WITHDRAW FROM THE
CHAOS AND REDISCOVER
YOUR INNER CALM With Pratyahara
Pratyahara is one of the eight limbs of yoga, as outlined in Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras. It is the fifth limb and refers to the withdrawal of the senses from external stimuli to stop feeding the mind with constant stimulation
The word Pratyahara is derived from two Sanskrit words: “prati” means “against” or “away,” and “ahara” means “food” or “nourishment.”
Pratyahara is considered to be a crucial step in the yogic path because it prepares the mind for meditation. By withdrawing the senses from external distractions, the mind becomes more focused and can enter a state of deep concentration. It can be practiced through various techniques, such as mindful breathing, meditation, visualization, and concentration exercises. Its benefits increase mental clarity, improved concentration, reduced stress and anxiety, and a greater sense of inner peace.
Overall, Pratyahara is an essential part of the yogic path, helping practitioners to cultivate inner awareness and find a deeper connection with themselves and the world around them.
TAKE A BREATH OF FRESH AIR AND REJUVENATE YOUR MIND With Pratyahara
May is a month that brings us the vibrant colors of spring, the promise of new beginnings, and also the opportunity to raise awareness about mental health. In fact, May is recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month, and it is a time to highlight the importance of taking care of our mental well-being.
During spring, we can practice Pratyahara by taking time to be still and observe the natural world around us. We can sit outside and listen to the birds chirping or the leaves rustling in the breeze. We can take a mindful walk in a park or a forest and pay attention to the colors, textures, and smells around us. By doing so, we can quiet our minds and connect with the present moment.
Pratyahara can also be a helpful tool for managing our mental health. It allows us to take a break from the distractions of our daily lives and focus on our internal state. By practicing it regularly, we can learn to better understand our thoughts and emotions and develop a greater sense of inner peace and well-being.
There are many other practices and tools that can help us thrive during Mental Health Awareness Month and beyond. These can include exercise, meditation, journaling, spending time with loved ones, and seeking professional help when needed. The important thing is to find what works for us and make it a regular part of our lives. Let us take this opportunity to prioritize our mental health and help others do the same.
Pratyahara: TOFU & WATERCRESS SALAD
WITH MANGO & ACOCADO
This plant-based salad is perfect when you want a hearty but meat-free meal. Mango and avocado add tang and creaminess to this fresh salad recipe.
- Preparation time: 20 mins
- Easy
- Servings : 1 generous servings
INGREDIENTS :
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup red-wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground pepper
- 8 cups lightly packed trimmed watercress and/or mixed salad greens
- 1 cup Honey-Balsamic Roasted Tofu
- ½ ripe avocado, sliced
- ½ cup chopped fresh mango
- ½ cup sliced red bell pepper
- ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion
- ¼ cup thinly sliced radishes
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 teaspoons sesame seeds
DIRECTIONS :
- Whisk oil, vinegar, honey, mustard, salt and pepper in a small bowl.
- Arrange watercress (or greens), tofu, avocado, mango, bell pepper, onion and radishes in 4 bowls. Serve drizzled with the dressing and sprinkled with cilantro and sesame seeds.
Dive into a New Chapter!
Classes Moving to the Lake St. Catherine Cottages at 70 W Lake Rd, Well VT 05774! Classes Rain or Shine! Summer fun awaits!
pose of the month:
the wild thing Pose
The “Wild Thing” pose, also known as Camatkarasana in Sanskrit, is a yoga pose that combines a backbend with a side stretch.
BENEFITS:
- Increased spinal flexibility
- Strengthened upper body
- Strengthened upper body
- Improved core strength
- Stretched hip flexors and quadriceps
- Chest and shoulder opening
- Increased energy and mood enhancement
BODY QUES:
To practice the Wild Thing pose, begin in a high plank position. Shift your weight to one hand and roll onto the outer edge of the foot on the same side. Open your body sideways, bending the knee and touching the ground with the toes of the opposite foot. Extend the arm on the side of the bent knee overhead. Engage your core for stability and keep your chest lifted and open. Hold the pose for a moment, feeling the stretch, and then switch sides to repeat the sequence.
Possible variations:
- Fallen Triangle Pose
- One-Legged Wild Thing Pose
- Flip Dog Pose
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