Interview: Birad Rajaram Yajnik, Author of “The Great Indian Yoga Masters”
Birad Rajaram Yajnik visited Japan to launch the Japanese edition of his book, “The Great Yoga Masters,” at the Indian Embassy in Tokyo on April 30, 2012. Translated into Japanese by Kayo Shiozaki, it is a gorgeous book full of beautiful pictures and a very inspiring content. I was fortunate to catch Birad during his visit and talk to him about his inspiration for the book and the process he went through to produce it.
How to Become a Yoga Pro
There are three popularly accepted stages through which one advances in order to master the practice of yoga: beginner, intermediate, and advanced. These categories are in no way impenetrable fortresses, though, and one can often find overlapping methods being used. Becoming a pro also involves the study of philosophy and the ability to meditate, in addition to a deep understanding of anatomy. The amazing thing about becoming a so-called pro is that the more you master and know, the more you will realize that there is indeed so much more to learn about life and ways to control your own body.
Reality Check（Awareness and Realization of Reality = Facing Oneself）
Now is good time to start practicing yoga, as the climate as allows the body to easily warm up, making yoga practice easier. Many people do yoga for health; however, yoga isn’t only about physical poses and exercise. In India, the psychological and internal mind aspect of yoga is regarded as more important for a healthier and happier lifestyle because it helps to balance the mind, body, and soul. In this column, I continue exploring how to find a loving relationship with the yoga mind approach.
Yoga Aid Challenge 2012
The Yoga Aid Challenge was held at Tokyo MidTown again on April 29th, 2012. This was the 6th year since it was first established in Australia（5th year in terms of event operation）. It was held in Japan for the first time in 2008. This year, the 785 participants worked together to raise over 1.5 million yen.
Breathing New Ground: Backbending Yoga (Part 1/2)
For many students new to the practice, the intensity of backbending is just that: intense. The emotions are often expressed in grunts and moans. Yet the underlying principle to the practice of the asanas (postures) is to still the mind, extend the body, and enter the unknown. A straightforward theory, but in practice, it takes on a life of its own.
HelloYoga.com Party #04
On November 12, 2011, HelloYoga.com and Be Yoga Japan collaborated to produce an informal, simple, and fun gathering for Tokyo’s yoga community, called the “Bare Foot Yoga Party.” Everybody enjoyed trying many new and fun experiences for the mind, body, and soul in one night! 50 percent of entry ticket proceeds will be donated to the Tyler Foundation, a charity which supports children with cancer in Japan and their families.
