...d . The first principle in the Yamas is Ahimsa, or non-violence, and Patanjali explained that in the presence of somebody who is successfully practicing this idea, there will be such a strong effect of peacefulness that everybody in the surrounding area will also experience that peace.

This is an incredibly powerful idea, but there is an immediate challenge for the Jewish yogi. The Torah does not demand absolute non-violence at all times, and there are various moments when we are expected to do everything except turn the other cheek. The principle of a rodef, or a pursuer, is understood to mean that if somebody is out to get us, we should get them first. The mishna in Sandhedrin (8:7) explains this common-sense decree, that if there is a rodef - somebody who is pursuing you to kill you - you are allowed to take their life. So how on earth does this interact with the yogic principle of non-violence?

I think the Rabbis were merely giving us advice for protection in an extreme case, rather than outlining the ideal scenario. The word rodef also appears when referring to the disciples of Aaron the high Priest, who are comm...more

Yogic Truths

...state of purity and consciousness. As soon as the aspirant learns to control the mental activities of the mind, and succeeds in ending all attachment to material objects, he is able to enter samadhi i.e. a state of deep concentration that results in a blissful, ecstatic union with ultimate reality.

This then, is the ultimate goal of every true yogi!

Its intellectual content largely based on the philosophy of Sam...more

How To Lose Belly Fat Using Yoga

...If you are looking for new ways to lose belly fat you may want to use yoga as part of your exercise routine. As well as helping to reduce abdominal fat, yoga is also a great way to both reduce stress and exercise the body which is useful if you want to become fit and healthy.

There are many different yoga positions that exercise the stomach muscles. These yoga positions are called asanas and some are more advanced than others. You need to assess your own skill and comfort level before trying certain asanas. If you are unsure you should start with one that seems easy and then work your way up once you have improved your strength and flexibility.

Pavan Muktasan

To perform this exercise you need to first lie on your back. If ...more

The Different Types of Yoga

...iyengar yoga and ashtanga yoga. These are the types of yoga that will give you a strong cardio workout and are fast flowing and precise for those looking more for extreme fitness.

One of the types of yoga that might sound familiar to you is kundalini yoga. The kundalini is considered by many cultures to be the life force within us that can be awakened. This theory is applied to meditation, belly dancing and also yoga. Kundalini yoga concentrates on charkas in the body to ge...more

Vishnu Shiva Yoga Meditation Union God