Gratitude: The Key To A Happy Life

The Power of Gratitude leads to seeing more than just a silver lining

As families across America just gathered around Thanksgiving Day dinner tables, many gave thanks to the significant things in their lives over the past year. But what about the rest of the 364 days? Do we have things in our life to be thankful everyday? Here’s a closer look at the simple but powerful emotion of Gratitude and how being grateful for the little things can lead to the happiness we all crave.

“Let us rise up and be thankful, for if we didn’t learn a lot today, at least we learned a little, and if we didn’t learn a little, at least we didn’t get sick, and if we got sick, at least we didn’t die;  so, let us all be thankful.”
- Buddha

As children we are taught to say ‘thank-you‘ to someone who gives us anything, but the more we begin to get, the more we believe we deserve and as adults, we soon forget that ‘Golden word’ and all it represents. Most of us use it out of habit without actually meaning it. Some of us only think it apt for the bigger things in life, but we need to recognize and express gratitude for every small blessing that comes  into our life.

“If a fellow isn’t thankful for what he’s got, he isn’t likely to be thankful for what he’s going to get.”
- Frank A. Clark

It’s not always easy to see the glass half full or to spot the silver lining in every cloud. It’s easier for some than it is for others. But the truth of the matter is we can ALL live lives of Gratitude with a little conscious effort. Start with life’s little things. The fact that you are reading this article right now means you have access to a computer, making you better off than almost half of the World. Be grateful. Like any habit, the more we practice it, the more natural it becomes even if it means forcing it in our lives. The outcome is quite spectacular.

Being appreciative for what we have received heightens our awareness of all the good things that surround us while playing down the “not so good”. A gracious attitude in everyday life leads to acceptance which resonates positive energy around us. In the end Good attracts Good. Gratitude is all in our perception and our perceptions can create the desired outcome. Just feeling grateful though isn’t enough, we have to learn to express this gratitude through words and our actions in order that our thankfulness touches the lives of those around us.

“Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it.”
-William Arthur Ward

When you are able to fully develop an attitude of gratitude your awareness increases ten fold. You begin to see the world in a different light. Even the darkest of clouds appear to have that silver lining and everything seems as a part of a bigger picture or the greater good. It’s a very freeing experience and soon enough you will realize a feeling of happiness and contentment in all aspects of your life!

*Photo credits: photos by me’nthedogs, Orin Zebest and saumilshah on flickr.

Colors and You: Color Symbolism and Effects of Color in Our Lives

All About Colors And What They Say About You

Nature’s gift to us ‘Light’, brings with it a whole spectrum of what we call Colors/Colours. A huge part of our everyday life in almost everything we do, colors have a profound and undeniable impact on our lives and say a lot about our personalities. Each color symbolizes different things and invokes different emotions. We are drawn to certain colors for a reason, from clothing choices, colors in our homes right down to the foods we eat. Colors reflect our inner attitudes and emotional states. Knowing more about each color and understanding their effects can help us truly benefit from making colors a way of life and not just a ‘feel-good’ preference.

The Symbolism & Effects of Colors
The Symbolism of Colors comes from its use as a symbol or to representation of something as observed across time. The Symbolism of Colors differs in different cultures around the World. Here’s a quick look at the most common representations & symbolism of the basic colors-

Blue

Symbolism of Blue
A hot favorite of a lot of people, Blue is a non-threatening and confident color. Seen as a color of confidence, it represents stability, loyalty and trust-worthiness among other traits like security, wisdom and dependability. Hence Blue is the predominant color chosen for police officer uniforms and business attire.

*Blue is the color of the throat chakra

Effects of Blue
Blue is the dominant color of natures elements – the sky and water. It is perceived with a cooling and calming effect. Darker shades like Navy blue and Royal blue are said to convey richness and even superiority, while lighter shades have soothing undertones with a  serene or sedate effect. Bright electric shades of blue are dynamic and express exhilaration.

Green

Symbolism of Green
Nature is the most representative of this color, which is why Green is the fore running color in any eco-friendly movement. Regarded the color of eternal life, green also symbolizes good luck, peace, vitality, fertility and wealth (which explains the choice of green for currency). Its extremes symbolize envy (”green with envy”), jealousy, disgrace (in China) and greed.

* Green is the color of the heart chakra

Effects of Green
Due to it’s association with nature, green has a calming effect and is the color of rebirth and renewal. Lighter shades like lime with undertones of yellow have a tranquil and refreshing effect. Green being the color of Peace denotes balance, harmony, and stability.

Red

Symbolism of Red
This intense color has many associations across various cultures. Symbolizing danger, intensity, love and passion, it’s a bold color with strong meanings. As the color of blood and fire, red symbolizes war, heat, bravery, strength and aggression. Red, also, typically conjures up symbols representing love, sex and romance. In some cultures like in China red denotes purity, joy, prosperity and celebration.

* Red is the color of the base or root chakra

Effects of Red
Recognized as a stimulant, Red evokes strong emotions such as excitement, strength, danger, passion, and aggression. This attention seeking color is often more effective in smaller doses than than all out red. Deeper shades like maroon, burgundy, ruby, blood red have more subtle effects as compared to crimson, scarlet, tomato and flame red.

Purple/Violet

Symbolism of Purple/ Violet
Purple is the color of royalty. Highly symbolic of spirituality, purple is used a lot in religious ceremonies and by priests and leaders. Embodying the opposite colors red and blue, purple represents a middle ground or balance of the two contrasting colors. In some cultures however, it represents mourning.

* Violet is the color of the crown chakra

Effects of Purple/Violet
This color is uplifting and encourages creativity and spirituality. Deeper shades like plum, mauve, wine, eggplant associated with royalty, sensuality, and enlightenment. While lighter shades with a blue undertone like violet, orchid, lavender and lilac are more romantic, feminine and delicate.

Orange

Symbolism of Orange
Another attention seeking color like it’s relative Red, Orange represents energy, happiness, balance, warmth and enthusiasm. Not considered a serious color orange symbolizes playfulness and sparks a lot of controversy.

* Orange is the color of the sacral chakra

Effects of Orange
Less intense than red with the cheerfulness of yellow, orange is an energizing color. It is a vibrant color which stimulates a variety of emotions like kinship, warmth and a sociable attitude. Its also stimulates the appetite.

Yellow

Symbolism of Yellow
The symbol of sunlight and optimism, yellow shines with cheerfulness, joy, hope and intelligence. The color of gold, yellow is a sign of wealth. On the flip side however, it represents hazards and deceit.

* Yellow is the color of the solar plexus chakra

Effects of Yellow
This very visible color draws a lot of attention. It denotes happiness and is quite perky. It helps create excitement and also instills hope. It make one feel youthful.

Also Read:

Heal Yourself Through Color

* Photo credits: photos by lemuelinchrist, Furryscaly, www.butkaj.com, Dennis Wong, niseag03, FotoosVanRobin, Seamus Murray on flickr

Buy specially designed Chakra Colored T-shirts with Rhinestone symbols only at Yogacarashop.com

Yoga: The Path to Enlightenment (Part-2)

Practice The 8 Limbs of Yoga to Spiritual Fulfillment

As we saw in our previous Post (Yoga: The Path to Enlightenment Part- 1) Yoga, is life changing way to spiritual consciousness and the greater unknown. The Path of Enlightenment through Yoga is not a difficult one but requires dedication, openness to change and continuous practice.

The path to enlightenment according to Patanjali, the sage of yoga, involves the practice of 8 steps also known as the 8 limbs of Yoga. These 8 steps are not mere temporary rituals but a complete lifestyle and if followed, leads to a person’s personal development that in time will achieve the harmony of the mind, the body and the spirit which leads to Samadhi or Enlightenment.

Here’s a closer look at the 8 Limbs of Yoga leading up to Samadhi/Enlightenment.

1. Yamas – (Moral behavior towards others). Yama comes from the root word ‘yam’ ‘to hold’ or ‘to rule’. Yamas represent behaviors that ‘control’ certain negative tendencies enhance our own our fundamental nature when it comes to compassion, generosity, honest and peace. Necessary to change one’s attitude towards others and the world around them for harmonious living. Yamas serve as guidelines to moral behavior towards others. They include -

• Ahimsa (Non-violence): Ahimsa involves not causing any sort of harm to creatures or any person. It includes not having harmful thoughts towards others too. More than just the lack of violence, Ahimsa teaches us to practice acts of kindness and compassion for the world around you.
• Satya (Truthfulness): Satya is the Moral code for honesty. While satya means “to speak the truth” is can entail a negative consequence for another person and since this conflicts with the Yama – Ahimsa, it is best not to say anything. Constant vigilance of what one says, how it is said and the consequence of one’s words and actions is all a part of the Yama- Satya.
• Asteya (Non-stealing): Steya means ‘to steal’ while Asteya is it’s opposite which means never to steal or take what does not belong to us. It doesn’t only concern objects or material things but also ideas and other forms of possession. The practice of Asteya includes not misusing what is given to us by others including their time and energy. We have to be conscious of our actions and behavior that may result in demanding someone’s attention even though it’s not freely given.
• Brahmacharya (Non-lust): Bramacharya means to move toward the essential truth responsibly. It concerns achieving self-control through abstinence or moderation regarding sexual activity. Brahmacharya does not necessarily imply celibacy, but not doing anything in excess by giving in to our ego’s desires as that would hamper our goal.
• Aparigraha (Non-possessiveness): This yama means doing with only what is necessary and living a life free from greed. It involves not taking advantage of anyone, anything or any situation, using our power appropriately for good and not exploiting it. It also calls for not attaching ourselves to things and understanding that impermanence and change are the only constants in our lives.

2. Niyams – (Moral behavior towards oneself). Observances or actions regarding one’s attitude towards himself or herself. They are not exercises but your attitude and how treating yourself can change that. It is necessary for achieving a balance within oneself.The Niyams include:

• Saucha (Cleanliness): This niyam includes aspects of inner and outer cleanliness and purity. Detoxifying and cleansing the physical body first are necessary to achieve inner cleanliness. This is done through the practice of asanas (yoga poses) which tones the entire body and removes toxins and pranayamas (breathing exercises) that cleanse our lungs, oxygenates our blood and purifies our nerves. Apart from just our body, the mind must also be kept clean or pure by eliminating negative thoughts and emotions such as anger, lust, greed and pride. Outer cleanliness, on the other hand, means keeping a clean environment and surroundings.
• Santosa (Contentment): Being content with what you have and who you are completely. Cultivating an acceptance to whatever happens is an important part of Santosa. To find contentment one must practice humility, modesty and acceptance.
• Tapas (Austerity): This Niyama refers to keeping the body in good condition. This involves disciplined use of our energies, both physical and mental like for example- eating only when hungry, maintaining a good posture, attention to breathing patterns etc.
• Svadhyaya (Study of Sacred texts and one’s self): Using self-examination, self-awareness and self-reflective consciousness to get to know one’s self better is part of Svadhyaya. The deeper you know yourself, the closer you get to your union with all things and ultimately the higher power.
• Isvara pranidhana (Awareness of the Divine): Letting go of ourselves and the sense of control in order to connect with the Divine. Recognition that there is a force larger than man omnipresent that guides and directs the course of our lives is what this niyam teaches us.

3. Asana – (Practice of Yoga postures and exercises). This is the most commonly known aspect of yoga around the World. But, the understanding and reasoning behind the practice of Yoga Asanas is often lost. More than just health, strength, balance and flexibility, asanas meaning “staying” or “abiding” in Sanskrit, are used as a tool to calm the mind and move into the inner essence of being. They are designed to free our mind from tension, stress and to detoxify. It aims at bringing about a harmonious balance and union between the body and mind. Strengthening more than just muscles, yoga asanas strengthen our will, determination, alertness and energies through it’s discipline. It also quietens the mind, relaxes the body in preparation of meditation and important step to spiritual enlightenment.

4. Pranayama – (Practice of breathing exercises and breath control). In Pranayama, by controlling our breathing it is said to control the energy or life force (prana) within the us. This restores and maintains one’s health while promoting evolution. When you learn to control your breathing- i.e the duration of inhalation, retention and exhalation of air within your body, it strengthens and cleanses the nervous system thus increasing a person’s source of life energy. It also helps calm the mind and makes it more focused for other tasks. Pranayama breathing goes hand-in-hand with Yoga Asanas.

5. Pratyahara – (Withdrawal of the senses). Pratyahara means withdrawal. It happens in meditation when one is so focused and immersed in breathing and meditating that the senses become completely unaware of everything else. In other words, the whole world around you just moves away and you can focus solely on your inner self without any distractions whatsoever.

6. Dharana – (Concentration). Dharana means training the mind to concentrate on sheer nothingness. No external nor internal distractions. This is practiced by learning to focus intensely on one object and then letting go of that one.

7. Dhyana – (Meditation). The transition of Dharna (focus on an object to nothingness) leads to Dhyana which is an uninterrupted flow of this concentration and consciousness that is no longer focused on a single thing but is all encompassing. Achieving Dhayna heightens one’s awareness and oneness with the universe upto the extent that you feel one with the universe…it is the final step to the Goal- Samadhi or Enlightenment.

8. Samadhi – (Enlightenment). It is the result of the practice of the previous 7 steps. It’s a state of Super-consciousness. Detachment of your body and all worldly things. The merging of the self with the universe. Bliss. Peace. Ultimate awareness. In other words, Enlightenment.

The 8 steps of Yoga are not necessarily to be practiced in progression, they are in fact an integrated process that works together (hence, called limbs), leading to the ultimate goal of Enlightenment. Limbs 1 and 2 are to be practiced in everyday life all the time. Most people start with 3 the physical postures and poses of yoga meant to energize the body and relax the mind. After regular practice of this, along with step four, breath control – you will notice other changes start taking place. These eight principles if practiced regularly and adopted as a lifestyle will lean to deeper self-knowledge, love and respect towards other people and creatures and Spiritual fulfillment.

* Photo credits: photos by adhiwus.com Photography – Bali, Oude School, milopeng, Claude Morcos on flickr

For  special Yoga Apparel, comfort clothing designed according to the Colors of the Chakras and the best trendy, high quality and comfortable  Fitness Apparel do visit YogacaraShop.com

What Is Life – By Robert Almodovar

“What is Life”

By Robert Almodovar

——–

What is life: A strange continuous awareness
we have been thrust into without plan or sound advice.

What is space: A medium in which we may move about
or stare into, longingly.

What is time: A massive event into which life spans
and which there is always too much of, or too little.

What is I: This fragile protector of my soul and
collector of questions for which I have no answers.

What is you: The entity that draws out all my uncertainties
and makes them complete, and on which I look and I see me.

What is beauty: That which when I look out into space and see,
is pleasing to me such that it draws me closer,
even in the face of peril.

What is passion: A raging being within me that looks
only to join that which is me with that which is you.

What is love: An harmonious connection of I and you
so complete, that I only makes sense with you.

What is peace: A certain serenity in the knowledge that
love is true and complete, and forever.

What is hell: The absence of you.

———–

Yoga: The Path to Enlightenment (Part-1)

The 8 Steps of Yoga- A Spiritual Quest for Enlightenment

One of the most sought after aspects of life for mankind is enlightenment. The answers to questions we have all asked ourselves time and time again, the mysteries of life, the desire to know and be more like the higher being we call God. This spiritual consciousness leads us to a quest for enlightenment…a way to God- The All Knowing.

There are many ways or paths to enlightenment and Yoga is one of the most ancient of them. We’re not talking about the Americanized new age aerobics they call Yoga, with its latest yoga inspired apparel and purely physical focus of what was once an ancient Indian practice for self realization, which is key to obtaining enlightenment. The true philosophy of Yoga is it’s practice to attain a state where the self is perceived as the awareness that experiences thoughts. It is a state of mind involving the detoxification of material and worldly goods, strengthening the body and achieving a higher level of self consciousness that allows one to surrender themselves completely in order to be brought closer to God.

As we saw in the Types of Yoga, only a few stress on the physical aspects of Yoga, namely Hatha Yoga and Ashtanga Yoga among the classic types. Even these types of yoga are practiced to purify the physical body and bring strength in order to lead to the purification of the mind. This disciplined path for purification of our attachments to the temporary material world of form. Even our body is considered just an object or carrier of energies or what is sometimes referred to as a Soul. The path to enlightenment is a path that people undertake various spiritual practices to attain Divinity.

Yoga places great importance in meditation. This indispensable practice involves concentrated efforts of meditation where thinking, slowly comes to a rest and becomes a non-influence whereby the mind knows that it is perceiving what is. It is considered a state of oneness with all existence. It takes great patience and a conscious effort to overcome distractions and to let go completely in meditation. Even a little meditation a day gets you closer to enlightenment, as well as offers you great health benefits.

The path to enlightenment according to Patanjali, the sage of yoga, involves the practice of 8 steps also known as the 8 limbs of Yoga. These 8 steps are not mere temporary rituals  but a complete lifestyle and if followed, leads to a person’s personal development that in time will achieve the harmony of the mind, the body and the spirit which leads to Samadhi or enlightenment. These 8 Limbs of Yoga leading up to Samadhi/Enlightenment are-

1. Yamas - Ethical restraints for moral behavior. Necessary to change your attitude towards others and the world around you for harmonious living. There are 5 Yamas-

• Ahimsa (Non-violence)
• Satya (Truthfulness)
• Asteya (Non-stealing)
• Brahmacharya (Non-lust)
• Aparigraha (Non-possessiveness)

2. Niyams – Observances or actions regarding moral behavior towards oneself. Necessary for achieving a balance within oneself. They include:

• Saucha (Cleanliness)
• Santosa (Contentment)
• Tapas (Austerity)
• Svadhyaya (Study of Sacred texts and one’s self)
• Isvara pranidhana (Awareness of the Divine)

3. Asana – Practice of Yoga postures and exercises.

4. Pranayama – Practice of breathing exercises. and breath control.

5. Pratyahara – Withdrawal of the senses.Complete inward focus and attention to one’s self so you are no longer distracted by outside events.

6. Dharana – Concentration and focus of the mind without any distraction, internal or external.

7. Dhyana – Meditation. An uninterrupted flow of concentration aimed to heighten one’s awareness and oneness with the universe. An unbroken stream of consciousness that is no longer focused on a single thing but is all encompassing.

8. Samadhi - Enlightenment through a State of Super-consciousness. The merging of the self with the universe. Bliss. It is more an end result, rather than a practice.

Every step and effort towards enlightenment provides greater awareness, well being and joy. So, why not learn more about and take up Yoga as a way of life today. Take our advice, Yoga is a well-rounded physical, mental and spiritual practice that’ll energize you and bring most important benefit – the balance in your life.

*Photo Credits: photos by alicepopkorn and Marcia_Salviato on flickr

For  special Yoga Apparel, comfort clothing designed according to the Colors of the Chakras and the best trendy, high quality and comfortable  Fitness Apparel do visit YogacaraShop.com

2009 Fall/Winter Women’s Fashion Color Trends

This Fall/Winter it’s OUT with the Drab Neutrals and IN with Bold Colors

Traditionally the drop in outside temperature coincides with drab neutrals taking over our closet space as we switch to our winter wear, well NOT this year! 2009’s Fall/Winter Color Trends come alive with bright bold, lively colors that one usually sees in spring or summer. As seen in designer collections across runways and as predicted by experts vibrant colors will be influencing our winter picks this season. Said to be representing hope for the future as the economy picks up, rich tomato reds, feminine pinks, electric blues, mysterious purples along with fresh citrus hues are all the buzz this season. Let’s take a closer look at the Hottest Colors of Fall/Winter 2009:

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Bright Reds
Make a visual impact with juicy red clothes. From passion-evoking scarlet, vermillion, cherry, stop light to crimson, red shades can pack a major wallop of modernity to your style. The best part is, since a little bit of this classic color adds a lot, it works as a great accent color too, if you can pull off a bold piece.

This simple yet sassy red scoop neck top (pictured right) features not just the season’s hottest color by combines another season trend- Stud detailing. (See more – Women’s Comfort Clothing in Red)

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Blue & Teal
A hot color running for back to back seasons is electric blue. However, for warmer early fall days turquoise is a hot favorite, while deep teal is a hue which will make a statement for cooler fall days.

(pictured left). An electric blue double “V” neck stretch knit top that will take you from workout to shopping with comfort and style, with long sleeves and a Rhine stud logo. (See more – Women’s Comfort Clothing in Blue)

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Earthy Tones
Of the neutrals this season, shades like sage, tan, olive and beige lend an almost  natural herbal and mineral feel providing a much needed balance and oneness with nature. Earthy tones are very in.

(Pictured right). A perfect Hooded dress a great item to integrate into your casual wardrobe or to team with opaque tights another of the season’s specials. (See more – Women’s Comfort Clothing in Earthy tones)

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Soft Pinks
Rose Dust with subtle rose undertones which has the feel of “fuchsia and the softness of pink” will be the leading neutral shade of the season. It’s a great color for cosmetics, as well. Flirty and feminine, the addition of this subtle shade can bring a perfect contrast needed in your winter closet.

(Pictured left )Get the sweet girl next door look in this soft pink t-shirt with unique thousand petals  rhinestone design.  (See more – Women’s Comfort Clothing in Pinks)

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* Photo credits: above fashion photo by Tammy Manet on flickr.

** Clothing pictured available at Yogacarashop.com – Find Trendy women’s comfort clothing, yoga workout wear, fitness apparel and more.

The Power of ‘OM’: A Scared Word, Symbol and Sound

The symbolism, meaning and power  of the Sacred Word”Om”/ “Aum”

Did you know that the mono-syllable “OM” or “AUM” is regarded the sound of God and the basis of all other sounds. This mystical and sacred Hindu word “Om” is the highest mantra (chant) symbolizing the vibration of the Supreme and of divine energy (Shakti). It is believed that the whole universe, in its fundamental form is made up of vibrating, pulsating energy and  “Om” is considered the humming sound of this cosmic energy. It means oneness and a merging of our physical body with our spiritual being. The great Hindu sage Patanjali once said: “He who knows “Om” knows God.”

“Om” and Yoga have a long standing history. As we saw in the ‘Types of Yoga‘, Yoga is more than just a physical practice as believed in West. It’s a special connection between your body and spiritual self. So how does “Om” relate to Yoga?

“Om” or “Aum” is a way of deepening the concentration of the mind during Yoga. The sound of ”Om” is also called Pranava, runs through Prana or breath and as we know breathing is a very important part of practicing yoga. Most yoga sessions begin with the chanting of “Om” and end with it too. It is said to drive a way distractions while infusing new vigour in the body. Like a powerful tonic, ”Om” is the mood lifter and the energizing sound that replaces negative energy with fresh life bringing force.

“Om” is associated with the Crown Chakra (Sahasrara) which connects to the central nervous systems as well as with the Third Eye Chakra which is the seam of wisdom, intuition and psychic power. While meditating chanting ”Om” creates a powerful focus on its sound and feeling of all-knowing, infinite and pure at heart. Scientifically, a daily dose of ”Om” and calming yoga can significantly improve your health (see how in- 7 Steps to Healthier Living).

It is widely believed that where a symbol of  the Universe is present its related energy is also present. So by wearing “Om” symbol or “Omkar” as it’s called on T-shirts or in other forms you’re opening up to God’s energy. While no symbol can really bring you good luck, wealth or power, its presence can influence your thoughts and therefore actions.

The real understanding of the sacred word, symbol and sound ”Om” or “Aum” can only be felt by hearing it internally and then becoming one with it in all creation. Such is the Power of “Om”.

Find ‘Om’ T-shirts, Yoga Pants with ‘Om’ Symbol, yoga inspired clothing and trendy fitness apparel at YogacaraShop.com