Monday, June 1, 2009

Soothing Pitta's Fire

According to Ayurveda (an ancient health science), summer increases the fiery pitta characteristics. That can be good news for those of us who need some motivation to make changes. But if you are already someone whose constitution contains pitta, this may create an imbalance (To understand more and determine your dosha, please see Ayurveda infocenter). A pitta imbalance can make someone very quick to anger, impatient, self-critical, hostile, and can physically manifest in the skin (rashes, acne) and stomach (heartburn, ulcers). It's important that students with pitta constitutions practice yoga in a cooler environment, have fun with their poses and work at a reduced effort. In general, forward folds that soothe the nervous system calms the pitta imbalance, but practicing side bends and twists while focusing the breath in the back of the body will also help, as will emphasizing a longer exhale to release built up anger, frustration, stress, etc. It is the perfect season to explore new poses and methods of practicing. Yin yoga is also very appropriate for this time of the year. (Try the blended Yin & Yang class on Saturday, June 27 for something new and fun!)

What we are practicing now...
Kurmasana (tortoise pose) is a pose that opens the hips, back and shoulders, stimulates the thymus and abdominal organs, and soothes the nervous system. It is also a pose that develops pratyahara, or withdrawal/softening of the senses. Try it and notice how calm you feel after.

See Yoga Basics website for instructions on entering this pose. Enjoy!

Schedule updates...
Lorien will be on vacation June 12-25; classes will continue with subs. Join the following special classes in June:

  • Thursday, June 4 12:00-1:00pm: Power Yoga at Decathlon Club in Santa Clara
  • Saturday, June 27 10:00-11:30am: "Yin & Yang" Yoga Soup at Willow Glen Yoga in San Jose

Coming soon...
Beginning in July, the GGBC class will have a new night and format: Wednesdays 6:00-7:00pm, Yin Yoga at GGBC in Campbell, followed by a meditation class; see the GGBC website for more information... yin & meditation, a great combination for Wednesday nights, so come check it out!