Yoga Portraits: NEALA

OCCUPATION
Sales Manager for a design and build firm providing shade solutions for homes and businesses.

1. HOW DID YOU DISCOVER KUNDALINI YOGA?
A few years ago I read about Kundalini Yoga on Elspeth’s blog, Now Is Wow.

2. WHAT ABOUT YOUR FIRST KUNDALINI YOGA EXPERIENCE MADE YOU DECIDE TO CONTINUE WITH IT?
Elspeth was very encouraging and supportive when, upon signing up, I explained that I wasn’t sure that I was flexible enough for yoga. She explained that flexibility was not a requirement and that doing what you could do was enough. In our first class we learned how to breathe deeply and fully, (most people take quick shallow breaths), and Elspeth took us through our first kriya (series of postures), and our first meditation. I felt innocent and new and open at the beginning of the class and these were all new experiences for me. After class I felt awakened. I felt like I’d been given a gift and my whole self (body, soul, mind) was welcoming and appreciative of that gift.

At the end of the class Elspeth offered us a small deck of cards to randomly select one of. My card said: “I let go of all my limitations. I dispossess myself of all the weight associated with things, people, places, public opinion, fears and desires...I fly.” What was written on the card was reassuring and reaffirming to me. I had made a conscious choice to come to terms with negative influences (external and internal) in my life, let them go, and grow into the person I know I am on the inside. The card was encouraging, as I interpreted it to mean that I was making the right decisions and ultimately would choose what is best and right for me, in all aspects of my life: physical, mental, emotional and spiritual.

3. HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN PRACTISING KUNDALINI YOGA?
Since September 2010.

4. WHAT ABOUT KUNDALINI YOGA MAKES YOU CHOOSE IT AS OPPOSED TO THE MANY OTHER FORMS OF YOGA?
Last year when I decided to practise yoga, I read up on the different forms and chose Kundalini Yoga because of the mental, physical, and spiritual balance it offered. Now, after ten months, I don’t see a reason to change the form of yoga. I am open to trying other forms but I feel connected to this one.

5. DO YOU KEEP UP A REGULAR PRACTICE?
I attend class once a week and between May 10th and June 8th I practiced once a day. It was an amazing month. Unfortunately, since then I’ve been less disciplined and can easily make excuses like work stress, and other extra-curricular activities. The truth of the matter is, the subtle and definitive negative effects of not practicing every day have become so apparent that I’ve realized how important Kundalini Yoga has become to me.

6. WHAT BENEFITS DO YOU EXPERIENCE?
I see myself growing and blossoming because of all that I am learning, feeling and understanding during yoga. I feel connected to my mind, body and spirit in a way I never really trusted before, and this makes me very happy and confident.

7. HAS ANYTHING ABOUT YOU OR YOUR LIFE CHANGED SINCE YOU STARTED PRACTISING KUNDALINI YOGA?
When I first started practicing Kundalini Yoga after just a few weeks I noticed subtle changes: I was more focused, disciplined and creative at work. I had a more positive approach to my job as well, and less dragged down and affected by work stress. My co-workers commented that I seemed less impatient and less frazzled and annoyed when things went wrong with projects and clients.

As months passed I saw a marked change in my liming habits such as no more liming during the week, and less late hours on weekends. The choice of activity also changed, and I opted for attending more art exhibitions, movies, plays, book readings, and outdoor activities instead of making a beeline for my favourite watering hole.

My eating habits have also changed and I know that is directly related to how I’ve come to view my body. I’ve always been more or less a healthy eater but I’ve found that I have developed a particular respect for my body and my life and this has affected the food choices I now make.

Kundalini Yoga is called the yoga of awareness, and I understand why: it’s how I feel about my body, mind and spirit: more aware. I’m more aware of how all my choices affect me physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually.

8. WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE ASPECT OF KUNDALINI YOGA?
I like each aspect for different reasons: Even though some of the postures in a kriya may be difficult for me, it’s a great feeling when I push through the pain and accomplish the posture. The meditations never fail to calm, center and focus me. At the end of each session, we chant the Kundalini Yoga closing prayer and I feel what I can only describe as joy and gratitude for the connection to my own divinity.

9. HOW DO YOU GENERALLY FEEL AFTER A KUNDALINI YOGA CLASS?
Refreshed, peaceful, and calm, yet charged, energetic and happy with a heightened sense of awareness.

10. ANY WORDS OF WISDOM FOR ANYONE READING THIS?
There are so many little signs, methods, practices, and ways of thinking that can help people, but most don't know of them. It's a way of life that has been unlearned over the history of mankind, generation after generation. Maybe that's why so many people are lost. But I do have hope for our future. Many people are seeking truth, and yearning for 'something' they know they need even though they don't know how to find it, or what 'it' is. My humble advice to anyone who is looking for that ‘something’: Try new methods and practices until you find one which connects with you, inspires you, and brings out the best in you, and make it a part of your life.

11. HOW DID YOU HEAR ABOUT THOU ART YOGA?
From Elspeth’s blog, Now Is Wow II, and Facebook.

12. ANY FAMOUS LAST WORDS?
The most important thing to remember is this: To be ready at any moment to give up what you are for what you might become.

(W.E.B Du Bois)

Yoga Portraits: ARACELI

NAME: Araceli Marchan

OCCUPATION: Mathematics Teacher/ College Lecturer

1. HOW DID YOU DISCOVER KUNDALINI YOGA?
I wasn’t familiar with this form of Yoga until about 9 months. After reading up on it and talking to a friend about its benefits, I realized that the teachings and meditations were very much in line with my spiritual beliefs. I was very excited about trying my first class.

2. WHAT ABOUT YOUR FIRST KUNDALINI YOGA EXPERIENCE MADE YOU DECIDE TO CONTINUE WITH IT?
I was actually very unsure whether I wanted to continue after my first experience. I felt transformed, but I couldn’t identify how. Something in me had shifted but I couldn’t verbalize what it was. However, I knew I had to do another class to fully understand what had taken place within me. After my second class I realized that it was the intensity of the spiritual connection that I felt that made me antsy after my first class. As I grew comfortable with the complete surrender that you experience during Kundalini Yoga, I began to relax and enjoy the benefits.

3. HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN PRACTISING KUNDALINI YOGA?
For approximately 6 months.

4. WHAT ABOUT KUNDALINI YOGA MAKES YOU CHOOSE IT AS OPPOSED TO THE MANY OTHER FORMS OF YOGA?
I am not too familiar with other forms of yoga, but what I like about Kundalini Yoga is that you not only build physical strength but you also work on your emotional and spiritual muscles as well. Some kriyas are more physically challenging than others, but my ability to accomplish things that I thought would be physically impossible always impresses me. I feel a sense of accomplishment after each class. The physical attainment, coupled with the spiritual inner peace, make this the ideal form of yoga for me.

5. DO YOU KEEP UP A REGULAR PRACTICE?
Not as regular as I would like to. I try to make time each day for at least a few minutes of meditation. I wish I had more time to do kriyas at least a few days a week. I try to attend class every week. The weeks when I am unable to make it to class, I truly miss it. My mind, my body and my spirit crave it.

6. WHAT BENEFITS DO YOU EXPERIENCE?
I am filled with love and acceptance for all of humanity. With that comes clarity and a great peace of mind. I possess the tools that enable me to surpass any challenging situation that may come my way. I also experience increased physical endurance.

7. HAS ANYTHING ABOUT YOU OR YOUR LIFE CHANGED SINCE YOU STARTED PRACTISING KUNDALINI YOGA?
I am a lot calmer and less easily angered. I get less anxious about life situations and am inclined to surrender to the divine more readily. I am more at peace and feel centered…unaffected by negativity. I am more conscious of my breathing; my breaths are deeper…more fulfilling. My work schedule prohibited me from starting Thou Art Yoga’s kundalini classes sooner than I did. Now that I am a class regular, I schedule my work and life around my yoga classes instead of the other way around.

8. WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE ASPECT OF KUNDALINI YOGA?
The meditation. It allows me time to relax, clear my mind, allow positive energy to flow through my cells.

9. HOW DO YOU GENERALLY FEEL AFTER A KUNDALINI YOGA CLASS?
Resurrected. Renewed. Revitalized. I am Reassured that my life is unfolding according to a divine plan. I am Empowered to go forth with confidence, knowing that all is well. I like to call it my Kundalini Yoga high.

10. ANY WORDS OF WISDOM FOR ANYONE READING THIS?
My three year old daughter loves doing Kundalini Yoga as well. Besides the fact that it provides us with quality mommy and me time together, she enjoys chanting the mantras and the physical aspects of the kriyas. In her own words, “Yoga is beautiful”. Kundalini Yoga may not be for everyone but if you are open to it, it will be open to you. The benefits are life transforming.

11. HOW DID YOU HEAR ABOUT THOU ART YOGA?
From the Facebook group. I was directed there by a friend.

12. ANY FAMOUS LAST WORDS?
“I Am There” – by James Dillet Freeman

Do you need Me ?
I am there.

You cannot see Me, yet I am the light you see by.
You cannot hear Me, yet I speak through your voice.
You cannot feel Me, yet I am the power at work in your hands.

I am at work, though you do not understand My ways.
I am at work, though you do not understand My works.

I am not strange visions. I am not mysteries.
Only in absolute stillness, beyond self, can you know Me as I AM, and then but as a feeling and a faith.
Yet I am here. Yet I hear. Yet I answer.
When you need ME, I am there.

Even if you deny Me, I am there.
Even when you feel most alone, I am there.
Even in your fears, I am there.
Even in your pain, I am there.
I am there when you pray and when you do not pray.
I am in you, and you are in Me.

Only in your mind can you feel separate from Me, for
only in your mind are the mists of "yours" and "mine".
Yet only with your mind can you know Me and experience Me.

Empty your heart of empty fears.
When you get yourself out of the way, I am there.
You can of yourself do nothing, but I can do all.
And I AM in all.
Though you may not see the good, good is there, for
I am there. I am there because I have to be, because I AM.

Only in Me does the world have meaning; only out of Me does the world take form; only because of ME does the world go forward.
I am the law on which the movement of the stars and the growth of living cells are founded.
I am the love that is the law's fulfilling. I am assurance.

I am peace. I am oneness. I am the law that you can live by.
I am the love that you can cling to. I am your assurance.
I am your peace. I am ONE with you. I am.
Though you fail to find ME, I do not fail you.
Though your faith in Me is unsure, My faith in you never wavers, because I know you, because I love you.

Beloved, I AM there.
****
To find out more about Thou Art Yoga classes, click here
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Yoga Portraits: KEISHA

NAME: Keisha Tamara Lindsay

OCCUPATION: Speech-Language Pathologist and adjuster to life in Trinidad - ☺

1. HOW DID YOU DISCOVER KUNDALINI YOGA?
I was visiting the Natural Balance store in St. Clair and saw the Thou Art Yoga card. Later on, the owner suggested the classes to me as a way to become more centered after I expressed my many difficulties since my recent re-location to Trinidad. The first “try” was an event entitled “Yoga and Cupcakes”. It was held on the rooftop of the Carlton Savannah and it was my birth event into my yoga practice. The cupcakes were divine!

2. WHAT ABOUT YOUR FIRST KUNDALINI YOGA EXPERIENCE MADE YOU DECIDE TO CONTINUE WITH IT?
I believe it was about the connection I felt to the chants. The class was extremely difficult for me, both mentally and physically. I remember it being hard to quiet my mind and to breathe, but once I chanted, I began to feel more connected to this divine self. I wanted to see if the experience would get easier and also thought it would be a wonderful way to connect with others.

3. HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN PRACTISING KUNDALINI YOGA?
My first class was April 16th, 2011. Seems a lot longer!

4. WHAT ABOUT KUNDALINI YOGA MAKES YOU CHOOSE IT AS OPPOSED TO THE MANY OTHER FORMS OF YOGA?
Though it is more difficult for me than Hatha yoga, Kundalini empowers me and reminds me that I can push through any challenge. At times, it is challenging to even begin practicing in the morning, but once I do, the strength I feel is divine. (I know, I use the word divine a lot!)

5. DO YOU KEEP UP A REGULAR PRACTICE?
I do. I wake up most mornings and do it before exercising. The mornings are wonderful for me and I enjoy waking up and practicing before my cell phone begins to ring. I find it difficult to keep a regular practice when I am traveling, so I will need to work at scheduling this.

6. WHAT BENEFITS DO YOU EXPERIENCE?
A sense of openness. Perhaps it is being a Libra, but I have always been the kind of person to balance the scales: “Should I do this or that?” I am constantly questioning which means that my mind feels like it’s on a treadmill. With Kundalini, my thoughts are beginning to quiet and I am beginning to be more open – open to whatever is coming my way, open to possibilities that I did not plan, open to a divine plan.

7. HAS ANYTHING ABOUT YOU OR YOUR LIFE CHANGED SINCE YOU STARTED PRACTISING KUNDALINI YOGA?
I sense small changes. I don’t worry as much about what tomorrow will bring as I find myself trying to take in all that is in the present. The greatest effect has been in how I perceive my personal relationship. Instead of questioning and planning, I am simply open to receiving the love that my partner gives, which in turn allows me the gift of returning that love – an amazing cycle! I am now realizing how much love we share in our own special ways.


8. WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE ASPECT OF KUNDALINI YOGA?
Wearing white! I feel so regal and so confident – the true Keisha really does come out in white! And it’s great shopping for white clothing too!

9. HOW DO YOU GENERALLY FEEL AFTER A KUNDALINI YOGA CLASS?
Lifted in so many ways. As a result of the small group in the East, I believe that we lift each other. My spirit is lifted after and I feel inspired to do what is mine to do. I also feel physically lighter after the class – as if weights have been lifted off of me.

10. ANY WORDS OF WISDOM FOR ANYONE READING THIS?
It’s the same words I tell parents of picky eaters – “you must try it twice before you say it’s not nice.” Kundalini is not easy, but it is truly a divine experience that allows you to come into alignment with that true, God-given self.

11. HOW DID YOU HEAR ABOUT THOU ART YOGA?
Through the staff at Natural Balance and then by joining the Facebook page.

12. ANY FAMOUS LAST WORDS?
The meditation that I do every morning and during the day when my heart must be opened – SAT KARTAR. Open Your Heart!

***
To find out how you can join Thou Art Yoga classes:
http://yogapassport.blogspot.com/

Yoga Portraits: LENA

 

NAME: Lena Jogie

OCCUPATION: Psychologist/Teacher

1. HOW DID YOU DISCOVER KUNDALINI YOGA?
Patrice, who I met from hiking with friends. She mentioned it to me. I can't say whether I knew much about Kundalini (other than the name) until my first class.

2. WHAT ABOUT YOUR FIRST KUNDALINI YOGA EXPERIENCE MADE YOU DECIDE TO CONTINUE WITH IT?
The structured aspect. The variety of exercises, deep breathing and meditation.

3. HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN PRACTISING KUNDALINI YOGA?
2 months

4. WHAT ABOUT KUNDALINI YOGA MAKES YOU CHOOSE IT AS OPPOSED TO THE MANY OTHER FORMS OF YOGA?
It actually feels truly holistic. I like the exercises. That looks easy, but becomes a challenge when it actually is practiced, given the time you have to repeat it in. I like the meditating and breathing aspect of it also. I think its holistic because of this combination.

5. DO YOU KEEP UP A REGULAR PRACTICE?
Regular practice for me thus far is once a week on Tuesday evenings. I would like to do more but I'm not ready. I will know when I'm ready I guess.

6. WHAT BENEFITS DO YOU EXPERIENCE?
Maintaining flexibility. For me it's a form of relaxation and me time.

7. HAS ANYTHING ABOUT YOU OR YOUR LIFE CHANGED SINCE YOU STARTED PRACTISING KUNDALINI YOGA?
It helps to keep me grounded.

8. WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE ASPECT OF KUNDALINI YOGA?
The exercise sets. Some can be easy and some challenging, although they may be so simple. I like the simplicity, the variety and the stamina required.

9. HOW DO YOU GENERALLY FEEL AFTER A KUNDALINI YOGA CLASS?
I feel great and accomplished.

10. ANY WORDS OF WISDOM FOR ANYONE READING THIS?
This yoga is feel good with a lot of insight and philosophy that can be personal to the self.

11. HOW DID YOU HEAR ABOUT THOU ART YOGA?
From you: Elspeth Duncan via email

12. ANY FAMOUS LAST WORDS?
The music is awesome! :)

Gosh! I forgot to add that the instructor is also awesome.
:)

***

To find out how you can join Thou Art Yoga classes:
http://yogapassport.blogspot.com/

Yoga Portraits: DEBBIE

 NAME: Debbie Lai

OCCUPATION Admin Rep

1. HOW DID YOU DISCOVER KUNDALINI YOGA?
A friend told me about it, but I didn’t make it to my first Kundalini yoga class until a few months later.

2. WHAT ABOUT YOUR FIRST KUNDALINI YOGA EXPERIENCE MADE YOU DECIDE TO CONTINUE WITH IT?
After I left my first Kundalini yoga class, I remember feeling really good inside. Something had definitely shifted. I felt happy, calm and at peace, right through to the core of my being.

3. HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN PRACTISING KUNDALINI YOGA?
Six months.

4. WHAT ABOUT KUNDALINI YOGA MAKES YOU CHOOSE IT AS OPPOSED TO THE MANY OTHER FORMS OF YOGA?
Kundalini yoga works on so much more than just the physical body. It is a much more spiritual experience that focuses on healing and purifying the mind and body. It helps me to equip myself mentally, emotionally, physically and spiritually, to deal with all that I encounter on my own personal journey.

5. DO YOU KEEP UP A REGULAR PRACTICE?
I attend Kundalini yoga classes every Tuesday evening and that’s when I practise. Ideally I want to practise every day but my days seem so long and full, mornings are difficult and by evening time I’m so tired. I need to readjust my day to make the time to do it. I KNOW IT’S WORTH IT!!

6. WHAT BENEFITS DO YOU EXPERIENCE?
I feel a greater sense of awareness and clarity and I feel more self-confident. I am able now to let go of little things a lot easier.

7. HAS ANYTHING ABOUT YOU OR YOUR LIFE CHANGED SINCE YOU STARTED PRACTISING KUNDALINI YOGA?
Since I started practising Kundalini yoga, I have been feeling a lot better about myself. I feel like I am more in touch with myself, my thoughts and my spiritual side. I now look at and see everything happening in my life with a greater conscious mind.

8. WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE ASPECT OF KUNDALINI YOGA?
I love the mantra meditation. It puts me in a tranquil and serene state of mind, and I feel like I’m connecting with my higher Self.

9. HOW DO YOU GENERALLY FEEL AFTER A KUNDALINI YOGA CLASS?
During and after every yoga class, I feel very calm and relaxed, both my mind and body.

10. ANY WORDS OF WISDOM FOR ANYONE READING THIS?
You should try Kundalini yoga, it can help anyone, wherever you may be on your own personal journey. It will open your eyes, your heart and your mind..

11. HOW DID YOU HEAR ABOUT THOU ART YOGA?
Through my yoga instructor, Elspeth.

12. ANY FAMOUS LAST WORDS?
"Don't let yourself be weighed down by what other people think, because in a few years, in a few decades, or in a few centuries, that way of thinking will have changed. Live now what others will only live in the future."
- Paulo Coelho

***

To find out how you can join Thou Art Yoga classes:
http://yogapassport.blogspot.com/

Yoga Portraits; PATRICE

NAME: Patrice Charles

OCCUPATION: Social Work student

1. HOW DID YOU DISCOVER KUNDALINI YOGA?
My friend recommended it when she found out that I was going through a depressive episode :)

2. WHAT ABOUT YOUR FIRST KUNDALINI YOGA EXPERIENCE MADE YOU DECIDE TO CONTINUE WITH IT?
My whole mood changed. I went from feeling sad and dejected to feeling clear, peaceful and hopeful.

3. HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN PRACTISING KUNDALINI YOGA?
For eight months now.

4. WHAT ABOUT KUNDALINI YOGA MAKES YOU CHOOSE IT AS OPPOSED TO THE MANY OTHER FORMS OF YOGA?
This is the first form of yoga I have ever practiced. After starting Kundalini yoga I tried Hatha and Bikram yoga but they were not as comprehensive as KY. KY is so transformative because it strengthens my emotional, physical and spiritual self.

KY class is psychotherapy for me. It shows me how to get past emotional blocks and how to reach my inner teacher and develop my intuition.

5. DO YOU KEEP UP A REGULAR PRACTICE?
I haven't kept up regular practice for a while now. I feel distracted and lack discipline.

6. WHAT BENEFITS DO YOU EXPERIENCE?
Emotional strength and Resilience.

7. HAS ANYTHING ABOUT YOU OR YOUR LIFE CHANGED SINCE YOU STARTED PRACTISING KUNDALINI YOGA?
Yes, many aspects (activities and people) of my former life just fell away that were not in tune with healthy living.

8. WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE ASPECT OF KUNDALINI YOGA?
Pranayama - it transforms me. I feel revived and renewed! My favourite aspect after that would be the meditations/mantras - I love their meanings.

9. HOW DO YOU GENERALLY FEEL AFTER A KUNDALINI YOGA CLASS?
Energized and calm.

10. ANY WORDS OF WISDOM FOR ANYONE READING THIS?
If you are looking for a form of yoga that teaches you to Strengthen the Self, then Kundalini yoga is for you. It works very quickly to restore emotional balance. Now that I've started I can never stop!

11. HOW DID YOU HEAR ABOUT THOU ART YOGA?
Through a friend. I honestly feel that I'm in the right class with the right teacher. I can't imagine any other.

12. ANY FAMOUS LAST WORDS?
The key is in you. Unlock your potential with the brilliant tools of Kundalini yoga.

***
To find out how you can join Thou Art Yoga classes:
http://yogapassport.blogspot.com/

Yoga Portraits: DEV

 

‎Spiritual Name: Beantroop Singh

Given Name: Dev Pooma

Occupation: Teacher

1. HOW DID YOU DISCOVER KUNDALINI YOGA?

It was recommended to me by a dear friend of mine who thought that this would be something that I would be interested in. She was right!!! Thanks Veve :D

2. WHAT ABOUT YOUR FIRST KUNDALINI YOGA EXPERIENCE MADE YOU DECIDE TO CONTINUE WITH IT?

I originally started Kundalini in September 2008. I decided to continue with it because of my connection with the teacher (Tek Har). My positive mind was telling me that good would come from it and that I needed it.It was right!

3. HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN PRACTISING KUNDALINI YOGA?

I had done it from 2008 to 2010 I believe. Then I took a sabbatical of sorts and returned to it this April (2011). Since then I have started the 40 days meditation. I am now on my twelfth day of that practice and I'm feeling good!!!!! ( think Jennifer Hudson when you read this line.)

4. WHAT ABOUT KUNDALINI YOGA MAKES YOU CHOOSE IT AS OPPOSED TO THE MANY OTHER FORMS OF YOGA?

Well I can't say that I know much about the other forms of yoga. What I like about Kundalini is the fact that it is described as the householder's yoga. The kriyas are more or less simple to do. And most importantly I am seeing great results in my life. I am HAPPYYYYYYYYYYYYY!!!!

5. DO YOU KEEP UP A REGULAR PRACTICE?

I've been doing my forty day meditation since the first of June. I basically do the meditation aspect and the breathing as I feel like I have problems with breathing. Also I find that simply breathing properly helps in every situation. I do this practice at nights before I go to sleep. I chose that period because I dream a lot and felt that doing this practice before bed would curb this or change the quality of my dreams.

6. WHAT BENEFITS DO YOU EXPERIENCE THROUGH YOUR PRACTICE?

Like I said "I am happy!!!" Also I am able to approach each day with a different outlook, a more positive one. I find that my energy/ aura has improved. My sexual energy has also calmed and has become more controllable and controlled.

7. HAS ANYTHING ABOUT YOU OR YOUR LIFE CHANGED SINCE YOU STARTED PRACTISING KUNDALINI YOGA?

I find that since then I have observed the universe aligning to support me. However to show a practical example I'd like to share a personal story.

My fifteen form five students (whom I love dearly) are graduating this year. I decided that I would take them out to a celebratory lunch before they leave. I have been telling all of my friends about this. Lo and behold one Saturday evening a friend gives me a box. She says "This is going to be your Oprah moment". As I opened it I saw a Chinese envelope. I immediately thought it was Chinese tea and was happy to receive it as I do love tea. She says" Look inside!" As I open the envelope I saw money. "Check it" she says. As I checked I realized it was twelve hundred dollars!!!! I looked at her confused. She says "It's for your lunch with your kids. Four of my friends and I came together and wanted to to do this for you because you are the kind of teacher that we need nowadays. You represent what being a teacher is all about." I wanted to cry but for the first time that I can ever remember I was totally speechless. I hugged my friends. I said thank you and I've been on cloud nine since then.

To me this shows how yoga affects your life. It supercharges it with positive energy all around.

BTW Big up to my friend and her four friends (now my friends!). My kids and I will surely pay this grand gesture forward.


8. WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE ASPECT OF KUNDALINI YOGA AND WHY?

I love the meditation. It is something I am familiar with and it settles my mind.

9. HOW DO YOU GENERALLY FEEL AFTER A KUNDALINI YOGA CLASS?

Supercharged!!!!

10. What words of wisdom do you have for anyone reading this?

"Try it! You go like it! Cause it makes you feel goooooood."

11. HOW DID YOU HEAR ABOUT THOU ART YOGA?

I was sent an email and am part of the group/class.

12. ANY FAMOUS LAST WORDS?

"I claim my personal power."

Yoga Portraits: PEPEETA

Outside our POS class venue, The Sangha

NAME: Pepeeta Ameerali

OCCUPATION: Marketing Officer,

HOW DID YOU DISCOVER KUNDALINI YOGA?
Strange how things work out. My cousin Neala sent me an email to try it out. The workshop was starting the week after I finished my exams, any earlier and I probably would have declined.

WHAT ABOUT YOUR FIRST KUNDALINI YOGA EXPERIENCE MADE YOU DECIDE TO CONTINUE WITH IT?
Again, perhaps more than coincidence… That day was a difficult day and I actually arrived at the studio very distracted and stressed. But at the end of the session I felt so calm and at peace that I realized that it was necessary.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN PRACTISING KUNDALINI YOGA?
Only 3 weeks

DO YOU KEEP UP A REGULAR PRACTICE?
I’ve ordered my own mat. Yes, I intended to continue past this 10-week workshop and perhaps look at Moksha yoga as well.

WHAT BENEFITS DO YOU EXPERIENCE THROUGH YOUR PRACTICE?
I am calmer. As a ‘creative’ person, it is difficult to empty my mind totally. The meditations encourage a soothing flow of images to help relax.

WHAT HAS CHANGED SINCE YOU STARTED PRACTISING KUNDALINI YOGA?
Before starting Kundalini Yoga, I was starting to feel like a turtle, carrying a heavy shell, the weight of the world on my shoulders. I knew I needed to start shedding some of it. The classes help to lift the weight and bring perspective. I am using these sessions as a stepping stone to change.

YOUR FAVOURITE ASPECT OF KUNDALINI YOGA . . .
Stretches… they feel good. And the meditations.

HOW DO YOU GENERALLY FEEL AFTER A KUNDALINI YOGA CLASS?
Relaxed, yet inspired.

WHAT WORDS OF WISDOM DO YOU HAVE FOR ANYONE READING THIS?
Kundalini Yoga is great for refocus.

HOW DID YOU HEAR ABOUT THOU ART YOGA?
From the class.

ANY FAMOUS LAST WORDS?
Sat Nam

***

To find out how you can join Thou Art Yoga classes:
http://yogapassport.blogspot.com/

Yoga Portraits: INDIRA

Introducing the "Yoga Portraits" series—featuring students of Thou Art Yoga. First up, Indira from the St. Augustine class.

Poolside at our St. Augustine class venue, Reimedi Spa

  
NAME: Indira Ragoo
OCCUPATION: Retired Pre-School Teacher

HOW DID YOU DISCOVER KUNDALINI YOGA?
I saw a newspaper clip, with the advertisement for the class and a cell phone number to call for info.I called the number and I was told where the class was being held and when. So I decided to join the Friday evening class.

WHAT ABOUT YOUR FIRST KUNDALINI YOGA EXPERIENCE MADE YOU DECIDE TO CONTINUE WITH IT?
When I first attended class I had no experience or had never before attended a class so this was a new kind of experience for me. Somehow I felt a difference in body and mind,and I could not wait to attend the next class.I also had a spiritual experience while reciting the mantras and this caused me to be drawn even more to this class.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN PRACTISING KUNDALINI YOGA?
I started my Kundalini class on the 11th of February 2011.

DO YOU KEEP UP A REGULAR PRACTICE?
I do try to keep up my practice of kriyas and meditation as regular as I can.I wake at 4.am. I find this time to be very good for me, I sit in easy pose taking deep breaths then reciting the mantras to begin. Then after the mantras I begin with the Kriyas. After this I lay on the mat breathing in and out deeply.Then I pull the feet up and rock myself back and forth side to side.Rotate my feet and hands. Rub my feet and hands together.Rock myself back into easy pose,and end with .. Long time sun.

WHAT BENEFITS DO YOU EXPERIENCE THROUGH YOUR PRACTICE?
I feel spiritually fulfilled, I feel I’m better able to handle any situation that may come my way.
I feel physically energized. I’m not fearful in trying to achieve the things that I want in life.

WHAT HAS CHANGED FOR YOU SINCE YOU STARTED PRACTICING KUNDALINI YOGA?
Since I started practicing Kundalini yoga I have noticed that I have become more peaceful within myself, able to handle life’s challenges better.I do not react to situations the way I used to.I have a lot more patience to deal with situations that occur in my life.

YOUR FAVOURITE ASPECT OF KUNDALINI YOGA . . .
I enjoy sitting in easy pose and reciting the mantras.I feel calm and really very peaceful.

HOW DO YOU GENERALLY FEEL AFTER A CLASS?
I feel peaceful, calm, physically fit, I feel like I can handle whatever life sends my way.

WHAT WORDS OF WISDOM DO YOU HAVE FOR ANYONE READING THIS?
I would strongly encourage anyone reading this if you are looking for a way of getting in touch with your true self and looking for a way to become a better person ,then you should by all means start a Kundalini yoga class .You would truly benefit.

HOW DID YOU HEAR ABOUT THOU ART YOGA?
I visited the website after hearing about it from a friend.

ANY FAMOUS LAST WORDS?
My Kundalini yoga class has been the best thing that I have ever done for myself.It has changed my life in a way I never thought possible. It has made me realize how much I was missing in my life how much I never knew myself .It has put me in touch with my true self, and made me see others around me in a different way.I would like to thank my Kundalini yoga teacher Tek Har for the wonderful work she is doing and wish God blessing’s and best wishes in the future. Sat Nam.