Thought of the Day
"The only thing that stands between a man and what he wants from life is often merely the will to try it and the faith to believe that it is possible.
-Richard M. Devos
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Saturday, April 2, 2011
Practice some type of soothing exercise at least 3 days a week.
We all know the health benefits of exercise and that we should do it, but sometimes it is hard to stick with it. One of the reasons why so many people fall in love with hatha yoga is because it feels good. The gentle stretching, strengthening, and firming movements of yoga leave you feeling peaceful and invigorated. Yoga actually releases calming "feel good" hormones that make it almost like a positive addiction!
There are other eastern-inspired exercise systems, such as Tai Chi and Chi Kung that can also help you to achieve fitness while simultaneously relaxing your body and mind.
I personally focus on teaching hatha yoga combined with kundalini yoga and meditation so that the students can experience the maximum benefits possible of the Yoga session. Many of them say they feel rejuvenated and more energized after only one session.
The Hatha yoga movements are very easy to learn. Even if you have never taken yoga before, you will find the exercises to be relaxing and fun.
We all know the health benefits of exercise and that we should do it, but sometimes it is hard to stick with it. One of the reasons why so many people fall in love with hatha yoga is because it feels good. The gentle stretching, strengthening, and firming movements of yoga leave you feeling peaceful and invigorated. Yoga actually releases calming "feel good" hormones that make it almost like a positive addiction!
There are other eastern-inspired exercise systems, such as Tai Chi and Chi Kung that can also help you to achieve fitness while simultaneously relaxing your body and mind.
I personally focus on teaching hatha yoga combined with kundalini yoga and meditation so that the students can experience the maximum benefits possible of the Yoga session. Many of them say they feel rejuvenated and more energized after only one session.
The Hatha yoga movements are very easy to learn. Even if you have never taken yoga before, you will find the exercises to be relaxing and fun.
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Try to gradually eliminate processed meats and foods that are loaded with chemicals and pesticides from your diet.
The way you eat has a powerful effect on the way you feel. Eating foods such as meat and processed foods leaves you feeling tired, sluggish and irritable. Modern scientists have found that the ideal diet consists of the same foods that yogis have recommended for thousands of years; whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, legumes, nuts, seeds and milk products. Every one of these foods has been found to have remarkable healing benefits. Yet you won't find a single study showing that eating more meat, more artificial dyes, more white sugar or more preservatives has any health benefits.
It's natural to be attached to eating the foods that you are used to eating. However, as you gradually make changes towards foods that are wholesome and healing by nature, you'll be amazed at how much better you feel and even how much better those foods taste.
Changing your diet for the better helps with so much more than just your health. It also helps you feel calmer and more peaceful. Researchers have found that eating a wholesome diet makes it easier to give up undesirable habits such as smoking.
The way you eat has a powerful effect on the way you feel. Eating foods such as meat and processed foods leaves you feeling tired, sluggish and irritable. Modern scientists have found that the ideal diet consists of the same foods that yogis have recommended for thousands of years; whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, legumes, nuts, seeds and milk products. Every one of these foods has been found to have remarkable healing benefits. Yet you won't find a single study showing that eating more meat, more artificial dyes, more white sugar or more preservatives has any health benefits.
It's natural to be attached to eating the foods that you are used to eating. However, as you gradually make changes towards foods that are wholesome and healing by nature, you'll be amazed at how much better you feel and even how much better those foods taste.
Changing your diet for the better helps with so much more than just your health. It also helps you feel calmer and more peaceful. Researchers have found that eating a wholesome diet makes it easier to give up undesirable habits such as smoking.
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Take a little time every day for Peaceful Relaxation and Meditation
When we feel stressed out and pressed for time, usually it's the farthest thing from our minds to take time to stop and relax. We may feel that we can't take a breather until everything is done. Of course the excessive stress makes it harder to be productive, hurts our health, and leaves us feeling tired and drained. When we're overly stressed, we simply can't be at our best.
Just 10 or 15 minutes of daily relaxation and meditation can work wonders for your overall health and well-being. Simple relaxation techniques have a positive effect. On a physical level, your blood pressure lowers, your heart rate slows and relaxing "feel good" hormones are released. On a mental level, your mind becomes more calm and peaceful. You'll gradually experience a deep sense of happiness and interconnectedness.
When we feel stressed out and pressed for time, usually it's the farthest thing from our minds to take time to stop and relax. We may feel that we can't take a breather until everything is done. Of course the excessive stress makes it harder to be productive, hurts our health, and leaves us feeling tired and drained. When we're overly stressed, we simply can't be at our best.
Just 10 or 15 minutes of daily relaxation and meditation can work wonders for your overall health and well-being. Simple relaxation techniques have a positive effect. On a physical level, your blood pressure lowers, your heart rate slows and relaxing "feel good" hormones are released. On a mental level, your mind becomes more calm and peaceful. You'll gradually experience a deep sense of happiness and interconnectedness.
Monday, March 28, 2011
Exercise Anywhere!
Finding it hard to squeeze in a workout-even though you know the importance of exercise, maybe you haven't considered all your options.
Eric Plasker, DC, a chiropractor and author of The 100 Year Lifestyle workout, says you don't have to take time out of a busy day to get fit. Instead, try sneaking in a little exercise throughout the day.
Below are two examples to get you started. But remember; check with your healthcare team before starting any new exercise program.
1Don't couch-slouch: Sitting in the offfice or while watching TV at home, you can do "tricep dips." Sit in a steady chair and keep your feet flat on the ground. With your hands on the armrests, raise your body up,
then lower yourself back into the seat.
2 Practice the 50/10 Rule: Get up and move for 10 minutes after each 50 minutes you sit. This means-especially if you work at a desk or spend a lot of time in your car-that you should stretch and flex your muscles 10 minutes of every hour.
Finding it hard to squeeze in a workout-even though you know the importance of exercise, maybe you haven't considered all your options.
Eric Plasker, DC, a chiropractor and author of The 100 Year Lifestyle workout, says you don't have to take time out of a busy day to get fit. Instead, try sneaking in a little exercise throughout the day.
Below are two examples to get you started. But remember; check with your healthcare team before starting any new exercise program.
1Don't couch-slouch: Sitting in the offfice or while watching TV at home, you can do "tricep dips." Sit in a steady chair and keep your feet flat on the ground. With your hands on the armrests, raise your body up,
then lower yourself back into the seat.
2 Practice the 50/10 Rule: Get up and move for 10 minutes after each 50 minutes you sit. This means-especially if you work at a desk or spend a lot of time in your car-that you should stretch and flex your muscles 10 minutes of every hour.
Saturday, March 26, 2011
Health Benefits of Hibiscus Tea
Blood Pressure
Studies have shown hibiscus tea to be beneficial in lowering blood pressure and may control cholesterol.
One study was done using adults with pre-hypertension or mild hypertension. Those who had three cups of hibiscus tea a day had better results than those who didn't (a 7.2 point drop in systolic blood pressure compared to 1.3 points). Those who had the highest blood pressure reading at the start of the study showed the greatest results.
Weight Loss
Hibiscus tea contains an enzyme inhibitor which blocks the production of amylase. amylase is an enzyme that breaks down complex sugars and starches. Drinking a cup of hibiscus tea after meals will reduce the absorption of dietary carbohydrates and will assist in weight loss.
Immune System
Hibiscus tea is rich in vitamin C and makes a wonderful herbal remedy to fight off colds and infections by strengthening the immune system.
Blood Pressure
Studies have shown hibiscus tea to be beneficial in lowering blood pressure and may control cholesterol.
One study was done using adults with pre-hypertension or mild hypertension. Those who had three cups of hibiscus tea a day had better results than those who didn't (a 7.2 point drop in systolic blood pressure compared to 1.3 points). Those who had the highest blood pressure reading at the start of the study showed the greatest results.
Weight Loss
Hibiscus tea contains an enzyme inhibitor which blocks the production of amylase. amylase is an enzyme that breaks down complex sugars and starches. Drinking a cup of hibiscus tea after meals will reduce the absorption of dietary carbohydrates and will assist in weight loss.
Immune System
Hibiscus tea is rich in vitamin C and makes a wonderful herbal remedy to fight off colds and infections by strengthening the immune system.
Friday, March 25, 2011
Increase Fitness and Endurance with Pilates
What is Pilates?
Derived from ancient yoga asanas, the Pilates exercise system was developed by Joseph Pilates over 80 years ago. It has been practiced for decades by dancers. Pilates has gained popularity in recent years. Although Pilates works the entire body, the primary focus is on the core muscles (abs, lower back).
Why practice Pilates?
Pilates is very beneficial for strengthening muscles without shortening them or bulking up. In fact, dedicated Pilates practitioners are known for their long, lean look. Furthermore, the core strength you develop can be applied to many other activities to achieve "effort with ease". Pilates improves balance and overall strength, stabilizes and lengthens the spine, improves posture, and can help prevent injuries and aid in injury rehabilitation.
What is Pilates?
Derived from ancient yoga asanas, the Pilates exercise system was developed by Joseph Pilates over 80 years ago. It has been practiced for decades by dancers. Pilates has gained popularity in recent years. Although Pilates works the entire body, the primary focus is on the core muscles (abs, lower back).
Why practice Pilates?
Pilates is very beneficial for strengthening muscles without shortening them or bulking up. In fact, dedicated Pilates practitioners are known for their long, lean look. Furthermore, the core strength you develop can be applied to many other activities to achieve "effort with ease". Pilates improves balance and overall strength, stabilizes and lengthens the spine, improves posture, and can help prevent injuries and aid in injury rehabilitation.
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Community Service
As a board member and ambassador for the American Heart Association, I feel that it is very important to give back to the community. It is a great way to help others as well as ourselves enjoy healthier and happier lives.
The American Heart Association is very passionate about health issues particularly in populations that are high risk such as the African American communities. They are very sensitive to women's issues as well. The American Heart Association provides information at conferences and seminars to inform and educate the public about heart disease, stroke, diabetes and other diseases.
It has been an honor to serve as an ambassador for a number of years. It has opened doors for business opportunities for me. I was invited to do a Yoga demonstration at one of the women's conferences.
As a board member and ambassador for the American Heart Association, I feel that it is very important to give back to the community. It is a great way to help others as well as ourselves enjoy healthier and happier lives.
The American Heart Association is very passionate about health issues particularly in populations that are high risk such as the African American communities. They are very sensitive to women's issues as well. The American Heart Association provides information at conferences and seminars to inform and educate the public about heart disease, stroke, diabetes and other diseases.
It has been an honor to serve as an ambassador for a number of years. It has opened doors for business opportunities for me. I was invited to do a Yoga demonstration at one of the women's conferences.
Monday, March 14, 2011
My Personal Story
I started learning Yoga in August of 1999. I always admired others who practiced Yoga and wanted to some day experience it for myself. One day I had an opportunity to meet a wonderful teacher who took an interest in me and the rest is history. My Yoga teacher, who is also my mentor has over 30 years of Yoga experience. She was fortunate to study under master teachers. She was aware of the tremendous amount of stress I was under. I was always complaining about sleepless nights. She would often say, LaVerne you will sleep tonight after the Yoga.
The stress and other things led to high blood pressure; which by the way is under control. When I began doing Yoga on a daily basis, I noticed tremendous results in everything from reduced stress, no more sleepless nights and lower blood pressure. I was so amazed at how wonderful I felt after a Yoga class that I decided to teach Yoga asanas to others.
Thank you for reading my story.
I started learning Yoga in August of 1999. I always admired others who practiced Yoga and wanted to some day experience it for myself. One day I had an opportunity to meet a wonderful teacher who took an interest in me and the rest is history. My Yoga teacher, who is also my mentor has over 30 years of Yoga experience. She was fortunate to study under master teachers. She was aware of the tremendous amount of stress I was under. I was always complaining about sleepless nights. She would often say, LaVerne you will sleep tonight after the Yoga.
The stress and other things led to high blood pressure; which by the way is under control. When I began doing Yoga on a daily basis, I noticed tremendous results in everything from reduced stress, no more sleepless nights and lower blood pressure. I was so amazed at how wonderful I felt after a Yoga class that I decided to teach Yoga asanas to others.
Thank you for reading my story.
How Yoga Works to Control High Blood Pressure
Studies have shown that Yoga also has wondrous results for relieving or significantly lowering high blood pressure. One of the main factors leading to high blood pressure is long periods of sustained stress. The breathing techniques and asanas of Yoga calm your overall central nervous system and encourage your body to enter a state of total relaxation. In fact, 30 minutes of yoga has the effect of lowering the amount of cortisol in your blood stream, which is why so many yogis speak on the feelings of peace, calm, and Zen that keeps them committed to the time they spend on their yoga mat.
Studies have shown that Yoga also has wondrous results for relieving or significantly lowering high blood pressure. One of the main factors leading to high blood pressure is long periods of sustained stress. The breathing techniques and asanas of Yoga calm your overall central nervous system and encourage your body to enter a state of total relaxation. In fact, 30 minutes of yoga has the effect of lowering the amount of cortisol in your blood stream, which is why so many yogis speak on the feelings of peace, calm, and Zen that keeps them committed to the time they spend on their yoga mat.
Food and health continued
Grapes hand in a cluster that has the shape of the heart. Each grape looks like a blood cell and all of the research today shows grapes are also profound heart and blood vitalizing food.
Kidney beans actually heal and help maintain kidney function and yes, they look exactly like the human kidneys.
Grapes hand in a cluster that has the shape of the heart. Each grape looks like a blood cell and all of the research today shows grapes are also profound heart and blood vitalizing food.
Kidney beans actually heal and help maintain kidney function and yes, they look exactly like the human kidneys.
Food and Health
A sliced Carrot looks like the human eye. The pupil, iris and radiating lines look just like the human eye... And YES, science now shows carrots greatly enhance blood flow to and function of the eyes.
A tomato has four chambers and is red. The heart has four chambers and is red. All of the research shows tomatoes are loaded with lycopine and are indeed pure heart and blood food.
A walnut looks like a little brain, a left and right hemisphere, upper cerebrums and lower cerebellums. Even the wrinkles or folds on the nut are just like the neo-cortex. We now know walnuts help develop more than three (3) dozen neuron-transmitters for brain function.
Celery, Bok Choy, Rhubarb and many more look just like bones. These foods specifically target bone strength. Bones are 23% sodium and these foods are 23% sodium. If you don't have enough sodium in your diet, the body pulls it from the bones, thus making them weak. these foods replenish the skeletal needs of the body.
A tomato has four chambers and is red. The heart has four chambers and is red. All of the research shows tomatoes are loaded with lycopine and are indeed pure heart and blood food.
A walnut looks like a little brain, a left and right hemisphere, upper cerebrums and lower cerebellums. Even the wrinkles or folds on the nut are just like the neo-cortex. We now know walnuts help develop more than three (3) dozen neuron-transmitters for brain function.
Celery, Bok Choy, Rhubarb and many more look just like bones. These foods specifically target bone strength. Bones are 23% sodium and these foods are 23% sodium. If you don't have enough sodium in your diet, the body pulls it from the bones, thus making them weak. these foods replenish the skeletal needs of the body.
Food for thought
It's been said that God first separated the salt water from the fresh, made dry land, planted a garden, made animals and fish...All before making a human. He made and provided what we'd need before we were born. God left us a great clue as to what foods help what part of our body! God's Pharmacy! Amazing
See what people are saying about Candlelight Yoga:
As a novice, this class has been amazing. I have learned so much and honestly, never felt better. I would recommend LaVerne's classes to everyone. Nicholas Hoyt
I found that Yoga keeps me limber. I have arthritis in almost every joint and if I didn't do the moves in this class, I would be very stiff. I highly recommend this class to men and women of all ages. Karen Magestro.
As a Yoga instructor, LaVerne has the ability to model and guide students through amazing routines; making that which may otherwise seem difficult, easy to follow. She is always concerned about the learner. Jameelah Shareef.
I found that Yoga keeps me limber. I have arthritis in almost every joint and if I didn't do the moves in this class, I would be very stiff. I highly recommend this class to men and women of all ages. Karen Magestro.
As a Yoga instructor, LaVerne has the ability to model and guide students through amazing routines; making that which may otherwise seem difficult, easy to follow. She is always concerned about the learner. Jameelah Shareef.
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Why practice Yoga with LaVerne?
While my workouts focus primarily on Yoga's physical techniques; they also incorporate meditation to help relieve deep-seated stress and anxiety, enabling you to experience Yoga's greatest gifts; stress release and inner peace.
I am always concerned about the well being of the students, making sure they are learning the correct form and getting the most out of the class. I strive for excellence in myself so that I can share that excellence with my students.
While my workouts focus primarily on Yoga's physical techniques; they also incorporate meditation to help relieve deep-seated stress and anxiety, enabling you to experience Yoga's greatest gifts; stress release and inner peace.
I am always concerned about the well being of the students, making sure they are learning the correct form and getting the most out of the class. I strive for excellence in myself so that I can share that excellence with my students.
Why practice Yoga exercises?
When it comes to achieving both physical and mental well-being, Yoga exercises are by far the most effective and time-tested practices known to mankind. Yoga asanas effectively strengthen and tone the body, increase flexibility, improve balance, and relieve stress. However, the most significant benefits of yoga asanas come from their profound effects on the internal systems of the body.
By bending, stretching, twisting, and flexing in the various postures, you bathe your internal organs with oxygenated blood and prana, also known as "life force energy" or "chi."
Yoga asanas soothe and tone the nerves and regulate the endocrine system, which is responsible for the production of hormones - one of the keys to both physical and mental health. They also improve digestion and elimination, strengthen the respiratory system, and tone the reproductive organs.
When it comes to achieving both physical and mental well-being, Yoga exercises are by far the most effective and time-tested practices known to mankind. Yoga asanas effectively strengthen and tone the body, increase flexibility, improve balance, and relieve stress. However, the most significant benefits of yoga asanas come from their profound effects on the internal systems of the body.
By bending, stretching, twisting, and flexing in the various postures, you bathe your internal organs with oxygenated blood and prana, also known as "life force energy" or "chi."
Yoga asanas soothe and tone the nerves and regulate the endocrine system, which is responsible for the production of hormones - one of the keys to both physical and mental health. They also improve digestion and elimination, strengthen the respiratory system, and tone the reproductive organs.
Saturday, March 12, 2011
What is Yoga ?
While some people think of Yoga simply as physical exercise, it is actually a complete, holistic system for overall health and well-being. Having been practiced for thousands of years, yoga includes everything from physical postures (asanas), personal hygiene, and a healthy diet to meditation, breathing, and relaxation techniques.
While some people think of Yoga simply as physical exercise, it is actually a complete, holistic system for overall health and well-being. Having been practiced for thousands of years, yoga includes everything from physical postures (asanas), personal hygiene, and a healthy diet to meditation, breathing, and relaxation techniques.
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Serenity-N-Yoga
Studies have shown that Yoga has wondrous results for relieving or significantly lowering high blood pressure. One of the main factors leading to high blood pressure is long periods of sustained stress. The breathing techniques and asanas of yoga calm your overall central nervous system and encourage your body to enter a state of total relaxation. In fact, just 30 minutes of yoga has the effect of lowering the amount of cortisol in your blood stream, which is why so many yogis speak of the fellings of peace, calm, and Zen that keeps them committed to the time they spend on their yoga mat.
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