Fall Second Session (6 Classes) : Oct 28 – December 9 (No Class November 11 – Remembrance Day)
Winter 2025 Session (8 Classes) : January 6- February 24
LOCATION:
The St. John’s Royal Regatta Boathouse, 10 Clancy Drive, St. John’s, NL
INVESTMENT:
Fall 6 Class Session $132+HST ($151.80) CAD Winter 8 Class Session $176 + HST ($202.40) CAD
INCLUDES:
60 minute classes held in a supportive environment with ample opportunity to connect with instructor to process or ask questions.
REGISTRATION:
Space is limited so register now and reserve yours (fee is prorated for enrollment mid-session). *Payment is non-refundable. Once payment is received a space will be held for you in each class and registration will be closed for that spot.
Available for those who would like to experience neurogenic yoga in a private setting, or for those wanting to try a single session before deciding to join a class session.
Investment: $120+hst (138.00). Covered by many insurance packages under Naturopath designation. Contact:Bobby@ShaktiYogaMethod.com for more information, to ask questions, or to book a date and time.
Who’s This Class For?
Neurogenic Yoga™ is especially suitable for those experiencing chronic pain, daily stress & long held tension, PTSD. It is also however an opportunity to simply shake off the stress from your day or week as a means of maintaining healthy nervous system balance.
About The Class
Neurogenic Yoga™ is a revolutionary technique to heal trauma and reduce stress. It combines yoga poses and breathing with the body’s body’s natural therapeutic shaking response. The human (and animal) nervous system has an instinctual shaking response that is genetically coded to help us discharge long-held tension and trauma. It is an unconscious muscle contraction that restores the body to wholeness after stressful or traumatic events.
Vibration and shaking in the body automatically occurs when the nervous system identifies threat. Unfortunately the negative social constructs that see shaking and tremoring, as showing vulnerability or weakness, mean that this innate release mechanism is conditioned out of us at a very early age. Neurogenic Yoga reawakens the body’s intrinsic release mechanism to optimize health and wellness.
Class will begin with a 30 minute series of movements. Modifications are offered to ensure this portion is suitable for all bodies and experience levels. Absolutely no yoga experience or ability is needed. These poses will stretch and tire the psoas, and other muscles that are involved in the contraction response that occurs when the nervous system experiences stress, or feels unsafe.
Yoga movements are followed by a lying posture that safely introduces neurogenic tremoring to release physical and emotional stress and tension. Vibration usually begins in the legs and may spread throughout the entire body to release long held tension. This method is based on Dr. David Berceli’s technique of Trauma Releasing Exercises® (TRE®).
This class provides:
Six 60 minute classes in a calm and supportive environment.
Bring your yoga partner whether he/she is dad, mom, nana, or close friend to your growing baby. Choose someone you are comfortable touching and being in close proximity with. Prenatal Couples Yoga is suitable for all experience levels and body types. Even absolute beginners will be able to enjoy this bonding evening of gentle stretches, strengthening movements, breath focus and relaxation. This is an evening of family wellness and connection. Go home feeling stronger, calmer and more in touch with your growing family circle.
This class includes:
Yoga poses for couples, designed for Mom’s blossoming figure
Birth preparation techniques
Breathing exercises
Guided relaxation
A community of parents-to-be with whom to share experiences
Moms who are six weeks postpartum and babies in their pre-crawling stage.
About The Class
Moms spend time with their new baby while reconnecting with self and gently strengthening, toning and calming the postpartum body and mind. Each class strengthens and opens areas that need attention postnatally. Short pose series are taught so moms can incorporate yoga movements into five minute practices throughout their busy new-mommy days.
This class is a supportive environment to exchange experiences with new moms and introduce your baby to new friends. No need for a baby sitter or disrupting baby’s feeding schedule.
St. John’s, NL. In-person at 10 Clancy Drive, Quidi Vidi Boathouse. Live Stream Participation Option Available.
INVESTMENT:
$600+hst ($690) CAD. $200 deposit required upon registration
INCLUDES:
Four days of lecture, Asana, Pranayama, Mantra, Marma massage, Practicum, Ayurvedic food and lifestyle choices. Tea and snack breaks provide instruction on using healing spices, herbs, and foods to promote healing.
REGISTRATION:
Space is limited so register now to reserver yours.
Shakti Yoga teacher trainings and workshops are taught in various locations within Canada, and internationally. Host this workshop in your area and save the cost of travelling to learn. Contact Bobby@ShaktiYogaMethod.com to discuss specific details on hosting this or other workshops and trainings.
Who’s This Program For?
Yoga Practitioners who want to add the healing benefits of ayurveda to their lifestyles.
Teachers of yoga who want to learn how to use ayurveda to enhance to impact of their class instruction.
Anyone in healthcare or education with a desire to compliment their professional work with the vast wisdom of ayurveda, and pass on the benefits of this ancient practice to their clients, patients or students.
Anyone interested in understanding ayurveda, and learning how to use these ancient practices and remedies to enhance the wellness of themselves and their families.
About The Program
Ayurveda is the world’s oldest holistic healing system. It is commonly referred to as yoga’s sister science. This is logical as both philosophies view our body, our senses, and the world we live in, as manifestations of the foundational fabric of the universe. Ayurveda teaches how to perceive, and manipulate these basic cosmic energies to maintain and restore wellness. When used in combination with yoga practices, ayurvedic insights empower instructors to develop classes that are more robust and intuitive. Teachers are able to tune in to a classes’ specific needs by utilizing knowledge of natural cycles, and the ever-changing impact of environment on well-being.
Despite the enormous potential benefits of merging these two sciences, bringing the wisdom of ayurveda into a yoga asana class remains elusive for many yoga teachers, and ayurvedic practioners alike.
This four day teacher training program introduces the underlying basis of ayurvedic theory, and how it can be practically incorporated into a yoga asana class for a more effective overall wellness impact. The detailed and robust understanding of the gunas (fundamental energies that make up the universe) provided in this training lay the ground work for effectively utilizing dosha assessments, understanding the ever shifting individual & group needs of a class, and choosing asana, pranayama, meditation, and mudra, choices through the lens of ayurvedic teachings.
Curriculum Includes:
Orientation to ayurveda philosophy and origins.
Ayurvedic perspectives on disease and healing.
How to design a yoga class sequence to balance each dosha (vata, pitta, kapha)
Specific asana for each type of dosha imbalance.
Incorporating time of day, seasons and other cycles into class design.
Pranayama for dosha balance.
Mantra and mudra for dosha balance.
Extensive study of the gunas, and how to utilize them in a yoga class.
Doshas, constitution quizzes and applications.
Subtle body topics such as vayus and chakras and their ayurvedic yoga applications.
Ayurvedic Diet and lifestyle. We will study how to make ghee, kitchari, and various dosha balancing and healing teas.
Basic marma points that can be utilized in a yoga class to balance doshas.
Techniques for incorporating peripheral ayurvedic practices, such as aromatherapy and gem stones, into private and group asana classes to enhance yoga pose impact.
Program Requirements
Pre-Requisites
No prior yoga or ayurveda knowledge required. Must be interested in yoga asana, lifestyle, and ayurvedic approaches to wellness. Contact Bobby@ShaktiYogaMethod.com to find out how this program can be used to enhance your life.
Certification
Graduates will receive a certificate showing they have successfully completed the 40hr Shakti Yoga Method Ayurvedic Teacher Training. Applicable for Yoga Alliance CEUs.
Certification Requirements include:
Attend ALL training session hours
Submit Ayurvedic Yoga Class plan
Do one peer class exchange via Zoom and submit feedback forms
Or More Accurately, How to Continue Being Student of Yoga Forever
About 25 years ago I was an avid runner living in Vancouver. Yoga held no interest for me. It was a practice that I viewed as gentle movements for those who could not do more intense activity. One day a running friend told me about a hot yoga class that her super fit running friend had been unable to finish the night before. Now that sounded interesting.
At the time hot yoga was a new style of yoga making its way up the West coast from LA. It was being taught in packed-full, rented rooms in random apartment buildings. There was usually sweat soaked carpet, and often no showers. Fancy super absorbent towels were yet to be mainstream, and no one wore special yoga clothing. No yoga studio store front was visible. You simply had to know where this class was happening. Lululemon was still a small store on 4th avenue in the Kitsilano neighbourhood of Vancouver. The owners sewed the clothing on the upstairs second floor as you browsed below.
It took only one sweaty, butt-kicking class to hook me. I began to practice daily, sometimes twice a day. Early 20’s me loved the hard core nature of the very hot and humid room. Wondering every single class if I was going to make it to the end just made it more exciting. The teacher’s instruction “script” described the physiological benefits of each pose which spoke to my science loving brain. I eventually decided to do a teacher training for this style. A few weeks before paying a deposit my partner and I suddenly decided to move back to Japan.
Once back in Japan, the only yoga classes I could find were slow moving hatha, held at recreation centers. All were taught by women in their 70s and 80s. At first I was not very excited about going. The strength and flexibility of these very senior instructors however forced me to re-evaluate the value of this new (to me) style of yoga. Each teacher infused her classes with Zen meditation and philosophy. They introduced me to a softer and deeper layer of yoga (and forced me to study a lot of Japanese words that were unfortunately not very useful for interacting at the local izakaya/bar). I joined a class each morning before work, hopping on trains and pedaling through rice paddies to get to a different rec center each day.
Two years later, as we are preparing to leave Japan, I began to reflect on how different my Vancouver hot yoga classes were to those in Japan. I wondered if either was “real yoga”. And if not, what might “real yoga” actually look like. Hoping to learn the answer to this question I sent my partner home to Canada, and bought an open-ended ticket to India. I flew from Tokyo into New Delhi. Cell Phones and texting were not yet a thing. Internet cafes could only be found in larger centers. In rural areas I had to find a village phone to call home. Someone in an outdoor stall would dial the number and hand me the phone receiver. Little kids would often surround me and repeat any English words they could understand and giggle.
After a few weeks of hopping trains around India I arrived at an ashram in Maharashta. It was near the holy city of Nashik. It was here that I completed my first yoga teacher training. Studying beneath the mountain top peak known as Hanuman’s birthplace I could not have asked for a better place to be introduced to yoga’s roots. Each full day included early morning meditation, two hours of asana & pranayama (twice daily), yoga nidra, lectures from local doctors and teachers, morning and evening aarti ceremonies, mantra, all punctuated with locally grown and prepared ayurvedic guided meals. A month of busy study days flew by. With my first teaching certificate and a heart full of gratitude I began to work my way north toward Rishikesh (where the Beatles famously studied in the 60’s). This spiritual town sits on the banks of the river Ganges. The water is clear and fast flowing as it leaves the Himalayas. It is densely packed with ashrams, vegetarian-only food, swamis, and seekers. I spent months taking part in various yoga trainings. Eventually I found a teacher who resonanated with where I was at that point in my life. I studied with him in his ashram until I felt it was time to return home.
Once home I began to teach yoga classes, first as a part time job, and then throughout my pregnancies. When my maternal leave was up, instead of going back to my old job, I decided to begin to teaching yoga full time and never looked back. I have since returned to India multiple times to study yoga with old and new yoga teachers, and to become an ayurvedic practioner. Over the years I have also studied with teachers in various parts of Canada and the US. Every single teacher has helped expand my understanding of the practice of yoga. For a time I immersed myself in the study of prenatal yoga and it impacts pregnancy and childbirth. Yin yoga brought concepts of skeletal variation, and fascia into focus. Vinyasa flow helped me explore moving meditation. Neurogenic yoga added a layer of therapeutic insight.
After twenty five years of yoga study I have concluded that there is no “real yoga”, or more accurately, no “not-real yoga”. All styles of yoga, whether based in hatha, vinyasa, yin, neurogenic, or restorative teachings are “real” yoga. All include a pathway for pranayama, meditation, and physical, mental, and spiritual wellness. Whether one is looking to reach the traditional yoga goal of self realization, or to achieve the well documented physical benefits of strength, flexibility, and longevity, each style has a means of helping one get there.
I am forever grateful that my first teacher training taught me to look at all future yoga studies as a new way to explore the yoga philosophy of living, and study of self. From this point of view I have learned that every person, yoga, and situation, is a yoga teacher. This is what Ram Dass means when he says, “If you think you are enlightened, go and spend a week with your family.” What happens in a yoga class helps us explore and develop skills to bring into every moment of life.
Is my yoga always serene poses and peaceful meditation? No. Am I always calm and stress free? Absolutely not. I do however credit yoga with helping me navigate many difficult life moments. I cannot image living without this powerful practice. Every teacher I have ever had the privilege to study with has brought me full circle to sharing my understanding of their teachings in my own teacher training instruction. I now teach yoga teacher trainings both internationally and in Canada.
Are you interested in becoming a yoga teacher? Would you like to study with experienced teachers who have a broad understanding of modern and traditional yoga? Would like to develop the skills to confidently teach hatha, and vinyasa flow classes? Would like to understand how each style of yoga can be utilized to provide a yoga practice that is accessible for all? Would you like to deepen your own practice? If so, you may be interested in joining myself and Linda Ivany for our Yoga Alliance Certified, 2023 Shakti Yoga Teacher Training. This year celebrates a decade of training talented and inspiring yoga teachers that enhance our communities. Maybe the energy of the year of the rabbit will help you hurdle any doubts and begin your yoga teacher journey. This training is open to all body type/sizes, all ages, and requires only a love of yoga and an established personal practice. For more information go to www.ShaktiYogaMethod.com
Maximize the Abundance of 2023 With the Wisdom of the Japanese Horoscope.
This January heralds the arrival of the year of the Rabbit. As each year-end nears in Japan, you begin to see images of one specific animal popping up in just about every setting imaginable; decorations, cards, advertisements. They vary from year to year and are always an animal of the Japanese zodiac. These animals are thought to be indicators of both individual personality and the nature of the year it represents. There are twelve animals, and they influence our world in twelve-year cycles. Your animal is determined by the year in which you are born. If you are in Japan and being asked what animal you are, that person is probably trying to learn more about your personality (of course, they could also be attempting to politely figure out your age without asking directly). The Japanese zodiac is Chinese in origin but has been fully adopted by the Japanese.
The new year is a time to pause and contemplate our personality and actions. In yoga this is the practice of swadhyaya, or turning inward to discover our true selves. This year’s horoscope animal is the Rabbit. Some say lord Krishna loved rabbits and showed them great affection. Rabbits were thought to be appropriate pets for sages who often lived in natural settings. They are mentioned in ancient Indian texts such as the vedas and puranas
Before discovering what animal you are, here is the cute origin story of how the animals in this zodiac were chosen. There are a number of variations on this story. I share the version that was told to me by Japanese friends.
One day the most important god gathered all the animals and told them that he would hold a race the next day to choose twelve animals to make up the zodiac. The order that each animal arrived at this revered god’s home in the heavens would determine their place in this cycle.
To get to the race destination, the animals had to cross a river. The cow knew this would be a challenging race. She was prudent, she planned ahead, and set out early. The rat was not a great swimmer, so asked to ride on the cow’s back (Some stories say the cat also rode on the cow but was pushed off by the rat. Other narratives have the rat lying to the cat about the day of the race causing him to miss it. Either way the cat did not make it into the zodiac because of the rat and this apparently explains their continued rivalry to this day). Anyway, as the cow was approaching the finish line the rat jumped off his back and crossed the line first. This is how the rat became the first animal of the zodiac and the cow the second.
The tiger was the third to arrive. His early arrival was due to his great strength which enabled him to fight the currents of the river. The rabbit came in fourth, having made it across by hopping from stone to stone (and by some accounts with a little help from the dragon).
The dragon arrived in fifth place. This surprised the god who expected such a powerful creature to be first. The dragon explained that he had stopped to assist other race participants, as well as to help the people of the earth with their food and water shortages.
The horse was the next animal to arrive, but was unaware that the snake had decided to hide in her hoof during the race. Just before reaching the finish line the snake jumped out of his hiding place and startled the horse. This gave the snake time to finish ahead of the horse and become the 6th animal of the zodiac, leaving the horse in 7th place.
The 8th, 9th, and 10th place were taken by the sheep, monkey, and rooster. They arrived together having worked together to build a raft to make it across the river safely.
The dog was next. His late arrival was also surprising as he was known to be an excellent swimmer. He explained that he had paused to enjoy bathing in the river, still landing himself in the 11th spot.
If you are a chicken you may be ambitious and goal oriented.
Finally, the wild boar/pig shows up. She had stopped for snacks and had then fallen asleep with a full belly. Upon waking up she rejoined the race and made it just in time for the 12th and final spot.
Each animal’s behaviour in the origin story expresses their nature to some degree. None are wholly good or bad. Each has the capacity for positive and negative expression of their characteristics. According to the Asian zodiac the personality of the animal that represents the year you were born will be reflected in your individual traits and patterns. Every twelve years your animal will come around again to influence the universal energy of that time. The energy of the animal also impacts the nature of the year we are moving into.
In order of their placement on the zodiac, there are some general characteristics of each animal and the years that they govern. Heads up, this post is a pretty superficial presentation of an ancient system that traverses a number of cultures. Mostly, I am repeating things my friends have shared with me. More research is suggested if you want to truly understand the Asian zodiac. That said, enjoy contemplating our place in the world through the lens of this beautiful horoscope.
Rat (2020, 2008, 1996, 1984, 1972, 1960, 1948 …) people are very ambitious, and will push themselves hard to meet their goals. They will work hard and are unafraid of challenge. They are charming and honest. They may easily anger but are skilled at projecting an outward show of control.
Cow/Ox (2021, 2009, 1997,1985,1973, 1961, 1949 …) people are patient and inspirational. They are stirring speakers who inspire confidence in others. Cows exhibit great mental clarity. In the origin story she literally carried the rat to greatness.
Tiger (2022, 1998, 1986, 1974, 1962, 1950 …) people have stubborn tendencies and can be regarded as selfish, cold, and unkind. Tigers are, however, sensitive underneath all of this. They are thoughtful and have great compassion for those they love. They are also known for their courage. This is much like the personality of Tigress, in Kung Fu Panda (if you haven’t seen this beautiful and insightful movie, stop reading and watch it now… seriously.)
Monkeys are intelligent and able to bring creative solutions to problems. This Japanese Macaque is soaking in an onsen near Nagano. That sounds like a smart idea to me!
Rabbit (1999, 1987, 1975, 1963, 1951, 1939…) people are good at talking their way into, and out of, things. They are known for being ambitious, virtuous, and reserved. They may have a taste for the finer things in life. Their reputation for being trustworthy means they are usually greatly admired.
Dragon (2000, 1988, 1976, 1964, 1952, 1940, …) people are easily excitable, short tempered, and can be stubborn. Despite their easily angered disposition, they are sensitive, and get their feelings hurt easily. They are also known to be honest, brave, and disciplined. Dragons inspire trust in people. Recall the dragon’s compassionate behavior in the origin story. A complex personality indeed.
Snake (2001, 1989, 1977, 1965, 1953, 1941, …) people are deep thinkers who often do well financially due to their determination in pursuing their dreams. They hate to fail, and will go to great lengths to avoid doing so (recall the origin story). Snakes are often people of few words.
Horse (2002, 1990, 1978, 1966, 1954, 1942, …) people are quick thinkers who are skilled at giving compliments. They tend to be successful in their endeavors, and have capacity to make wise financial decisions. They may talk too much, be impatient, or easy to anger.
Sheep (2003, 1991, 1979, 1967, 1955, 1943, …) people are noted for their quiet elegance. They are drawn to fine arts, and are passionate about the environment, as well as their spiritual endeavors. They may also sometimes be shy, lack will power, and unconsciously take a passive role in relationships.
Monkey (2004, 1992, 1980, 1968, 1956, 1944, …) people are seen as eccentric and highly intelligent. They are good at seeing the big picture and are lucrative in financial dealings. Their inventive, think-outside-the-box insights mean they can solve even complex problems with ease. Their behaviour is often both creative and erratic.
Rooster/bird (2005, 1981, 1969, 1957, 1945, …) people are devoted to their work and enjoy being busy. They push themselves to expand their skills, sometimes to the point of taking on more than they can handle. The rooster is ambitious and always looking to go further. Not achieving a goal is very upsetting for the rooster. They are known for speaking their mind. This is sometimes refreshing and other times may be seen as speaking out of turn.
Dog (2006, 1982, 1970, 1958, 1946, …) people are loyal, honest and work hard to create positive relationships. They inspire confidence in others and are known to be great at keeping secrets. Dogs are humble and easy going, so are considered to be good friend material.
Boar/pig ( 2007, 1983, 1971, 1959, 1947, …) people have an enormous inner strength that is difficult to unseat. They are honest, humble, very affectionate, and extremely kind to those they love. While they have short tempers, they do not enjoy arguments and try to avoid them. They are stubborn, often making it challenging to convince a boar to change their opinion. In the origin story, the boar is known to have rushed past the god at the finish line, and had to eventually turn back to join the group.
What does the Asian zodiac mean for the essence of 2023? I am excited to be entering the year of the Rabbit. In Japan they represent abundance, fortune, progressing onward, cleverness and they are also messengers for the gods (kami). They are fertility and childbirth symbols. Some shrines that honor the rabbit, like Higashi Tenno Okazaki Shrine in Kyoto, are visited by couples expecting children and the newly married to pet the bunny statue for good luck. After a few rough years world wide we can hope that 2023 will bring a balm of rabbit characteristics. They can be soft, kind, patient and pure of heart. They are also fast, skillful, and very responsible. They are relentless in finding solutions to problems. They get things moving forward and so symbolize success. This is the perfect balance for a world that is healing as it moves into the future, leaving the last few years of covid behind, learning from the experiences, and kindly and lovingly overcoming challenges.
The energy of kindness and empathy that infuses the year of the rabbit makes 2023 a good year to start a romantic relationship.
2023 is also a good year to explore your passions. Have you been postponing a creative endeavor, waiting for the right time? Well this may be the year to explore that drive. If this is a business endeavor may the abundance symbolized by the year of the rabbit help you create the life you long to lead.
If you were born in the year of the rabbit you may do best in a career that requires creativity to utilize your sensitivity, empathy, and artistic flair in how you navigate any workplace. Music, writing, archetecture are all great professions for rabbits. However a creative voice and mind can be utilized in any job. Rabbits are also social butterflies and do well in jobs that require networking.
From a health perspective remember that rabbits are very sensitive and prone to worry, especially if over extending or having financial difficulty. Watch for old illnesses returning and shower yourself with the care you need to avoid them before they can form.
The first sunrise of 2022 from Signal Hill. Watching the first sunrise of the year is called Hatsuhinode in Japanese. Doing so brings good luck for the year to come from the god Toshigami.
How accurate is the Japanese zodiac? That is something you will have to decide for yourself. It may well be a coincidence but I am a wild boar and my plan to have this post written two weeks ago was interrupted by a holiday of indulgences that included copious amounts of holiday napping and snacking (generally the same reasons that the boar came last in the origin story). Also in true boar form, I regret nothing and it is unlikely one could change my mind about the value of my chosen course.
Welcoming the new year by watching the first sunrise of the year is thought to bring good luck for the year to come (hatsuhinode). This is especially so if you manage to do this from the top of Mt. Fuji, however it is lucky from anywhere.
Also record your first dream of the new year on the night of January 1st (hatsuyume). This dream is thought to indicate your luck for the new year. Particularly fortutious are dreaming of Mt. Fuji, hawks, or eggplants!
And finally, the next time you look at the moon look for two rabbits making rice cakes (mochi) instead of the western influenced image of a man’s face. This may inspire you to move into the new year seeking fresh perspectives and insights infused with the kindness, creativity, and abundance of the year of the rabbit.
Yoga poses that address all layers of core musculature, also inadvertently nourish the truer and deeper source of core wellness, the omentum. What is the omentum, and why should you care? The omentum is a flat layer of adipose tissue that floats on the surface of much of the small and large intestines, and it is important because it may save your life someday. In fact, it may have already done so many times over without your ever knowing.
The omentum is like a large snuggly blanket of immune cells for your organs. It stores fat, regulates the immune system and helps tissue regenerate. The special properties of the omentum are not a new discovery. The ancient Egyptians assessed and catalogued dead bodies by omentum variation. The Greeks thought it warmed the intestines because gladiators who lost it in battle injuries reported always feeling cold. A 1910 a British surgeon even called it the policeman of the abdomen.
I think of it as more of a nurturing feminine tissue than a policeman, more like the Florence Nightingale of the abdomen. Florence comes to mind because this sheath of adipose tissue actually moves around the abdomen to encircle any organ that is infected or inflamed. It does this to stop the spread of the inflammation, send immune cells to fight the
problem, regenerate damaged tissue, and as if that weren’t enough, also simultaneously absorb contaminants for later removal.
In addition to healing the omentum is also a profoundly nourishing tissue, exemplified by its suitability as a implantation place for organ cells to regrow into organs. During surgery this tissue is sometimes used to help healing happen in other parts of the body, even as far removed as the surface of the brain!
What does all this have to do with yoga? Well, a lot. Peristalsis, diaphragm movement, and fluid flow all assist omentum movement as it wanders around the abdomen protecting and healing as needed. Yoga breathing and asana impact all three of these things. The following yoga practices will help you maintain the health of your core from the top layer of muscles, all the way down to the tissues and organs they protect.
Yoga breathing involves careful posture, sitting fully upright, with the natural curves of the spine intact. This allows space for the lungs to fill completely and the diaphragm to move deeply downward. This downward movement squeezes the fluid and lymph nodes that are plentiful in the omentum, allowing the body to more effectively heal and remove toxins. Deep compressions into the abdominal cavity also help the omentum move toward the tissues that need immune assistance.
Twists activate the deeper muscle layers of the core, and wring out the omentum, wringing out old lymph and blood, getting rid of toxins, and preparing space for fresh new blood to pour into.
Side bends engage deep core muscles, and compress one side of the torso while stretching out the other. This forces the diaphragm to push down in new areas, and results in many of the benefits listed above for twists. They also stretch the intercostals, making deeper fuller breaths easier to attain.
Core compression poses once again press lymph, blood and other fluids out of the organs and tissues for deep flushing, and digestive system awakening. The intestines are important for the absorption of nutrients and removal of toxins.
Extension poses pull all the tissues, and organs of the core to lengthen the muscles of the front body, and tone back body muscles. This is important because sitting, and poor posture makes the muscles of the core and chest too short, and the muscles of the back long, and weak. Not only does this impact wellness of the whole musculoskeletal system, but also impedes diaphragm movement, breathing and digestive processes.
Counter pose flows help to cleanse by repeatedly squeezing out old fluid and creating space for fresh new fluid to move in. You can do this by repeatedly alternating back and forward bends, side to side bends, or twist directions. This is a toxin clearing process and also allows for fresh new blood to flow in. As you move through your yoga practice the deep breaths and concentration reduce the stress hormones remaining in your blood from previous stressors. These are slowly replaced by chemical signals that trigger calm in the nervous system. This is the blood that you want your cells completely immersed in as you move into the rest of your day feeling great and having restored your omentum momemtum!
Source for the omentum history and function described above: Valerio Di Nicolas’s August 8th, 2019 article entitled: Omentum a powerful biological source in regenerative surgery. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31453273/
Private sessions are an opportunity to participate in a yoga class that is tailored to fit your needs. If you have a specific condition or goal that you would like to work on, questions about your regular practice that you would like to clarify, or if you would like to get an overview of the basic poses before joining a regular class then this might be an option for you. Please contact Bobby@ShaktiYogaMethod.com to discuss specific details.
Hatha Yoga Private Session
Hatha Yoga private sessions are an ideal opportunity to ask questions and work on specific goals. Some prefer to join a private session for some time before joining group class sessions, others are looking for a specific style of class that requires more individualized attention. Whether it is a hatha, yin, or restorative class you are looking for, a private session is the best way to ensure your yoga practice is tailored to your specific needs.
Private Yoga Sessions
Investment: $120+hst (138.00). Covered by many insurance packages under Naturopath designation. Contact:Bobby@ShaktiYogaMethod.com for more information, to ask questions, or to book a date and time.
Prenatal Yoga Private Session
Prenatal private sessions are a great way to spend time connecting with baby. Classes can be planned to work with special conditions, or discuss birth plans and preparation. A semi-private with your partner can be a fun bonding experience as you prepare to support each other more effectively during your pregnancy and birthing time.
Private Prenatal Yoga or Birth Education Sessions
Investment: $120+hst (138.00). Covered by many insurance packages under Naturopath designation. Contact:Bobby@ShaktiYogaMethod.com for more information, to ask questions, or to book a date and time.
Neurogenic (TRE) Private Session
Neurogenic private sessions allow for a more personal exchange. Because neurogenic yoga may sometimes trigger emotional responses (which is good!) some prefer to tremor in a private class setting. Others prefer to experience neurogenic tremors a few times before joining a class or beginning a home practice. It is recommended that you practice with an instructor 3-5 times before practicing on your own.
Private Neurogenic Sessions
Investment: $120+hst (138.00). Covered by many insurance packages under Naturopath designation. Contact:Bobby@ShaktiYogaMethod.com for more information, to ask questions, or to book a date and time.
The Yoga Sutras and the nature of the universe
Your Brain on Meditation
Yoga for the Immune system
Physiologically Aware Yoga
Playing with the Gunas: Ayurveda for Life
Swara Yoga: Tuning in to the Nadis
The Joy of Ayurvedic Living
Pelvic Floor Wellness for All
Instructing Postnatal Yoga Classes
Instructing Prenatal Partner Yoga Classes
Contact Bobby at: Bobby@ShaktiYogaMethod.com to discuss hosting one or more of these courses/workshops in your area.
Shakti Yoga teacher trainings and workshops are taught in various locations within Canada, and internationally. Contact Bobby if you are interested in hosting one of these training programs in your area of residence and save the cost of travelling to learn. Contact Bobby@ShaktiYogaMethod.com to discuss specific details.
200 hr Yoga Teacher Training NL:
Shakti Yoga is a 200 Hour Yoga Alliance Registered School of Yoga with over a decade of experience training skilled and inspirational instructors of yoga.
Shakti Yoga prenatal yoga teacher training:
This training is either a 4.5 day training (40hr), or 9 day training (85). The latter qualifies yoga teachers to register with Yoga Alliance as a registered yoga instructor. The 40 hour training qualifies for CEUs for Yoga Alliance. Includes a comprehensive training manual. Appropriate for anyone who works with prenatal women, including yoga teachers, doulas, midwives, bodywork practioners, physicians, etc.
Shakti Yoga Nidra Teacher Training:
This a two day (18hr) training that includes training manual, sample scipts and MP3s. Appropriate for anyone interested in teaching this technique or bringing into into their personal practice.
Ayurvedic Yoga Teacher Training:
A 4 day teacher training (40hrs) that introduces the foundation of Ayurvedic theory and practice, and how to incorporate this ancient science into your class plans, and teaching cues. Gain an overall understanding of how ayurveda can transform your method of sharing yoga with your students. Also appropriate for non-teachers who simply want to learn how to incorporate ayurveda and yoga into their daily lives.
Suggest a Training/Workshop:
Any of the above trainings can be adjusted to meet the specific focus or scheduling needs of your organization. Contact Bobby@ShaktiYogaMethod.com to discuss possible training and workshop options.
Workshop Ideas
The Yoga Sutras and the nature of the universe
Your Brain on Meditation
Yoga for the Immune system
Physiologically Aware Yoga
Playing with the Gunas: Ayurveda for Life
Swara Yoga: Tuning in to the Nadis
The Joy of Ayurvedic Living
Pelvic Floor Wellness for All
Instructing Postnatal Yoga Classes
Instructing Prenatal Partner Yoga Classes
Contact Bobby at: Bobby@ShaktiYogaMethod.com to discuss hosting one or more of these courses/workshops in your area.
Daruma doll used to bring good fortune. Paint in one eye with your wish. And the second once it has come to pass.
The Animal Zodiac and What it Means For You in 2022
2022 heralds the arrival of the year of the tiger. As each year-end nears in Japan, you begin to see images of one specific animal popping up in just about every setting imaginable; decorations, cards, advertisements. They vary from year to year and are always an animal of the Japanese zodiac. These animals are thought to be indicators of both individual personality and the nature of the year it represents. There are twelve animals, and they influence our world in twelve-year cycles. Your animal is determined by the year in which you are born. If you are in Japan and being asked what animal you are, that person is probably trying to learn more about your personality (of course, they could also be attempting to politely figure out your age without asking directly). The Japanese zodiac is Chinese in origin but has been fully adopted by the Japanese.
Maybe you don’t believe in horoscopes. That is ok because this is a just-for-fun-post. However, from a yogic perspective, there is value in anything that inspires us to pause and contemplate our personality and actions. This is the practice of swadhyaya, or turning inward to discover our true selves. And since this year’s horoscope animal is the tiger maybe it is appropriate to also mention that Shiva is often depicted sitting on a tiger skin symbolizing the victory of divine insight over the tendancy to be led by base instincts.
Before I tell you what animal you are, here is a cute origin story of how the animals in this zodiac were chosen. There are a number of variations on this story. I will pass along the most common version that I have been told by my Japanese friends.
One day the most important god gathered all the animals and told them that he would hold a race the next day to choose twelve animals to make up the zodiac. The order that each animal arrived at this revered god’s home in the heavens would determine their place in this cycle.
The first sunrise of 2022 from Signal Hill. Watching the first sunrise of the year is called Hatsuhinode in Japanese. Doing so brings good luck for the year to come from the god Toshigami.
To get to the race destination, the animals had to cross a river. The cow knew this would be a challenging race. She was prudent, she planned ahead, and set out early. The rat was not a great swimmer, so asked to ride on the cow’s back (Some stories say the cat also rode on the cow but was pushed off by the rat. Other narratives have the rat lying to the cat about the day of the race causing him to miss it. Either way the cat did not make it into the zodiac because of the rat and this explains their continued rivalry to this day). Anyway, as the cow was approaching the finish line the rat jumped off his back and crossed the line first. This is how the rat became the first animal of the zodiac and the cow the second.
The tiger was the third to arrive. His early arrival was due to his great strength which enabled him to fight the currents of the river. The rabbit came in fourth, having made it across by hopping from stone to stone (and by some accounts with a little help from the dragon).
The dragon arrived in fifth place. This surprised the god who expected such a powerful creature to be first. The dragon explained that he had stopped to assist other race participants, as well as to help the people of the earth with their food and rain shortages.
The horse was the next animal to arrive, but was unaware that the snake had decided to hide in her hoof during the race. Just before reaching the finish line the snake jumped out of his hiding place and startled the horse. This gave the snake time to finish ahead of the horse and become the 6th animal of the zodiac, leaving the horse in 7th place.
The 8th, 9th, and 10th place were taken by the sheep, monkey, and rooster. They arrived together having worked together to build a raft to make it across the river safely.
The dog was next. His late arrival was also surprising as he was known to be an excellent swimmer. He explained that he had paused to enjoy bathing in the river, still landing himself in the 11th spot.
If you are a chicken you may be ambitious and goal oriented.
Finally, the wild boar/pig shows up. She had stopped for snacks and had then fallen asleep with a full belly. Upon waking up she rejoined the race and made it just in time for the 12th and final spot.
Each animal’s behaviour in the origin story expresses their nature to some degree. None are wholly good or bad. Each has the capacity for positive and negative expression of their characteristics. According to the Asian zodiac the personality of the animal that represents the year you were born will be reflected in your individual traits and patterns. Every twelve years your animal will come around again to influence the universal energy of that time. The energy of the animal also impacts the nature of the year we are moving into.
In order of their placement on the zodiac, there are some general characteristics of each animal and the years that they govern. Heads up, this post is a barely-researched and superficial presentation of an ancient system that traverses a number of cultures. Mostly, I am repeating things my friends have shared with me. More research is suggested if you want to truly understand the Asian zodiac. That said, let’s enjoy contemplating our place in the world through the lens of this beautiful horoscope.
Rat (2020, 2008, 1996, 1984, 1972, 1960, 1948 …) people are very ambitious, and will push themselves hard to meet their goals. They will work hard and are unafraid of challenge. They are charming and honest. They may easily anger but are skilled at projecting an outward show of control.
Cow/Ox (2021, 2009, 1997,1985,1973, 1961, 1949 …) people are patient and inspirational. They are stirring speakers who inspire confidence in others. Cows exhibit great mental clarity. In the origin story she literally carried the rat to greatness.
Tiger (2022, 1998, 1986, 1974, 1962, 1950 …) people have stubborn tendencies and can be regarded as selfish, cold, and unkind. Tigers are, however, sensitive underneath all of this. They are thoughtful and have great compassion for those they love. They are also known for their courage. This is much like the personality of Tigress, in Kung Fu Panda (if you haven’t seen this beautiful movie, stop reading and watch it now… seriously.)
Monkeys are intelligent and able to bring creative solutions to problems. This Japanese Macaque is soaking in an onsen near Nagano. That sounds like a smart idea to me!
Rabbit (1999, 1987, 1975, 1963, 1951, 1939…) people are good at talking their way into, and out of, things. They are known for being ambitious, virtuous, and reserved. They may have a taste for the finer things in life. Their reputation for being trustworthy means they are usually greatly admired.
Dragon (2000, 1988, 1976, 1964, 1952, 1940, …) people are easily excitable, short tempered, and can be stubborn. Despite their easily angered disposition, they are sensitive, and get their feelings hurt easily. They are also known to be honest, brave, and disciplined. Dragons inspire trust in people. Recall the dragon’s compassionate behavior in the origin story. A complex personality indeed.
Snake (2001, 1989, 1977, 1965, 1953, 1941, …) people are deep thinkers who often do well financially due to their determination in pursuing their dreams. They hate to fail, and will go to great lengths to avoid doing so (recall the origin story). Snakes are often people of few words.
Horse (2002, 1990, 1978, 1966, 1954, 1942, …) people are quick thinkers who are skilled at giving compliments. They tend to be successful in their endeavors, and have capacity to make wise financial decisions. They may talk too much, be impatient, or easy to anger.
Sheep (2003, 1991, 1979, 1967, 1955, 1943, …) people are noted for their quiet elegance. They are drawn to fine arts, and are passionate about the environment, as well as their spiritual endeavors. They may also sometimes be shy, lack will power, and unconsciously take a passive role in relationships.
Monkey (2004, 1992, 1980, 1968, 1956, 1944, …) people are seen as eccentric and highly intelligent. They are good at seeing the big picture and are lucrative in financial dealings. Their inventive, think-outside-the-box insights mean they can solve even complex problems with ease. Their behaviour is often both creative and erratic.
Rooster/bird (2005, 1981, 1969, 1957, 1945, …) people are devoted to their work and enjoy being busy. They push themselves to expand their skills, sometimes to the point of taking on more than they can handle. The rooster is ambitious and always looking to go further. Not achieving a goal is very upsetting for the rooster. They are known for speaking their mind. This is sometimes refreshing and other times may be seen as speaking out of turn.
Dog (2006, 1982, 1970, 1958, 1946, …) people are loyal, honest and work hard to create positive relationships. They inspire confidence in others and are known to be great at keeping secrets. Dogs are humble and easy going, so are considered to be good friend material.
Boar/pig ( 2007, 1983, 1971, 1959, 1947, …) people have an enormous inner strength that is difficult to unseat. They are honest, humble, very affectionate, and extremely kind to those they love. While they have short tempers, they do not enjoy arguments and try to avoid them. They are stubborn, often making it challenging to convince a boar to change their opinion. In the origin story, the boar is known to have rushed past the god at the finish line, and had to eventually turn back to join the group.
What does the Asian zodiac mean for the essence of 2022? I am excited to be entering the year of the Tiger. Yes, once again our year has started out looking a rough on the surface but hopefully like the Tiger it will turn out to be full of silver linings, propelling us to overcome, and discover the joy lurking beneath the turbulence of the superficial.
How accurate is the Japanese zodiac? That is something you will have to decide for yourself. It may well be a coincidence but I am a wild boar and my plan to have this post written two weeks ago was interrupted by a holiday of indulgences that included copious amounts of holiday napping and snacking (generally the same reasons that the boar came last in the origin story). I will also add that in true boar form, I regret nothing and it is unlikely you could change my mind about the value of my chosen course.
Nov 15th, 16th, 22nd,23rd, 2025
Two years later, as we are preparing to leave Japan, I began to reflect on how different my Vancouver hot yoga classes were to those in Japan. I wondered if either was “real yoga”. And if not, what might “real yoga” actually look like. Hoping to learn the answer to this question I sent my partner home to Canada, and bought an open-ended ticket to India. I flew from Tokyo into New Delhi. Cell Phones and texting were not yet a thing. Internet cafes could only be found in larger centers. In rural areas I had to find a village phone to call home. Someone in an outdoor stall would dial the number and hand me the phone receiver. Little kids would often surround me and repeat any English words they could understand and giggle.
Each full day included early morning meditation, two hours of asana & pranayama (twice daily), yoga nidra, lectures from local doctors and teachers, morning and evening aarti ceremonies, mantra, all punctuated with locally grown and prepared ayurvedic guided meals. A month of busy study days flew by. With my first teaching certificate and a heart full of gratitude I began to work my way north toward Rishikesh (where the Beatles famously studied in the 60’s). This spiritual town sits on the banks of the river Ganges. The water is clear and fast flowing as it leaves the Himalayas. It is densely packed with ashrams, vegetarian-only food, swamis, and seekers. I spent months taking part in various yoga trainings. Eventually I found a teacher who resonanated with where I was at that point in my life. I studied with him in his ashram until I felt it was time to return home.
After twenty five years of yoga study I have concluded that there is no “real yoga”, or more accurately, no “not-real yoga”. All styles of yoga, whether based in hatha, vinyasa, yin, neurogenic, or restorative teachings are “real” yoga. All include a pathway for pranayama, meditation, and physical, mental, and spiritual wellness. Whether one is looking to reach the traditional yoga goal of self realization, or to achieve the well documented physical benefits of strength, flexibility, and longevity, each style has a means of helping one get there.
