Tree Pose: Stand in waist-deep water with your feet hip-width apart. Shift your weight onto your left foot and place the sole of your right foot against the inner thigh or calf of your left leg. Bring your hands to your heart center or extend them overhead like branches of a tree.

4. Floating Forward Fold: Stand in waist-deep water with your feet hip-width apart. Exhale as you hinge forward at the hips, allowing your upper body to fold forward towards the water. Let your arms hang loosely or reach for your ankles.

As you dive into aqua asana, feel the flow of movement and soak in the peacefulness of the water. Fully immerse yourself in the relaxing benefits of aqua asana and connect with your inner self. Your mind, body, and soul will thank you for this wonderful experience.

For more blogs visit on our Nepal Yoga Home blog section.

Three best procedures of Meditations in Vigyan Bhairav Tantra

by Tirtha Acharya | Feb 17, 2024 | Yoga

Three best procedures of Meditations in Vigyan Bhairav Tantra

The first method of Vigyan Bhairav Tantra:

Method outline: Concentrate on the ephemeral hiatus between two breaths. Sense it.

Shiva Replies to the Question of Goddess Parvati:

Short elucidation: Between two breaths, radiant one, this experience will arise. Soon after inhaling (down) and soon before emerging (up) – this brings beneficence.  In other sentences- The breath (supreme energy of life) moves upwards with exhalation and downwards with inhalation. By fixing on the two abodes of its foundation, one achieves the state of realization.

Further clarification:   

This technique wants you to be aware between these two points, and the occurring. Observe your inhalation from the point of beginning. For a short moment, or even it can be the thousandth part of a moment, breathing ceases. — before it turns up i.e. before it goes back outwards. After every breath there is a certain point that the breath stops.

After that breath goes out and again for a single moment, or it can be the smallest part of a moment, breath stops. Then breath enters inside. Thus you will not breath just before the breathing is turning in or turning out. In that moment the occurring or changing is probable, since you are not a part of the world when you are not breathing.

Let’s understand this concept:

If you don’t breathe you die. The moment between inhalation and exhalation when you are not breathing but you are still, is an important moment. This moment passes by so quickly that you never notice it. Every exhaled breath is a death and every inhaled breath is a rebirth in Tantra. Inhaling breath signifies rebirth, and exhaling it signifies death. The inhalation is associated with life, and the exhalation is associated with death. You are therefore dying and reborn with every breath. Though the distance between the two is quite small, you will feel it if you pay close attention and observe with keenness.

There is another philosophical aspects– inhalation means receiving, taking and exhalation means giving, donating, sacrificing, etc.

If you can notice this gap (between two breaths), Shiva says, the magnanimity, goodness or beneficence.

After that you need nothing else.  You are exalted, hallowed and blessed. You have known- the incident has ensued.

Here you are not supposed to regulate or train the breath. Leave it to the law of nature, just as it is. The technique is very simple. This helps to realize the truth. It brings the realization of that which is neither born nor dies, to understand that timeless eternal element that is always.

In-breath and out-breath is comparatively easier to know than to know the gap between these two.  To notice the gap you can apply some of the techniques:

Be aware of the in- breath. Just watch it. Ignore everything. Concentrate on the passage of nostrils or the base of the nostril. Feel the breath right away as it reaches your nostrils. Next, allow the breath to enter. Breath full consciously. Do not miss a breath as you descend, descend, descend with the breath. Simply follow along; don’t lead the way or lag behind. Keep this in mind: stay in sync with it rather than ahead of it or like a shadow. Conscious breath ought to unite.

When breath goes in- go in with it until you get the gap which is between two breaths. Do the same work for exhalation as well.

Buddha said, “Become conscious of inhalation and exhalation”. There is no need to discuss the gap, therefore he never does. Buddha considered and sensed your awareness may be disturbed if you  worry about the space between two breaths. If you create a desire to feel the interval, it may be a hindrance to awareness. So he just said, “Take note. Move in tandem with the inhalation and exhalation of the breath”

Buddha wanted you to be conscious of your breath minutely whether there is breath or no breath. It means you will be aware during the gap as well. When you feel the moment that the breath has ceased- beneficence happens.

Vigyan Bhairav Tantra : Second Meditation technique

Technique review: When the breathing pauses during an inhalation or exhalation and turns inward or outward to begin a new cycle of inhalation and exhalation, be aware of that turn. Experience it.

Shiva  Replies :

2. Recognize that breath goes through both of these turns as it curves from down to up and from up to down.

Now the emphasis has changed. In the previous one, awareness was on the gap between the breath (at the moment breath gets paused). Now the emphasis is on the turning. Right after a pause of breath it turns back. For example after inhalation, a pause arises. Then it turns back as exhalation. Again after exhalation, breath pauses. Then it turns back as inhalation. Thus, you need to be aware of these two turns. Try to realize these turning points of the breath.

This can be told in other sentences. Notice your first stage of inhalation after its pause. Realize the first stage of exhalation after its pause. Breath curves from up to down through the nostrils- Realize it. Breath curves down to up through the nostrils- Realize it. Keep practicing.  This turning is possible to observe if you maintain constant awareness of breath.

If you can watch the turn of your breath without any mental movement, you will enter into yourself, or the beyond inside. You will realize who you are.

Vigyan Bhairav Tantra: Third Meditation technique

Technique Review: Concentrate on the naval- the center where the in-breath and outbreath convene. Feel the breath.

Shiva Replies: 3. Or, whenever inhalation and exhalation mingle, at this moment feel the energy-less, energy-filled center.

Humans have the center and the periphery. The body is the periphery or circumference. But the fusion happens in the center or mid-point. At that time no moving in or moving out happens.

The breath is dynamic when coming in or going out. When it is neither or non-moving you are close to the core or center. The union station of the in-breath and outbreath is your pivot or center. Breath goes   to the navel, which is the center of your body. And come back.

The center is a connection between you and your body. You feel “off-center” because you know only the body or periphery but not the center. The whole modern world is missing their center.

You become total at the moment it goes to the center. Your breath is minimum, now try for the maximum. When you are aware of the center you can breathe at the maximum, live life at the extreme – then life is abundant. When you are conscious of the center during the fusion of breath you will feel bliss.

If you do not get (notice or realize) the center take deep, slow breaths. Breath from the naven not from the chest.

If the breath travels deeper and down to the belly, it provides liveliness and vigor to the sex center. It touches the sex axis; it massages the sex root from within. This makes sex center more functioning, more alive. This way of breathing helps to transform sexual energy to spiritual energy. To get mastery over sex breathing system should be changed.

One of Lord Shiva’s most paradoxical expressions is “energy-less, energy-filled.” It has no energy because neither your bodies nor your minds can give it any. As far as you know, your identity is devoid of energy because neither your body nor your thinking possess any energy. However, the reason it is energetic is not your body’s energy; rather it comes from the cosmic source of energy.

Your body i.e. periphery gets energy from food but the center won’t. So, Shiva says it is energy-less. The center does not depend on food and drink. It has a connection with the cosmic energy source. Thus it is an energy-filled center.

When you can sense the exact place where the breaths mix, the center from which they are emitted or inhaled, you will have reached enlightenment.

For more blogs visit on our Nepal Yoga Home blog section.

Loving and kindness meditation | Loving kindness meditation

by Tirtha Acharya | Feb 10, 2024 | Yoga

Loving and kindness meditation

Loving and kindness meditation (LKM) is also known as “Metta Bhawana”. This is the first of the Four Brahma (Universal consciousness) Vihara practices taught by Buddha to cultivate good feelings and emotions and eradicate negativity.  The Four Brahma Vihara the four celestial dwellings or the four immeasurables) are:

• Metta (loving-kindness)
• Karuna (compassion)
• Mudita (appreciative joy)
• Uppekha (equanimity)

Metta (Sanskrit- Maitreya) is also a Hindu practice as well that develops goodwill and global friendliness towards oneself and others. LKM aims to develop loving-kindness towards oneself and others in a ranked method to comprise all living beings ultimately, both visible and invisible, across the universe.  Metta is also interpreted as “universal friendliness” to accentuate the objective nature of the affection generated, without expectation of return or free from any desire.

Some guidance on how to practice LKM.

Posture is all important when learning how to meditate. The most important thing is to be comfortable. Sitting with a straight back in a chair or on the floor is usually advised. When you’ve decided on your posture, do a quick scan of your body to detect areas of tension, such as tight shoulders. Take a few deep breaths and relax. Scan your body again to ensure you’re relaxed but alert.

Loving-kindness meditation- Technique 1

• Sit down in a comfortable pose. Fill your body with positive emotions and goodwill.
• Steadily concentrate on words, “May I be well, happy and peaceful”, as you experience the comforting warmth of kindness enveloping your body.
• Convey to your friend these emotions- “May you be well, content, and at peace. “May you be well, content, and at ease.
• Have a natural breath as this vibration connects you, heart to heart. “May I be good, content, and at peace”. May you be good, content, and at peace”. While mentally repeating these words for two minutes, feel yourself covered in the warmth and brightness of loving-kindness.
• Feel the bathing in the in peace and warmth of meditation that
• The light is bathing you in the warmth and peace of loving-kindness that your surrounds are radiated outwards by you.
• Encompassing all beings in the cosmos, from the tiniest insect to the biggest beast- see you and your companion are beaming love-kindness light into the infinite horizon. May we all be good, content, and peaceful. May everyone, wherever, live happily and in harmony.
• Recite this mentally for about three minutes in natural and conscious breath.
• After this, savor the sensations of warmth and expansion throughout your body. Acknowledge the emotions that emanate from your core and spread throughout the cosmom. Also the kindness that is present everywhere in your heart.
• Mentally recite for about 1.5 minutes- “May we be good, happy and at peace. May everyone and everything be well, joyful, and peaceful.
• Focus on your body and pay attention to your sensations and feelings as you continue to feel the warmth of loving-kindness.
• Take note of “WHAT” is watching your body and become conscious of that awareness- a calm, still aspect of yourself that observes everythin without passing judgement. Breath in a natural way.
• Finally gradually open your eyes.

Loving-kindness meditation- Technique 2

According to legend, the Buddha imparted the advantages of Metta meditation to monks who were struggling to focus while meditating in the forest due to disruptions purportedly created by earth devas and tree spirit. (Buddharakkhita, 2013). It helped people to conquer their fear while meditating by alone in the jungle, vulnerable to several threats.

For instance, most of us know of how being scared or nervous might increase your risk of injury when you travel alone a long way from home. When targeting a victim, those with malicious intent search for signs of vulnerability.

May I/ you be well, strong, content, light, calm, and safe.

Close your eyes and keep your back straight while you concentrate on the heart. If it would help, you can also put your hand there.

First repeat your selected phrases three times to yourself, sending loving-kindness. As an illustration, “May I be strong, safe, and healthy”.

Next, choose a person you genuinely care about (not your spouse or a love partner), a regular observer who is impartial, and a person you are currently struggling with.

Suppose that the four of you are seated in a circle. Repeat the phrase you have selected three times to your circle, keeping them all in the mind.

“May you be robust, safe, and well.” Next, visualize the loving-kindness expanding beyond your immediate circle to include your area, your community, your country, and all living things on Earth.

“May all the beings on the planet Earth be healthy, safe, and strong,” repeat mentally three times. Next visualize the following: “May all beings throughout all time and space be healthy, safe, and strong.” This loving-kindness should then be imagined flowing from the earth into space and to all life-forms in the cosmos.

Return your focus to your breathing and your environment gradually, and then open your eyes.

Benefits of Loving-Kindness Meditation

• It is a mystic blueprint for a longer life with less agony, better happiness, improved relationships, and stronger springiness.
• It augments mental and emotional well-being
• Loving-kindness triumphs over hostility.
• By compassion practice in this meditation, one defeats cruelty.
• Practice of appreciative joy disables jealousy and envy.

There are eleven main benefits as told by Buddha:

• You have a good sleep.
• You wake up feeling rejuvenated.
• You don’t experience nightmares.
• You are viewed with fondness by other.
• Pet and animals think highly of you.
• Angelic creatures guard you.
• You won’t sustain any injuries from poison, fire, or weapons.
• You have quick focus and concentration
• Your complexion is quite radiant or bright.
• You’ll pass away calmly, anxiety or distress.
• In the event that you are not enlightened, your reincarnation will be happy.

Benefits of LKM according to the latest scientific research.

• Lessened self-criticism, soothes our inner critic, and makes us more self-accepting (Shahar et al., 2015). A 49-day of LKM followed in lessening in self-harming impulses in person with suicidal tendencies and boundary personality qualities (Fredrickson et al., 2008).
• Enhanced wellbeing, rises vagal tone, a physiological indicator of subjective wellbeing that raises satisfaction in life and its quality the quality.
• Decreased aging of cells (Le Nguyen at al., 2019)
• Reduced pain- patients with chronic back pain (Happened in- Carson et al., 2005) and migraine (Happened in- Tonelli & Wachholtz, 2014) disclosed that after practicing loving-kindness meditation for a short periods, they experienced a diminution in pain symptoms and were able to go bout their daily lives.
• Grander resilience: This meditation was found to lesion trauma symptoms and flashbacks in the study of individuals with chronic post-traumatic stress disorder (Kearney et al., 2013). Studies that served as controls revealed that groups that used scripts for loving-kindness meditation during their sessions were able to get back to work earlier than those who got other training. (Seppala et al., 2014). It strengthens healthcare personnel’ resilience and helps them avoid burnout. (Seppala et al., 2014).
• Better relationships: According to Hutcherson at al. (2008), it leads to better social ties at work, more empathy for strangers, and more stability in social interactions overall (Don et al., 2022).
• Better mental health: Although research on LKm’s effects on major mental health disorders is still in its early stages, preliminary results have shown that patients with depression and bipolar (Johnson et at., 2011) and schizophrenia (Hofmann et al., 2015) experience fewer delusions and hallucinations.