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... Pranayama to - inhale for two seconds, hold for four seconds, and exhale for four seconds.

This breathing sequence is a 2-4-4 breath. The one to two ratio of inhale to exhale has still been maintained, but the sequence has been modified for those who have a shallow breath. When possible, the breath can be lengthened as the lungs get used to harnessing the air flow.

Extended breath retention may have to be modified to meet your needs. In the case of dizziness, pregnancy, high blood pressure, and breathing disorders, you should consult with a physician before practicing breathing techniques.

Ten Reasons Not To Practice Chair Yoga (And Why They Are Wrong)

...erybody feel good about their progress no matter what level they are at. A good instructor will take poses step by step and at every point say something like, this might be your pose today, giving you explicit permission to stop when your body says stop.

6) I wouldnt look good in one of those little yoga outfits.

Generally the students in a chair yoga class do NOT wear special yoga clothes. Some may come to class wearing sweats, while many simply wear loose-fitting, comfortable streets clothes.

7) I dont want to buy a lot of special equipment.

While it is true that there are whole catalogs full of yoga gear, the only prop you really need is a chair. Sometimes the student needs to elevate their feet somewhat, but things you can find around the house, such as a phone book, can be used for this purpose. If you are practicing in a class environment then the studio or sponsor typically provides any props used in class.

8) I dont know where to go.

Ask about chair yoga at yoga studios, fitness centers, community centers, YMCA/YW...more

Yoga and the breath

...nd make sure that your exhalation is longer than your inhalation and fully empty your diaphragm and lungs of air.

* Pausing between breaths will allow you to relax even further in yoga. No need to rush through your relaxation.

* When you breathe, feel the oxygen in the lungs and visualize it reaching every extremity, every toe and finger. Let your whole body enjoy the relaxing breath in your yoga practice.

When you learn how to breathe, you will find that it comes naturally in your yoga practice and in time, will continue in your everyday life.

Teaching Hatha Yoga: Don't Forget Beginners

... is great. Grow with your Yoga students. You are already a few steps ahead on the path of unity. That is the definition of any teacher: "One who has been there before." Your mission is to show them the way.

Do not worry about physical feats, when performing Yoga postures. Yoga has pranayama, mudras, mantras, doshas, meditation, relaxation, chakra awareness development, and much more. There is no doubt that you will be a safe Yoga teacher, when you have concerns about contraindications for Yoga postures. The safety factor is a more important aspect for a Yoga teacher, than a gymnastic "circus act."

Copyright 2006 Paul Jerard / Aura Publications