Quiet Strength

Hello lovely blog readers. This is Jess, one of NAYC's front desk folks and resident massage therapist. I recently read an article by Kino McGregor entitled "The Quiet Strength of a Woman's Body." In the article, she discusses the idea of strength, in both male and females, specifically relating to one's yoga practice. I found the article to be inspiring as I journey through the Ashtanga Primary Series. I am hard pressed to find any physical endeavor that has challenged me more than this! Yet, as I continue to explore this path, I find my dedication and joy for the practice is only increasing. My body feels strong. My mind feels at ease. I eagerly await my time on my mat, knowing it is always an adventure.

Anyway, I hope you enjoy the article!

Tantra, Kundalini, and Integral Philosophy

Hello, Namaste.
Here are a few links and ideas to enrich our practice. We will have some of these concepts as foundational to the asana classes.
First thing, some familiarity with Integral Philosophy will help. Try this general article from Wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Integral_movement
From here you could check out the integral institute and the vast work of Ken Wilber, especially as it relates to yoga and cosmogenesis.
These articles about Tantra and Kundalini:
http://www.traditionalyogastudies.com/Traditional%20Tantra%20and%20Contempory%20Neo-Tantrism.pdf
http://www.traditionalyogastudies.com/God%20Agni%20as%20Kundalini.pdf
Alright. I hope this information functions as a way to infuse your vinyasa with transformational power. There is a limited amount I can say and fit in our purifying workout all in an hour and 15 minutes. This should help us dive in. But don't limit it to these recommendations. You probably have various sources of spiritual inspiration that can deepen the practice. Please share with our group if you know of something of particular merit.
Om Shanti. Peace.
Geoffrey