...and relaaaaaax!

Just some comic relief on an agonizingly slow and rainy Friday. This one is a video from stand up comedian Brian Regan.

Zen and the poetry of T.S. Eliot

At the still point of the turning world.

Neither flesh nor fleshless; Neither from nor towards; at the still point, there the dance is,

But neither arrest nor movement. And do not call it fixity,

Where past and future are gathered.

Neither movement from nor towards,Neither ascent nor decline.

Except for the point, the still point,

There would be no dance, and there is only the dance.

I can only say, there we have been: but I cannot say where.

And I cannot say, how long, for that is to place it in time.

The inner freedom from the practical desire,

The release from action and suffering, release from the inner

And the outer compulsion, yet surrounded

By a grace of sense, a white light still and moving…

-from Burnt Norton, section I of Four Quartets by T.S. Eliot

I’ve come to absolutely love this passage from the long poem Four Quartets by T.S. Eliot not only because my father used to read his work in school but also because of the Zen-like connotations in his writing. Considered a pioneer of Western 20th century poetry for being among the first to reject conventional verse forms and language, T.S. Eliot is highly-regarded in Japanese literary circles for his interest in Zen Buddhism.

In Four Quartets his last major work, Eliot explores the questions of time and eternity in four sections, Burnt Norton (1936), East Coker (1940), The Dry Salvages (1941), and Little Gidding (1942), representing places visited by the poet.

'The still point of the turning world' in Burnt Norton illustrates for me what one should ideally experience when practicing yoga. As scholars have pointed out, Eliot implies that there is a point of stillness at the heart of movement which is poised, balanced, and is also the “locus of power.”

He also writes about 'the dance' and equates it with beauty, control, elegance, power and harmony. The Western Buddhist Review dissected and interpreted this as: dancing, like meditation, needs concentration but also fluidity, a blend of conscious control and a creative flow. 'At the still point, there the dance is' - the dance comes from that stillness. Om.

"Bruises" by Chairlift

I tried to do handstands for you

Everytime I fell yeah everytime I fell

I tried to do handstands for you

But everytime I fell for you

I'm permanently black and blue, permanently blue for you

I tried to do handstands for you

Everytime I fell on you yeah everytime I fell

I tried to do handstands but everytime I fell for you

I'm permanently black and blue, permanently blue for You-ooo For you-ooo

I grabbed some frozen strawberries so I could ice your bruisy knees

But frozen things they all unfreeze and now I taste like

All those frozen strawberries I used to chill your bruisy knees,

Hot July ain't good to me

I'm pink and black and blue

I got bruises on my knees for you

And grass stains on my knees for you

Got holes in my new jeans for you

Got pink and black and blue

Was listening to this catchy Chairlift song, "Bruises", while driving and remorsefully remembered the handstand I keep omitting from the Primary Series. Actually, it's half a handstand which comes after the chair pose, Utkatasana, and before Warriors I-II which cap the standing poses. My teachers introduced it to me months ago, including preparatory drills for it, but somehow I'm not taking to it. Can't get the right lift, feel like I'm not hovering long enough before dropping to Chaturanga, and basically feel awkward and clumsy doing it. And instead of feeling dejected by it, I've opted NOT to do it at all which shouldn't be the case I know. Will come back to it soon. Right now, I'm just content listening to this silly pop song. Om.

Energy Vampire

That’s what I’ve been "reduced" to. After having paid for the tuition fees of my two pre-schoolers I made a majorly unplanned investment which left me no choice but to economise on some expenses including yoga classes.

It has turned out to be a very wise decision though since I have been doing yoga with practitioners who live close by, thus cutting back on attendant costs like petrol, parking and the end of season sales (I am also a sucker for those) beckoning at the mall adjacent to the shala where I used to practise.

So here I am, practising here and there, with friends whose yoga skills are way ahead of my time, and I am LOVING it. A little guilt-stricken, feeding off their energies, getting that Ashtanga high back from practising with them which seems to be working alright for me as the pain on my right knee is completely gone. Don’t know if this can be attributed to practice with them but it sure coincided.

Sometimes I have no wall to practise my backbends, other times I have to make my own adjustments for problem poses. But again it has been good over all because practice has become more, shall I say, introspective (for lack of a better word).

Certainly it has been interesting, to say the least. I have shared space with people of all ages—from college students to college professors. I’ve practised with New Age and Christian music playing in the background, and the scent of patchouli or the smell of cat poop wafting through the air. I have stared at the portrait of an Aikido master to find my center (it helps!) and watched felines graze on a fellow yogin's mat towel during savasana. I've had to wipe clean the floor I practiced on, which I am not complaining about mind you. Made me realise that it's the least that I should do for the people who would use the space next. I've said it before and I'll say it again--I would mop the floor if they asked me to.

I'm utterly grateful to the yogis/yogins for sharing their energies and sending all those good vibrations. Om.

Moon day and Chandra Krama

Today, Wednesday, marks the occasion of the first and longest solar eclipse of the 21st century. The eclipse was first seen at dawn in eastern Indian region of Guahati before traversing north and east to Nepal, Burma, Bangladesh, Bhutan and China.

Caused when the moon moves directly between the sun and the earth, covering it completely to cast a shadow on our planet, the eclipse lasted nearly 4 minutes in India, 6 minutes and 39 seconds in other parts of Asia.

One of the best views was had in the Indian town of Varanasi, on the banks of the Ganges river which is sacred to Hindus. Thousands of devotees took a dip in the Varanasi river following the ancient belief that bathing there during special occasions cleanses one's sins. The eclipse was seen there for 3 minutes and 48 seconds. It is the longest such eclipse since July 11, 1991, when a total eclipse lasting 6 minutes, 53 seconds was visible from Hawaii to South America. There will not be a longer eclipse than Wednesday's until 2132.

Based on the Lunar Calendar, today is also a New Moon Day and as such is observed as a yoga holiday in Ashtanga Yoga tradition.

Since humans consist of about 70% water, we become affected by the phases of the moon, which is determined by the moon’s position in relation to the sun.

"Full moons occur when they are in opposition and new moons when they are in conjunction. Both sun and moon exert a gravitational pull on the earth. Their relative positions create different energetic experiences that can be compared to the breath cycle, according to Ashtanga Yoga resources. The full moon energy corresponds to the end of inhalation when the force of prana is greatest. This is an expansive, upward moving force that makes us feel energetic and emotional, but not well grounded. The Upanishads state that the main prana lives in the head. During the full moon we tend to be more headstrong.

The new moon energy corresponds to the end of exhalation when the force of apana is greatest. Apana is a contracting, downward moving force that makes us feel calm and grounded, but dense and disinclined towards physical exertion.

Practicing Ashtanga Yoga over time makes us more attuned to natural cycles. Observing moon days is one way to recognise and honour the rhythms of nature so we can live in greater harmony with it."

For Ashtangis who may from one time or another feel weary from practising the traditional Ashtanga series yet still seek a regular practice despite moon days, the Chandra Krama is an alternative gentle sequence during these times.

Practiced with patience Chandra Krama is rewarding and strengthening. Although there are no jumps in this sequence the core principles of movement and breath are maintained. The emphasis of Chandra Krama is on the hips and mid-section of the body, with decreased emphasis on upper body strength and the knees.

Many thanks to Allen Maitri Enrique for sharing the Chandra Krama on this moon day. Click here to view a larger image, as presented by the Australian Ashtangi Matthew Sweeney. Om.

Drishti Yoga: Find your focus

Found this on the net. Drishti Yoga, a shala in Lake White Bear, Minnesota. If I had the resources to put up a yoga shala, I'd like it to look like this: small, cozy, personalized in terms of services and simple to maintain.

Since this is located in the U.S., it tries to speak to Americans reeling from a battered economy.

Need recession relief?

Relaxation?

Physical strength and emotional balance?

Well-being?

Now more than ever, let yoga bring focus to your life!

A puja table. So "pretty". (Pardon the expression)

Colours reflect the chakras: orange for second/sacral, green for fourth/heart, and aqua blue for fifth/throat. A combination which is at once earthy and uplifting.

Drishti Yoga can accomodate a maximum 20 practitioners. It has a changing room and toilets, but no shower areas, which is something I've become accustomed to here in the Philippines. Only major studios and gyms have such amenities as shower and steam rooms.

Reception area.

This Friday they're having a YOGA HAPPY HOUR! at Drishti where practitioners can come for yoga and stay for sustenance and enjoy wine, cheese, fruit and chocolate. Cool. The following day the shala will have a partner yoga class. Sounds like a lot fun for those who are enjoying the initial "inertia" that yoga gives. Wish there were shalas like this here, especially in Quezon City. I would establish my "Dristhi" somewhere close to my home and my kids' school. In QC of course. Om.

Blindfold Yoga

I have always dreamt of doing yoga blindfolded. To my mind, yoga with your eyes closed would mean that as a practitioner, you have acquired the mental fortitude to control your body's movements. Minus the sense of sight, I also imagine that paying attention to the breath would not only be facilitated but enjoyable as well (just like during seated meditation?).

So it was so gratifying to learn from my teacher Connie Ponce that one of my all-time Ashtangi idols--John Scott--practises in this manner. Watch John during a recent workshop in Oslo where he demonstrates the Sun Salutations and other Primary Series poses blindfolded. Later, John conducts the class and instructs participants to keep their eyes shut.

Can't wait. Am counting the months, weeks and days. Om.

Natural Wonders

Would like to share a few of my favourite things that have been indispensable to my yoga practice. What makes them extra-special is that they are all homegrown products.

A local counterpart of the Maine-based Burt's Bees popular for its lotions, lip balms and other natural remedies, Ilog Maria- a bee farm located in Cavite- is near and dear to me because of its Propolis Cider Liniment (100ml). It has become a staple of mine ever since I discovered it in the changing room in Yoga Manila's Perea shala where it is a permanent fixture. It is applied for overnight relief of persistent aches, pains, sore tendons and muscles. It is recommended to soak the affected area with very hot water then slightly dry with a towel but leave a little moist. Vigorously rub into affected area. Then cover with an elastic bandage or towel. But all I do is just rub a small amount where it hurts-usually on my knees and ankles. Made from propolis gold, honey cider vinegar, camphor and peppermint oil. According to Peachie Kilayko, this was the "signature scent" of the Manila contingent training at Yoga Thailand in 2005.

Dharma, is a company which makes products by yogis, for yogis. I simply love its The Great Garbha Spray. It holds true to its claim of "helping you get slippery for Garbha Pindasana". And it smells great too, it's made with Lavender pure essential oils, triple distilled water, glycerine and vitamin E. Dharma's Peppermint Yoga Mat Spray is another favourite. It promises to banish dirt, smell, body oils and odors. The natural disinfectant properties of peppermint pure essential oil keeps yoga mats clean and fresh smelling. The product can also be used as hand sanitizer.

Alternately, fellow YM practitioners swear by Messy Bessy's The Little Warrior-which is marketed as a germ-busting multi-tasking sidekick that can be used as a hand sanitizer, disinfectant, room spray and surface cleaner. The company uses only SAFE, NON-TOXIC, ALL NATURAL, BIODEGRADABLE ingredients such as Sodium Bicarbonate (Baking Soda), Distilled White Vinegar, and Essential Oils.

These products are available from the companies themselves and are also sold at the Eco Store and ECO Market which coincidentally are co-owned by Jeannie Javellosa, another Yoga Manila instructor.

The Gateway

Mind. Power. Grace. Breath. Yoga Manila teacher Rebecca de Villa embodies all these when dropping back then standing up from Urdhva Dhanurasana, which is considered the gateway to the Intermediate Series. Rebecca had the privilege of training under John Scott and his wife Lucy at Stillpoint Yoga, New Zealand. John Scott is one of few Ashtanga yoga instructors in the world certified by the late, great Sri K. Pattabhi Jois.
Isn't Rebecca amazing? Om.

Yoga partner/Partner yoga

I’ve created a monster. No, not really. I managed to convince my husband to finally try Ashtanga Yoga early this week. Hibernating from running due to the non-stop rains he was desperate to do anything to break out a good sweat. So I brought him to Yoga Manila. Luckily Arthur, just about the only male practitioner in Ortigas these days, showed up and dispelled all of hubby’s concerns about being the only dude in class.

Jon started him out with a brief discussion of breathing and bandhas then proceeded with the Sun Salutes. I could hear his breathing was getting quicker during Surya B, and I began to feel guilty for perhaps pushing him too hard. For months I have been egging him on to try Ashtanga Yoga, trying to explain that it is not for “wimps” while extolling its benefits for easing asthma (which he has) and curing scoliosis (he has a mild form of it).

To my surprise, he was happy to have perspired profusely and by the end of the class had many practical and probing questions for Jon in his head. Like: “What’s more important to achieve in the downward dog: proper form or optimal stretch?” Breath, says Jon. Or, “How do you reach enlightenment with such a physically demanding flow of poses?”. According to Jon, there is no record of anyone attaining Samadhi from Ashtanga yoga alone.

Later that evening during dinner he was brimming with more questions some of which were no match for my pedestrian grasp of yoga. I could only go as far as demonstrating how to do some poses and found out that guys have the natural ability to do asanas like Bakasana, and of course Chaturanga. At bedtime we watched John Scott’s primary series DVD together and both marvelled at Scott’s power and grace.

At the very least, I think my husband was impressed by Jon’s teaching style and approach. I overheard him relate to my brother his Mysore class experience and he almost sounded like me convincing people to learn Ashtanga from Jon Cagas. Can’t say though he will start a regular yoga practice but I’m very pleased that he now understands why I’m hooked on Ashtanga.

What a guy! That goes for you too Teacher. Om.

Mood Swings

Emotions can be altered so quickly at times. Two days ago I was feeling hopeless about a number of things including my yoga practice. But last night when my teacher called me to the wall to work on my most dreaded inversion—the backbend—what I expected would be yet another inferior attempt on my part turned out to be quite the opposite, and actually an exhilarating experience, at least in my view.

Here’s the story. Some weeks ago my other teacher expressed that she wanted me to progress to the 2nd series but I needed to stand up from the backbend first. That very condition already presented an obstacle in my mind and by my calculations, set back advancing to the intermediate series by months! (Not to mention my struggles with Sirsasana lately.)

What did I have to lose, I thought, as I approached the wall last night. I felt like I had bottomed out already and what little optimism I had left was urging me to bounce back. After staying for almost 10 breaths in 3 Urdhva Dhanurasanas, Jon instructed me to walk up the wall from the backbend. It was difficult but the fighter in me enjoyed the challenge I guess and magically my breathing synchronized with my movement, each inhale helping me crawl up. Next, he wanted me to step further from the wall, push my hips forward and lengthen at the lower back. Then slowly, I extended my arms overhead and back to reach the wall and lean against it after which I pushed against the wall and actually stood up! I can’t describe how much I loved doing this last bit because it is here I realised where control is so crucial as well as strength and power in the legs. Knowing what is necessary to drop back and stand up I suppose was enough to snap me out of the doldrums. For this I am grateful again to the teaching duo of Jon and Connie. Connie for sparking my curiosity in the 2nd series (even if I’m not quite ready for it yet) and Jon, simply for your teacher’s instinct and sensitivity.

So now I’m happy again. Hopping and skipping happy. Smiling from ear to ear happy.

Here’s a sampler of dropping back and standing up from Urdhva Dhanurasana:

Balancing act

No, I’m not talking about the Headstand which I have officially “lost” or Utitha Hasta Padangusthasana which I used to enjoy but have been teetering in.

In the chaos that is the start of the new school year I have been catching my breath a lot lately. Spending a significant amount of my savings on not just my son’s education but also for my 3.6 year old daughter who is going to school for the very fist time. Buying the things my children need for school—from rolls of toilet paper to reams of construction paper. My thoughts have also been occupied by the A(H1N1) scare and how despite the WHO raising the swine flu alert level from 5 to 6, the equivalent of a pandemic, schools nationwide still opened.

Taking long, deep breaths have been helpful recently. Have really only begun to feel the power of Pranayama in the previous week when Mia Rotor shared how pranayama “carried” her throughout the day. I discovered that I enjoyed pranayama more than asanas after taking a workshop last month and this disturbs me. I used to get so lost in practice, the suryas, the standing sequence and some of the seated poses already had a meditative effect on me. It now troubles me too that I’ve found comfort in other physical activities like running and tennis. Maybe because I get to spend some time with the hubby since we’re both avid runners and have re-discovered tennis after watching the French Open…

These problems are approaching a bottleneck inside me and I’m beginning to feel like a computer that’s about to crash. One can lose one’s sanity just processing each and every problem! It’s a delicate balancing act: focusing on the kids, spending quality time with the family and yet having some precious “me” time to practise the backbend, re-connect with the headstand, go deeper in Marichy D, re-gain both confidence and strength. I know, I know…I need to remind myself constantly about Abhyasa and Vairagya, or to never give up and always let go.

Ramblings on a Rainy Day

Ten years ago I lived in Loyola Heights in a townhouse that my husband and I rented for the first three years of our marriage. I loved that place and miss it dearly. We decorated it to our taste and liking—minimalist meets antique. Two of our most treasured possessions were also the centerpieces of our home: an ELBA cooktop which we mounted on a custom-built cabinet for our set of Calphalon pots and pans (wedding gifts) and the 4-seater white sofa placed strategically, facing the cooktop so guests could watch us whip up meals (we fancied ourselves to be “entertainers”). We did plenty of entertaining in those days, in fact we kept bottles of wine handy for friends, mostly single, who would drop by after work and leave in the wee hours of the morning. We didn't mind really as we didn't have kids yet.

Anyway, I digress. Memories of that townhouse, Loyola Heights, my alma mater U.P., Ateneo and Katipunan keep me coming back to the vicinity to see how much it has changed or hasn’t. Lately I’ve also embarked on a mission to help search for a venue for a Yoga Manila shala in Quezon City (it's just something I've taken upon myself to do since I live close by; I hope more would help out) to bring yoga closer to this location. With so many residents as well as students in the North, QC is definitely an untapped market.

I didn’t find any potential places for practice today. But my quest led me to discover the Manna Specialty Bakery on the ground floor of the Casa Baronesa building on Esteban Abada. Being a frustrated architect, I was initially attracted by the sage-coloured and angular structure of Casa Baronesa. Then the simple and classic signage of Manna caught my eye next. I had to walk in. Besides it was nearly time for lunch.


I am a bread and pasta person and prefer these complex carbohydrates to rice. I ordered the Kesong Puti sandwich and it was delightful! I’m no food writer but for me, the focaccia bread was the “life” of the sandwich. It had just the right crunch yet was soft and moist on the inside which was slathered with pesto, tomatos and a thick slice of native white cheese. A manna from heaven, indeed! I always take my sweet time when ordering my food—usually because I like to make my own decisions without the help of waiters--so it was quite rewarding to learn that this is their bestseller. They did insist that I try their cinnamon with walnut foccacia, four-cheese pizza on a whole wheat crust and pasta arabiatta next time.

Manna Specialty Bakery breads are not greasy I noticed. They bake their bread using traditional methods and without preservatives. They believe in extracting the fullest flavour of the grain. Manna breads are also sugar-free, egg-free and dairy-free. They offer a wide-range of specialty breads such as the cinnamon walnut focaccia, another bestseller, that are available on specific days (see bread schedule below).

The Manna Mantra

Manna "Bread Schedule"


I had my sandwich with a cup of Benguet coffee, not my favourite but definitely better than Starbucks. The interiors are small but cozy, inviting and conducive to long conversations with good friends. Would be a great place to relax after a yoga class nearby. Om.

[Images from the Manna Specialty Bakery website and food bloggers]

Yoga Manila remembers Guruji

Gayatri Samputta

Ohm Bhu-hu

Ohm Bhuvaha

Ohm Svaha

Ohm Maha-ha

Ohm Jana ha

Ohm Tapa-ha

Ohm Satyam

Ohm tat savitur varenyam

Bargo devasya dimahi

Diyo yona pratyo dayat Ohm

Heart Sutra

Ohm gate gate

Para gate

Parasam gate

Bodhi svaha

Chanting the Heart Sutra for the first time made me realise how relevant it was for the moment. Today is Pattabhi's memorial service in India and Yoga Manila practitioners celebrated his life by chanting together at the Alabang shala. The purpose of this mantra is to liberate self and others, traverse the sea of suffering and, attaining complete enlightenment, reaching the serenity and joy that is Nirvana. Translated the mantra goes: Om gone, gone. Completely gone beyond. Enlightenment/becoming Buddha.

Food Rescue

Being a mommy Ashtangi poses many challenges. When it comes to food, it’s been tricky to impose a strictly vegetarian diet on myself since I have two young children whom I believe still need both animal and plant protein at their age. So it’s a hassle and costly to prepare our meals separately. My refrigerator is well-stocked with meat (lean), chicken, fish, fruits and veggies which are used to feed them balanced meals every time. And while I try to cultivate in them a taste for a variety of dishes their dominant Ilocano food gene established in them a liking for vegetables sautéd in chicken, meat and good God, slabs of pork fat. I’ve tried using mushroom for a change but the taste may still be too strong or strange for their young palates. With kids, it’s important to introduce new things gradually. For example, they enjoy eating organic red rice which has become acceptable for them because it’s cooked with white rice. Going completely vegetarian will come slowly for me, at least for now.

So being a mommy Ashtangi, I’ve learned to be creative and circumvent meat. At my teacher’s recommendation, I just separate meat from veggies in a dish. I also keep a container of home-made pasta sauces such as puttanesca and pesto, courtesy of my mother-in-law, which my kids love to eat together with breaded chicken, fish fillets or tonkatsu. I skip the meat and spread the pasta sauces on a small, whole wheat pizza crust from my favorite bread maker Village Gourmet, toast it with mozzarella in the oven and serve with tossed greens. The puttanesca is aleady a meal in itself, it’s loaded with anchovies, tomatoes, olives, capers and pepper. As for the pesto sauce, I love it with mozzarella and sprinkled with shrimps, scallops and feta cheese. Ahh, the transition to being a vegetarian may take some time but at least it tastes good.

Farewell

Sri Krishna Pattabhi Jois

July 1915 - May 18, 2009

"Practice, practice, practice and all is coming."

In our hearts, in our practice, he will be forever with us, within

us, changing our lives again and again.

Karmic sisters: Monica Eleazar Manzano and Denise Gonzales

It’s a friendship that transcends their college thesis papers, career choices, marriage and motherhood. Monica Eleazar Manzano and Denise Gonzales—"yummy mummies" whose sons Santi and Benny are 1 month and 1 day apart, already best friends since birth--are the moms behind INDIGObaby, a collection of all-natural, earth-friendly, locally-made bath soaps, detergents, body creams, massage oils, baby bottom sprays, mosquito repellants and other baby products. Both decided to quit their jobs to become stay-at-home-moms (SAHM) and eventually work-at-home-moms (WAHM) when the business was conceived and born.

Monica Eleazar Manzano (above) and Denise Gonzales (below) take their sons Santi and Benny everywhere. They keep their boys snug and close in these hip baby pouches.

Monica and Denise advocate breastfeeding and are L.A.T.C.H. breastfeeding peer counselors. They also practice attachment parenting, based on these principles: Feed with Love and Respect, Respond with Sensitivity, Use Nurturing Touch, Ensure Safe Sleep, Physically and Emotionally Provide Consistent Loving Care, Practice Positive Discipline and Strive for Balance in Personal and Family Life. The Indigo product line reflects this philosophy and also includes accessories like baby pouches, ring slings, tank tops and other clothes especially designed for breastfeeding. I had also breastfed my children, my eldest until he turned two, and I wish these nursing apparel were available back then because they are so fashionable, comfortable, and most importantly wearable.

These entrepreneur moms get my vote not only because they breastfeed their kids but also because they both practice yoga. Monica herself completed a 25-hour yoga course on Post Natal Teacher Training in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, module 2 of a 100-hour Yoga for Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond course. She’s currently doing an Ashtanga Yoga TT with Greenpath Yoga’s Clayton Horton in Boracay along with my friend Allen Enrique.

I got to know Monica after she posted a comment on this blog. After responding I checked out the Indigo multiply site and was attracted to the company’s breastfeeding poncho which they call “bonchos”. The bonchos are actually worn like a shawl and wrap around both mother and child to allow breastfeeding in public. But I've decided to use them as after-yoga wear so I quickly ordered 4 bonchos that were delivered to my home the following day. Online shopping is so cool.

Take a look at "after-yoga" wear from INDIGObaby:

My ultra sporty friend and yogin Edlyn Tan wearing a purple mosaic boncho. And looking good in Utthita Hasta Padangusthasana (below). Lyn is snapping up orders for bonchos from friends as I post this blog entry.

The dainty black boncho is ideal for other occasions as well. The fabric is lightweight and made from 100% cotton.

My favourite is this moss green boncho. Buttons secure the boncho around the shoulders.

Mala beads in wood, lapiz lazuli, coral and moonstone are available from sister company Dharma. Fuchsia fountain boncho worn like a shrug, below.

Monica and Denise’s interest in yoga has also spawned DHARMA, a selection of mindful and natural products like Awake an energizing and refreshing face mist, Dream a calming and balancing face mist, lavender-based Solstice mat spray, Glow body scrub and tulsi, lapis lazuli, coral and moonstone mala beads. The products were launched at the Yoga & Wellness Fair at the Power Plant last month. You can order through the Dharma website or purchase from authorized re-sellers at the EcoMarket and ECHOstore at the Fort and soon at Certified Calm and Aura Athletica.

Good Vibrations: The healing powers of Dzi

“Melanie is sick with the worst kind of bug. Feels like I’ve been hit by a car and now lying in hospital with the pain killers wearing off.”

My Facebook status generated quite an outpour of sympathy and get well greetings including some therapeutic advice from yogis—friends and teachers alike. One of them, Maritoni Tordesillas, suggested that I get a dzi bracelet from World of Feng Shui as it had quite a curative effect on her when she was struck by a similarly spiteful virus last year.

Dzi (pronounced Zee) is a Tibetan word for a patterned stone, usually agate, of mainly oblong, round, cylindrical or tabular shape pierced lengthwise called Heaven's Bead (tian zhu) in Chinese. I had seen these beads during a working trip to Nepal when colleagues of mine from the ADB had acquired some and I have since been fascinated and intrigued by their talismanic “powers”. Dzi stones are said to do a number of things basically some protect its wearer from negative energies or accidents, some attract wealth or wisdom, while others might bring love and happiness.

The beads originate in Tibetan culture and are rare and pricey. Found mainly in Tibet as well as in Bhutan, Ladakh and Sikkim, dzi are obtained from the earth and so to the Tibetan, the Dzi is not a man-made bead, but a precious jewel of supernatural origin.

Knowledge of the bead is derived from mythological and legendary tales and few beads have stirred more controversy regarding their source and method of manufacture which all helps in increasing dzi's inherent value.

The Potala Palace (above) located in Lhasa Tibet Autonomous Region China, had been the Dalai Lama's domain until 1959 when the 14th Dalai Lama escaped to Dharamsala, India after a failed uprising. The Dalai Lama and many Tibetans fled during the Chinese communists invasion. They took much valuable jewelry with them, such as coral, amber, turquoise and the mysterious dzi beads. At this point, the world first glimpsed this precious jewel from the Land of Snow when refugees sold them in exchange for their material needs.

After reading up some more I learned that a Dzi stone may repel things, but it can also store them. Your stone may block or absorb negativism when it comes your way for instance. They can also release very positive energies to you, while absorbing a bit of your energy in the process. In other words, a bit of them goes into you and a bit of you will go into them. However since you are not the original possessor of the stone, some of the previous owner’s bad kharma may rub off on you. To avoid this it is recommended to "cleanse" your Dzi stone upon purchase to release all of that stored up nastiness, and to allow you to introduce yourself to your Dzi stone, and create a fresh spiritual bond.

Fake dzi stones abound but you can purchase a genuine dzi locally at World of Feng Shui which has branches in SM malls. The sellers will help you select your stone, there are beads with from 1 to 21 eyes, each with a special significance or purpose. Maritoni chose the 9-eye bead for good health because she believes "health is wealth". Indeed!

1. The 1 eyed Dzi bead stands for a beacon of light and hope. This powerful eye is believed to enhance human wisdom, and bring forth happiness for life.

2. The 2 eyed Dzi enables harmony between husband and wife; build a happy family, successful career, and good relationships with others.

3. The 3 eyed Dzi bead represents the three stars of luck, happiness, honor, and longevity. It is the bead of wealth and health to bring continuous fortune.

4. The 4 eyed Dzi helps To Overcome Negative Forces, Clears Obstacles, Increases Merits & Longevity, Subdue Demons.

5. The 5 eyed Dzi is considered a magical item and is highly sought after. It assists one in obtaining whatever one desires, so it is a very desired bead. Endless happiness.

6. The 6 eyed Dzi eliminates sadness and sufferings in life, and increases access to good luck.

7. The 7 eyed Dzi helps one to Achieve Fame, Glory, Perfection, Career, Wealth, Relationship, and Health & Longevity.

8. The 8 eyed Dzi helps to guard against calamities and catastrophes. Assists the owner in finding and staying on their proper path.

9. The 9 eyed Dzi bead assists its owner to Gather Wealth, Achieve Good Health, Success, Gain Power, Compassion, Glory, and Expelling Evil & Acts as a Protector.

10. The 10 eyed Dzi removes obstacles in the road of career development, gains favorable comments on you from others, and omens a happy relationship with your spouse.

11. The 11 eyed Dzi helps to eradicate evil intentions and reduces craving, leading to a peace of the heart and mind.

12. The 12 eyed Dzi empowers one with the ability to surpass expectations and attain fame and recognition.

13. The 13 eyed Dzi allows one to learn to communicate with the ancestors as well as other dimensions and realities.

14. The 14 eyed Dzi helps to protect the mind from clutter and help with kharma issues.

15. The 15 eyed Dzi increases the wearer's wisdom, releases human suffering and brings forth general good fortune in human life.

16. The 16 eyed Dzi Brings back the humor in life. Reminds one that it is through play and joy that all things may be obtained. Helps to repel sadness, depression, melancholy, sorrowfulness, and the blues.

17. The 17 eyed Dzi can assist to improve the self image. It allows others to see you the way you see yourself in your unconscious mind. It protects owner from the images of others.

18. The 18 eyed Dzi can help to protect against obsessions and compulsions. Helps to protect against addictive personality traits. Alcoholism, drug abuse, sexual addiction, gambling and all other addictions.

19. The 19 eyed Dzi enhances the owner's ability to manifest and materialize the necessary things in one's life.

20. The 20 eyed Dzi assists in purification. This Dzi can enhance owner's process of preparation for ending the cycle of rebirth. It is very rare.

21. The 21 eyed Dzi enhances your magic power, realizes what you desire to the maximum extent. I magnifies all the characteristics of the other beads and focuses them into one stone.

There is a specific process for cleansing your stone. For those interested, I can email you privately. Om.

Bon Anniversaire

I approach all that interests me with the curiosity of a novice and the sensibilities of a journalist. I have been in the mass media profession since graduating from college, but my passion has been yoga since I discovered it almost exactly one year ago. For 12 months I have enjoyed practicing Ashtanga Yoga and continue to reap its benefits today. I am now more athletic, eat a more balanced diet, increased my stamina, and restored some of the flexibility that I once had as a teenager.

I also feel I’ve reached a turning point after one year. As a journalist it’s become second nature to always, always ask why. Apart from its physical aspects, why are so many like myself attracted to yoga and why has it survived and thrived for thousands of years?

Based on Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras, yoga is not just postures, or asanas, but a way of life. The Indian sage describes in four chapters how yoga also involves Yama - Rules, Niyama – Regulations and Pranayama - Breath Control, Pratyahara – Sense Control, Dharana – Concentration, Dhayana -- Meditation—7 of 8 limbs of Ashtanga with each limb being a step towards the path of self-realisation. In class, we are taught the primary series of Ashtanga Yoga, from Suryas A & B, the standing, seated and closing sequences. Many will agree that Ashtanga is the most physically challenging and demanding of the yoga styles—so I am wondering how all the non-physical, the spiritual dimensions of yoga play out. How does Ashtanga, with its physical adjustments that cause the body to tense up and result in muscle guarding, fit into this structure?

A quick read of the Yoga Sutras reveals that only a few sutras ever touch on asanas but it is these sutras, in particular Sutras 2.46-47, that appear to link the postures to achieving a mental and meditative state that is necessary to reaching Samadhi, the culmination of the eight limbs of Ashtanga.

Like many ancient classical texts the Yoga Sutras has been subject to different interpretation. I refer to BKS Iyengar, Georg Feuerstein, Kofi Busia and BonGiovanni as sources as they seem to have the most similar translations.

Sutra 2.46: sthira sukham asanam
Sthira: firm, fixed, steady, steadfast, lasting
Sukham: happiness, delight
Asanam: postures, poses

1. Posture (asana) should be steady and comfortable.

2. Asana is perfect firmness of body, steadiness of intelligence and benevolence of spirit.

(Note: Here Iyengar makes a clear argument for asana practice as 'meditation in action:')

Commentary by BKS Iyengar: Some have taken this sutra to mean that any comfortable posture is suitable. If that were so, these would be asanas of pleasure (bhogasanas) not yogasanas. This sutra defines the perfected asana. From the very first sutra Patanjali demands the highest quality of attention to perfection…. As asanas are refined they automatically become meditative as the intelligence is made to penetrate towards the core of being…. When (action and perception) are fused together the discriminative faculty of the mind acts to guide the organs of action and perception to perform the asanas more correctly; the rhythmic flow of energy and awareness is experienced evenly and without interruption both centripetally and centrifugally throughout the channels of the body. A pure state of joy is felt in the cells and the mind. The body, mind and soul are one. This is the manifestation of dharana and dhyana in the practice of an asana.

3. That attitude or mode of being that is maintainable and brings joy is 'right being.'

4. The posture should be steady and comfortable.

5. Posture (asana) (right poise) refers to the physical, emotional, and mental demeanor of the student. This practice does not require specific (literal) physical postures, but requires a certain quality (poise) and attitude on all levels of one's personality expression. "The posture assumed must be steady and easy." "Steadiness and ease of posture is to be achieved through persistent slight effort and through the concentration of the mind upon the infinite (reality)." The student should achieve and maintain spiritual poise (qualified balance of physical, emotional, and mental natures) (balance of one's lower (personality) nature with the higher self, external world, etc.), easily and naturally (almost effortlessly).

(Note: Kofi Busia also elucidates a broader context for the concept of asana. Rather than the performance of Hatha Yoga postures, the term asana is understood to mean a poised demeanor in life. This sense of physical, emotional, mental and spiritual balance, as one moves through the day, influences one's surroundings and helps to create friendly relationships, a pleasant environment and agreeable surroundings. This poise is a crucial precondition for further progress.)

Sutra 2.47: prayatna saithilya ananta samapattibhyam

1. [The correct practice of posture is accompanied] by the relaxation of tension and the coinciding [of consciousness] with the infinite.

2. Perfection in an asana is achieved when the effort to perform it becomes effortless and the infinite being within is reached.

3. When correctly practiced it is infinitely transforming and brings endless release.

4. In effortless relaxation, dwell mentally on the Endless with utter attention.

5. Right-control of the life-force (pranayama) implies proper qualification of the breathing process (physical, emotional, and concrete mental levels). It implies equilibrium in the context of the karmic flow, i.e., in responding intelligently (non-actively and non-passively) to karmic consequences (circumstances, external and internal forces). It implies conservation of forces and their proper utilization and application (internally and externally) (and taking responsibility for same (effects)). Breathing is as much or more an etheric process than a dense physical process. Even on astral levels, that- which-corresponds-to-prana is inspired and expired through the astral (emotional) body as the student relates to conditions in the astral environment (however consciously or otherwise)

Just a little research I wanted to share for my first year anniversary. Namaste.

Moving Meditation

I don't like conflict, I believe it brings out the worst in people. So when I needed time off from an issue brewing amongst acquaintances, I couldn't find solace in yoga. Instead I found inspiration from a sweet and smart runner named Jaymie Pizarro. "The Bull Runner" as she is known among the running community, Jaymie is behind the Philippines' top sports blog, www.thebullrunner.com, a wellspring of information on running and the local running scene.

I consulted her about running and yoga, "Do they complement each other?," I asked since I was exploring the cardio-vascular benefits of running. I received a swift and thorough response from Jaymie who as it turns out, has recently gotten into yoga to strengthen her core which she says is essential for long-distance running as it will help maintain correct form needed for a more efficient stride. She says running tightens the leg muscles and yoga stretches areas that runners often neglect.

Jaymie has practiced in Yoga Manila Alabang a couple of times but frequently practises with Joseph de Asis at Gold's Gym Alabang. She sent me pre-run yoga poses from Runner's World as well as this article that encourages runners to cross-train with yoga for strength and to reduce injury (http://www.runnersworld.com/article/0,7120,s6-238-409--12606-0,00.html).

Here's an excerpt from an article written by an American yoga practitioner-runner:

How yoga helps running: "In a sense, my running is sort of an extension of the yoga class. Through the deep breathing and quieting of the mind we all learn in class, I can get into that moving meditation when I run."

How running helps yoga: "Endurance is never an issue for me in my yoga classes, so if we have to hold some particularly difficult pose for a long time it's not a problem, and I'm certain that's due in large part to my running. From a strength point of view, running has given me strong legs, which is enormously helpful for some of the standing poses."

I'll be doing these postures very soon, hopefully with a group of runners from U.P. who regularly meet at Hector Yuzon's Second Wind shop at Maginhawa Street, Teachers Village. Looking forward too to running in ULTRA after the holidays. Goodbye treadmill, hello track oval. Lyn, tara na!

I'm quite excited to start running especially after having met new people who seem genuine, focused, and serious about running just as I believe I am about yoga. More importantly I was struck by the warmth of Jaymie and Hector--their aura seemed almost yogic, how there is an instant camaraderie established when one runner meets another, and how natural it is for them to offer and share insight, tips and experiences. That non-competitve atmosphere reminded me of practice at YM Makati, where most everyone was a serious and harcore Ashtangi no matter what level, but where many light moments were shared in Supta Kurmasana, Urdhva Dhanurasana and other intense asanas as Peachie Kilayko would bind every one and drop back the adventurous.

Hope to find that feeling again when I run. Om.

Mr. Miyagi and Marichy D

"Wax in, wax out."
These words were immortalized in the teen pic Karate Kid which I caught on betamax back in the ‘80s. For many, the movie brought stardom for lead actor Ralph Macchio. But for me, Karate Kid was more memorable for making the late Pat Morita a household name.

Anyway, this movie came to mind recently during Mysore class. I had finished Marichy C and was preparing for the disappointment of not being able to bind by myself yet again in Marichy D.

Marichyasana D

I had been seriously working on this pose since January and was beginning to lose confidence in my abilities and began to find fault in my anatomy. Marichyasana D has been my waterloo in the Primary Series along with Urdhva Dhanurasana--the backbend--which I can’t sustain for more than 5 breaths at a time and Urdhva Mukha Paschimottanasana simply because I’d like to bring my face closer to my shins.

I also began to worry about whether or not my teachers had grown impatient over my lack of improvement. At the same time I began to question the hands-on mode of instruction: is it really necessary to physically touch and adjust students or is it more effective to verbally coach them step-by-step?

The answer came just before my teacher was to bind me in Marichy D. His attention shifted momentarily to another student and as he stood up to assist her, I decided to work on my own and—surprise! surprise!—one arm wrapped around my bent knee and both my hands met at the base of my twisted back. I didn’t get the pose perfectly—I still need to close the gap between my knee and arm, relax my shoulders after binding, and breeeaaathe—but I realized that I was able to bind on my own because my body had gotten used to being compressed in Marichy D. The best part is, nothing hurt: not my knee, my back, nor my injured ankle tucked in half-lotus.

The scene from Karate Kid then flashed before me. Mr. Miyagi teaching Daniel-San how to properly polish a car following “wax in-wax out” strokes, which teacher and student did ad nauseum and which was beginning to bore the young apprentice who was only eager to learn high-flying karate chops. Fast forward to a defining moment in the film where the bully was about to descend on Daniel, who surprised himself by instinctively deflecting blows in wax in-wax out fashion. Then and only then did student appreciate the wisdom and teachings of his mentor.

As for me, I have renewed respect and deep gratitude for my Yoga Manila teachers—Jon Cagas and Connie Ponce (a.k.a. “Mother Superior” for deftly combining no mercy with compassion during LED class) who both patiently bind me in Marichy D every single time. In case you're interested in trying yoga in YM Ortigas, Jon and Connie's teaching styles are very complementary. Both were certified by Paul Dallaghan and share a passion for teaching yoga and its philosophy both on and off the mat.

So bless you Pat Morita, you are not only a shining example of Asian-American actors making it big in Hollywood but also now a symbol for my triumph over Marichyasana D. And if you aspire to be like the “Karate Kid”, then welcome your teacher’s adjustments, resist your body’s urge to stiffen, and allow your teachers to mould your body into the pose. Success will come sooner or later.

Certified Hit

The Ortigas CBD is a bustling yoga zone. It is home to at least two major yoga shalas including Yoga Manila Ortigas located on the 5th floor of the Edsa Shangri-La Hotel. There are also authentic Indian restaurants and other establishments that serve vegetarian cuisine in the vicinity. And on the 3rd level of the Shangri-La Mall is Certified Calm, perhaps only the second boutique in the city that caters to the yoga community and is more spacious and carries a more diverse product line than the shop in Rockwell. According to "D", manager of Upward Ideas Apparel Corporation, whom I met and spoke to about the store’s merchandise, the concept behind Certified Calm is “to bring good, alternative brands that are not in the market now; to bring in products that will enhance one's practice. It also aims to be responsible with the environment; hence, it incorporates eco-friendly products.”
Manduka yoga mats

Get Om with Life: You have a product mix that defines you from competitors, what was behind the brand selection?

“Compared to a yoga studio, we're definitely more frivolous. First, we look into the styles and varied products which have to all pass our standards. Next we take into consideration the mantra and background of the companies we partner with. If they all jive with what we believe in, then it's meant to be!”

Get OM with Life: Describe your customer profile?

“Our target market is any health practitioner who is in search of beautiful, high quality products which are reasonably priced. The yogis understand us most though.”

Get OM with Life: Share some of your experiences as a practitioner that inspired you to establish Certified Calm?

“I've always loved yoga. I've been introduced to it informally since 2001 or 2002. The sessions were always good. The feeling after is pretty amazing. You're always languid and calmer afterwards. I've never been flexible but I definitely see the benefits. I used to injure easily. Yoga has lessened that. Even my chiropractor said I'm more properly aligned.

Loving the practice drove me to another level. I became quite addicted with getting all the proper gear. With the proper gear, personally, they enhance my practice. I'm even more motivated, plus, you refuse to downgrade anymore, ha ha!

I've always had a crazy sense of humor. When I feel inferior to fabulous practitioners around me, I simply console myself that "Never mind, my gear is so nice anyhow! When I fall down, oops, what a beautiful mat!" Ha ha! *wink* Yoga apparel from Prana, Green Vogue (Easyoga), be present, Zobha and Shakti

Get OM with Life: Elaborate on the importance and value of investing in high-quality yoga apparel/products?

“These apparel/products are fashionable, and yet they're not supposed to be trendy nor fashion per se. They're supposed to last you for some years which are why you pay that kind of money. Their wear and tear last longer. You save up in the end. You don't mind wearing them again and again because they're supposed to be your favorite thing to wear and they're very comfortable and versatile.

Some types of fabric cannot withstand the poses that yoga demands. They will crack and tear. The seams and the types of cloths matter.

The way the clothing absorbs moisture matter a great deal too. You don't want to be weighed down when you're sweating profusely, nor do you want to smell. The right type of fabric prevents that.

Yogitoes and Easyoga mat towels

The correct type of mats matter also. The way they just stay put, the thickness...they all matter. Certified Calm understands all these and more, and we're trying hard to address all these."


Get OM with Life: What are your thoughts on the commercialization of yoga?

"If everybody can get into it and channel their energies in that positive way, I believe with all my heart that the world will be more beautiful and peaceful. What a wonderful world then! Namaste."

Yoga cross-training

I sometimes find myself so absorbed and concentrated on my practice, so much that the exhaustion I feel after class carries over to the next day. Other factors may contribute to the heavy feeling--such as having a bad day at work or having bad luck in business--whatever the reason, the practice of Ashtanga yoga is taken very seriously and can be both physically and mentally draining.

My friend Lyn and I have this long-running discussion over how to balance our "serious" Ashtanga practice with a fun yet still physical activity. We've deliberated cross-training with squash, capoiera (?!), wall climbing, or running a marathon (which I personally feel can be hard on the joints). We're also considering doing Iyengar Yoga to help us go deeper with some of the primary series poses. And when neither of our spouses were available for Yoga Manila's Partner Yoga class last weekend, Lyn and I were tempted to do the class together since we're evenly matched in terms of body types.

Here's what happens in Partner Yoga. This is taken from one of my favourite sites, http://www.partneryogacharleston.com



Doesn't it look like great fun? And you can do this with music too! Friends who attended the Partner Yoga class have said that they enjoyed it. I hope Yoga Manila can offer this as a regular class since yogis can practise inversions such as headstands, handstands, arm balancing and many other poses found in the primary and intermediate series in a less intense context. We're still Ashtangis at heart, we just need a little variety. Right, Lyn, Avril, Redge, Allen, Idol?

Shitali Pranayama

This video was posted by Berta Feliciano on the Yoga Manila Facebook site. If you want to hear what a roomful of Ashtangis practising sounds like, watch this clip from Greenpeace titled "Breathe in, breathe out". It can also be very useful to remember the images and soundtrack during practice.

I've been practising quite regularly already and have been attending Mysore classes thrice a week. As a result, I've finally memorized the primary series (hooray!). One side effect though is that I've developed a man-size appetite, especially after yoga.

One of my yoga teachers suggests doing Shitali Pranayama to curb my appetite. Shitali means cooling. It is a pranayama which cools the whole body so it is best done in hot weather or at the end of a vigorous yoga session.

1. Sit in a comfortable cross-legged position in a well ventilated room free from any distractions. Keep the waist, back, neck and spine straight.

2. Take two or three deep inhales and exhales through the nose to prepare.

3. Open your mouth slightly, in such a way that the tip of your tongue should be closer to both lines of the teeth. Now roll the tongue, curling the sides in towards the center to form a tube. Stick the end of the tongue out between your pursed lips. If you can't roll your tongue, just purse the lips making a small `o` shape with the mouth.

4. Inhale through the tube of the tongue.

5. Exhale through the nose.

6. Repeat 5-10 times as you feel the cooling effect.

Benefits of Shitali Pranayama

1. It has great energizing, soothing, relaxing and cooling effects on all the nerve channels and on the whole body.

2. It has a pacifying and relieving effect for various troubles such as headache and fever.

3. The Pranayama purifies the blood expelling the toxins.

4. Shitali pranayama is also highly recommended as an immediate remedy for nervousness.

5. Diseases like tumor, jaundice, skin diseases, fever are cured and it also corrects indigestion and constipation.

6. It quenches the thirst. Hence if one feels thirsty and hungry at a place where water and food are not available, this pranayama could be tried.

7. It activates the liver and improves digestion.

Caution

This Pranayam should not be practiced in case of heavy cough or cold, asthma, bronchitis, sinusitis and low blood pressure.

Will explore this pranayama technique more and see how effective it is. Big thanks to Maritoni Tordesillas for sharing this tip and giving new insights into Janu A, B and C.

I HEART Yoga Manila

Just posting a link to a recent Inquirer article, "Art of breathing, way of life", which explains Ashtanga Yoga and Yoga Manila's commitment to this particular yoga form.