Author Archives: lisa

connecting with the elemental fabric in our body From the Prasna Upanishad: “What powers support this body? Which of them is manifested in it? And among them all, which is the greatest?” The sage replied: “The powers are space, air, … Continue reading →

Inversions are the centerpiece of a mature practice in Iyengar Yoga. Many yoga students who practice Sirsasana  (headstand) and Salamba Sarvangasana (Shoulder stand) and are not familiar with the potent variations that accompany the King and Queen of asana. Just … Continue reading →

This was the first afternoon presentation of the conference. Abhijata introduced the session with images of the many ways that we support and participate with one another. We seek support to grow, for guidance (a child and teacher), for emotional … Continue reading →

Guruji’s writings will seed lifetimes of contemplation. This summary of Eddy Marks’ talk at Yoganushasanam includes my own midnight musings. “Intelligence is in every cell in the body, but dormant. You have to learn how to tap it.” Some of … Continue reading →

Inspiration is precious, whenever it presents itself. Guruji’s life story, his practice, his teachings, and his pithy sayings will continue to stimulate us to aspire and study. Now that he no longer graces us in this material plane, we can … Continue reading →

The second Yoganushasanam conference opened with a majestic invocation by Guruji’s personal priest, Nataraj Shastri. Geeta then explained the relevance of this prayer by summarizing Ashtanga Yoga, and the eight petals of the Yoga sadhana. The prayer described how the … Continue reading →

Living with Your Spine in Backbends Sat Nov 7, 2015, 2pm – 5pm The natural curves of the spine allow for easy mobility in the neck, shoulders, arms and legs, while providing support for the internal organs. Over the years, … Continue reading →

Gems of the Bhagavad Gita Revealed Thru Asana An afternoon of twists, technique, and the timeless art of yoga Yoga is skill in action, Yoga is evenness of mind. These gems encapsulate yoga practice as it is expressed in the poetic and … Continue reading →

When I first heard that Birjoo Mehta was going to dedicate a whole conference to working with the elements, I was elated.  Along with many others, I  am fascinated with the idea of how the element of water, air, earth … Continue reading →

I recently returned from an inspiring four day conference with Birjoo Mehta in San Diego. I hope to draft several posts to share his delightful work. The teacher-student relationship can be an intimate and demanding one, especially when the two … Continue reading →