You have the power to break bad habits. Whether you feel like you do or not, you have the power inside you to make any changes you want in yourself!
Willpower is the main source of drive for most people trying to break bad habits.
Unfortunately, for most of us, the strength of our willpower ebbs and flows with the ups and downs in our lives! A bad day may lead to emotional eating. A stressful situation may lead to resuming something like smoking. Celebratory occasions may prompt someone who is trying to quit drinking to have “just one drink.”
You’re not weak when you “fall off the wagon” from breaking whatever bad habit you’ve been working on breaking. You’re normal.
The secret of breaking bad habits is to be able to control your physical, mental, and emotional self no matter the ebbs and flows of life. So that the willpower you rely on to help you break bad habits is more stable and not subject to change on a whim.
Yoga helps you break bad habits for sure! You certainly have more control over your emotions, better self awareness, a healthier mindset, and more harmony in your life. However, kundalini yoga specifically helps strengthen intuition and willpower.
Several of our expert and experienced yoga teachers at MyYogaTeacher focus specifically on teaching kundalini yoga! They understand that many people struggle with breaking bad habits and creating positive changes in their lives that last and want to help their students do just that.
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Let’s talk about how kundalini yoga will help you break bad habits now and in the future (and permanently)
In the physical aspect of a kundalini yoga practice, you’ll not only repeat asanas, but you’ll also hold poses for longer periods of time. Sometimes even up to five minutes!
Developing the mental and physical fortitude that is required to repeat poses in a structured flow on a regular basis is an excellent way to teach yourself how to kick bad habits and replace them with healthier ones.
By committing to these repetitive movements, you are training your mind and entire nervous system to resist the temptation to give up. This is an important aspect to breaking bad habits and building new ones.
Remember, breaking a bad habit isn’t just about ending a cycle of negative repetitive behaviors. It’s also about creating a cycle of positive ones!
Additionally, there is always a meditative aspect to any traditional kundalini yoga practice, where you will learn chants, repeat chants, and learn breathing techniques you’ll use in times of stress, emotional upheaval, and/or when you’re feeling tempted to cave to whatever habit you’re trying to break.
Which leads us to…
Have you ever noticed if you’re going to give into temptation, most of the time, it’s when you’re sad, mad, anxious, depressed, or stressed? Yes, of course we cave at celebrations too or at events when we’re happy.
But we are certainly more inclined to stick to our guns when we’re in a good mood, feeling good about ourselves, or feeling accomplished.
A regular kundalini yoga practice entails a very spiritual (not religious) meditation and includes several different types of breathwork. Both of these aspects of yoga have been proven by scientific research to reduce stress and improve, or even eliminate, feelings of depression, anxiety, anger, and frustration. The reduction of negative emotions and the improvement of mental and emotional health are part of what makes kundalini yoga perfect for helping people stop bad habits for good!
When you think about ending bad habits for good, maybe doing something that you know requires significant effort to help you do so isn’t the first thing you think about. Because why take something hard like breaking a bad habit and make it harder, right?
Wrong.
Part of the reason people struggle with permanently changing their habits is because they haven’t “exercised” the part of themselves that are needed to make the change for good. You don’t make physical changes without changing your diet or physical activity levels. And those changes aren’t maintained if you quit doing the things you did to make the change to begin with.
It is the same for breaking bad habits! Kundalini yoga and meditation is a tool to keep your physical, mental, and emotional health strong so that you are more easily able to not just break one bad habit, but any that you want to.
Kundalini yoga requires you to use physical and mental strength and helps you maintain and grow in the areas you need to grow so you can create permanent positive changes in your life.
Many find kundalini yoga and meditation challenging, but they also walk away from their practice enlightened, strengthened, more relaxed, and prepared to live presently and positively in their life.
At MyYogaTeacher, there are many amazing and experienced yoga instructors who work with yogis every single day on how to break bad habits. Many are experts in kundalini yoga and meditation and guide MyYogaTeacher students in this very special type of practice.
If you’re interested in how to strengthen your physical, mental, and emotional fortitude so you are equipped to create permanent change in your life, I encourage you to grab your 2-week free trial of MyYogaTeacher! No credit card required.
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{"slug":"kundalini-yoga-for-breaking-bad-habits","recentPosts":[{"id":"clgc1nu7j1uwk0birznqai3x1","slug":"10-yoga-poses-for-multiple-sclerosis","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"10 Yoga Poses to Enhance Wellness for Multiple Sclerosis Patients","subTitle":null,"seoTitle":null,"seoDescription":"Learn about Yoga for Multiple Sclerosis and how it can help manage symptoms. Improve your quality of life with these yoga poses.","readTime":null,"excerpt":"Discover yoga for multiple sclerosis - improve your quality of life with these poses.","tags":[],"createdAt":"2023-04-11T09:12:29.35505+00:00","coverUrl":"aydrjq4doquwuaot8kt7.jpg","content":{"text":"Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system. It can cause a range of symptoms, including fatigue, muscle weakness, and difficulty with balance and coordination. While there is no cure for MS, practicing yoga can help manage symptoms and improve overall health and well-being. Before starting a yoga practice, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure safety and effectiveness.\\n\\nBenefits of Yoga for Multiple Sclerosis\\nStress and Fatigue Reduction: Yoga provides a calming and relaxing effect on the body and mind, which can help ease the mental and physical stresses of MS. It can lead to a reduction in fatigue levels and promote a more peaceful state of mind.\\nImproved Balance and Coordination: MS can cause issues with balance and coordination, but yoga can help improve these areas. The practice of yoga involves movements that require balance and coordination, which can improve the function of the nervous system.\\nIncreased Flexibility and Strength: Yoga poses require the use of muscles that may not be utilized in everyday activities. Practicing yoga regularly can lead to increased flexibility and strength, which can improve overall fitness levels.\\nRespiratory Function Improvement: MS can affect respiratory function, but yoga can help improve breathing patterns. Certain yoga practices involve deep breathing exercises that can help increase lung capacity and oxygenation of the body.\\nPain Management: MS can cause pain and discomfort, but yoga can be an effective tool for managing these symptoms. The gentle movements of yoga can help relieve tension and tightness in the muscles, which can reduce pain and improve overall comfort.\\nImproved Overall Health and Well-Being: By providing a range of physical and mental benefits, yoga can improve overall health and well-being for individuals with MS. Regular practice can promote a sense of inner calm and peacefulness, which can positively impact all areas of life.\\n\\nYoga Poses for Multiple Sclerosis Symptom Management\\nSeated or chair yoga poses are ideal for individuals with limited mobility, while standing poses are suitable for those with greater mobility. Focus on poses that improve balance, coordination, and flexibility, such as:\\n\\n1.Child's Pose (Balasana): \\n\\nSit on your heels with your knees apart, and fold your torso forward, resting your forehead on the floor. Stretch your arms forward, palms facing down. Hold for 5-10 deep breaths.\\n\\n2.Cat-Cow (Marjaryasana-Bitilasana): \\n\\nStart on your hands and knees, with your wrists under your shoulders and knees under your hips. Inhale and lift your chest and tailbone towards the ceiling (Cow pose), and exhale, rounding your spine towards the ceiling (Cat pose). Repeat for 5-10 breaths.\\n\\n3.Warrior II (Virabhadrasana II): \\n\\nFrom a standing position, step your left foot back and turn it out 90 degrees. Bend your right knee, keeping it directly over your ankle. Extend your arms out to the sides, and gaze over your right hand. Hold for 5-10 breaths and repeat on the other side.\\n\\n4.Tree Pose (Vrksasana): \\n\\nStand with your feet hip-distance apart, and shift your weight onto your left foot. Place your right foot on your left thigh, and balance here. Place your hands in prayer position at your heart or extend your arms overhead. Hold for 5-10 breaths and repeat on the other side.\\n\\n5.Downward-Facing Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana): \\n\\nFrom a tabletop position, walk your hands forward and lift your hips up and back, forming an inverted V-shape with your body. Press your hands and feet into the ground and hold for 5-10 breaths.\\n\\n6.Warrior I (Virabhadrasana I): \\n\\nFrom a standing position, step your left foot back and turn it out 45 degrees. Bend your right knee, keeping it directly over your ankle. Extend your arms overhead and gaze forward. Hold for 5-10 breaths and repeat on the other side.\n\\n7.Sphinx Pose (Salamba Bhujangasana): \\n\\nLie on your stomach with your elbows under your shoulders and forearms on the ground. Press into your forearms and lift your chest up, keeping your shoulders relaxed. Hold for 5-10 breaths.\n\\n8.Bridge Pose (Setu Bandha Sarvangasana): \\n\\nLie on your back with your knees bent and feet hip-distance apart. Press into your feet and lift your hips up, keeping your arms and shoulders on the ground. Hold for 5-10 breaths.\\n\\n9.Triangle Pose (Trikonasana): \\n\\nFrom a standing position, step your left foot back and turn it out 90 degrees. Extend your arms out to the sides and reach forward with your right hand, placing it on your shin or a block. Gaze up at your left hand. Hold for 5-10 breaths and repeat on the other side.\\n\\n10.Corpse Pose (Savasana): \\n\\nLie on your back with your arms and legs extended. Close your eyes and focus on your breath, allowing your body to fully relax. Stay here for at least 5-10 minutes.\\n\\nBreathing and Meditation Practices for Yoga for Multiple Sclerosis\\nHere are some breathing and meditation practices that can be incorporated into a yoga practice for multiple sclerosis symptom management:\\n\nDeep Breathing: Sit comfortably and take deep, slow breaths through the nose, filling the lungs completely. Exhale slowly through the nose, releasing all the air. Repeat for several minutes.\\nAlternate Nostril Breathing: Sit comfortably and use the thumb to close one nostril while inhaling through the other. Then, use the ring finger to close the opposite nostril while exhaling through the first. Repeat for several minutes.\\nMindful Breathing: Focus on the sensation of the breath as it enters and leaves the body. If the mind wanders, gently bring the focus back to the breath.\\nBody Scan Meditation: Lie down or sit comfortably and bring attention to each part of the body, starting from the toes and moving up to the head. Notice any sensations or tensions and release them as you move through each part.\\n\\nConclusion\\nPracticing yoga can provide many benefits for individuals with multiple sclerosis, including reduced stress and fatigue, improved balance and coordination, and increased flexibility and strength. Incorporating yoga poses and practices into your routine can help manage symptoms and improve overall health and well-being. Remember to consult with a healthcare provider and find a qualified yoga teacher to begin a safe and effective practice."},"category":["fitness"]},{"id":"clg55sr3657wd0airoeszt66q","slug":"yoga-for-carpal-tunnel-syndrom","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"Yoga for Carpal Tunnel: Top 10 Yoga Poses, Benefits, FAQs","subTitle":null,"seoTitle":null,"seoDescription":"Alleviate carpal tunnel symptoms with yoga! Discover 10 poses to reduce pain and improve wrist and hand health. Learn best practices and protect yourself.","readTime":null,"excerpt":"Relieve carpal tunnel with yoga! 10 poses to manage symptoms and improve wrist and hand health.","tags":[],"createdAt":"2023-04-06T13:33:53.820514+00:00","coverUrl":"fyzezortjqar8ovbd4vf.jpg","content":{"text":"Do you ever experience pain or tingling in your hands and fingers? It could be carpal tunnel syndrome, a common condition that affects many people who use their hands and wrists frequently. Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by the compression of the median nerve in the wrist, which can lead to discomfort, numbness, and weakness in the hand and fingers.\\nFortunately, yoga can offer a natural and effective way to manage carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms. In this article, we'll explore some yoga poses and practices that can help relieve pain and improve flexibility in the wrists and hands.\n\n\\nBenefits of Yoga for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome\\nYoga has many benefits for overall health and wellness, and it can be particularly helpful for managing carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms. Here are just a few of the benefits:\\nReducing pain:\\n Certain yoga poses can help stretch and strengthen the muscles in the wrist and hand, which can reduce pain and discomfort.\\nImproving flexibility: \\nTight muscles and tendons in the wrist and hand can exacerbate carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms, but yoga can help improve flexibility and mobility.\\nReducing stress:\\n Stress and tension in the body can contribute to carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms, but yoga can help reduce stress levels and promote relaxation.\n\\n\\nYoga Poses for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Relief\\nYoga poses, or asanas, can be a powerful tool for managing carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms. Here are a few poses to try:\\n\n\\n1.Gomukhasana (Cow Face Pose): \\n\\nThis pose can help stretch the wrists and forearms, reducing pain and stiffness. To perform this pose, sit on the floor with your legs extended in front of you. Bend your right knee and place your right foot on the floor, outside your left thigh. Bring your left heel toward your right buttock. Cross your left arm over your right arm and bring your palms together. Hold for 5-10 breaths, then switch sides.\\n\n\\n2.Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward-Facing Dog Pose): \\n\\nThis pose can help stretch the muscles in the hands, wrists, and arms, improving flexibility and reducing pain. Start on your hands and knees, with your wrists directly under your shoulders and your knees directly under your hips. Lift your hips up and back, straightening your arms and legs. Press your hands into the floor and lengthen through your spine. Hold for 5-10 breaths.\\n\n\\n3.Garudasana (Eagle Pose): \\n\\nThis pose can help strengthen the muscles in the hands and wrists, which can improve grip strength and reduce pain. To perform this pose, stand with your feet hip-width apart and your arms at your sides. Bring your right arm under your left arm, and bend both elbows to bring your palms together. Cross your right thigh over your left thigh. Balance on your left foot and hold for 5-10 breaths, then switch sides.\\n\n\\n4.Utthita Trikonasana (Extended Triangle Pose): \\n\\nThis pose can help stretch the wrists and forearms, promoting flexibility and reducing pain. To perform this pose, stand with your feet about 3-4 feet apart. Turn your right foot out 90 degrees and your left foot in slightly. Reach your right arm forward and hinge at your hip to reach your right hand toward your right shin or the floor. Extend your left arm straight up toward the ceiling. Hold for 5-10 breaths, then switch sides.\\n\n\\n5.Padangusthasana (Big Toe Pose): \\n\\nThis pose can help stretch the muscles in the hands, wrists, and arms, improving flexibility and reducing pain. To perform this pose, stand with your feet hip-width apart. Inhale and lift your arms up overhead. Exhale and fold forward, reaching for your big toes with your hands. Hold for 5-10 breaths.\\n\\n6.Marjariasana (Cat Pose): \\n\\nThis pose can help stretch and mobilize the wrists, reducing stiffness and promoting flexibility. To perform this pose, start on your hands and knees, with your wrists directly under your shoulders and your knees directly under your hips. Inhale and arch your back, lifting your tailbone and dropping your belly. Exhale and round your spine, tucking your chin to your chest. Repeat for several breaths.\n\\n7.Bitilasana (Cow Pose): \\n\\nThis pose can help stretch and mobilize the wrists, reducing stiffness and promoting flexibility. To perform this pose, start on your hands and knees, with your wrists directly under your shoulders and your knees directly under your hips. Inhale and arch your back, lifting your tailbone and dropping your belly. Hold for a breath or two, then return to neutral spine.\n\\n8.Matsyasana (Fish Pose):\\n\\nThis pose can help stretch the chest and shoulders, relieving tension in the upper body and reducing carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms. To perform this pose, lie on your back with your knees bent and your feet flat on the floor. Lift your hips and slide your hands, palms down, under your buttocks. Press your forearms and elbows into the floor and lift your chest. Hold for 5-10 breaths.\\n\\n9.Baddha Konasana (Butterfly Pose):\\n \\n\\nThis pose can help stretch the inner thighs, hips, and groin, which can alleviate pressure on the wrists and hands. To perform this pose, sit on the floor with the soles of your feet together and your knees bent out to the sides. Hold your ankles or feet with your hands and gently press your knees down toward the floor. Hold for 5-10 breaths.\n\\n10\\n.\\nUttanasana (Standing Forward Bend)\\n: \\n\\nThis pose can help stretch the muscles in the hands, wrists, and arms, reducing stiffness and promoting flexibility. To perform this pose, stand with your feet hip-width apart. Inhale and lift your arms up overhead. Exhale and fold forward, reaching for the floor with your hands. Hold for 5-10 breaths. If you have difficulty reaching the floor, you can place your hands on blocks or a chair seat.\n\n\\nBreathing and Meditation Practices for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Relief\\nIn addition to yoga poses, breathing exercises and meditation can be helpful for managing carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms. Here are a few practices to try:\\nDeep Breathing:\\n Taking slow, deep breaths can help reduce stress and tension in the body, which can contribute to carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms.\\nGuided Meditation:\\n Guided meditations can help promote relaxation and reduce stress, which can in turn reduce carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms.\\nVisualization:\\n Visualizing the body healing and repairing itself can help reduce pain and promote healing in the wrists and hands.\n\\n\\nTips for Practicing Yoga with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome\\nWhen practicing yoga with carpal tunnel syndrome, it's important to listen to your body and modify your practice as needed. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:\\nUse Props\\n: Props like blocks or straps can help make poses more accessible and comfortable.\\nModify Poses\\n: If a pose is too painful or uncomfortable, modify it or skip it altogether.\\nBe Mindful\\n: Pay attention to your body and how it feels during your practice. If a certain pose or practice is causing pain or discomfort, stop and modify or skip it.\\n\\nConclusion:\\nManaging carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms can be a challenge, but incorporating yoga into your routine can be a natural and effective way to find relief. By practicing yoga poses, breathing exercises, and meditation regularly, you can improve flexibility, reduce pain, and promote relaxation in your wrists and hands. Give it a try and see how yoga can benefit your carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms today!\n\n\\nFrequently Asked Questions about Carpal Tunnel Syndrome\\n\\nQ1. How can yoga help people with carpal tunnel syndrome?\\nAns: \\nYoga is a great way to manage carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms! Certain yoga poses can help stretch and strengthen the muscles in the wrists, hands, and arms, which can relieve pressure on the median nerve and reduce symptoms like pain, numbness, and tingling. Plus, practicing yoga can help reduce inflammation, increase flexibility, and improve circulation in the affected area.\\n\\nQ2. What yoga poses should you avoid with carpal tunnel?\\nAns:\\n If you have carpal tunnel syndrome, it's important to avoid yoga poses that put too much pressure on the wrists or require excessive bending or flexing of the hands. Poses like Chaturanga Dandasana (Four-Limbed Staff Pose), Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward-Facing Dog Pose), and Plank Pose can worsen carpal tunnel symptoms and should be avoided. Instead, focus on poses that gently stretch and strengthen the wrists and hands.\n\\nQ3.What are the best practices for carpal tunnel?\\nAns:\\n In addition to practicing yoga, there are several other best practices for managing carpal tunnel syndrome. These include taking frequent breaks from repetitive tasks that strain the wrists and hands, using ergonomic tools and equipment to reduce strain, maintaining good posture, and engaging in regular exercise and stretching to promote overall health and flexibility. It's important to take care of yourself both on and off the mat!\n\\nQ4.How can you protect yourself from carpal tunnel?\\nAns:\\n There are several steps you can take to protect yourself from developing carpal tunnel syndrome. Using ergonomic tools and equipment, taking frequent breaks from repetitive tasks, and maintaining good posture can all help reduce your risk. Engaging in regular exercise and stretching can also help keep your hands and wrists healthy and flexible. Remember to listen to your body and take action if you notice any symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, such as pain, numbness, or tingling in the hands or wrists. A healthcare provider can help diagnose and treat any issues before they become more serious."},"category":["fitness"]},{"id":"clg3manw0c2300bk8q089x7gd","slug":"yoga-for-improved-mobility","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"Top 10 Yoga Poses for Improved Mobility: Unlock Your Body's Potential","subTitle":null,"seoTitle":null,"seoDescription":"Yoga is an incredibly efficient tool for improving your mobility for the better, regardless of your age, background, or ability.","readTime":null,"excerpt":"Learn about the best yoga poses for improving your mobility.\n","tags":[],"createdAt":"2023-04-05T11:40:10.955124+00:00","coverUrl":"mo0n5st8ek3dj2p0m8ib.jpg","content":{"text":"We know that yoga can help elevate your mental and emotional wellbeing, but it’s actually an incredibly efficient tool for improving your mobility for the better, regardless of your age, background, or ability.\\nWhat do we mean by mobility, and why is it important? Mobility refers to the level of ease with which you can move your body. This affects your ability to walk, run, lift, and engage in physical activities like sports, dancing, or just playing in the backyard with your kids or grandkids. Your level of mobility directly translates to your overall well-being, and it can greatly influence whether or not you experience chronic pain.\\n\\nHow Yoga Improves Mobility?\\nA typical yoga practice includes performing a holistic routine of stretches that work to improve your flexibility, balance, and strength — which all directly impact your mobility. Let’s break down how each of those factors work.\\nFlexibility refers to the range of motion between your joints and muscles, and an inflexible body is rigid, stiff, and achy, with a relatively small range of motion. A regular yoga routine can help lengthen and strengthen your muscles, improving your range of motion while preventing injury and reducing your risk for chronic pain. Along with increasing mobility, improving your flexibility also puts less strain on your body overall.\\nBuilding strength is crucial to achieve better mobility, since stronger muscles give you better stability, balance, and control over your movements. Yoga targets muscle groups and makes them stronger, more toned, and more capable of increased movement with more control. Increasing strength also helps prevent injury, improves your sense of balance, and reduces your risk for issues later in life – like osteoporosis.\\nIt may be surprising to learn that yogic breathing can also help improve your mobility. By calming your mind, improving your awareness, and relaxing your body, you can build a greater connection with your physical self and reduce tension. This can lead to an increase in your range of motion and a better understanding of your personal limitations.\\nThe best part about yoga is that it's low impact, and it's approachable for everyone. It doesn’t matter how old you are, or whether or not you’re a beginner. You can start out with slow, gentle movements that can greatly improve your mobility without the risk of injury. You can also practice yoga in the comfort of your own home, by following the sequence below or working with one of the many qualified yoga instructors available here at \\nMyYogaTeacher\\n.\\n\\nYoga Poses for Better Mobility\\nTo get started practicing yoga for improved physical mobility, try performing the poses below several times per week over an extended period of time. \\n1.Sun Salutations\\n\\nStart at the top of your mat in Mountain pose, with your hands in prayer position. With flowing, dynamic movement, progress through the following postures 3 or more times:\\nUpward Salute\\nStanding Half-Forward Bend\\nStanding Forward Fold\\nLow Lunge (left foot forward)\\nPlank\\nFour-Limbed Staff pose\\nUpward Facing Dog or Cobra\\nDownward Facing Dog\\nLow Lunge (right foot forward)\\nStanding Half-Forward Bend\\nStanding Forward Fold\\nUpward Salute\\nReturn to Mountain pose\\nRepeat\\n\\n2. Chair Pose\\n\\nStand in Mountain pose at the top of your mat, with your hands at your sides and feet hip distance apart. As you inhale, raise your hands over your head, with your arms parallel with your ears. As you exhale, hinge slightly at your waist, bend your knees and lower your torso forward as if you were about to sit down in a chair. Keep your core engaged and your spine straight while you hold this posture for several breaths.\\n\\n3. Downward Facing Dog\\n\\nStart in a tabletop position, with your hands and knees on your mat. Push up from your hands and knees, lifting your hips until you are balanced on your hands and feet, with your body resembling an inverted “v.” Keep your head in between your arms, ears balanced over your shoulders, and stay in this pose for several breaths.\\n\\n4. Low Lunge\\n\\nFrom your position in Downward Dog, you can easily transition to Low Lunge by bringing your left foot forward and bending your left leg at the knee. With your right leg behind you, gently kneel on your right knee. Inhale as you reach your arms up over your head, parallel with your ears. Expand your chest, lengthen your spine, keep your chin level and your gaze focused forward in front of you.\\n\\n5. Plank\\n\\nLie face down on your mat, and using your palms to push up from the floor, lift your body until you are balanced on your palms and the toes of your feet. In this pose, your body should be positioned in a straight line, with your gaze directed at the floor in front of you. Hold for a few breaths, or for 30-60 seconds if you are feeling strong in this pose.\\n\\n6. Cobra Pose\\n\\nStart by laying with your stomach facing down on the floor, with your legs straight and your arms folded under your head. Place your palms on the mat parallel to your chest. Slightly lift your head off the mat, keeping your head and back aligned, and press your thighs together. Now, steadily pull your elbows towards your rib cage keeping your hands underneath your shoulders. With a deep inhale, press your hands into the mat, curl your shoulders backward, and lift your upper body off the mat, arching your back. Hold this position for a few breaths and then rest.\\n\\n7. Cat-Cow Pose\\n\\nStart in a tabletop position with your hands and knees on the floor. Inhale and look up, lifting your chin and gently arching your spine. As you exhale, drop your chin and look down toward your naval as you curl your spine forward. Continue this movement 5-10 times.\\n\\n8. Bow Pose\\n\\nLie down on your stomach with your forehead against the mat and your hands resting at your sides. Inhale and engage your core, slightly lifting your torso up, bending your legs and grabbing your ankles with each hand. Open your chest and lift your chin, so that your gaze is facing forward. Maintain a steady breath while holding this pose, allowing your body to gently rock back and forth with each inhale and exhale. Release after 20-30 seconds.\\n\\n9. Bridge Pose\\n\\nStart by lying on your back with your knees bent. On your next exhale, tuck your chin and lift your hips, being careful not to allow your knees to splay outward. Interlace your fingers on the floor underneath you and lift your hips higher, while staying in the pose for 5-10 breaths.\\n\\n10. Corpse Pose\\n\\nSit on your yoga mat and lower your body to the floor, relaxing your legs and letting your arms rest on the floor at your sides, palms up. Keep your eyes closed and focus on your breathing. Relax the muscles in your face and neck, and visualize every part of your body letting go of all tension. Hold this pose for 5-7 minutes.\\n"},"category":[]},{"id":"clg0gw3o0ycc30ak0rlfm4ea9","slug":"yoga-for-endometriosis","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"Yoga for Endometriosis: 6 Easy Poses to Try at Home","subTitle":null,"seoTitle":null,"seoDescription":"Yoga can help ease symptoms of endometriosis, and it’s a great option for women who are looking for a low-risk, low impact way to cope with the condition.","readTime":null,"excerpt":"Learn the best yoga poses for endometriosis symptoms.\n","tags":[],"createdAt":"2023-04-03T06:45:34.990165+00:00","coverUrl":"htglzgglkwtr6is6mzmi.jpg","content":{"text":"Endometriosis is a disorder that affects about 190 million women worldwide, causing painful periods, infertility, and other severe symptoms that can significantly reduce the overall quality of their lives. While science is still working to fully understand endometriosis, right now there are a few ways in which women can manage the symptoms of this painful condition, including medication, surgery and various forms of therapy. Yoga can also help ease symptoms, and it’s a great option for women who are looking for a low-risk, low impact way to cope with endometriosis.\\nYoga helps reduce the troubling symptoms of endometriosis in a few different ways. The overall practice of yoga activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for operating the body's relaxation and digestive responses. These responses tell your body to slow down and rest, which are crucial when it comes to reducing the pain, anxiety, and stress that comes with endometriosis.\\nYoga also enhances blood flow to your reproductive organs, which can help reduce inflammation and promote healing. Yoga poses work to stretch the muscles and tissues around your uterus and ovaries, which can help reduce the intensity and duration of menstrual cramps. Endometriosis commonly causes intense chronic pain in the pelvis, lower back, and hips, which yoga can help alleviate through gentle stretches and movement that help open up and relax the muscles in these areas.\\nEndometriosis can also cause infertility due to scarring around the reproductive organs, but yoga can help offset this issue by increasing blood flow to the area and lowering inflammation. Yoga also works to balance your hormones by reducing cortisol and other stress hormones and regulating your menstrual cycle.\\nIn terms of mental health, yoga is one of the most effective tools in managing anxiety and depression, which are common symptoms of endometriosis. This condition can cause immense chronic pain, which typically results in emotional distress that yoga can help alleviate. Yoga sends signals to your mind and body that encourage both to relax, reducing tension, calming anxious thoughts, and improving your sense of well-being.\\n\\nWhat Types of Yoga are Best for Endometriosis?\\nThere are many different kinds of yoga, but if you’re experiencing symptoms of endometriosis you may want to stick with gentle postures like those you would perform in Hatha, Restorative, Gentle, or Yin yoga. These types of yoga focus on easy, low-impact movement, along with relaxation and stress reduction, and they typically involve some type of yogic breath work – which can also help reduce inflammation and chronic pain.\\nIf you’re considering yoga for managing your symptoms of endometriosis, there are certain precautions you should take in order to avoid making those symptoms worse. While you’re on your period, it’s important to avoid inverted postures that might interrupt or change your body’s natural flow. If a specific posture causes pain or discomfort, exit the pose immediately and take a break. It’s important to listen to your body and avoid any kind of position that doesn’t feel good. If you’re unsure about your alignment or you’d like some guidance on how to practice yoga for endometriosis, you can enroll in an online class or book a private session with one of the instructors here at \\nMyYogaTeacher\\n.\n\\n6 Easy Yoga Poses for Endometriosis\\nIf you’re experiencing the painful symptoms of endometriosis, try the gentle poses below for some relief.\\n1.Child’s Pose\\n\\nStart on your hands and knees and then lower yourself down so that your backside is resting on your heels, and your big toes are touching each other. Move your hands forward, palms down, so that your forehead is resting on the floor. Allow your spine to lengthen and your neck muscles to fully relax. Breathe deeply and mindfully while staying in this pose for 5-6 minutes.\n\\n2. Cat-Cow Pose\\n\\nStart in a tabletop position with your hands and knees on the floor. Inhale and look up, lifting your chin and gently arching your spine. As you exhale, drop your chin and look down toward your naval as you curl your spine forward. Continue this movement 5-10 times.\\n\\n3. Fixed Angle Pose\\n\\nSit on your yoga mat with your knees bent and the soles of your feet pressed against each other. With your spine straight, press your hands behind you and gently open up your chest and tuck in your abdomen. Hold the pose for 1-2 minutes.\\n\\n4. Seated Forward Fold Pose\\n\\nSit in the center of your mat with your legs stretched out in front of you. Take a deep inhale and raise your arms directly over your head. As you exhale, slowly lean forward and place your head and chest on top of your legs, and grab your big toes with both of your hands. Tuck your chin and curl abdomen, relaxing your lower back as you sink into this pose. Hold for one minute.\\n\\n5. Supine Twist Pose\\n\\nLie on the floor with your knees bent and bring them to your chest. Slowly and mindfully drop your left side while extending your arms outward in a “t” shape. Hold this pose for about 30 seconds while breathing mindfully. Bring your knees back to your chest, and then repeat on your right side.\\n\\n6. Legs Up The Wall Pose\\n\\nPlace a folded blanket parallel against a wall. Sit sideways in the middle of the blanket, and turn yourself toward the wall, lifting your legs up and propping them against the wall. Lay back comfortably, rest your head and neck on the floor, and fully straighten your legs. Spread your arms out to your sides with your palms facing up. Allow your chest, abdomen, and pelvis to completely relax. Breathe evenly and mindfully while holding this pose for 5-8 minutes.\\n\\nPranayama for Endometriosis\\nYogic breath work can help ease feelings of stress and anxiety, while giving you tools with which to manage pain. Try these breathing exercises to encourage a sense of calm and relaxation.\\n1.Nadi Sodhana or “Alternate Nostril Breathing”\\nExhale completely, and then place your right index finger onto your right nostril, and breathe deeply in through the left. Alternate and place your thumb over your left nostril, and exhale through your right. Continue alternating, repeating at least 10 times.\\n\\n2. Ujjayi or Ocean’s Breath\\nStart by breathing in through your mouth. As you exhale, pull in your chin in toward your body and so that your throat is partly constricted. Then, breathe in and out through your nose, making a slight sound that is similar to the ocean.\\n"},"category":["yoga_poses"]},{"id":"clg0fojrzxeqr0biq6yvfzdjk","slug":"yoga-for-acid-reflux","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"Yoga and Digestion: 8 Poses to Help Ease Acid Reflux Symptoms","subTitle":null,"seoTitle":null,"seoDescription":"Yoga helps alleviate symptoms of acid reflux and prevent onset by reducing stress and anxiety, activating your digestive system, and improving your posture.","readTime":null,"excerpt":"Learn the best poses for reducing acid reflux.\n","tags":[],"createdAt":"2023-04-03T06:11:42.97583+00:00","coverUrl":"ckauzlgegiwd249grkhg.jpg","content":{"text":"If you experience acid reflux on a regular basis, then you’re already familiar with how it typically unfolds. It often starts with a burning sensation in your chest and the repeated urge to burp and let go of accumulated gas. There are lots of reasons why acid reflux occurs, including a number of lifestyle factors like poor diet and emotional stress. Thankfully, yoga can help manage symptoms and reduce episodes if they are stress-related. \\n\\nHow Yoga Helps with Acid Reflux\\nOne of the ways that yoga helps reduce acid reflux is by reducing stress and anxiety. These are the common culprits for acid reflux, because they cause your body to engage in a cascade of fight/flight/freeze responses that includes increased production of stomach acid. By reducing your stress and anxiety, you can help your body avoid switching on that fight/flight/freeze response.\\nAnother way that yoga can reduce acid reflux is through improving your posture and alignment. Poor posture can contribute to chronic acid reflux by placing too much pressure on your stomach and esophagus. Yoga postures that correct your alignment — like Downward Facing Dog and Standing Forward Fold — help relieve this pressure and prevent the onset of acid reflux. It’s important to note that in order to truly improve your posture, you need to practice these poses regularly and for the long term – over time they can help reduce your risk of developing acid reflux in the first place.\\nYoga can also help regulate your digestive system, which is another factor that contributes to acidity. When food gets stuck in your digestive tract, it can cause gas and bloating, slowing your entire digestive system down, which eventually manifests in your stomach with an acidic reaction. By stimulating your digestive system, you can help your body move and process food smoothly through your digestive tract without gas, bloating, or acidity.\\nOne of the most important ways yoga can help prevent acid reflux is by strengthening your diaphragm, which is the muscle that prevents acid from moving up into your esophagus. When the diaphragm is weak or tense, it can actually allow acid reflux to rise up from your stomach and push its way into your esophagus, which is what causes that uncomfortable burning sensation in your chest. Yoga postures that promote diaphragmatic breathing, such as Seated Forward Fold and Corpse pose can help strengthen this muscle and prevent acid reflux.\n\\n\\n8 Effective Yoga Poses for Acid Reflux\\nIn order to get the most benefit from practicing yoga for acid reflux, it’s recommended that you develop a regular routine that involves performing yoga at least 3-4 times per week for 6-9 months. This isn’t a quick fix, but with a long term commitment you can reduce the onset of acid reflux and improve your overall quality of life.\\nThe poses below are basic, primary yoga poses you can practice in your very own home. If you’re unsure how to practice the postures, or you’d like some professional guidance, try working with one of our certified yoga instructors at \\nMyYogaTeacher\\n.\\n1.Mountain Pose\\n\\nStart by standing at the top of your mat with your feet hip distance apart. Balance your weight evenly on both feet. Keep your arms relaxed at your sides, with your spine straight and your chest lifted. Your gaze should be focused straight ahead of you while you breathe easily and gently. Hold the pose for 1-2 minutes.\n\\n2. Standing Forward Fold\\n\\nStand at the front of your mat, feet hip distance apart. Exhale and bend forward from the waist, with your knees slightly bent and touching your hands to the floor in front of your feet. Inhale and exhale, allowing your torso to extend without rounding your back. Lengthen and soften your neck, and let the muscles of your thighs and lower back open and release any built-up tension. Hold the pose for 1-2 minutes.\\n\\n3. Downward Facing Dog Pose\\n\\nWith your hands and knees on the floor, push your hips upward until you are balancing on your hands and feet, and your body resembles an inverted “v” shape. Reach your heels toward the floor, stretching your hamstrings and activating your thighs. Keep your head between your arms, lengthening your side-body as you stretch. Stay here for several breaths.\\n\\n4. Seated Spinal Twist Pose\\n\\nSitting with your knees bent and your feet tucked in next to your left butt cheek, inhale with your spine straight, lifting your chest. As you exhale, rotate your torso to your right. Position your right hand on the floor just slightly behind you, and rest your left hand on your right knee. On your next breath, rotate a little more as you exhale, turning your head to look over your right shoulder. Hold this pose for 20 to 30 seconds, then repeat on the other side.\\n\\n5. Cat-Cow Pose\\n\\nStart with your hands and knees on the floor. Inhale and look up, lifting your chin and gently arching your back. As you exhale, drop your chin and look down toward your naval as you curl your spine forward. Continue this movement 5-10 times.\\n\\n6. Child’s pose Pose\\n\\nStart on your hands and knees and then lower yourself down so that your backside is resting on your heels, and your big toes are touching each other. Move your hands forward, palms down, so that your forehead is resting on the floor. Allow your spine to lengthen and your neck muscles to fully relax. Breathe deeply and mindfully while staying in this pose for 5-6 minutes.\n\\n7. Seated Forward Fold Pose\\n\\nStart by sitting on your yoga mat with your legs stretched out in front of you. Come onto your sit bones and inhale with a straight spine. Raise your arms over your head and as you exhale, begin to bend forward by hinging at your waist. Slowly lower your torso toward the tops of your legs, allowing your spine to curve forward as you reach your legs. Hold this pose for 30-60 seconds.\\n\\n8. Corpse Pose\\n\\nSit on your yoga mat and lower your body to the floor, relaxing your legs and letting your arms rest on the floor at your sides, palms up. Keep your eyes closed and focus on your breathing. Relax the muscles in your face and neck, and visualize every part of your body letting go of all tension. Hold this pose for 5-7 minutes."},"category":["yoga_poses"]}],"randomPosts":[{"id":"clecs111v4qvx0bk93d35zsqd","slug":"yoga-for-plantar-fasciitis","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"5 Best Yoga Poses for Plantar Fasciitis (Step-by-Step Guide)","createdAt":"2023-02-20T12:11:10.094708+00:00","coverUrl":"mrchmjavj8jqoi8xuv2d.jpg","content":{"text":"Got a pain in your foot? Chronic pain is never a good feeling, particularly when it occurs at the foundation of your whole body — in your feet. And plantar fasciitis is one of the more pesky circumstances of chronic pain, since it most often afflicts people who spend a lot of time on their feet. \\nPlantar fasciitis is caused by inflammation of the tissue that connects your heel with the rest of your foot\\n. It’s common among long-distance runners, dancers, or any other kind of athlete participating in sports that impact the bottom of your feet. Symptoms usually include persistent pain and stiffness, and healing this condition typically requires lots of rest, anti-inflammatories (such as NSAIDs like Ibuprofen and Aspirin) and compression. In some cases, healing may require surgery.\\nIt can take quite a bit of time to recover from plantar fasciitis but most patients heal within a year of onset. But if you’re the type of person who loves to stay active and play sports, that kind of recovery time can feel like an eternity. But there’s good news — you can help your body heal through a combination of the above treatments and other techniques like massage, RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation), shoe inserts, and you guessed it — yoga.\n\\nPracticing Yoga for Plantar Fasciitis\\nStretching your feet and legs can help relieve pain from plantar fasciitis by lowering inflammation, increasing flexibility, and bringing your feet into a more neutral position. However, it’s important to note that while yoga can help with plantar fasciitis, it can also make it worse if practiced incorrectly. Overstretching can cause the tissue in your heel to tear and become even more painful, lengthening your recovery time and doing more harm than good.\\nThat’s why it’s a good idea to speak with your doctor if you’re thinking about practicing yoga for plantar fasciitis, and work with a certified yoga instructor. At \\nMyYogaTeacher\\n, you can book a private, 1-on-1 session with a yoga teacher who can structure a course for your specific condition. If you’re practicing yoga on your own, there are few things you should know before you get started.\\nIf at any time a posture causes increased pain or discomfort, stop practicing the pose immediately and take a break.\\nPay attention to the alignment of your feet and knees. Avoid standing on the edges of your feet or allowing your knees to bow outward or inward. \\nYoga is not a quick fix. Regular practice over time will help heal the condition, but yoga alone is not a cure.\\nKeep it simple. Start with easy poses that gently stretch your feet and calves. Try not to overdo it and remember to be patient with yourself during the process.\\n\\n5 Best Yoga Poses for Plantar Fasciitis\\nAre you ready to get started? If you’ve been cleared by your doctor and you’re just starting on your yoga healing journey, you can try some or all of the poses below to improve your flexibility and reduce pain. Each pose stretches your feet, calves, and connective tissue to release tension and help your body heal.\\n\n\\n1. Mountain pose\\n\\nWhile it may seem deceptively simple, Mountain pose is an integral posture for realigning your knees and feet.\\nStand with your feet hip distance apart, with your spine straight and your gaze facing forward. Pay attention to the soles of your feet — are they firmly planted on the floor? Are you placing your weight unevenly on the outsides or insides of your feet? Concentrate on aligning your knees directly over your ankles, and grounding all four corners of feet into the floor. Breathe and maintain this position for 1-2 minutes.\\n\n2. Downward Facing Dog Pose\\n\\nThis is one of the best poses for stretching your heels, calves and hamstrings. If your legs and feet are particularly tight, make sure to bend your knees and allow yourself to ease into this pose.\\nWith your hands and knees on the floor, push your hips upward until you are balancing on your hands and feet, and your body resembles an inverted “v” shape. Reach your heels toward the floor, stretching your hamstrings and activating your thighs. Keep your head between your arms, lengthening your side-body as you stretch. Stay here for several breaths.\\n \\n3. Standing Forward Fold Pose\\n\\nLike Downward Facing Dog, this pose lengthens your calves and stretches the muscles and ligaments in your ankles and heels.\\nStand at the front of your mat, feet hip distance apart. Exhale and bend forward from the waist, with your knees slightly bent and touching your hands to the floor in front of your feet. Inhale and exhale, allowing your torso to extend without rounding your back. Lengthen and soften your neck, and let the muscles of your thighs and lower back open and release any built-up tension. Hold the pose for 1-2 minutes.\\n\n\\n4. Toe Squat Pose\\n\\nThis pose directly stretches the muscles and tissue in your feet, but should be approached with caution. Start gently and slowly work your way into the stretch. Be careful not to overdo it, and if you feel any pain or discomfort stop and take a break.\\nStart by sitting on your knees in Thunderbolt pose, with your hands resting comfortably on your thighs. Next, shift your weight forward for just a moment while you tuck all 10 of your toes under. Slowly lean back so that your buttocks are rested on your heels, gently applying pressure to the balls of your feet. If this feels uncomfortable or too painful, you can use a folded blanket positioned under your knees for added support. Hold the pose for several breaths or longer if you can.\\n\n\\n5. Legs Up The Wall Pose\\n\\nAlong with stretching your legs and feet, it’s important to also lower the inflammation in your heels so that your fascia tissue can heal. Legs Up The Wall is a relaxing pose that calms your mind and body, and helps reduce inflammation. It can also bring some much-needed relief from chronic plantar fasciitis pain.\\nPlace a folded blanket parallel against a wall. Sit sideways in the middle of the blanket, and turn yourself toward the wall, lifting your legs up and propping them against the wall. Lay back comfortably, rest your head and neck on the floor, and fully straighten your legs. Spread your arms out to your sides with your palms facing up. Allow your chest, abdomen, and pelvis to completely relax. Breathe evenly and mindfully while holding this pose for 5-8 minutes."}},{"id":"ckfqyyhww01wi0126n9chm1xw","slug":"yoga-as-personal-therapy","author":{"name":"Shilpi","teacherMytSlug":"shilpi-1","pictureUrl":"shilpi4.jpg"},"title":"Yoga as Personal Therapy","createdAt":"2019-09-09T00:00:00+00:00","coverUrl":"shilpi4.jpg","content":{"text":"During an agitated and confused time in my life, I glimpsed in asana practice the possibility of refuge. As the practice became consistent over the years, that refuge has gone to open something deeper inside me. \\nYoga\\n became the therapy session I spent with myself, the mat became my world creating a space to reclaim the mind-body connection that the difficult phase of my life had severed.\\n\\nWith qualifications having nothing to do with yoga, a BE (Computer Engineering) and an MBA, I found the next natural transition to train to teach yoga. I completed my Yoga Alliance certified 200 Hr Teacher Training under the guidance of Regeesh and Mrinali at Aayana Yoga Academy, Bangalore. The seeds of this desire to share this practice have sprouted, taken root, and now gradually developing baby shoots in my teaching journey. I teach group, personal and corporate classes in Vinyasa, Hatha and \\nProp Yoga\\n. I also manage the operations of a yoga studio and this has given me the opportunity to interact and work with diverse teachers and learn from them, deal with myriad students and get a perspective from both the teacher and students end.\\n\\nShilpi\\n\\nI believe creativity is not about compartmentalising or remaining in a neatly labeled box. With interests in all things to do with art, craft, handmade, homemade, go-green, recycle-reuse-refuse, veganism, healthy eating, baking, minimalism, zero waste, animal compassion - the list goes on - I am one busy yogi, welcome to my chaos! Yoga remains my anchor to this essence, my steady ship amidst seas of change. I believe that yoga gives you the tools to make your own raft to navigate the stormy seas of life and once steady you can also board on others on your raft to take along the way.\\n\\nEven though the category reads ‘instructor’, I believe I will always be a student attending classes to fine tune my practice and find my teaching style true to the the saying 'you can't pour from an empty cup'. I am grateful to all my teachers - without them I wouldn't have been a student and to all my students - without them I wouldn't have been a teacher. I love the experience that comes with seeing people experience the goodness that yoga brings on the mat. Who needs yoga? Honestly, we all do. If you can breathe, you can do yoga! Every last one of us can benefit from building strength, gaining flexibility, and finding a bit of calm in the day. So let’s make that happen…hop on to your mat!\n\nCheck out our latest \\nMud therapy\\n workshop!\\n"}},{"id":"ckkbfg4e05djn0c71cwzspefh","slug":"yin-yoga-for-back-pain","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"7 Yin Yoga Poses to Cure Back Pain","createdAt":"2021-01-24T17:40:03.942282+00:00","coverUrl":"ckkbfg4e05djn0c71cwzspefh_image_2.jpg","content":{"text":"There is honestly no pain like back pain.\\n\\nThat’s not to say back pain is the worst pain in the world, but it may seem that way to you, as it does to many people.\\n\\nEvery movement you make requires your back, and when it’s injured, tensed up, or spasming, all movements are painful movements.\\n\\nNot to mention the mental and emotional stress that accompanies pain.\\n\\nMany times, structural problems aren’t even the cause of back pain. Actually, stress and immune problems are the most common causes.\\n\\nIt is possible to cure back pain with yoga. Maybe not all back pain, but a lot of it.\\n\\nYin yoga is a slow practice of holding poses while encouraging your muscles to release and relax. It’s also a meditation practice to ease anxiety and stress due to the pain.\\n\\nThe Emotional Connection to Back Pain\\nOften, injury occurs due to unregulated emotions. We’re angry, sad, hurt, anxious, stressed. It affects our posture and how we move. And our body is out of alignment. We make more mistakes and don’t think clearly when we’re experiencing negative emotions.\\n\\nThe flip side of the coin is injuries and pain cause us to be more emotional.\\n\\nWhichever the case, the result is the same. Muscles around the injury spasm and contract to protect the weakened area, which results in pain.\\n\\nAnd the cycle of emotions from pain causes muscle tension which causes more pain. It’s a circle…\\nGood news though! There are plenty of yin yoga poses for back pain you can do to achieve relief.\\nWith that being said, we invite you to try the yin yoga for back pain poses below as a part of a regular yin yoga practice, specifically for lower back pain. Or check out \\nmyYogaTeacher’s Back Pain Program\\n for multiple classes and 3 free 1 on 1 sessions with an expert trainer!\\n[CTA-YIN]\\n1. Butterfly Pose\\n\\nButterfly pose is a common stretch for back pain. Used in many types of yoga practices, this pose also helps stretch and lengthen the neck and release the hip flexor muscles.\\n\\nIn a seated position, bring the bottoms of your feet together and let your knees fall open. Your heels should be a good distance from your body so that the opening between them is a diamond shape.\\n\\nSlowly round your back and fold gently into the pose. Hold for 1-5 minutes.\\n\\n\\n\\n\\n2. Caterpillar Pose\\nCaterpillar pose, aka seated forward bend. This pose is amazing for lengthening the ligaments that run along your spine, as well as your hamstrings. It also compresses your abdomen, aiding in digestion. Bonus.\\n\\nIn a seated position, stretch your legs out straight in front of you, fold forward from your hips. Round your back slowly and drop your head. Allow your legs to relax and your feet to fall inward or outward. Hold for 3-5 minutes.\\n\\n\\n\\n\\n3. Sphinx Pose\\n\\nIf you’re someone who sits a lot or has issues with the curvature of your lower spine, this pose is the one for you. Sphinx pose opens up your chest, lungs, and stretches your lower back. It is also a great pose to replace Cobra Pose if you have weak or sore wrists.\\n\\nLay on your belly with legs straight out behind you, tops of feet stretching out against the floor. Rotate your thighs inwardly by rotating your outer thighs towards the floor. This will help broaden out your back and open the sacrum. \\n\\nThen, set your elbows on the floor underneath your shoulders, forearms out and parallel to each other. Palms flat on the floor. Draw your lower belly away from the floor slightly and gently.\\n\\nHold pose for 1-3 minutes. (See headline image for reference!)\\n\\n4. Banana Pose\\n\\nBanana pose is kind of a whimsical pose that stretches and lengthens the superficial muscles of the lower back and deep back muscles. The goal is to improve shoulder mobility and cure lower back pain.\\n\\nLying flat on your back, legs outstretched, reach your arms above your head and stretch them out towards the wall behind you. Take one hand and grab the wrist of the other arm and pull gently.\\n\\nMove the leg on the same side as the wrist you're grabbing and move it towards the outer corner of your mat. Take the other leg and move it towards the center of the mat and cross your ankle over that of the other one.\\n\\nSo you’ll look like a...banana! Hold for 3-5 minutes.\\n\\n\\n\\n\\n5. Reclining Twists\\n\\nReclining twists are perfect for releasing tension in the lower back and stretching out the hip and gluteal muscles. Don’t underestimate this common pose used in many post exercise routines by people everywhere!\\n\\nBegin by lying flat on your back. Bring your knees to your chest and stretch your arms out in a T, palms up facing the ceiling. Inhale and release your knees over to one side as you exhale. Lengthen your spine down towards the ground. Press your shoulder blades down towards the floor. Hold this pose on each side for 1-5 minutes.\\n\\nIf this yin yoga for back pain pose is too intense using both legs, try extending one leg out and down towards (or onto the floor). Or, if your bottom knee doesn’t reach the ground, try putting a block or blanket.\\nYou'll definitely feel relief from your lower back pain after completing both sides of this pose!\\n\\n\\n\\n\\n6. Eye of the Needle Pose\\n\\nThis is a nice, deep hip opening pose that releases tension in the lower back. Spend some time with this pose on each side. You’ll feel the difference in your back after this yin yoga pose!\\n\\nLay flat on your back, knees up, feet flat on the floor. Cross the right ankle over your left knee, creating a figure four. Lift your left knee up towards your chest and reach through the figure four with your right hand. Reach your left hand around your left thigh and grab your right hand or wrist.\\n\\nBe sure to keep your head on the floor or place a pillow under your head for more comfort! Hold this pose 1-5 minutes on each side.\\n\\n\\n\\n\\n7. Child's Pose\\n\\nEnjoy the deep relaxation and meditation of prayer pose. This yin yoga for back pain pose is adaptable for all levels of fitness and is an excellent stretch for lower back pain.\\n\\nFeel free to use a block, pillow or blanket under your forehead if you aren’t able to rest it comfortably on the floor.\\n\\n\\n\\nThere are many ways to relieve back pain with yoga. Yin yoga is one of the best ways because you spend time in each pose relaxing, breathing, meditating. You become more aware of where you’re holding tension in your body and you’re better able to release it. The meditation aspect also reduces depression, anxiety, and stress. Which is better for your body, including your back.\\n\\nNeed more yin yoga poses than what we’ve provided here? \\nWe invite you to take part of our Back Pain Program, where you’ll get 2 weeks of unlimited group classes.\\nClasses like Yoga for Back Pain, Yin Yoga, Yoga for Core Strengthening, \\nGentle Yoga\\n, and Chair Yoga. \nCheck out our latest article on \\n5 Yin Yoga Poses to Loosen Up Hips\\n\n\nAlso, we feel the best way to relieve back pain through yoga is by working 1 on 1 with a specialized trainer. That’s why with our Back Pain Program, you’ll get 3 free 1 on 1 sessions (a $300 value at any studio)! Learn more about our program here! \\n"}}],"relatedPosts":[{"id":"cl31z7b95pf2h0ck3sna7w2xg","slug":"yoga-for-women-over-50","author":{"name":"Vineeta","teacherMytSlug":null,"pictureUrl":null},"title":"5 Yoga Poses for Older Women: Yoga for Women Over 50","createdAt":"2022-05-11T19:29:46.900088+00:00","coverUrl":"shfqitaozmzufddc6ift.jpg","content":{"text":"Yoga is for every body. And that’s just one of the wonderful things about it! Another wonderful thing is there are\\n specific\\n yoga poses for women, men, children, disabled people, seniors. \\nA yoga practice can be tailored to meet the varying and specific individual needs of a person or of a collective group of people. Here, I’ll be addressing the physical, mental, and emotional needs of women over the age of 50 with yoga poses that are particularly beneficial to them.\\nHi! My name is Vaneeta! I teach a\\n Yoga for Women\\n group class at MyYogaTeacher. Women are the source of life and energy on the planet. And a woman advances through many phases of life from motherhood to \\nmenopause\\n. Women who are entering the stage of life that is after menopause have specific needs that can be addressed with yoga!\\nNot a MyYogaTeacher member? Whether you’re interested in teaching yoga, starting yoga, or growing in your yoga journey, MyYogaTeacher is a great place to do it!\\nWhen you sign up for a 1:1 membership with us you get:\n\\n102 expert\\n, highly qualified yoga instructors to choose from\\nThe ability to switch instructors\\n or take classes with only your faves\\nAccess to unlimited group classes\\n, taught \\nlive\\nPersonalized instruction\\n and work out, diet, and lifestyle plans\\nTo be a member of a HUGE community\\n of happy yogis from around the world\\nYoga teachers who become friends\\n, who truly care about you!\\nIf you haven’t checked us out already, \\ngrab two free 1:1 sessions with your 2-week free trial here\\n!\\nI hope you’ll try some of these yoga poses for women over 50 and then join my class on MyYogaTeacher for more!\\nOne key to doing yoga at an older age is using props that help you remain stable, safe, and aligned. I recommend using blocks and/or a chair along with your mat.\\n\\n\\n\\n1. Cat and Cow Pose\\nCat and Cow pose is great for anyone at any age, but it’s a great way for women to begin warming up their back and abdominal muscles in a way that is gradual and stable. Supporting your weight on all fours is also a great way to keep arm and chest muscles (that maybe don’t get used as much as we age) strong and conditioned. Women over 50 tend to start experiencing stiffness and reduced mobility in their backs, so cat and cow pose is perfect for helping with those issues as well!\\nAdditionally, because cat and cow pose is designed to sync with your breath, it is a great way to cleanse emotionally. Since changes in your body can cause emotional distress, particularly in older women, this yoga pose helps women release those emotions before moving forward with more challenging poses.\\n\\n\\n\\n2. Downward Facing Dog\\nOtherwise known as “Down Dog,” this yoga pose is great for older women because it:\\nStretches out the calves, hamstrings, and back \\nBuilds strength in the arms and chest \\nIncreases flexibility in the shoulders\\nBoosts circulation of oxygen and nutrients to otherwise contracting muscles\\nShoulder joints tend to wear out as women age, which makes them susceptible to injuring their shoulders. Building strength in the arms and chest helps protect those increasingly fragile shoulder joints. \\nEmotionally, down dog instills a sense of empowerment and increases feelings of confidence and accomplishment, two things women over 50 tend to struggle with when they notice the changes in their bodies.\\nAdditionally, once a women passes through menopause, muscles tend to tighten and contract due to reduction in hormones and hormone production. Downward facing dog is a perfect yoga pose for women over 50 because it keeps their leg and back muscles lengthened and promotes good circulation!\\n\\n\n3. Modified Cobbler’s Pose\\nAs women age, it is common for them to encounter knee problems and knee pain, making some yoga poses difficult. However, many yoga poses that increase flexibility and circulation to the hip flexors and hip joints require bent knees. \\nPerforming cobbler’s pose on a block or bolster where your hips are higher than your knees helps decrease the pressure on your knees while still reaping the gentle benefits of hip stretching. You may also choose to put blocks underneath your knees or move your feet further away from your body so that the angle of bend in your knees isn’t as sharp.\\nEither way, this pose is proof that yoga for women over 50 is doable, even if you’re experiencing physical challenges and physiological changes.\\n\\n\n4. Modified Tree Pose\\nBalancing postures are a common theme in many forms of yoga. They help yogis learn how to focus better, increase concentration, and (importantly for older women) strengthen the tiny muscles in our feet and ankles.\\nOlder women may begin to experience balance issues as they age. This is common and normal!\\nThe more you work to strengthen the muscles in your feet and ankles, the less likely you will be to lose your balance! Additionally, yoga for women helps you navigate the mental changes you may experience by helping with memory, focus, and concentration.\\nUse a chair, wall, or other stable object if needed. You may also place your non-standing foot on your calf or even at your ankle until you are comfortable moving it further up.\\n\\n\\n5. Child’s Pose\\nEveryone loves child’s pose! It’s a great stretch for your back, arms, neck, and even hips and glutes. Older women may want to rest their forehead on a block and/or place a blanket underneath their hips to alleviate any discomfort.\\nTaking some much needed time in child’s pose allows women to reflect on how their body feels and release any negative thoughts about the changes that may be occurring in their body as they age.\\nI would love to have you join us in the Yoga for \\nSenior\\n class, where I not only teach a yoga class specifically catered to women’s needs but talk about common issues women face as they transition into and out of different phases of life! also Check out our latest \\nWellness\\n class for seniors!\\nMyYogaTeacher offers 1:1 classes with authentic yoga instructors from the birthplace of yoga, India! And if you haven’t experienced virtual private yoga classes yet, MyYogaTeacher makes 1:1 classes affordable and accessible! PLUS, with your membership, you get:\\nRadiance! More energy, peace of mind, and better health & fitness\\n42+ daily group yoga classes, 100% live!\\nDiscounted yoga workshops, all live and interactive!\\nMaking new like-minded friends from around the world\\n\\nGrab your 2-week free trial and check out your membership options here!\\n\\nNamaste!"}},{"id":"ckfqxl6g801170178mjc0v6h5","slug":"company-mission-culture","author":{"name":"Jitendra","teacherMytSlug":null,"pictureUrl":"jitendra1.png"},"title":"MyYogaTeacher mission & culture","createdAt":"2019-01-26T00:00:00+00:00","coverUrl":"culture1.jpg","content":{"text":"Our mission: Improve physical and mental well being of the entire planet\\n\\n\\nOur commitments to each other\\n\\n1. Genuine care for our customers: Be nice and gentle with the customer. Listen to them before responding. Work on making every interaction a positive one for our customers. E.g. if a customer is not happy with a session and wants a refund - we should accept that they are not happy and give them a refund. E.g. The customer did not like a particular session, even though we think it was great - we should accept customers judgement and try and understand what we can do better to meet customer's expectations and not waste time trying to change the customer's judgement. \\n\\n2. Have fun: We have fun while working. We celebrate our co-workers and celebrate every large and small victory with each other.\\n\\n3. Respect for the each other: We respect each other as \\nindividuals\\n. This means:\\nProfessionalism: We respect and treat each other as professionals. We help everybody grow, train and develop in order to achieve their full potential.\\nAutonomy: Respect everybody's opinions and their ability to make decisions.\\nIndividual worth: Everybody has inherent worth. We do not label or typecast. We give everybody a chance to grow.\\nAffirmation: We affirm positives in each person.\\n\\n4. Frugality: We are frugal in terms of spending money. We do not splurge on things that do not have a direct impact on making customers happy. We are wise with spending our resources.\\n\\n5. Hiring well: Hiring is a key function of the company. We focus, train and reward hiring well to ensure that we give hiring the utmost importance.\\n\\n6. Encouraging risk-taking: We embrace failure as an important part of learning. We realize that big projects require iterations and in such cases, we don't let perfection be the enemy of getting started. If we learned something new by executing fast, taking risk and failing, we are growing. We need not be afraid of failure. Risk taking, executing fast and failing fast is far better. Failure to learn is the biggest negative outcome.\\n\\n7. Understanding the value of time: We are focussed on moving fast as time is the ultimate limited resource. We are always trying to find ways to speed up learning and to reduce time for tasks by planning, collaborating and communicating better.\\n"}},{"id":"ckfqywdiw01uz01794buptfjc","slug":"the-simple-guide-to-the-8-limbs-of-yoga","author":{"name":"Jitendra","teacherMytSlug":null,"pictureUrl":"jitendra1.png"},"title":"The Simple Guide to the 8 Limbs of Yoga","createdAt":"2019-08-06T00:00:00+00:00","coverUrl":"yama-definition-1_45.png","content":{"text":"Yoga is comprised of 8 parts, and each part matters. Asana, which we often think of as \\nYoga\\n, are the postures we do in a class. You’ll notice Asana is only 1 part!\\n\\nDon’t be intimidated by the Sanskrit language for these - when you break it all down, it’s actually simple. It definitely falls into the category of “simpler said than done” but it is a concise guidebook. \\n\\nYamas and Niyamas\\n\\nWe start with the \\nYamas\\n and the Niyamas, which are lovingly called the do and do nots. They fall closely in line with just general good behavior. The purpose of these steps is to build an internal integrity and a clean unruffled perspective. \\n\\nFor example, if you keep your house in good order, it becomes easier for you to move through it. If you keep it very messy and cluttered, you might move slower through your hallways or even have trouble finding things. In this example, the house is your mind and body. The Yamas and Niyamas help you to keep your mind and body in order. \\n\\nAsana\\n\\nThese are the physical postures of yoga. The simple idea is that to maintain the Yogic path of living, you must be healthy. Your body should be strong. Your mind should be open and uncluttered. \\nAsana\\n is a practice that helps us strengthen the bond between the body and mind. \\n\\nPranamaya\\n\\n In Yoga philosophy, Prana is the energy that flows through all things. And before you classify this as new age or spiritual, think of prana as just being “what exists.” Prana is a flow that we all experience. When you are nervous about an upcoming presentation, you feel flutters in your stomach perhaps. This might be a nervous response, but we can symbolically think of this of prana fluttering. When we feel bored, we often also feel heavy and a little sleepy. There are all sorts of physical reasons why - but we can think of this of slow and heavy prana. \\n\\nWith this perspective, Pranamaya helps move this energy around in beneficial ways.\\n\\nIf you feel very nervous, you might notice that taking ten very slow and very deep breaths calms you. This is an example of Pranamaya. \\n\\nPratyhara\\n\\nThis is the practice of training your awareness away from the outside world and turning it inward. We practice Pratyhara by noticing what is going on inside - our habits, our beliefs, our hopes and everything else in between. Here we learn the art of stepping back a little to just notice these internal patterns, doing our best to not criticize them. It can be truly surprising how much change can happen when you just notice something. \\n\\nDharana\\n\\nThis often is referred to as a practice of concentration. We begin to develop the tools for concentration by practicing Asana and Pranamaya. This helps us prepare for meditation. For example, in Asana we concentrate on the pose itself. When practicing Dharana, we might choose an object to singularly focus on. Commonly, concentration on a mantra or even just a single sound can be done. \\n\\nTry Candle Gazing to practice Dharana\\n\\nFind a comfortable seat. \\nGaze\\n at a small flame for a few moments. Close your eyes and focus on the afterimage of the flame. Attempt to think of nothing else other than this image until it disappears.\\n\\nDhyana\\n\\nDhyana follows Dharana as this become a concentration on just the mind. Here, we no longer focus on a thing - we simply have a sharp awareness. We often call this practice meditation or mindfulness. Considering that as humans, we are trained to notice, respond and do so many things with our mind, this practice is absolutely difficult. This is why we first start with Dharana - training the mind to focus and concentrate on a thing before removing that focal point and practicing Dhyana. \\n\\nSamadhi\\n\\nSimply put, Samadhi is experiencing the peace of simply existing. It is being present without stress, anxiety or busy thoughts. There is also a genuine sense of connectedness between you and all other living things. This is the peak moment within the 8limb path - and don’t worry - if you experience Samadhi you won’t be walking around like a zombie with a half-smile. This is an experience that comes and goes and eventually becomes a beautiful backdrop to how you experience your life.\\n"}}],"blogContent":{"id":"cl58ufiqh4nw70cipth71e2fv","slug":"kundalini-yoga-for-breaking-bad-habits","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":null,"pictureUrl":null},"title":"How Kundalini Yoga Helps You Break Bad Habits for Good","createdAt":"2022-07-06T00:09:59.700384+00:00","updatedAt":"2022-07-06T00:09:59.700384+00:00","coverUrl":"aqhpng8xmxojrvkucffv.jpg","seoDescription":"Kundalini yoga specifically helps strengthen intuition and willpower. Several of our expert and experienced yoga teachers at MyYogaTeacher focus specifically on teaching kundalini yoga! Learn more here.","content":{"text":"You have the power to break bad habits. Whether you feel like you do or not, you have the power inside you to make \\nany\\n changes you want in yourself!\\nWillpower is the main source of drive for most people trying to break bad habits.\\nUnfortunately, for most of us, the strength of our willpower ebbs and flows with the ups and downs in our lives! A bad day may lead to emotional eating. A stressful situation may lead to resuming something like smoking. Celebratory occasions may prompt someone who is trying to quit drinking to have “just one drink.” \\nYou’re not weak when you “fall off the wagon” from breaking whatever bad habit you’ve been working on breaking. You’re \\nnormal\\n.\\nThe secret of breaking bad habits is to be able to control your physical, mental, and emotional self no matter the ebbs and flows of life. So that the willpower you rely on to help you break bad habits is more stable and not subject to change on a whim.\\nYoga helps you break bad habits for sure! You certainly have more control over your emotions, better self awareness, a healthier mindset, and more harmony in your life. However, kundalini yoga specifically helps strengthen intuition and willpower.\\nSeveral of our expert and experienced yoga teachers at MyYogaTeacher focus specifically on teaching kundalini yoga! They understand that many people struggle with breaking bad habits and creating positive changes in their lives that last and want to help their students do just that.\\nNot a MyYogaTeacher member? Whether you’re interested in teaching yoga, starting yoga, or growing in your yoga journey, MyYogaTeacher is a great place to do it!\\nWhen you sign up for a 1:1 membership with us you get:\\n102 expert\\n, highly qualified yoga instructors to choose from\\nThe ability to switch instructors\\n or take classes with only your faves\\nAccess to unlimited group classes\\n, taught \\nlive\\nPersonalized instruction\\n and work out, diet, and lifestyle plans\\nTo be a member of a HUGE community\\n of happy yogis from around the world\\nYoga teachers who become friends\\n, who truly care about you!\\nIf you haven’t checked us out already, \\ngrab two free 1:1 sessions with your 2-week free trial here\\n!\\nLet’s talk about how kundalini yoga will help you break bad habits now and in the future (and permanently)\\n\\n\\nKundalini yoga and meditation focuses on repetitive behaviors\\nIn the physical aspect of a kundalini yoga practice, you’ll not only repeat asanas, but you’ll also hold poses for longer periods of time. Sometimes even up to five minutes!\\nDeveloping the mental and physical fortitude that is required to repeat poses in a structured flow on a regular basis is an excellent way to teach yourself how to kick bad habits and replace them with healthier ones.\\nBy committing to these repetitive movements, you are training your mind and entire nervous system to resist the temptation to give up. This is an important aspect to breaking bad habits and building new ones.\\nRemember, breaking a bad habit isn’t just about ending a cycle of negative repetitive behaviors. It’s also about \\ncreating a cycle of positive ones\\n!\\nAdditionally, there is always a meditative aspect to any traditional kundalini yoga practice, where you will learn chants, repeat chants, and learn breathing techniques you’ll use in times of stress, emotional upheaval, and/or when you’re feeling tempted to cave to whatever habit you’re trying to break.\\nWhich leads us to…\\n\n\\n\\nKundalini yoga improves your mood\\nHave you ever noticed if you’re going to give into temptation, \\nmost of the time\\n, it’s when you’re sad, mad, anxious, depressed, or stressed? Yes, of course we cave at celebrations too or at events when we’re happy. \\nBut we are certainly more inclined to stick to our guns when we’re in a good mood, feeling good about ourselves, or feeling accomplished.\\nA regular kundalini yoga practice entails a very spiritual (not religious) meditation and includes several different types of breathwork. Both of these aspects of yoga have been proven by scientific research to reduce stress and improve, or even eliminate, feelings of depression, anxiety, anger, and frustration. The reduction of negative emotions and the improvement of mental and emotional health are part of what makes kundalini yoga perfect for helping people stop bad habits for good!\\n\n\\n\\nKundalini yoga requires physical and mental strength\\nWhen you think about ending bad habits for good, maybe doing something that you \\nknow\\n requires significant effort to help you do so isn’t the first thing you think about. Because why take something hard like breaking a bad habit and make it harder, right?\\nWrong.\\nPart of the reason people struggle with permanently changing their habits is because they haven’t “exercised” the part of themselves that are needed to make the change for good. You don’t make physical changes without changing your diet or physical activity levels. And those changes aren’t maintained if you quit doing the things you did to make the change to begin with.\\nIt is the same for breaking bad habits! Kundalini yoga and meditation is a tool to keep your physical, mental, and emotional health strong so that you are more easily able to not just break \\none\\n bad habit, but any that you want to. \\nKundalini yoga requires you to use physical and mental strength and helps you maintain and grow in the areas you need to grow so you can create permanent positive changes in your life.\\n\n\\n\\n\nMany find kundalini yoga and meditation challenging, but they also walk away from their practice enlightened, strengthened, more relaxed, and prepared to live presently and positively in their life.\\nAt MyYogaTeacher, there are many amazing and experienced yoga instructors who work with yogis every single day on how to break bad habits. Many are experts in kundalini yoga and meditation and guide MyYogaTeacher students in this very special type of practice.\\nIf you’re interested in how to strengthen your physical, mental, and emotional fortitude so you are equipped to create permanent change in your life, I encourage you to grab your 2-week free trial of MyYogaTeacher! No credit card required.\\nWe offer 1:1 classes with authentic yoga instructors from the birthplace of yoga, India! And if you haven’t experienced virtual private yoga classes yet, MyYogaTeacher makes 1:1 classes affordable and accessible! PLUS, with your membership, you get:\\nRadiance! More energy, peace of mind, and better health & fitness\\n42+ daily group yoga classes, 100% live!\\nDiscounted yoga workshops, all live and interactive!\\nMaking new like-minded friends from around the world\\n\\nGrab your 2-week free trial and check out your membership options here!\\n\\n","html":"<p>You have the power to break bad habits. Whether you feel like you do or not, you have the power inside you to make <em>any</em> changes you want in yourself!</p><p>Willpower is the main source of drive for most people trying to break bad habits.</p><p>Unfortunately, for most of us, the strength of our willpower ebbs and flows with the ups and downs in our lives! A bad day may lead to emotional eating. A stressful situation may lead to resuming something like smoking. Celebratory occasions may prompt someone who is trying to quit drinking to have “just one drink.” </p><p>You’re not weak when you “fall off the wagon” from breaking whatever bad habit you’ve been working on breaking. You’re <em>normal</em>.</p><p>The secret of breaking bad habits is to be able to control your physical, mental, and emotional self no matter the ebbs and flows of life. So that the willpower you rely on to help you break bad habits is more stable and not subject to change on a whim.</p><p>Yoga helps you break bad habits for sure! You certainly have more control over your emotions, better self awareness, a healthier mindset, and more harmony in your life. However, kundalini yoga specifically helps strengthen intuition and willpower.</p><p>Several of our expert and experienced yoga teachers at MyYogaTeacher focus specifically on teaching kundalini yoga! They understand that many people struggle with breaking bad habits and creating positive changes in their lives that last and want to help their students do just that.</p><p>Not a MyYogaTeacher member? Whether you’re interested in teaching yoga, starting yoga, or growing in your yoga journey, MyYogaTeacher is a great place to do it!</p><p>When you sign up for a 1:1 membership with us you get:</p><ul><li><div><p><strong>102 expert</strong>, highly qualified yoga instructors to choose from</p></div></li><li><div><p><strong>The ability to switch instructors</strong> or take classes with only your faves</p></div></li><li><div><p><strong>Access to unlimited group classes</strong>, taught <em><strong>live</strong></em></p></div></li><li><div><p><strong>Personalized instruction</strong> and work out, diet, and lifestyle plans</p></div></li><li><div><p><strong>To be a member of a HUGE community</strong> of happy yogis from around the world</p></div></li><li><div><p><strong>Yoga teachers who become friends</strong>, who truly care about you!</p></div></li></ul><p>If you haven’t checked us out already, <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/\"><u>grab two free 1:1 sessions with your 2-week free trial here</u></a>!</p><p>Let’s talk about how kundalini yoga will help you break bad habits now and in the future (and permanently)</p><img src=\"https://media.graphassets.com/kITMhijoSUq4FZr4nEBZ\" alt=\"_RB_8511.jpg\" title=\"_RB_8511.jpg\" width=\"7008\" height=\"4672\" /><p></p><h2>Kundalini yoga and meditation focuses on repetitive behaviors</h2><p>In the physical aspect of a kundalini yoga practice, you’ll not only repeat asanas, but you’ll also hold poses for longer periods of time. Sometimes even up to five minutes!</p><p>Developing the mental and physical fortitude that is required to repeat poses in a structured flow on a regular basis is an excellent way to teach yourself how to kick bad habits and replace them with healthier ones.</p><p>By committing to these repetitive movements, you are training your mind and entire nervous system to resist the temptation to give up. This is an important aspect to breaking bad habits and building new ones.</p><p>Remember, breaking a bad habit isn’t just about ending a cycle of negative repetitive behaviors. It’s also about <em>creating a cycle of positive ones</em>!</p><p>Additionally, there is always a meditative aspect to any traditional kundalini yoga practice, where you will learn chants, repeat chants, and learn breathing techniques you’ll use in times of stress, emotional upheaval, and/or when you’re feeling tempted to cave to whatever habit you’re trying to break.</p><p>Which leads us to…</p><p><br></p><img src=\"https://media.graphassets.com/gv3mtwAiQESqr4Q6SSdw\" alt=\"IMG_2317.JPG\" title=\"IMG_2317.JPG\" width=\"6240\" height=\"4160\" /><h2>Kundalini yoga improves your mood</h2><p>Have you ever noticed if you’re going to give into temptation, <em>most of the time</em>, it’s when you’re sad, mad, anxious, depressed, or stressed? Yes, of course we cave at celebrations too or at events when we’re happy. </p><p>But we are certainly more inclined to stick to our guns when we’re in a good mood, feeling good about ourselves, or feeling accomplished.</p><p>A regular kundalini yoga practice entails a very spiritual (not religious) meditation and includes several different types of breathwork. Both of these aspects of yoga have been proven by scientific research to reduce stress and improve, or even eliminate, feelings of depression, anxiety, anger, and frustration. The reduction of negative emotions and the improvement of mental and emotional health are part of what makes kundalini yoga perfect for helping people stop bad habits for good!</p><p><br></p><img src=\"https://media.graphassets.com/FEC358GGQPOQdjisitXf\" alt=\"_RB_8008.jpg\" title=\"_RB_8008.jpg\" width=\"7008\" height=\"4672\" /><h2>Kundalini yoga requires physical and mental strength</h2><p>When you think about ending bad habits for good, maybe doing something that you <em>know</em> requires significant effort to help you do so isn’t the first thing you think about. Because why take something hard like breaking a bad habit and make it harder, right?</p><p>Wrong.</p><p>Part of the reason people struggle with permanently changing their habits is because they haven’t “exercised” the part of themselves that are needed to make the change for good. You don’t make physical changes without changing your diet or physical activity levels. And those changes aren’t maintained if you quit doing the things you did to make the change to begin with.</p><p>It is the same for breaking bad habits! Kundalini yoga and meditation is a tool to keep your physical, mental, and emotional health strong so that you are more easily able to not just break <em>one</em> bad habit, but any that you want to. </p><p>Kundalini yoga requires you to use physical and mental strength and helps you maintain and grow in the areas you need to grow so you can create permanent positive changes in your life.</p><p><br></p><img src=\"https://media.graphassets.com/4zvgodtRSWuYVzKL39p9\" alt=\"_RB_9042.jpg\" title=\"_RB_9042.jpg\" width=\"7008\" height=\"4672\" /><p><br>Many find kundalini yoga and meditation challenging, but they also walk away from their practice enlightened, strengthened, more relaxed, and prepared to live presently and positively in their life.</p><p>At MyYogaTeacher, there are many amazing and experienced yoga instructors who work with yogis every single day on how to break bad habits. Many are experts in kundalini yoga and meditation and guide MyYogaTeacher students in this very special type of practice.</p><p>If you’re interested in how to strengthen your physical, mental, and emotional fortitude so you are equipped to create permanent change in your life, I encourage you to grab your 2-week free trial of MyYogaTeacher! No credit card required.</p><p>We offer 1:1 classes with authentic yoga instructors from the birthplace of yoga, India! And if you haven’t experienced virtual private yoga classes yet, MyYogaTeacher makes 1:1 classes affordable and accessible! PLUS, with your membership, you get:</p><ul><li><div><p><strong>Radiance! More energy, peace of mind, and better health & fitness</strong></p></div></li><li><div><p><strong>42+ daily group yoga classes, 100% live!</strong></p></div></li><li><div><p><strong>Discounted yoga workshops, all live and interactive!</strong></p></div></li><li><div><p><strong>Making new like-minded friends from around the world</strong></p></div></li></ul><p><a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/pricing\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/pricing\"><u>Grab your 2-week free trial and check out your membership options here!</u></a></p><p></p>"},"category":["anxiety","emotional_health","meditation","yoga"],"utmCampaign":null,"utmMedium":null,"utmContent":null,"utmSource":null,"utmTerm":null,"utmSearchString":null,"imageHyperlink":[]},"loading":false,"blog_content":[{"type":"HTML","value":"<p>You have the power to break bad habits. Whether you feel like you do or not, you have the power inside you to make <em>any</em> changes you want in yourself!</p><p>Willpower is the main source of drive for most people trying to break bad habits.</p><p>Unfortunately, for most of us, the strength of our willpower ebbs and flows with the ups and downs in our lives! A bad day may lead to emotional eating. A stressful situation may lead to resuming something like smoking. Celebratory occasions may prompt someone who is trying to quit drinking to have “just one drink.” </p><p>You’re not weak when you “fall off the wagon” from breaking whatever bad habit you’ve been working on breaking. You’re <em>normal</em>.</p><p>The secret of breaking bad habits is to be able to control your physical, mental, and emotional self no matter the ebbs and flows of life. So that the willpower you rely on to help you break bad habits is more stable and not subject to change on a whim.</p><p>Yoga helps you break bad habits for sure! You certainly have more control over your emotions, better self awareness, a healthier mindset, and more harmony in your life. However, kundalini yoga specifically helps strengthen intuition and willpower.</p><p>Several of our expert and experienced yoga teachers at MyYogaTeacher focus specifically on teaching kundalini yoga! They understand that many people struggle with breaking bad habits and creating positive changes in their lives that last and want to help their students do just that.</p><p>Not a MyYogaTeacher member? Whether you’re interested in teaching yoga, starting yoga, or growing in your yoga journey, MyYogaTeacher is a great place to do it!</p><p>When you sign up for a 1:1 membership with us you get:</p><ul><li><div><p><strong>102 expert</strong>, highly qualified yoga instructors to choose from</p></div></li><li><div><p><strong>The ability to switch instructors</strong> or take classes with only your faves</p></div></li><li><div><p><strong>Access to unlimited group classes</strong>, taught <em><strong>live</strong></em></p></div></li><li><div><p><strong>Personalized instruction</strong> and work out, diet, and lifestyle plans</p></div></li><li><div><p><strong>To be a member of a HUGE community</strong> of happy yogis from around the world</p></div></li><li><div><p><strong>Yoga teachers who become friends</strong>, who truly care about you!</p></div></li></ul><p>If you haven’t checked us out already, <a\n class=\"inline-cta\"\n id=59fef7ab-126a-407c-b2d3-94fd65b322fb\n href=\"/signup?utm_source=MYT__article&utm_medium=cl58ufiqh4nw70cipth71e2fv&utm_campaign=inline_cta&utm_content=CTA-INLINE&entity_name=How Kundalini Yoga Helps You Break Bad Habits for Good&entity_slug=kundalini-yoga-for-breaking-bad-habits&page_or_popup=/articles/kundalini-yoga-for-breaking-bad-habits&entity_location=hyperlink_midst_of_article&article_cta=CTA-INLINE&from_article_page=true\"\n onclick=trigger_mixpanel_sign_up_cta(\"59fef7ab-126a-407c-b2d3-94fd65b322fb\")\n title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/\" \n data-title=\"How Kundalini Yoga Helps You Break Bad Habits for Good\"\n data-slug=\"kundalini-yoga-for-breaking-bad-habits\"\n <u><u>grab two free 1:1 sessions with your 2-week free trial here</u></u> \n </a>!</p><p>Let’s talk about how kundalini yoga will help you break bad habits now and in the future (and permanently)</p>\n <picture>\n <source \n type=\"image/webp\"\n srcset=\"https://media.graphassets.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:webp/compress/kITMhijoSUq4FZr4nEBZ\" \n alt=\"_RB_8511.jpg\"\n title=\"_RB_8511.jpg\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n <source \n type=\"image/jpg\"\n srcset=\"https://media.graphassets.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:jpg/kITMhijoSUq4FZr4nEBZ\"\n alt=\"_RB_8511.jpg\"\n title=\"_RB_8511.jpg\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n <img \n srcset=\"https://media.graphassets.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:jpg/kITMhijoSUq4FZr4nEBZ\"\n alt=\"_RB_8511.jpg\"\n title=\"_RB_8511.jpg\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n </picture>\n <p></p><h2>Kundalini yoga and meditation focuses on repetitive behaviors</h2><p>In the physical aspect of a kundalini yoga practice, you’ll not only repeat asanas, but you’ll also hold poses for longer periods of time. Sometimes even up to five minutes!</p><p>Developing the mental and physical fortitude that is required to repeat poses in a structured flow on a regular basis is an excellent way to teach yourself how to kick bad habits and replace them with healthier ones.</p><p>By committing to these repetitive movements, you are training your mind and entire nervous system to resist the temptation to give up. This is an important aspect to breaking bad habits and building new ones.</p><p>Remember, breaking a bad habit isn’t just about ending a cycle of negative repetitive behaviors. It’s also about <em>creating a cycle of positive ones</em>!</p><p>Additionally, there is always a meditative aspect to any traditional kundalini yoga practice, where you will learn chants, repeat chants, and learn breathing techniques you’ll use in times of stress, emotional upheaval, and/or when you’re feeling tempted to cave to whatever habit you’re trying to break.</p><p>Which leads us to…</p><p><br></p>\n <picture>\n <source \n type=\"image/webp\"\n srcset=\"https://media.graphassets.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:webp/compress/gv3mtwAiQESqr4Q6SSdw\" \n alt=\"IMG_2317.JPG\"\n title=\"IMG_2317.JPG\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n <source \n type=\"image/jpg\"\n srcset=\"https://media.graphassets.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:jpg/gv3mtwAiQESqr4Q6SSdw\"\n alt=\"IMG_2317.JPG\"\n title=\"IMG_2317.JPG\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n <img \n srcset=\"https://media.graphassets.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:jpg/gv3mtwAiQESqr4Q6SSdw\"\n alt=\"IMG_2317.JPG\"\n title=\"IMG_2317.JPG\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n </picture>\n <h2>Kundalini yoga improves your mood</h2><p>Have you ever noticed if you’re going to give into temptation, <em>most of the time</em>, it’s when you’re sad, mad, anxious, depressed, or stressed? Yes, of course we cave at celebrations too or at events when we’re happy. </p><p>But we are certainly more inclined to stick to our guns when we’re in a good mood, feeling good about ourselves, or feeling accomplished.</p><p>A regular kundalini yoga practice entails a very spiritual (not religious) meditation and includes several different types of breathwork. Both of these aspects of yoga have been proven by scientific research to reduce stress and improve, or even eliminate, feelings of depression, anxiety, anger, and frustration. The reduction of negative emotions and the improvement of mental and emotional health are part of what makes kundalini yoga perfect for helping people stop bad habits for good!</p><p><br></p>\n <picture>\n <source \n type=\"image/webp\"\n srcset=\"https://media.graphassets.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:webp/compress/FEC358GGQPOQdjisitXf\" \n alt=\"_RB_8008.jpg\"\n title=\"_RB_8008.jpg\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n <source \n type=\"image/jpg\"\n srcset=\"https://media.graphassets.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:jpg/FEC358GGQPOQdjisitXf\"\n alt=\"_RB_8008.jpg\"\n title=\"_RB_8008.jpg\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n <img \n srcset=\"https://media.graphassets.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:jpg/FEC358GGQPOQdjisitXf\"\n alt=\"_RB_8008.jpg\"\n title=\"_RB_8008.jpg\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n </picture>\n <h2>Kundalini yoga requires physical and mental strength</h2><p>When you think about ending bad habits for good, maybe doing something that you <em>know</em> requires significant effort to help you do so isn’t the first thing you think about. Because why take something hard like breaking a bad habit and make it harder, right?</p><p>Wrong.</p><p>Part of the reason people struggle with permanently changing their habits is because they haven’t “exercised” the part of themselves that are needed to make the change for good. You don’t make physical changes without changing your diet or physical activity levels. And those changes aren’t maintained if you quit doing the things you did to make the change to begin with.</p><p>It is the same for breaking bad habits! Kundalini yoga and meditation is a tool to keep your physical, mental, and emotional health strong so that you are more easily able to not just break <em>one</em> bad habit, but any that you want to. </p><p>Kundalini yoga requires you to use physical and mental strength and helps you maintain and grow in the areas you need to grow so you can create permanent positive changes in your life.</p><p><br></p>\n <picture>\n <source \n type=\"image/webp\"\n srcset=\"https://media.graphassets.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:webp/compress/4zvgodtRSWuYVzKL39p9\" \n alt=\"_RB_9042.jpg\"\n title=\"_RB_9042.jpg\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n <source \n type=\"image/jpg\"\n srcset=\"https://media.graphassets.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:jpg/4zvgodtRSWuYVzKL39p9\"\n alt=\"_RB_9042.jpg\"\n title=\"_RB_9042.jpg\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n <img \n srcset=\"https://media.graphassets.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:jpg/4zvgodtRSWuYVzKL39p9\"\n alt=\"_RB_9042.jpg\"\n title=\"_RB_9042.jpg\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n </picture>\n <p><br>Many find kundalini yoga and meditation challenging, but they also walk away from their practice enlightened, strengthened, more relaxed, and prepared to live presently and positively in their life.</p><p>At MyYogaTeacher, there are many amazing and experienced yoga instructors who work with yogis every single day on how to break bad habits. Many are experts in kundalini yoga and meditation and guide MyYogaTeacher students in this very special type of practice.</p><p>If you’re interested in how to strengthen your physical, mental, and emotional fortitude so you are equipped to create permanent change in your life, I encourage you to grab your 2-week free trial of MyYogaTeacher! No credit card required.</p><p>We offer 1:1 classes with authentic yoga instructors from the birthplace of yoga, India! And if you haven’t experienced virtual private yoga classes yet, MyYogaTeacher makes 1:1 classes affordable and accessible! PLUS, with your membership, you get:</p><ul><li><div><p><strong>Radiance! More energy, peace of mind, and better health & fitness</strong></p></div></li><li><div><p><strong>42+ daily group yoga classes, 100% live!</strong></p></div></li><li><div><p><strong>Discounted yoga workshops, all live and interactive!</strong></p></div></li><li><div><p><strong>Making new like-minded friends from around the world</strong></p></div></li></ul><p><a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/pricing\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/pricing\"><u>Grab your 2-week free trial and check out your membership options here!</u></a></p><p></p>"},{"type":"CTA","value":"[CTA-DEFAULT]"}],"isSlugACategory":false,"searchCategory":"kundalini-yoga-for-breaking-bad-habits","showPopUp":false,"popUpType":null,"showedPopup":false,"windowWidth":null,"ctaPath":"signup","redirectURL":"#","current_url":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/articles/kundalini-yoga-for-breaking-bad-habits","student_details":"","facebookUrl":"","twitterUrl":"","copyUrl":"","emailUrl":"","ctaContent":[{"id":"ckxrz2i14tov40c25g1dpicsg","name":"[CTA-DEFAULT]","description":{"html":"<p><strong>Get 2 free private yoga sessions and 2 weeks of unlimited group classes</strong> with authentic yoga teachers. No credit card required when you sign up today!</p>"},"title":{"html":"<p><strong>Online Yoga Classes – </strong><u><strong>Live & Interactive</strong></u></p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"},{"id":"ckxrz37hsu0cj0a76mgb4594m","name":"[CTA-FREECLASS]","description":{"html":"<p><strong>Get 2 free private yoga sessions and 2 weeks of unlimited group classes</strong> with authentic yoga teachers. No credit card required when you sign up today!</p>"},"title":{"html":"<p><strong>Online Yoga Classes – </strong><u><strong>Live & Interactive</strong></u></p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"},{"id":"ckxrz4d5stsye0b75dtlx1w0n","name":"[CTA-TRENDS]","description":{"html":"<p>Get ahead of the next trend and practice with authentic Indian yoga teachers! Sign up today and <strong>get 2 free private yoga sessions PLUS 2 weeks of unlimited group classes</strong>. No credit card required when you sign up today!</p>"},"title":{"html":"<p><strong>Online Yoga Sessions – </strong><u><strong>Live & Interactive</strong></u></p><p><strong>Practice with Authentic Indian Yoga Teachers</strong></p><p></p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"},{"id":"ckxrz6nq0tqdr0c258titvagg","name":"[CTA-REVIEWS]","description":{"html":"<p>Find out what all the hype is about! <strong>Get 2 free private yoga sessions and 2 weeks of unlimited group classes</strong> with authentic yoga teachers. No credit card required when you sign up today!</p>"},"title":{"html":"<p><strong>Online Yoga Sessions – </strong><u><strong>Live & Interactive</strong></u></p><p><strong>103,478 Happy Students & 12,086 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reviews</strong></p><p></p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"},{"id":"ckxrz7nzktu400b752fym6wpw","name":"[CTA-HATHA]","description":{"html":"<p><strong>Get 2 free private hatha yoga sessions and 2 weeks of unlimited group classes </strong>(including tons of daily Hatha yoga classes). No credit card required when you sign up today!</p>"},"title":{"html":"<p><strong>Online Hatha Yoga Sessions – </strong><u><strong>Live & Interactive</strong></u></p><p><strong>with Authentic Indian Teachers</strong></p><p></p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"},{"id":"cky90p88g3zgc0d23yz6taont","name":"[CTA-NASAL]","description":{"html":"<p><strong>Get 2 free private sessions </strong>to relieve post nasal drip and clear out your sinus. </p><p><strong>PLUS, 2 weeks of unlimited group classes </strong>with authentic Indian yoga teachers. No credit card required when you sign up today!</p>"},"title":{"html":"<p><strong>Online Yoga Sessions – </strong><u><strong>Live & Interactive</strong></u></p><p><strong>Relieve Post Nasal Drip & Clear Your Sinus Today!</strong></p><p></p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"},{"id":"ckyirvl8g25ce0c70cldmca2g","name":"[CTA-TRATAKA]","description":{"html":"<p><strong>Get 2 free private sessions </strong>with experienced Trataka teachers. </p><p><strong>PLUS, 2 weeks of unlimited group classes </strong>(like ‘Candle Gazing Meditation) with authentic yoga teachers. No credit card required when you sign up today!</p>"},"title":{"html":"<p><strong>Online Yoga Sessions – </strong><u><strong>Live & Interactive</strong></u></p><p><strong>Learn Trataka (Candle Gazing) Meditation Today!</strong></p><p></p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"},{"id":"ckyisqh482ck60b79rp1r1jcg","name":"[CTA-YIN]","description":{"html":"<p><strong>Get 2 free private yoga sessions</strong>, work with an experienced yoga therapist to reduce (and even eliminate) your back pain. <strong>PLUS 2 weeks of unlimited group classes </strong>(like ‘Yoga for Back Pain’) with authentic yoga teachers. 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No credit card required when you sign up today!</p>"},"title":{"html":"<p><strong>Online Yoga Sessions – </strong><u><strong>Live & Interactive</strong></u></p><p><strong> Learn Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced Pranayama!</strong></p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"},{"id":"ckykb6i2o1o7f0b368s1m7qow","name":"[CTA-LYMPHATIC]","description":{"html":"<p><strong>Get 2 free private yoga sessions</strong> for lymphatic drainage & immunity enhancement. <strong>PLUS 2 weeks of unlimited group yoga classes</strong> (including daily yin-yoga) when you sign up today! No credit card required to sign up.</p><p></p>"},"title":{"html":"<p><strong>Online Yoga Sessions – </strong><u><strong>Live & Interactive</strong></u></p><p><strong>for Lymphatic Drainage & Boosting Your Immune System!</strong></p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"},{"id":"cl2vqlpyfe3yh0biohgxyx2hg","name":"[CTA-LEAD]","description":{"html":"<p>Lead Form</p>"},"title":{"html":"<p>Lead Form</p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"},{"id":"cl4gnwnrlga640ck37gutx7sn","name":"[CTA-GC]","description":{"html":"<p>CTA-GC</p>"},"title":{"html":"<p>CTA-GC</p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"}],"post":{"id":"cl58ufiqh4nw70cipth71e2fv","slug":"kundalini-yoga-for-breaking-bad-habits","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":null,"pictureUrl":null},"title":"How Kundalini Yoga Helps You Break Bad Habits for Good","createdAt":"2022-07-06T00:09:59.700384+00:00","updatedAt":"2022-07-06T00:09:59.700384+00:00","coverUrl":"aqhpng8xmxojrvkucffv.jpg","seoDescription":"Kundalini yoga specifically helps strengthen intuition and willpower. Several of our expert and experienced yoga teachers at MyYogaTeacher focus specifically on teaching kundalini yoga! Learn more here.","content":{"text":"You have the power to break bad habits. Whether you feel like you do or not, you have the power inside you to make \\nany\\n changes you want in yourself!\\nWillpower is the main source of drive for most people trying to break bad habits.\\nUnfortunately, for most of us, the strength of our willpower ebbs and flows with the ups and downs in our lives! A bad day may lead to emotional eating. A stressful situation may lead to resuming something like smoking. Celebratory occasions may prompt someone who is trying to quit drinking to have “just one drink.” \\nYou’re not weak when you “fall off the wagon” from breaking whatever bad habit you’ve been working on breaking. You’re \\nnormal\\n.\\nThe secret of breaking bad habits is to be able to control your physical, mental, and emotional self no matter the ebbs and flows of life. So that the willpower you rely on to help you break bad habits is more stable and not subject to change on a whim.\\nYoga helps you break bad habits for sure! You certainly have more control over your emotions, better self awareness, a healthier mindset, and more harmony in your life. However, kundalini yoga specifically helps strengthen intuition and willpower.\\nSeveral of our expert and experienced yoga teachers at MyYogaTeacher focus specifically on teaching kundalini yoga! They understand that many people struggle with breaking bad habits and creating positive changes in their lives that last and want to help their students do just that.\\nNot a MyYogaTeacher member? Whether you’re interested in teaching yoga, starting yoga, or growing in your yoga journey, MyYogaTeacher is a great place to do it!\\nWhen you sign up for a 1:1 membership with us you get:\\n102 expert\\n, highly qualified yoga instructors to choose from\\nThe ability to switch instructors\\n or take classes with only your faves\\nAccess to unlimited group classes\\n, taught \\nlive\\nPersonalized instruction\\n and work out, diet, and lifestyle plans\\nTo be a member of a HUGE community\\n of happy yogis from around the world\\nYoga teachers who become friends\\n, who truly care about you!\\nIf you haven’t checked us out already, \\ngrab two free 1:1 sessions with your 2-week free trial here\\n!\\nLet’s talk about how kundalini yoga will help you break bad habits now and in the future (and permanently)\\n\\n\\nKundalini yoga and meditation focuses on repetitive behaviors\\nIn the physical aspect of a kundalini yoga practice, you’ll not only repeat asanas, but you’ll also hold poses for longer periods of time. Sometimes even up to five minutes!\\nDeveloping the mental and physical fortitude that is required to repeat poses in a structured flow on a regular basis is an excellent way to teach yourself how to kick bad habits and replace them with healthier ones.\\nBy committing to these repetitive movements, you are training your mind and entire nervous system to resist the temptation to give up. This is an important aspect to breaking bad habits and building new ones.\\nRemember, breaking a bad habit isn’t just about ending a cycle of negative repetitive behaviors. It’s also about \\ncreating a cycle of positive ones\\n!\\nAdditionally, there is always a meditative aspect to any traditional kundalini yoga practice, where you will learn chants, repeat chants, and learn breathing techniques you’ll use in times of stress, emotional upheaval, and/or when you’re feeling tempted to cave to whatever habit you’re trying to break.\\nWhich leads us to…\\n\n\\n\\nKundalini yoga improves your mood\\nHave you ever noticed if you’re going to give into temptation, \\nmost of the time\\n, it’s when you’re sad, mad, anxious, depressed, or stressed? Yes, of course we cave at celebrations too or at events when we’re happy. \\nBut we are certainly more inclined to stick to our guns when we’re in a good mood, feeling good about ourselves, or feeling accomplished.\\nA regular kundalini yoga practice entails a very spiritual (not religious) meditation and includes several different types of breathwork. Both of these aspects of yoga have been proven by scientific research to reduce stress and improve, or even eliminate, feelings of depression, anxiety, anger, and frustration. The reduction of negative emotions and the improvement of mental and emotional health are part of what makes kundalini yoga perfect for helping people stop bad habits for good!\\n\n\\n\\nKundalini yoga requires physical and mental strength\\nWhen you think about ending bad habits for good, maybe doing something that you \\nknow\\n requires significant effort to help you do so isn’t the first thing you think about. Because why take something hard like breaking a bad habit and make it harder, right?\\nWrong.\\nPart of the reason people struggle with permanently changing their habits is because they haven’t “exercised” the part of themselves that are needed to make the change for good. You don’t make physical changes without changing your diet or physical activity levels. And those changes aren’t maintained if you quit doing the things you did to make the change to begin with.\\nIt is the same for breaking bad habits! Kundalini yoga and meditation is a tool to keep your physical, mental, and emotional health strong so that you are more easily able to not just break \\none\\n bad habit, but any that you want to. \\nKundalini yoga requires you to use physical and mental strength and helps you maintain and grow in the areas you need to grow so you can create permanent positive changes in your life.\\n\n\\n\\n\nMany find kundalini yoga and meditation challenging, but they also walk away from their practice enlightened, strengthened, more relaxed, and prepared to live presently and positively in their life.\\nAt MyYogaTeacher, there are many amazing and experienced yoga instructors who work with yogis every single day on how to break bad habits. Many are experts in kundalini yoga and meditation and guide MyYogaTeacher students in this very special type of practice.\\nIf you’re interested in how to strengthen your physical, mental, and emotional fortitude so you are equipped to create permanent change in your life, I encourage you to grab your 2-week free trial of MyYogaTeacher! No credit card required.\\nWe offer 1:1 classes with authentic yoga instructors from the birthplace of yoga, India! And if you haven’t experienced virtual private yoga classes yet, MyYogaTeacher makes 1:1 classes affordable and accessible! PLUS, with your membership, you get:\\nRadiance! More energy, peace of mind, and better health & fitness\\n42+ daily group yoga classes, 100% live!\\nDiscounted yoga workshops, all live and interactive!\\nMaking new like-minded friends from around the world\\n\\nGrab your 2-week free trial and check out your membership options here!\\n\\n","html":"<p>You have the power to break bad habits. Whether you feel like you do or not, you have the power inside you to make <em>any</em> changes you want in yourself!</p><p>Willpower is the main source of drive for most people trying to break bad habits.</p><p>Unfortunately, for most of us, the strength of our willpower ebbs and flows with the ups and downs in our lives! A bad day may lead to emotional eating. A stressful situation may lead to resuming something like smoking. Celebratory occasions may prompt someone who is trying to quit drinking to have “just one drink.” </p><p>You’re not weak when you “fall off the wagon” from breaking whatever bad habit you’ve been working on breaking. You’re <em>normal</em>.</p><p>The secret of breaking bad habits is to be able to control your physical, mental, and emotional self no matter the ebbs and flows of life. So that the willpower you rely on to help you break bad habits is more stable and not subject to change on a whim.</p><p>Yoga helps you break bad habits for sure! You certainly have more control over your emotions, better self awareness, a healthier mindset, and more harmony in your life. However, kundalini yoga specifically helps strengthen intuition and willpower.</p><p>Several of our expert and experienced yoga teachers at MyYogaTeacher focus specifically on teaching kundalini yoga! They understand that many people struggle with breaking bad habits and creating positive changes in their lives that last and want to help their students do just that.</p><p>Not a MyYogaTeacher member? Whether you’re interested in teaching yoga, starting yoga, or growing in your yoga journey, MyYogaTeacher is a great place to do it!</p><p>When you sign up for a 1:1 membership with us you get:</p><ul><li><div><p><strong>102 expert</strong>, highly qualified yoga instructors to choose from</p></div></li><li><div><p><strong>The ability to switch instructors</strong> or take classes with only your faves</p></div></li><li><div><p><strong>Access to unlimited group classes</strong>, taught <em><strong>live</strong></em></p></div></li><li><div><p><strong>Personalized instruction</strong> and work out, diet, and lifestyle plans</p></div></li><li><div><p><strong>To be a member of a HUGE community</strong> of happy yogis from around the world</p></div></li><li><div><p><strong>Yoga teachers who become friends</strong>, who truly care about you!</p></div></li></ul><p>If you haven’t checked us out already, <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/\"><u>grab two free 1:1 sessions with your 2-week free trial here</u></a>!</p><p>Let’s talk about how kundalini yoga will help you break bad habits now and in the future (and permanently)</p><img src=\"https://media.graphassets.com/kITMhijoSUq4FZr4nEBZ\" alt=\"_RB_8511.jpg\" title=\"_RB_8511.jpg\" width=\"7008\" height=\"4672\" /><p></p><h2>Kundalini yoga and meditation focuses on repetitive behaviors</h2><p>In the physical aspect of a kundalini yoga practice, you’ll not only repeat asanas, but you’ll also hold poses for longer periods of time. Sometimes even up to five minutes!</p><p>Developing the mental and physical fortitude that is required to repeat poses in a structured flow on a regular basis is an excellent way to teach yourself how to kick bad habits and replace them with healthier ones.</p><p>By committing to these repetitive movements, you are training your mind and entire nervous system to resist the temptation to give up. This is an important aspect to breaking bad habits and building new ones.</p><p>Remember, breaking a bad habit isn’t just about ending a cycle of negative repetitive behaviors. It’s also about <em>creating a cycle of positive ones</em>!</p><p>Additionally, there is always a meditative aspect to any traditional kundalini yoga practice, where you will learn chants, repeat chants, and learn breathing techniques you’ll use in times of stress, emotional upheaval, and/or when you’re feeling tempted to cave to whatever habit you’re trying to break.</p><p>Which leads us to…</p><p><br></p><img src=\"https://media.graphassets.com/gv3mtwAiQESqr4Q6SSdw\" alt=\"IMG_2317.JPG\" title=\"IMG_2317.JPG\" width=\"6240\" height=\"4160\" /><h2>Kundalini yoga improves your mood</h2><p>Have you ever noticed if you’re going to give into temptation, <em>most of the time</em>, it’s when you’re sad, mad, anxious, depressed, or stressed? Yes, of course we cave at celebrations too or at events when we’re happy. </p><p>But we are certainly more inclined to stick to our guns when we’re in a good mood, feeling good about ourselves, or feeling accomplished.</p><p>A regular kundalini yoga practice entails a very spiritual (not religious) meditation and includes several different types of breathwork. Both of these aspects of yoga have been proven by scientific research to reduce stress and improve, or even eliminate, feelings of depression, anxiety, anger, and frustration. The reduction of negative emotions and the improvement of mental and emotional health are part of what makes kundalini yoga perfect for helping people stop bad habits for good!</p><p><br></p><img src=\"https://media.graphassets.com/FEC358GGQPOQdjisitXf\" alt=\"_RB_8008.jpg\" title=\"_RB_8008.jpg\" width=\"7008\" height=\"4672\" /><h2>Kundalini yoga requires physical and mental strength</h2><p>When you think about ending bad habits for good, maybe doing something that you <em>know</em> requires significant effort to help you do so isn’t the first thing you think about. Because why take something hard like breaking a bad habit and make it harder, right?</p><p>Wrong.</p><p>Part of the reason people struggle with permanently changing their habits is because they haven’t “exercised” the part of themselves that are needed to make the change for good. You don’t make physical changes without changing your diet or physical activity levels. And those changes aren’t maintained if you quit doing the things you did to make the change to begin with.</p><p>It is the same for breaking bad habits! Kundalini yoga and meditation is a tool to keep your physical, mental, and emotional health strong so that you are more easily able to not just break <em>one</em> bad habit, but any that you want to. </p><p>Kundalini yoga requires you to use physical and mental strength and helps you maintain and grow in the areas you need to grow so you can create permanent positive changes in your life.</p><p><br></p><img src=\"https://media.graphassets.com/4zvgodtRSWuYVzKL39p9\" alt=\"_RB_9042.jpg\" title=\"_RB_9042.jpg\" width=\"7008\" height=\"4672\" /><p><br>Many find kundalini yoga and meditation challenging, but they also walk away from their practice enlightened, strengthened, more relaxed, and prepared to live presently and positively in their life.</p><p>At MyYogaTeacher, there are many amazing and experienced yoga instructors who work with yogis every single day on how to break bad habits. Many are experts in kundalini yoga and meditation and guide MyYogaTeacher students in this very special type of practice.</p><p>If you’re interested in how to strengthen your physical, mental, and emotional fortitude so you are equipped to create permanent change in your life, I encourage you to grab your 2-week free trial of MyYogaTeacher! No credit card required.</p><p>We offer 1:1 classes with authentic yoga instructors from the birthplace of yoga, India! And if you haven’t experienced virtual private yoga classes yet, MyYogaTeacher makes 1:1 classes affordable and accessible! PLUS, with your membership, you get:</p><ul><li><div><p><strong>Radiance! More energy, peace of mind, and better health & fitness</strong></p></div></li><li><div><p><strong>42+ daily group yoga classes, 100% live!</strong></p></div></li><li><div><p><strong>Discounted yoga workshops, all live and interactive!</strong></p></div></li><li><div><p><strong>Making new like-minded friends from around the world</strong></p></div></li></ul><p><a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/pricing\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/pricing\"><u>Grab your 2-week free trial and check out your membership options here!</u></a></p><p></p>"},"category":["anxiety","emotional_health","meditation","yoga"],"utmCampaign":null,"utmMedium":null,"utmContent":null,"utmSource":null,"utmTerm":null,"utmSearchString":null,"imageHyperlink":[]},"recommendations_group_class":[{"session_uuid":"c825c37b-6acb-4fcf-ae94-56b4f337689e","student_uuid":"3975ccdb-a85e-4ad9-8540-13ca77c16690","teacher_uuid":"1ce0e0c3-33bc-485f-a494-06bfff3b7dda","teacher_name":"Bodhi Abhishek Singh","teacher_first_name":"Bodhi ","teacher_slug":"abhishek-2","teacher_photo":"https://res.cloudinary.com/dgerdfai4/image/upload/v1667926825/teacher/photos/tgz4jsp0x5pa29vvh1sf.png","group_session_name":"Kundalini Yoga -Breathing Movement and Meditation","group_session_description":"In this class we will practice different methods from ancient India, China and Japan for example Tai chi, Qi gong, kundalini yoga.\nThis class not just for physical level but also for mental, emotional and spiritual level.","duration":60,"epoch_time":1681390800000,"local_session_time":"Thu, Apr 13th, 6:00 AM PDT","no_of_participants":4,"group_session_limit":200,"time":"6:00 AM","target_audience":"All Levels","student_created_date":"","student_created_day":"","last_attended_time":"","start_date_std":"2023-04-13","class_page_uuid":"9ba6f9ec-d243-48c2-a3a0-dfe8b71c630d","class_type_uuid":"5a6791e4-7620-42e2-8f2d-71311f7d81bb","allow_booking_by_everyone":0,"featured_in_recommended":0,"teacher_recommendation_score":0,"reco_key":"","reco_val":"","self_booked":0,"group_session_student_uuid":"","banner":"https://images.myyogateacher.com/workshop/shutterstock_605622212@1x.png","bootcamp_workshop_uuid":"","bootcamp_workshop_slug":"","goals":["Ease stress and boost mental health","Sleep better"],"health_keywords":[],"show_book_button":1,"non_member_participants":1,"max_non_member_participants":75,"is_premium_group_session":0,"session_type":"GROUP_SESSION","class_page_slug":"community_class_Kundalini-Yoga-And-Breathwork_Bodhi-Abhishek-Singh_71c630d","class_page_name":"Kundalini Yoga -Breathing Movement and Meditation","hide_from_newbie_trial":0,"hide_from_beginner_trial":0,"recommended_for":"","available_slots":{"day_full":"Thursday, Sunday & Tuesday","day":"Thu, Sun & Tue","days":["Thu","Sun","Tue"],"days_full":["Thursday","Sunday","Tuesday"],"slots":[{"uuid":"c825c37b-6acb-4fcf-ae94-56b4f337689e","duration":60,"epoch_time":1681390800000,"epoch_end_time":1681394400000,"title":"Thu, 13th Apr, 6:00 - 7:00 AM","self_booked":0},{"uuid":"01520490-00f8-47eb-ae16-5e7676dacb07","duration":60,"epoch_time":1681650000000,"epoch_end_time":1681653600000,"title":"Sun, 16th Apr, 6:00 - 7:00 AM","self_booked":0},{"uuid":"aac2535e-940a-41ea-8736-2bac77eedb76","duration":60,"epoch_time":1681822800000,"epoch_end_time":1681826400000,"title":"Tue, 18th Apr, 6:00 - 7:00 AM","self_booked":0}],"session_time":"6:00 - 7:00 AM"},"in_pref_time":0},{"session_uuid":"1efc582f-a043-493a-9875-06aa3f2ffd45","student_uuid":"330eb0b4-c31c-42df-9224-61ffe7d84185","teacher_uuid":"883ef406-5676-4122-8ded-65c3431d66fa","teacher_name":"Sujit Tiwari","teacher_first_name":"Sujit","teacher_slug":"sujit-1","teacher_photo":"https://res.cloudinary.com/dgerdfai4/image/upload/v1670321198/teacher/photos/mvshijhwouwbkg0n9bcn.jpg","group_session_name":"Kundalini Yoga: A Path to Self-Discovery and Transformation","group_session_description":"Experience the powerful transformative effects of Kundalini Yoga. 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