...At first glance, Martial Arts and Yoga seem like opposing forces and philosophies, but these two health maintenance systems have more in common than meets the eye. For a moment, consider the similarities between Tai Chi and hatha Yoga. Within the warm up, you notice very similar movement, philosophy, and principles.

Why does climb the mountain stance look so much like Warrior I posture? Is it coincidence, luck, or a common link? Why does Kundalini have movements that resemble punching, kicking, and martial arts foot work? Are Kung Fu forms an extension of Vinyasa? Each has been referred to as meditation in motion.

The place of origin, for most Asian martial arts, is agreed to be the Shaolin Temple. Apparently, the monks at the Shaolin temple had become very proficient at meditation, ...more

Pilates Yoga

...Though referred to as yoga, the Pilates exercise regime has no connection with it and works on entirely different approaches. The common factor between yoga and Pilates programs is their emphasis on mental focus and breath control during exercise. Some refer to Pilates as yoga with movement, and others as yoga with machines.

George Pilates, a German, was a sickly child who managed to improve his health with dedicated exercise programs. As a nurse during the first World War he was looking afte...more

Universal Principles of Yoga, Part 6

...Yoga classes for physical and mental benefits only. However, as you can see, by what you have previously read, many of the main Indian Yoga styles do address mental, physical, and spiritual health.

The main point is that these forms of Yoga are not threatening to any religion at all. Yoga can be practiced by anyone of any religion, without the worry of a conflict. Now, if you are an atheist, you may prefer to practice a form of Yoga that will not enhance your spiritual health. It is every Yoga students prerogative to choose a style of Yoga or a Guru that fits his or her needs. However, if you ever find a Guru who does not embrace spiritual health, what does tha...more

How Yoga Positions For Fertility Can Help Couples Conceive

...With more and more women delaying having children until later in life, there are a growing number of couples having difficulties conceiving. From their mid thirties onwards, women's chances of getting pregnant drop dramatically and many are turning to medical intervention to assist them in having a baby.

Trying to conceive can be a very stressful and emotional experience, particularly when it involves undergoing fertility treatment or IVF. Many doctors are now recommending women use yoga in conjunction with their medical treatment, both to assist them in de-stressing and to enhance their possibilities of becoming pregnant.

A Harvard based study found that women who were trying for a baby were three times more likely to conceive if they took fertility focu...more

Images Of Yoga Meditation