A WTF Yoga Moment

Yoga practice has the potential to change our reality.  We step onto our mats feeling one way (tired, stressed, inflexible, sad), only to discover that reality can shift drastically through asana, pranayama, and/or meditation.  Quicker than one can say "namaste," we feel energized, peaceful, limber, and happy.

Unfortunately, this was not the case in a yoga class I attended recently.

Instead, I experienced one of the biggest WTF yoga moments of my life.  After 15 years of practicing yoga, witnessing my fair share of eyebrow-furrowing situations as both a teacher and student, that's saying a lot. There was the time a woman was forcibly removed from a class I was attending and banned from returning to that studio for life.  Then, there was the teacher who made a pass at me at a workshop.  Another poorly behaved yoga teacher who regularly vilified the dietary choices of students in class.  The person who showed up to a hot yoga class wearing jeans . . . Oh, wait, that was me.  I forgot my yoga pants, so I stubbornly did an entire class in my street clothes.  Not recommended.  I digress.

The above drama, debauchery, diet-policing, and denim-wearing aside, I've never quite experienced the simple shock that comes with hearing a phone ring in yoga class . . . wait, I'm not done yet (unfortunately, un-silenced ringers are common). . . watching a woman stand up from half pigeon pose . . . wait for it . . . yes, you guessed it . . . ANSWER HER PHONE, then proceed to walk the length of the yoga studio TALKING ON HER PHONE, at which point she presumably made herself comfortable in the studio's lobby and finished her call.

(Photo: Om Yoga Center, New York, NY)

In her defense, it's possible that this was a crucially important call.  Perhaps the person on the other line was incarcerated, or gravely ill.  Perhaps the woman is a surgeon who needed to instruct a nervous resident through open heart surgery while trapped in a broken elevator with a dying patient.

These are all possible scenarios.  But, not likely.

To her credit, the teacher kept her focus on the the rest of the class (comprised of about 40 other people in half pigeon, not on cell phones) and commented that we can only worry about ourselves.  She didn't go bat shit crazy in all the ways I was thinking about going bat shit crazy in that moment.  Fiercely protective of my students and the experience I help create for them in a yoga class, I honestly don't think I would have been so nonchalant.

I know it's not quite the same as answering one's phone in church, but it felt pretty close.  Yoga, above all, is a spiritual practice.

Days later, with the cell phone gaffe still fresh in my mind and visions of how I might have handled the situation had I been teaching, I happened upon some clarity from author and veteran yoga teacher, Judith Lasater, in her book Living Your Yoga:

How do you practice when the environment does not support you or is even openly hostile?  It would be easy to separate yourself from those who you decide are not on "the path."  If you relax your view, you may see that it is all one path and that we are all on it.


So, there we are: cell phone yoga lady and me, walking the same path.  You're there too, along with all your favorite om gals and guys and some not-so-favorite ones.  Toxic co-workers, estranged relatives, even your ex (yes, that one): they're all walking with us, at their own pace, down the same spiritual path.

How did I forget this!

We don't need to accept harmful or disrespectful behavior, but we do need to share the path with everyone.  I am so happy for this yogic reminder that I thought I'd share the story with you.  I want to share it with everyone I know.  Quick, somebody give me a phone.  I have some calls to make.

Share your biggest WTF yoga moments by posting a comment.   

Reader Query: A Yogi Gal Who Wants to Groove to the Music

Hi Rebecca,

I met you after the [focus group] last Sunday*. . . I really enjoyed your class and I especially liked that you played music as we went through a few series of sun salutations. I have never practiced to music, and I would like to incorporate that element into my home practice. I can't remember what music you played but thought it fit the asanas very nicely. What type of music do you suggest listening to while practicing? What music do you like to listen to when practicing?

Namaste,
Erica

Hi Erica:

I am so happy you enjoyed the tunes! I don't use music all the time when I teach, and you'll notice that even when I do, it's only for a song here or there, rather than a consistent soundtrack throughout class. In general, it's important for students to experience external and internal quiet during practice, to listen to their breathing and tune into themselves instead. However, the right song combined with a great sequence can be complete bliss. And music during a home practice is a wonderful way to add a dose of inspiration to ordinary surroundings. If my memory serves me correctly I played one song each from the following three artists in that class: Matisyahu, Reema Datta, and Cat Power, each soulful in his/her own way.

The song I played during sun salutations was One Day by Matisyahu, which experienced a recent boost in popularity due to its association with the Olympic Games. It's a really uplifting song and fits the energy of sun salutations well. That, and the energy of, say, stomping a McTwist a la Shaun White, but we mere mortals will just have to settle for the accessibility of sun salutations, I guess. [Insert sigh].

Reema Datta's album would be a great addition to your home practice, as the kirtan vibe matches an asana practice well. My friend and CEO of YogaEarth, Dan Cook, turned me on to Datta, and I've been incorporating her music into the latter half of classes or sivasana a lot lately. [Disclosure: I am on the advisory board for YogaEarth].

I was a bit late to the Cat Power craze, but she's among my favorite artists right now. I have a feeling I must have played Lost Someone when the class was doing floor work. She rocks, pure and simple.

You might enjoy and gather more suggestions from a few other OmGal.com posts related to the topic of music, here:

Hey Yoga Teacher, Play That Funky Music

Am I Still a Yogi If I Listen to Gangster Rap?

Happy grooving.
-Om Gal

*On Sunday, February 28, I taught a special class in conjunction with a focus group of experienced yogis for a company researching innovative yoga products.

Is There Such A Thing As Bad Yoga?

For the most part, yoga is like pizza (or, perhaps more accurately for this particular Thai cuisine obsessed gal, Tom Yum soup) . . . Even when it's bad, it's good. Are some variations better than others? You bet. Are some off-the-charts authentic masterpieces while others are pedestrian meals that simply get the job done? Absolutely. On the other hand, for those of us who know our pizza or our spicy, tangy Thai soup, there is such a thing as a bad slice of pie or not-so-yum Tom Yum.

From its inception more than two years ago, OmGal.com set out to reveal the best classes, teachers, products, trends, and tips in the world of yoga and wellness. If something isn't worth the word count, I save my syllables for another topic. However, I also aim to be authentic, and, to that end, I have to admit that sometimes bad yoga is, well, bad yoga. Hence, here are my top 10 culprits for a crummy yoga class, as compiled through highly scientific research including 15 years of yoga practice, my own teaching experience, and listening to my friends, students, and you, O.G. readers, kibbutz about what you like and don't while doing yoga. Please feel free to add your own.

The Bizarro Fake Accent: Thankfully, this trend has waned in recent years, but yoga teachers concocting bizarre accents and awkward patterns of speech in order to sound more exotic or authoritative was mysteriously prevalent at one time. Surely, this trend originated from the first generation of yogis to bring yoga to mainstream America, all of whom were foreigners (e.g. Sri K. Pattabhi Jois, B.K.S. Iyengar). Thus, it made sense that they had accents; English was their second language. But, you, native of the United States who grew up in Massachusetts or Pennsylvania or Colorado or wherever: Stop talking like you're British or Indian or a Shakespearean-New-Age-Surfer. You sound ridiculous. It confuses and distracts your students. So, please, STOP IT.

The Bait & Switch: If you order tofu and vegetables at your favorite restaurant, the waiter better not bring you veal parmigiana. If you ask your hair stylist for Giselle's long, sultry layers, you'd be miffed to leave the salon sporting Posh Spice's pixie cut. If you order a smart looking wrap dress online but open the package at home to discover a moo-moo, you'd want a refund. Where yoga is concerned, expectations and consistency are equally important. If the class is described as advanced, then the level of teaching should fulfill that description. If the style is listed as Vinyasa, it's poor practice to serve up a Forrest class and hope no one notices (or vice versa). Of course last-minute changes and substitutions occur in all small businesses, and students are understanding of this; however, a persistent lack of consistency on the part of a studio makes for spotty classes and sub-par yoga.

The Chronologically Challenged: When assembling a yoga class, timing is an art. The most obvious examples of this point are studios and teachers starting and ending classes on time; however, the timing of the class's sequence is also crucial. Any style yoga class should have a rhythm, whether it's a flowing, fast Vinyasa class or a slow, languid Hatha practice. I once attended a 2-hour class during which the teacher's lack of preparation became painfully obvious when the class seemingly concluded after 90 minutes (the traditional time allotted for most classes). The teacher knew he/she needed to fill an additional 30 minutes of "air time," so the result was a poorly organized afterthought of a sequence tacked on to the end of a traditional class. Alternatively, it's no fun to plod along through most of class, then have to rush through the latter portion (including sivasana!) to finish on time. Like a good pizza, timing is key. The crust should be crispy, not burnt; chewy, not undercooked.

The Inconsequential Sequencer: Similarly, a fine meal follows a logical sequence-- appetizer, entree, and dessert. A sequence of yoga asanas should do the same. Does yoga class have to be a narrowly defined set of poses performed in the same order each time? Heck no! But, the sequence should make sense for the students' physical, energetic, and emotional bodies. The best teachers know how to craft sequences that maximize their students' energy and ability level. Perhaps there's an anatomical focus (e.g. hips or backbends) or central theme (e.g. balance or clarity); whichever the case, the order of poses should build and evolve in a way that keeps students safe from injury by not doing too much too soon, work the body in a balanced and mindful manner, and allow students to integrate each movement fully through the use of counter-movements and rest. Put simply, each pose should make sense independently and as part of the larger context. Arbitrary or disorganized sequences lead to inconsistent experiences for students or, worse, injury.

The Agenda Pedaler: Ever walk into a studio, think your going to a yoga class, and end up getting a lecture in politics, religion, or veganism? Or, you sense that a portion of class is a thinly veiled sales pitch for something? This isn't to say that yoga teachers shouldn't have opinions or should dilute the content of their classes to be utterly uncontroversial. However, yoga classes shouldn't be confused with soap box opportunities. The best yoga classes inspire change naturally, rather than force it upon students.

The Incessant Talker: I don't need to belabor this point. Good yoga classes contain quiet moments of reflection for all. Bad ones often contain aimless yammering.

The Over-share: Sharing is good when it comes to dessert while on a date, a bottle of wine over dinner, comfy sweatshirts among roommates, or toys between siblings. Over-sharing, however, can be bad. Teachers who over-share personal information without applying it to the context of the yoga class are a drag. Typically, this characteristic is a strain of the Incessant Talker.

The Copy Cat: Nothing encourages students to check out mentally more than a teacher who puts on airs. It's natural for teachers to absorb the habits of each other, particularly if they work together or mentor one another. Mimicry is another story, and whether intentional or not on the part of the teacher, it's a snoozefest for students.

The Control Freak: Classes without freedom usually aren't fun. From teachers who discourage drinking water during class to those who cannot handle students who modify or substitute poses, teachers stunt their students' growth when they can't relinquish a little control.

The Hypocrite: Hypocritical teachers are still capable of teaching good yoga classes, which makes this topic more of a hot button issue. Whether it's having more dalliances with students than Tiger Woods with cocktail waitresses or talking more trash than Perez Hilton, a teacher might be able to relegate his/her shadowy quirks to outside the classroom. Eventually, students sense a discrepancy, and the yoga quality suffers.

And, people might begin ordering their pizza elsewhere.

What Do Yoga & Fast Food Have in Common?

To date, I've never eaten at Taco Bell. The first time I tasted a famed Wendy's Frosty, I was a freshman in college. As a child, my parents were more apt to allow me to keep pet chickens than habitually eat them in the form of a McNugget.

When I share details of my limited exposure to fast food, people usually assume I was raised on a commune by hippie parents who baked bread, practiced yoga, and taught me to make my own soap. Not quite. Though that kind of upbringing would explain a few things. . .

Instead, my parents are in the restaurant business, hence my brother and I were encouraged, nay, mandated to patronize small businesses rather than big, bloated chain restaurants whenever possible. Sure, they were health-conscious, but more than that, my entrepreneurial mom and pop were conscious of supporting mom-and-pop businesses, and, to be fair, no chef—from the standpoint of taste—wants to dine on mass-produced meals from a corporate kitchen, or encourage his/her children to do the same.

But, what does all this have to do with yoga, you ask? More than you think.

No doubt you've noticed that yoga is pretty popular these days. So popular that new styles of yoga seem to pop up faster than outlandish fashion statements on Lady Gaga. Increasingly, these different types of yoga are—you guessed it—being trademarked and/or franchised. Perhaps the most well-known yogi to "brand" a style of yoga is Birkram Choudhury, who went so far in 2002 to copyright his sequence of 27 postures. However, he's not the only one to trademark a style of yoga practice, train other teachers to teach and promote it, and franchise studios around the country, a pseudo “fast food” option for yoga practices. (I get a kick out of taking the metaphor one step further and imaging what I might name an actual fast food joint for yogis. Hey kids, who wants McYogis? Burger Raja . . . Breath In & Out Burger?).

Unless you've been meditating in a Himalayan cave for the past decade, you realize that yoga is not just popular, but, for some, profitable. In 2005, consumers spent $2.5 billion in yoga classes, yoga apparel and accessories, according to Yoga Journal. Last year, the figure exploded to $7.5 billion, a growth of 300%. With all this added demand for yoga and its accouterments; teachers, studios, health clubs, and retailers are continually amping up the supply, with varying levels of authenticity and success. Much has been made of the commodification of yoga in recent years, and for good reason.

One of my favorite sports writers, Bill Simmons of Sports Guy fame (who also hails from the state of Massachusetts), once put it thus, "The sound inside the cathedral is so peaceful without the clanging of the collection plate.”* He was referring to the ways in which we idealize the games we love, often failing to accept that sports teams are businesses (big ones) for which athletes perform a job, in exchange for money. We want athletes to love our hometowns, stadiums, coaches, and fans as much as we do and, for example, not feel wooed by other organizations offering higher salaries. However, let’s face it; that’s a little naïve. OK, it’s a lot naïve.

At its core, yoga is a spiritual practice, but there’s also a lot of money changing hands in the name of spiritual growth. Admittedly, this reality makes me uneasy, but I would also be naïve if I didn’t acknowledge that the yoga industry is just as susceptible to the pitfalls of being focused on profit over quality as, say, the restaurant industry. The crux is this: No matter what the industry, human beings are running it, and the human condition is vulnerable to the same triggers whether it’s selling Big Macs or yoga mats. The only safeguards we have against yoga becoming unbearably diluted as a spiritual practice is the individual attention and integrity that we show our own practices and life paths each day.

The expansion of yoga from a niche interest for the New Age set to a mainstream activity enjoyed by millions is a very good thing. More people are healthier and happier because of it. Yet, I often wonder how much flavor and finesse are lost when yogis cook up a style meant for mass-consumption.

Consider the upside and downside of yoga-related franchises . . .

Upside

Access: With more choices on the yoga menu today, a greater number of people are able to find a practice to meet their needs. This is a wonderful thing.

Expectations: People appreciate knowing what to expect when they shell out their hard-earned money for a product or service, whether it’s a Saturday morning latte or Thursday night yoga class. Like any valued franchise, branded yoga styles and franchised studios provide students with an experience with which they are fond and familiar. If you know what to look for, you’re more apt to find it.

Expansion: If you’re anything like me, you get a little lift when you can recommend your amazing hair stylist, off-the-hook massage therapist, or a delectable recipe for tofu pumpkin pie to your closest om pals. We enjoy sharing the small discoveries that make life stylish, relaxing, or delicious because, in many ways, we all pride ourselves on being connoisseurs of good taste. And, let’s face it; it’s easier to share your favorite yoga experiences if they’re easily identifiable by a trademark style.

Downside

Authenticity: I once heard some jamoke on TV describe his style of “Yoga for Regular Guys” thus, “Instead of namaste, we’re all about T and A,” referring to the, ahem, certain anatomical features of a woman’s body. Let me set the record straight here: That’s not yoga. Being creative and finding a niche audience is one thing; being a sexist buffoon is another. I’m just saying . . .

Experience: Given yoga’s recent surge in popularity, there are oodles of teachers certified in various styles all the time. Yet, newer styles sometimes omit important aspects of yoga’s tradition, and newer teachers are often certified in the first style that they try. Specializing in one style of practice is not a bad thing; however, I do believe that the best teachers have a broader repertoire.

Integrity: There’s no other way to say this: When yoga teachers or corporations engage in hypocritical behavior for the sake of shilling their goods to a greater audience, it shows. As any chef will tell you, you’re only as good as your last meal. So, while your dish can have some decorative flash (perhaps a fancy garnish or dollop of an expensive gourmet ingredient), at it’s core, it must be nourishing, wholesome, and fulfilling.

Readers, please dish your thoughts: When are yoga franchises convenient and inclusive? When are they disingenuous or diluted?

*I'm paraphrasing this quote from Simmons. I read it several years ago in one of his many memorable columns in ESPN the Magazine.

Reader Query: Recommended Translation of the Yoga Sutras

Hey Rebecca!

So you’re always talking about The Yoga Sutras, and it made me realize that I am long overdue in reading it. I searched “The Yoga Sutras” on Amazon.com, but it pulled up like a million (OK, not really a million) hits. Is there a particular version that you recommend? It seems like some have forewords or commentaries by other yogis... Is one more enlightening than the other? Help. I’m confused.

Thanks!

Jill

Hi Jill,

Indeed, your

confusion is justified! Like many ancient texts, there are several translations of The Yoga Sutras from which to choose. The version that I have and to which I often refer is this one, with a foreword by Sri Swami Satchidananda.

I perused some of the others listed on Amazon and a few more piqued my interest:

• The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali: The Essential Yoga Texts for Spiritual Enlightenment, by Swami Vivekananda. I don't want to judge the proverbial book by its cover, here, but I couldn't help noticing that this one is beautiful! More importantly, though, is its credible author, Swami Vivekananda, a prominent yogi of the 19th century whose teachings influenced Gandhi and Tagore, among others.

• The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali: A New Translation with Commentary, from Shambhala Classics. Shambhala consistently publishes some of the best spirituality resources on the market, and I suspect that this work is no different. The Shambhala Encyclopedia of Yoga is among one of the most handy texts in my personal library. (In case, you're looking to fill your Amazon cart with additional goodies).

• Finally, I always consider yoga resources by B.K.S. Iyengar to be trustworthy, thorough, and clear. His version would likely be a sure bet as well.

I hope that helps, Jill. It's not a definitive answer because I don't think you can go wrong with any of the above options. I like my version very much, but perhaps you want to surf the prices and research the yogis who contribute to each respective translation to see if you gravitate toward one in particular.

Happy reading!

Rebecca

6 Pioneers Who Changed The World of Yoga

For me, yesterday's observance of Columbus Day included a 4:00 a.m. wake-up call in my Chicago hotel, an early flight back to Boston, and gratitude that I didn't have to rush off to work after touching down on the Logan Airport tarmac. Upon arriving home in Boston, I would have ingested my morning dose of caffeine (black tea with rice milk, please) intravenously-- had it been possible. Instead, I sipped the steaming elixir while tackling the laundry, baking some vegan apple muffins, prepping for a private yoga session with a new client, tending to the OmGal.com Facebook Fan Page, tweeting the recipe for said vegan apple muffins, and staring at the blog, miffed that it refused to write itself on this high holiday of oceanic exploration. Admittedly, I was charting my own expedition to the undiscovered racks of Marshalls later that afternoon.

Throughout the day, I occasionally returned to this theme of exploration, eventually wondering whom I'd call the great pioneers of modern yoga-- teachers who changed the shape of the yoga world, from a "flat" existence in one corner of the map, to a rounded, global experience by countless cultures and people. Here's the product of that train of thought . . . (The product of my Marshalls expedition was the discovery of a very cute pair of boots, in case you were curious).

6 Pioneers of Modern Yoga

Patanjali (150 B.C.E.): Like Christopher Columbus, Patanjali is sometimes credited with "discovering" yoga; however, the truth is that people had already been practicing yoga for centuries before he collated the sacred teachings into an organized text called The Yoga Sutras.

Krishnamacharya (1880): Krishnamacharya believed yoga to be "India's greatest gift to the world," and through his teaching and, later, his disciples (Pattabhi Jois and B.K.S. Iyengar among them), he further developed the practice and disseminated it to a larger audience.

Paramahasna Yogananda (1893): Author of the book Autobiography of a Yogi, Yogananda moved to the United States in 1920 and is thereby credited with being the first Hindu teacher to make his permanent home in America. Yogananda had a brother who was also an influential yoga teacher and the guru of Bikram Chouhury, a popular and polarizing figure within the yoga community today and the first to franchise a style of yoga practice.

Pattabhi Jois (1915): The late Pattabhi Jois was one of Krishnamarycha's most recognized students. The creator of ashtanga yoga, Jois was the first yogi to accept Westerners as students at his ashram in southern India. Some of these students included Norman Allen, Sharon Gannon and David Life, of Jivamukti Yoga, Doug and David Swenson, Tias Little, and many others.

Maharishi Mahesh (1918): Perhaps best known for his mentorship of The Beatles and other celebrities in the 1960s, the Maharishi was the most visible yogi to travel and teach outside of India in his day.

B.K.S. Iyengar (1918): Like Jois, Iyengar is also part of Krishnamarycha's lineage. The living legend just turned 90 last December. His books are among the most influential, accessible, and articulate yoga resources on the market. He trained several of modern yoga's top teachers including Boston's Patricia Walden.

For A Guide to Different Styles of Yoga, click here.

Ya Wanna Talk Yamas & Niyamas?

Yoga is a spiritual practice. True, it's also a great workout, reliable means of stress relief, magical mood lifter, and trendy topic of conversation among celebrities, but at its core, yoga is a practice of self-discovery. While it originated within a Hindu culture (India), the practice of yoga is not relegated to a specific religion. Yet, it is a spiritual endeavor.

In fact, of the eight limbs of yoga practice- or eight aspects of living a yoga lifestyle- outlined in Patanjali's Yoga Sutras, a foundational yoga text, only one is purely physical, asana. The first two- yamas and niyamas- are not. This post will focus on those; however, the complete list of limbs is as follows: yamas (attitude toward the world), niyamas (attitude toward yourself), asana (yoga poses), pranayama (breathwork), prathayara (withdrawal of the senses), dharana (concentration), dhyana (meditation), samadi (enlightenment).

Of course, you can practice yoga strictly for its physical benefits, but that's a bit like traveling to a foreign country known for its native cuisine and eating at the nearest McDonald's the whole time. Imagine how much of Italy you'd miss if you eschewed bruschetta made from the most lusciously local tomatoes and basil on the planet in favor of chicken McNuggets? A yoga practice fully nourishes by aligning our bodies, minds, and spirits, and to focus solely on the physical practice is to miss a profound opportunity.

Some yogis, such as B.K.S. Iyengar for example, might argue that one inevitably follows the other-- that by training the body through asana, the mind follows suit. As the body becomes still and strong in a pose, the mind, too, settles and expands. This settling of the mind is the purpose of yoga, as outlined in the first book of the The Yoga Sutras:

"If you can control the rising of the mind into ripples, you will experience yoga."

For anyone who's listened to their own thoughts for a millisecond, you can vouch that quieting the mind is no small task. Therefore, the sutras provide plenty of tips for the journey, the yamas and niyamas being paramount among them. You might experience life-changing results through asana alone, but the journey toward enlightenment requires that you summon greater resources and avoid certain pitfalls. These are known as the namas and niyamas.

The Yamas: Yogic guidelines for how to treat others/interact with society.

Ahimsa: Non-violence. Besides the obvious interpretation of not participating in physical acts of violence toward oneself or others. There is also a subtler translation of not engaging in harmful behavior, through thoughts, words, and deeds. Gossip, for example, is a harmful behavior that, while not physical, has the potential to injure others. Negative self-talk is also an example of harmful/violent behavior. Quit calling yourself fat; it's psychological poison.

Satya: Truthfulness. This one is pretty straightforward: Tell the truth. Moreover, act truthfully. Align your life with your true nature (hint: your true nature is good and honest). People instinctively want to tell the truth, which is why it feels crappy when we lie, withhold, or obstruct the truth.

Asteya: Non-stealing. Hey klepto, put that down!

Brahmacarya: Sexual responsibility. Sexual energy is powerful, and when misused or misdirected, it leads to suffering. This yama advises yogis to express sexuality in a way that respects and honors our partners, rather than using them for one's own benefit. Ancient yogis were traditionally abstinent in observance of this yama, yet the interpretation need not be so literal [insert sigh of relief]. We do need to be mindful of the ways our sexual expression affects ourselves and others. Yoga teachers, in particular, need to treat this yama with care in the classroom. Or, as a fellow teacher pal once remarked, referring to a prominent teacher who tends to engage regularly in, um, relations, with his students, "What part of 'don't [shag] your students' do you NOT understand!" Above all, the goal of this precept is to conserve energy for the purpose of spiritual practice. Therefore, sexual energy should not distract, detract, or undermine the larger yoga journey.

Aparigraha: Abstention from greed. This yama relates to keeping our material desires in check by not seeking to obtain more than we need. It also relates to coveting what isn't ours. Envying someone else's possessions, or their life, is one of the quickest paths to unhappiness-- plain and simple.

The Niyamas: Yogic guidelines for how to treat yourself.

Sauca: Cleanliness. In addition to keeping the physical body clean, yogis also aim to keep clear the energetic body. Eating cleanly, making nutrition choices that support the practice, and minimizing toxins are essential to the path of yoga.

Santosa: Contentment. Put simply, be thankful for what you have.

Tapas: Austerity. This rule relates to keeping the body in peak physical condition, as the vehicle for yoga practice.

Svadhyaya: Self-study. As I mentioned earlier, yoga is a practice of self-discovery; therefore, it's important to engage in self-inquiry and self-examination. Pragmatically speaking, yogis can do this by educating themselves, studying sacred texts, reading and commenting on yoga blog [ahem], asking life's great questions (i.e. Who am I? Why am I here?), and regularly reflecting on the answers.

Isvara prahnidhana: Modesty. Humility. Surrender to God/the universe/a higher power/life force. In other words, we acknowledge and honor a greater energy that connects us all.

Think of it like this: There are lots of ways to hike a mountain. At the bare minimum, you could simply start walking-- hiking gear, map, and provisions be damned! However, taking into account the length and magnitude of the journey, you might consider using additional resources. Life is like this: A long, steep path through uncharted woods. And, the yamas and niyamas are a yogi's compass.

My best to you on your journey,

Om Gal

Boston Yogis: Mark Your Calendars!

Experience a creative, invigorating, and fun class with me at Inner Strength in Watertown on Thursday night, August 27 at 6:30 p.m. Details here.

A Guide to Different Styles of Yoga

For the record, Bikram yoga is hot; however, not all hot yoga is Bikram. Confusing, I know. With so many styles of yoga available, it can be hard to select the one that's best for you; so, I've compiled a cursory look at some of the most widely available styles, along with a brief description and a few thoughts derived from my own personal experience. Please note that while I am aware of throngs of other styles, I only wrote about those with which I have direct, personal experience; feel free to post additional entries by simply leaving a comment if a style of yoga with which you're familiar is missing. Don't be bashful about adding your personal insight. Sing the praises of your favorite discipline, or voice constructive criticism for a practice of which you're not a fan.


Anusara: Created by John Friend in 1997, this relatively new form of yoga has a sizable following around the world. It's heart-centered philosophy and meticulous approach to alignment create a well-rounded and pleasant practice. New Age phobes, be forewarned; the warm and fuzzy feel borders on the cliched at times. However, expert teachers know how to temper this risk, including two of my favorites in this discipline, Josephine Selander of Sweden and Julia Novina of Boston. For yogis, like myself, who prefer vigorous, vinyasa-based styles, anusara is a perfect complement.


Ashtanga: I like to refer to ashtanga as the grandma of power yoga, as this style initiated many off-chutes (e.g. power yoga, vinyasa, etc.) that have become increasingly popular in the U.S. In college I was an avid "ashtangi," who fell in love with its level of challenge and structure. To date, it remains relatively unchanged from its roots in Southern India. Each class focuses on a particular series, with each subsequent series becoming more difficult than the next. Admittedly, I now find the system a bit rigid, particularly from the standpoint of a teacher. Sure, I can twist, bend, bind, and contort just so; however, many postures are not as feasible for the average practitioner. This style was founded by the late Sri K. Pattabhi Jois, who passed away in May 2009. The OmGal.com post referencing the life of this influential teacher features videos and additional information.


Baptiste: I was certified in this system and taught at the Baptiste Power Yoga Institute locations in Boston (this location is now defunct), Cambridge, and Brookline as a master-level teacher-- multiple classes a day, six days a week, for several years. It's an athletic, invigorating, and organized system, with borrowed elements from Ashtanga, Bikram, Iyengar, and others. Classes are heated to upwards of 90 degrees and follow the same basic structure each time. Baron Baptiste , the founder of this practice, is a former student of Bikram Choudhury.


Bikram: Credited with being the first yogi to brand a style of yoga and franchise studios,Bikram Choudhury is a polarizing figure within the yoga community. Bikram was also the first teacher to insist upon a heated studio (upwards of 100 degrees). The practice consists of the same 27 postures each time. I'm not partial to this practice due to the lack of variety and often militant approach to teaching (some instructors strongly discourage students from drinking water during class), but I also don't like other popular things like yellow cake or orange juice- which baffles many people- so don't take my word alone.


Forrest: Founded by the intense Ana Forrest, this practice builds lots of strength, the depths of which are not easily replicated by other styles. Classes can be fraught with arm balances, hip openers, and abdominal work. Ana demands a lot from her teachers, so most are highly knowledgeable and impressively skilled. Classes can vary in terms of sequencing and structure, which keeps things interesting though does not guarantee consistency.


Hatha: This umbrella term is slightly misleading in the U.S., as "hatha" actually refers to all asana practice, as opposed to other, less physical disciplines of yoga, such as karma (service) yoga, bhakti (devotional) yoga, and others. Conventionally speaking, hatha refers to a more gentle style of practice, comprised of static poses, longer holds, and slower, gentler movements. If you're new to yoga, working with an injury or medical condition, I would recommend hatha as a good place to begin.


Iyengar: Devised by B.K.S. Iyengar, who recently turned 90 in December 2008- supporting the claim that a regular yoga practice leads to longevity- this discipline places ultimate significance on alignment. Iyengar students and teachers are earnest, meticulous, and often serious. Iyengar and his teachers, including Boston-based yoga pioneer Patricia Walden, believe the body is the vehicle through which all things are experienced, thus you must research and train your body to influence and enlighten your experience of the world. Poses are held for an extended amount of time and much attention is paid to the smallest refinements. Iyengar's books are among some of the best yoga resources available.


Jivamukti: Established by Sharon Gannon and David Life in 1984, this style physically resembles a blend of many styles; however, its emphasis on the philosophical aspect of yoga is more pronounced than in many other practices. In class, students often chant, read, and learn about a singular theme. Rows of students face one another as in an ashtanga class, yet music is used, bringing to mind more contemporary styles such as vinyasa. One consistent and crucial theme is Jivamukti's fierce support of animal rights. Do not trot into class at its NYC studios in your Uggs or fur-trimmed parkas; it's considered a major faux pas, if not a brazen display of disrespect.


Kripalu: Developed at the Kripalu Center in the Berkshires of western Massachusetts, this style is gentle and accessible to all. My first exposure to yoga as a teenager was through Kripalu yoga, taught by Carol Dubin of Cape Cod, MA. Some of its best features include its rhythmic movement and welcoming atmosphere, especially to newcomers.


Kundalini: This chakra-based practice focuses on energy points along the spine with the eventual goal of awakening the "snake-like" energy through meditation and yoga. Disclaimer: Unlike the other styles listed here, I have not practiced this style but only researched it over the years.


Power Yoga: Beryl Bender Birch, with whom I took a workshop in 2002, is credited with first coining this term in the 90s; however, Bryan Kest, with whom I studied in 1999, seems to have also arrived at the terminology around the same time. In essence, power yoga is defined as a reinterpretation of ashtanga so that the practice could become more accessible and enticing to Americans. Power yoga initiated a revolution wherein yoga transformed from being practiced in church basements and community halls to studios, to gyms and health clubs around the world.


Vinyasa: It's up for debate whether vinyasa represents the next evolution of power yoga or simply a shift in semantics. The word vinyasa means "to flow," so that sequences are always linked together and move relatively quickly (i.e. not static). The loose definition allows plenty of room for creative interpretation. In general, it's a fun style, particularly for experienced yogis who understand the technical aspects of asanas already.


The following post originally appeared earlier this year but has been revised to included additional information.

To Be, Or Not To Be A Yoga Teacher

To be, or not to be a yoga teacher-- that is the question. Whether 'tis a function of uncertain economic times and the highest unemployment rate we've seen in more than a decade or simply a reflection of yoga's burgeoning popularity, it seems I am asked to weigh in on the certification process, job prospects, and lifestyles of yoga teachers with increasing regularity.

This isn't surprising. You don't need me to recount the obvious contraction of the job market or collective shifting of our priorities to justify a growing interest in careers that represent a different take on the 9-to-5 gig, that is to say, a lifestyle more focused on a quality of life rather than the quantity of a paycheck. Teaching yoga certainly isn't the only career path that falls into this category; however, it is the one with which I have the most experience. Still, you can rest assured that I won't romanticize things for you. Instead, I will attempt to outline the basics of becoming a certified yoga teacher and some of the key factors to consider if you're angling to make a living by teaching side angle pose or perfecting a didactic downward dog.

Let's start with the basics of how to become a yoga teacher. It goes without saying that you should have several years of yoga practice under your proverbial belt, with the bare minimum being 1-2 years before you are ready to instruct others. From there, the requirements vary depending on the teacher training program you choose. Over the years, Yoga Alliance has emerged as the most standardized assessment of both individual teachers and teacher training programs. Visit its website to familiarize yourself with the board's standards, code of conduct, and other important details: www.yogaalliance.org. A training program that you choose will likely receive its accreditation from this organization. Keep in mind that these programs vary greatly in terms of curriculum, requirements, length of time, cost and much more.

Before delving into the process of choosing a teacher training program, it's crucial to assess your short and long term objectives for making this investment of your time and money. If neither are limiting factors for you and you simply want to expand your yoga practice, then, by all means, pick a program taught by a teacher you respect and enjoy, and relish the time for reflection, personal development, and physical challenge. On the other hand, if time and money are in more modest supply- which is the likelier circumstance for most- and you are considering the prospect of teaching yoga as either a full or part-time career, I would recommend that you do a little research first.

I encourage people to experiment with teaching before dropping hard-earned dough on a training program. Start by assembling a small group of pals (preferably beginner-level yogis) and treat them to a private class. The setting can be informal, like your living room or backyard, and the class doesn't have to be full-length; 15-20 minutes is fine. This exercise will also prepare you for an important aspect of many training programs, teaching small groups of your peers. Notice if you enjoy the feeling of instructing a group or if, say, you're overwhelmed with the jitters. Don't judge yourself on performance; simply dabble with how it feels to be in the role of the teacher.

Assuming you dig the experience and want to scope out the real thing, you'll need to determine which teacher training program you'll attend. For many, this is an obvious choice, but not for all. If the yoga studio where you practice hosts training programs, then it is likely you will consider its programs first. If not, it's still wise to consult a teacher whose classes you frequently attend for his/her input. My advice for anyone attempting to select a certification program is to weight most heavily two criterion above all the rest:

• Is this the style of yoga that you most enjoy practicing?
• Is this the style of yoga that you want to teach?

Perhaps these seem like painfully obvious questions. Yet, when taking into account all the other, more logistical factors that go into this decision (such as cost, location, and timing, among others), it can be tempting to veer away from the two most fundamental questions. Sure, you can become certified through a cheaper, quicker program, but you must consider up front if that will influence- or worse- impede your ability to teach a particular style of yoga down the road.

Let's say you do select an appropriate program, attend, love, and complete it. You're probably eligible to start teaching in certain health clubs and studios. However, it's possible that there are several other requirements that you must meet en route to full-fledged certification (e.g. teaching hours, a video tape evaluation, a written component of some kind, etc.), and your motivation to complete these additional steps is probably contingent upon whether you actually want to be a yoga teacher. When friends, students, or readers of OmGal.com inquire about teaching as a vocation (particularly a full-time one), I usually prompt them to consider the following questions before quitting their status as members of the gainfully employed or newly "funemployed."

• Have you crunched the numbers? Meaning, have you calculated your expenses and determined that your teaching schedule (or one that you aim to obtain) will be covered by your new salary? Have you also calculated any new expenses that you might incur as a yoga teacher (e.g. gas for driving to and from studio(s), parking, liability insurance, health insurance, etc.).
• Have you crunched the numbers again? (No, seriously).
• Have you considered how your new schedule will impact your lifestyle? I love teaching yoga, but I no longer teach on a full-time basis because it didn't suit my lifestyle over time. For several years, I worked six days a week, including nights, weekends, and holidays (yes, that means Christmas). This is an extreme case of a "prime time" teaching schedule (most people take classes during peak, post-work hours and weekends, so experienced, master-level teachers typically teach at these popular times), but it's never too early to consider how your forthcoming teaching schedule will affect the rest of your life.
• Will your physical health be affected? If you are a full-time teacher, you can expect to teach multiple times a day, several days a week. This takes a toll on any body, even very healthy, limber ones. It may sound like a paradox, but teaching yoga can negatively impact one's health. If you have certain conditions that preclude you from this kind of ongoing physical exertion, please consult a health professional.
• Will teaching yoga help or hinder your other life goals? Whether it's traveling or child-rearing, any career, including those outside the corporate mold, should support your other ambitions. To achieve your goals, you must arrange your life in a way that maximizes your ability to make your dreams a reality. Any job has the potential to deliver or divert you, and teaching yoga is no different.

Finally and most importantly:

• Why do you want to be a yoga teacher? A well-informed, excited, and inspired answer to this question is the single, best place to start. If what propels you is more internal (i.e. I love yoga, have been practicing for years, and want to share my experience with others) than external (I'm bored with my current job, and being a yoga teacher sounds cool to others), then you will settle in your dharma [sacred duty] soon enough. Best of luck to you!

Different Styles of Yoga Decoded

For the record, Bikram yoga is hot; however, not all hot yoga is Bikram. Tricky, I know. With so many styles of yoga available, it's hard for newcomers to decipher the differences and select the style that's best for them; so, I've compiled a cursory look at some of the most widely available styles, along with a brief description and a few thoughts derived from my own personal experiences. Please note that while I am aware of throngs of other styles, I only wrote about those with which I have direct, personal experience; feel free to post additional entries if a style of yoga with which you're familiar is missing. Don't be bashful about adding your personal spin on things as well. Sing the praises of your favorite discipline, or voice constructive criticism for a practice of which you're not a fan.

Anusara: Created by John Friend in 1997, this relatively new style of yoga has a sizable following around the world. It's heart-centered philosophy and meticulous approach to alignment create a well-rounded, pleasant practice. New Age phobes, be forewarned; the warm and fuzzy feel borders on the cliched at times. However, expert teachers know how to temper this risk, including two of my favorites in this discipline, Josephine Selander of Sweden and Julia Novina of Boston. For yogis, like myself, who prefer vigorous, vinyasa-based styles, anusara is a lovely complement.

Ashtanga: I like to refer to ashtanga as the grandma of power yoga, as this style initiated many off-chutes (e.g. power, vinyasa, etc.) that have become increasingly popular in the U.S. In college I was an avid "ashtangi," who fell in love with its level of challenge and structure. To date, it also remains relatively unchanged from its roots in Southern India. Each class focuses on a particular series, with each subsequent series becoming more difficult than the next. Admittedly, I now find the system a bit rigid, particularly from the standpoint of a teacher. Sure, I can twist and bend and contort just so; however, many postures are not as feasible for the mainstream practitioner. This style was founded by the late Sri K. Pattabhi Jois, who passed away in May 2009. The OmGal.com post referencing the life of the influential teacher features videos and additional information.

Baptiste: I was certified in this system and taught at the Baptiste Power Yoga Institute locations in Boston (now defunct), Cambridge, and Brookline as a master-level teacher-- multiple classes a day, six days a week, for several years. It's an athletic, invigorating, and well organized system, with borrowed elements from Ashtanga, Bikram, Iyengar, and others. Classes are heated to upwards of 90 degrees and follow the same basic structure each time. Baron Baptiste , the founder of this practice, is a former student of Bikram Choudhury.

Bikram: Credited with being the first yogi to brand a style of yoga and franchise studios, Bikram Choudhury is a polarizing figure within the yoga community. Bikram was also the first teacher to insist upon a heated studio (upwards of 100 degrees). The practice consists of the same 27 postures each time. I'm not partial to this practice due to the lack of variety and often militant approach to teaching (some instructors strongly discourage students from drinking water during class), but I also don't like other popular things like yellow cake or orange juice- which baffles many people- so don't take my word alone.

Forrest: Founded by the intense Ana Forrest, this practice builds lots of strength, the depths of which are not easily replicated by other styles. Classes can be fraught with arm balances, hips openers, and abdominal work. Ana demands a lot from her teachers, so most are highly knowledgeable and impressively skilled. Classes can vary in terms of sequencing and structure, which keeps things interesting though does not always guarantee consistency.

Hatha: This umbrella term is slightly bastardized in the U.S., as "hatha" actually refers to all asana practices, as opposed to other, less physical disciplines of yoga, not as widely recognized, such as karma (service) yoga, bhakti (devotional) yoga, and others. Conventionally speaking, hatha refers to a more gentle style of practice, comprised of static poses, longer holds, and slower, gentler movements. If you're new to yoga, working with an injury or medical condition, I would recommend hatha as a good place to begin.

Iyengar: Devised by B.K.S. Iyengar, who recently turned 90 in December 2008- supporting the claim that a regular yoga practice leads to longevity- this discipline places ultimate significance on alignment. Iyengar students and teachers are earnest, meticulous, and often serious. Iyengar and his teachers, including Boston-based yoga pioneer Patricia Walden, the body is the vehicle through which all things are experienced, thus you must research and train your body, in order to influence and enlighten your experience of the world. Poses are held for an extended amount of time and much attention is paid to the smallest refinements. Iyengar's books are among some of the best yoga resources available.

Jivamukti: Established by Sharon Gannon and David Life in 1984, this style physically resembles a blend of many styles; however, its emphasis on the philosophical aspect of yoga is more pronounced than in many other practices. In class, students often chant, read, and learn about a singular theme. Rows of students face one another as in an ashtanga class, yet music is used, bringing to mind more contemporary styles such as vinyasa. One consistent and crucial theme is Jivamukti's fierce support of animal rights. Do not trot into class at its NYC studios in your Uggs or fur-trimmed parkas; it's considered a major faux pas, if not a brazen display of disrespect or worse.

Kripalu: Developed at the Kripalu Center in the Berkshires of western Massachusetts, this style is gentle and accessible to all. My first exposure to yoga as a teenager was through Kripalu yoga, taught by Carol Dubin on Cape Cod. Some of its best features include its rhythmic movement and welcoming atmosphere, especially to newcomers.

Kundalini: This chakra-based practice focuses on energy points along the spine with the eventual goal being to awaken the "snake-like" energy through meditation and yoga. Disclaimer: Unlike the other styles listed here, I have not practiced this style but only researched it over the years.

Power Yoga: Beryl Bender Birch, with whom I took a workshop in 2002, is credited with first coining this term in the 90s; however, Bryan Kest, with whom I studied in 1999, seems to have also arrived at the terminology around the same time. In essence, power yoga is defined as a reinterpretation of ashtanga so that the practice could become more accessible and enticing to Americans. Power yoga initiated a revolution wherein yoga transformed from being practiced in church basements and community halls to studios to gyms and health clubs around the world.

Vinyasa: It's up for debate whether vinyasa represents the next evolution of power yoga or simply a shift in semantics. The word vinyasa means "to flow," so that sequences are always linked together and move relatively quickly (i.e. not static). The loose definition allows plenty of room for creative interpretation. In general, it's a fun style, particularly for experienced yogis who understand the technical aspects of asanas already.