Principles

Yoga is not a religion: It is an art and science of self and self-development. Therefore, people from all paths, beliefs and walks of life are able to practice Yoga openly and freely with out any conflict with their religious affiliation. Some have traced many religious practices and philosophies back to the universal truths espoused by the yogis for over more than 8 thousand years.

Yoga is a science: Yoga is an ancient science of self-awareness. The practice of YOGA provides an experience of Oneness, empowers the practitioner with an inner strength, while fostering harmonious relationships with others. It creates a foundation of relaxation and peace mentally, physically, and emotionally.

National studies also show repeatedly that a regular practice of Yoga and Meditation reduces hypertension, lowers blood pressure, and releases endorphins in the brain that heighten a sense of calmness and produces feelings of well being. Further research demonstrates the powerful effect of exercise on the physical, mental, and emotional development of young people. Yoga exercises and postures are particularly useful as they work directly to reduce stress, strengthen the nervous system, and stabilize ones emotional foundation.

Styles of YOGA

There are many different styles of yoga. Some of them are recent versions of more ancient styles. However, they all have the identical aim to bring the practitioner to an experience of Oneness with the self and all things. They may differ in emphasis on one or more aspects of yoga, which include asanas or postures, movement, mantra and meditation. Practitioners are encouraged to sample different styles before settling on any one in particular.

Most Popular Styles include:

• Ashtanga
• Bikram
• Egyptian
• Hatha
• Integral
• Iyengar
• Kundalini
• Kripalu
• Raja

Kids and Yoga etc

We have seen that yoga can do the following with the Youth we serve:

• Increase self-esteem and a sense of inner strength
• Help repair brain cells damaged through drug use
• Increase overall level of health and vitality
• Enhance the ability to retain scholastic information
• Release physical tension and mental stress
• Gain greater flexibility
• Promotes anger management

Violence reduction: The art of deep breathing and breath control can be a foundation for violence reduction. Yoga For Youth teaches these exercises along with simple relaxation and meditation techniques to eliminate stress and develop mental clarity and emotional stability that allows for better spontaneous decision-making.

Conflict resolution and mediation: Strengthening the nervous system through specific YOGA exercises and breathing techniques, helps create a higher level of self-control, self-confidence, and self-esteem. These qualities are absolutely essential for effective communication and conflict resolution to take place.

Concentration and information retention: Through the use of YOGIC Breathing and Meditations that stimulate the left and right hemispheres of the brain, the ability to concentrate is greatly enhanced. This one pointed focus can lead to greater retention of information and integration of ideas and concepts.

“Yoga for Youth”: The YOGA program provides fun and challenging exercises for the participants. They learn practical applications of Yogic technology in an energizing and enjoyable way.