Yoga Ayurveda Recovery

Author: Zoe

  • Eat foods to suit your digestion

    Eat foods to suit your digestion

    Learn to eat foods that suit your digestion

    As we age our digestive fire becomes weaker. Bloating, gas and gut problems will happen if you eat foods that do not suit your digestion. Our digestion can be impacted simply by a change of season – especially the colder weather. For this reason it is a time we need to be particularly aware to listen to our bodies signals.

    Our Ayurveda and Yoga for over 40’s “live-online” classes are a great place to start as we introduce Ayurveda in a simple way you can digest.  Traditionally  Yoga and Ayurveda are practiced together. It is very beneficial to learn about Ayurveda and your digestion to improve the quality of your life.

    There are several other factors that can disturb the balance of our system such as excessive talking, movement, wrong types of foods, sounds, smells and touch. Our constitution or Prakruti* is what we are born with and it only becomes a problem when aggravated. Others doshas may dominate according to lifestyle habits and these are called Vikruti*. It too can be a problem if it gets too far out of balance.

    Yoga and Ayurveda as Therapy
    Learn the benefits of combining Yoga with Ayurveda

    There are many benefits to incorporating an Ayurvedic lifestyle. Similarly Ayurveda provides knowledge of our strengths and weaknesses on all levels. Each individuals Prakruti determines what we can and  cannot digest. If you take in things that you can’t digest, they turn toxic in your body and create imbalances in the doshas*. Imbalances in the doshas result in both physical and mental disorders.

    Ayurveda guidelines enhance our digestive system

    Ayurveda aims to reduce or avoid foods that cannot be digested. This in turn will  aid the digestion to ensure our food becomes our medicine and provides maximum benefit. Some foods or cooking methods recommended by Ayurveda seem counter-intuitive to the Western idea of nutrition.

    Contemporary beliefs promote a broad range of foods to ensure adequate nutrition. However this can be problematic with wrong food combinations and eating out of season etc.  Ayurveda focuses on foods that are the best for each persons unique system when and how to eat them. Consequently eating  inline with your Prakruti and using certain cooking methods will aid digestion. In turn the nutrients can be absorbed readily and you will be healthier all round.

    Ayurveda the science of life

    In the West, we often use vitamin and mineral supplements because our body cannot absorb sufficient nutrients from our regular diet. According to Ayurveda, this is probably because we cannot digest the foods containing these nutrients or other eating habits.  Ayurveda says that if our digestion is working well we will absorb all of the nutrients we need from compatible foods. Despite the fact that cooking may reduce some nutrients. As the golden rule of real estate is position, position, position, the golden rule of Ayurveda the science of life is digestion, digestion, digestion.

    Ayurveda doshas

    Learn about your digestion with Ayurveda

     * Prakruti – primal nature; also our biological constitution at birth

    * Vikruti – current imbalance or disease state

    * Dosha – one of the three basic types of biological energy, which determine individual constitution: Vata, Pitta and Kapha. It can also mean the excess of one of these in nature.

    Take our Ayurveda test 

    Vata, Pitta, or Kapha? According to Ayurveda, doshas are the energy patterns that flow around our bodies, governing our thinking and behaviour. Read more about why you would want to complete our dosha test here.

    This Dosha Quiz will give you a breakdown of your Ayurvedic mind-body type. At the end of the test, you will learn about your personal Ayurveda type which can be used as a general guide for tips to enhance your health, from nutrition to yoga and meditation.

    Balance is the key to a healthy body and mind and the ancient tools of Yoga and Ayurveda really do work! Below are basic Ayurveda eating guidelines.

    Yoga Ayurveda just do it

    Try our short Ayurveda dosha test

    Our short test will only provide somewhat of an understanding of your dosha but it is not conclusive as there are many variables that come into play. Put a mark against which best describes you and get yourself a tally. If you would like to have a private one-on-one session with Zoe at Bondi Yoga Therapy you can read more about this here.

    Holistic nomads has an even more comprehensive Ayurveda dosha test but this does not replace a consultation with an Ayurveda practitioner.

    Book your Yoga Works for Over 40s online classes and be a part of making a positive change to your life.

  • Pineal Gland and the effects of Technology

    Pineal Gland and the effects of Technology

    The glow of technology suppresses and effects the pineal gland from functioning properly in the brain. This gland the Yogis have recognised for thousands of years. Did you know that the pineal gland produces melatonin? Likewise it is activated by darkness and inhibited by light. As well as suppressed by electromagnetic fields (EMF) released by mobile phones and other wireless devices (5G).

    Magical pineal gland is an endocrine gland sitting alone in the brain, level with our eyes. Whether we look at it from a philosophical or a scientific point of view, the pineal gland plays a vital role in mental, physical, and spiritual health. Yogis have long known h importance of the pineal gland with postures having a positive effect. However the ongoing and long effects of Technology are only just being known.

    Technology Addiction and Pineal Gland

    What Does the Pineal Gland Do?

    Melatonin is what the pineal gland produces and this is in charge of our daily and seasonal circadian rhythms. There is a direct connection to our sleep cycles and the quality of our sleep from melatonin. It also regulates the onset of puberty.

    High melatonin levels reduce cortisol which allows us to sleep at night. On the other hand, low melatonin levels increase cortisol which causes anxiety and disrupts our sleep patterns. Fighting against free radicals is what Melatonin is in charge of. A decline in melatonin can also trigger the ageing process in the body.

    Serotonin, the neurotransmitter of the happy chemical responsible for our mood, is transformed into melatonin only in the pineal gland. Melatonin is not only crucial to healthy cell growth, but it also affects the levels of a stress hormone called cortisol.

    Once released, melatonin circulates through the brain and enters nearby blood vessels that will distribute it to the rest of the body. When melatonin levels are disrupted, people often experience mood swings, depression, and seasonal disorders.

    Spiritual Aspects of the Pineal Gland

    Given its essential role, it comes as no surprise that an activated and healthy pineal gland has been linked with spirituality for millennia. Its pinecone shape can be found in art and artefacts of many ancient traditions, where it is associated with enlightenment and immortality. Ancient Egyptians admired this tiny gland so much that they even preserved it separately during the process of mummification.

    The pineal is a major psychophysiological centre or a chakra (energy centre), according to Yogic teachings.  Many people consider the pineal gland to be the source of intuition and clairvoyance. It has also been called “the principal seat of the soul,” and the portal to the higher dimensions. This is because the pineal, or third eye, provides perception beyond plain sight.

    Online Yoga Seniors

    When the pineal and the third eye are awakened, our whole body awakens. They enable us to open up to having visions, clairvoyance, and other psychic gifts. It is crucial to our spiritual growth and consciousness to keep our pineal gland-free of toxic substances. As we become more toxic, and exposed to the effects of technology our pineal gland calcifies further. This causes us to lose our spiritual connection to higher energies and our oneness with everything.

    Technology overuse and the effects on the body

    We define technology addiction as an uncontrollable impulse that forces you to use mobile devices, the internet, graze on social media or simply play games. These malpractices lead to the Pineal gland not working properly. The effects this has on the body will be further explained. Our Sleepy Time Yoga is part of the Yoga for over 40’s (online) classes and will help you to sleep and counter the effects of technology on your pineal gland.

    In general, addiction is characterised by the inability to consistently abstain from something. Impairment in behavioural control, craving, reduced recognition of major problems with one’s behaviours and interpersonal relationships, and impaired emotional response.

    Technology Addiction and Pineal Gland

    Technology Addiction

    Like many other chronic diseases, addiction often involves cycles of relapse and remission. Without treatment or engagement in recovery activities, addiction is progressive and results in disability or premature death.

    Four key parts constitute addiction:

    1. Addiction include both substances or/and activities such as sex, work, media, eating, shopping, alcohol, drugs and gambling
    2. An addiction leads to substantial harm
    3. The definition of addiction is repeated involvement despite considerable harm
    4. Pleasurable and/or valuable is what makes adddiction persists

    Addiction is a psychological or physical need to do or use something, to the point where it could be detrimental to you.

    Technology addiction – Zoom, Facebook, Youtube and isolation

    With the increase in the use of technology, staying at home, using Zoom and Facebook etc to connect with the outside world our dependency and addiction to a digital life has increased. People are spending hours each day browsing social media or playing games while forsaking other aspects of their lives. No matter what the person’s addiction is, they can’t control how they use it. They may even start to rely on it to get through daily life.

    Some studies suggest that addiction is genetic. However, environmental factors, such as being brought up by someone with an addiction could also increase the risk. An addiction is a way of masking or medicating the difficulties within one’s life. Research shows addiction often is triggered by childhood trauma and abuse.  However, it can come from other things such as unemployment, poverty along with stress, and emotional or professional pressure.

    Online Yoga seniors over 40's with Zoe

    A digital detox story

    A good friend told me about “sleep hygiene.”  Likewise I started shutting the lid on the computer, no later than 7 p.m. But I still had the phone.

    A new strategy was to delete the Facebook app from my phone, this stopped me from looking at it throughout the day. But it was still only on my iPad. Lets limit myself to just one look before going to bed I thought. However before I knew it time had passed and I was so engrossed with the alternative media. With the recent bushfires, floods and now the plague of the COVID 19, I look at these devices even more.

    With three Facebook pages and one profile to manage there was always so much to do. Furthermore, I have two business websites that constantly need work to keep them alive. As well as five e-mail addresses, a LinkedIn business profile, Instagram photos, Twitter posts, Pinterest boards, Google business and Google Plus pages to manage. Yikes!

    Digital Detox yoga program

    Apps on devices are made to be addictive

    Messenger, Skype and WhatsApp and an app that helps to prevent any vagueness around money. Time has also been used up in front of the screen writing and uploading 4 digital books to iTunes and Amazon. Of course then I need to download iBooks, Kindle and the Kobo book reading apps.

    There has been no time for a TV in my life over the past 10 years. When I have time to watch something I use SBS and ABC on-demand viewing platforms.  The iPad is easily transportable and will go with me outside when I stop  to have a cuppa.  Making movies and editing images on my phone and iPad is enjoyable and time consuming.  There is always something to do. Talk about complicated and busy mind. Life is so full and I am so grateful for Sleepy Time Yoga.

    As a teacher of technology for that last 35 years, I know there are many benefits with technology and I marvel at the changes. However, anything in excess soon becomes the exact opposite – a disadvantage. If we do anything too much, we begin to lose balance and feel the painful symptoms.

    What Yoga Can Do to Counteract the Effects of Overdosing On Technology

    Optimal health and balance of the entire being is Yoga’s mission. Technology addiction can directly affect the pineal gland and this leads to being out of balance. Quality of life is diminished. Learning tools to bring your self into a state of balance is a much needed strategy in todays world. The irony is we use technology to connect yet in reality the effects of overusing a good thing, keep us separated from ourselves and others.

    The balancing act of Yoga poses, meditation, breathing and chanting may be everything we need to remedy our minds and get our circadian rhythms back in sync.  Some tips to keep yourself in balance are:

    • Spend time in the sunlight every day.
    • Shut the lid on computers at 7pm.
    • Sleep in complete darkness.
    • Commit to a regular meditation practice before bed, because this will develop and enhance your pineal gland.
    • There are many Yogic practices that are very powerful methods for awakening the pineal gland.
    • Inversions are especially helpful since they increase blood flow to the pineal while you are upside down.
    • The practice of Yoga Nidra and yogic sleep meditation can also help in awakening the pineal gland.

    Technology Addiction and Yoga

    Technology Addiction and Pineal Gland

    How Sleepy Time Yoga helps

    As a computer coach, a Yoga Ayurveda therapist and someone who is struggles with technology over use I know Yoga therapy works.  I have learnt many experience, knowledge and skills to help people with their technology addictions. You will learn to bring yourself to a state of balance.

    Learn how to be time efficient using technology. Likewise create time to focus on your visions and goals in life.

    By incorporating Yoga Ayurveda Therapy into your everyday life. Our Lunchtime Chair Yoga Therapy is about sitting at the desk. You will  bring into your everyday life when standing in a cue or the simple act of breathing, opening and stretching. Yoga reverses the harmful effects that technology has on the pineal gland, body and mind. Combining both Yoga Ayurveda therapy with technology you bridge the gap between the ancient teachings and the modern day technologies. As a consequence, you will move towards a healthier lifestyle.

    Yoga Therapy for over 40’s online classes include Good Morning Yoga, Lunchtime Chair Yoga and Sleepy time Yoga. You can read more here about the many benefits of Yoga therapy for Seniors here.

    If you are someone who has been struggling with technology addiction don’t hesitate to contact me today.

    Phone Number: 0407 956 071

    E-mail: bondiyogatherapy@gmail.com

    Website: www.yogaworksforover40s.com

    Facebook: facebook.com/ComptuerCoachAustralia

    https://www.facebook.com/yogaworksforover40s

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yogaworksforover40s

    Youtube Channels: Computer Coach Australia and Yogaworksforover40s

    Twitter: @HitechyogiZoe

     

    References:

    https://www.hormone.org/your-health-and-hormones/glands-and-hormones-a-to-z/glands/pineal-gland

    https://www.asam.org/resources/definition-of-addiction

    https://www.mentalhelp.net/articles/definition-of-addiction/

    https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/what-is-addiction

    https://www.consciouslifestylemag.com/pineal-gland-activation-third-eye/

    https://upliftconnect.com/detoxify-your-pineal-gland/

    https://www.aurawellnesscenter.com/2013/04/18/how-yoga-affects-the-pineal-gland/

  • Effects of Yoga and modern technology in lockdown

    Effects of Yoga and modern technology in lockdown

    Modern technology has good and bad effects, but one thing is certain: thanks to the internet and social networks, we now work from the safety and comfort of our own home during lockdown.  Now more than ever we are online wth access right here and now. Whether as an employee, business owner, student, teacher or seeking services etc; most people are on the “net”.  This increased wave of online behaviour is not without a learning curve and toll on our time, physical and mental health. Many people are working from the dining room table, the lounge room or even in bed. This set up lacks any purposeful ergonomics and has its limitations.

    Luckily Chair Yoga is right in the house with you. You will be motivated to stop at lunch time, take a breath stop and reflect. By moving the body in a yogic way you will prevent a sore neck, back, eyes, wrists plus more. Plus your energy levels will be regenerated for the afternoon.

    It’s clear that modern technology has changed our lives.  Now we move from one device to the next to watch movies on our laptops, study with the headphones on, sit at the computer to work or connect via our smartphones. At Bondi Yoga therapy we have a digital detox program that is becoming very popular. Did you know that modern technology has changed the way we think and live our lives ? During this pandemic we are told to stay in our homes the first thing many of us do is to check our devices while being passively fed information. A great way to start off your day is to join our Good Morning Yoga Therapy class, you can read more here.

    How Chair yoga helps you in lockdown

    Chair Yoga will keep you moving during lockdown

    Social media sites have an agenda and exercise their censorship rights. We are being fed only a strategic amount of information. Despite life appearing open, free, modernised and democratic is it really? Prior to the fires, floods and lockdown the world was spinning at such a fast pace.  There are many positive things we now have time to reflect on as we slow down without the distractions of life outside the home.

    But are you going from one screen to the next and feeling overwhelmed? We get so absorbed and mesmerised by the screen that time soon flies by. Our connection with how we are sitting in a crunched up position blocking off circulation and energy to our organs often goes unnoticed. The Lunchtime Chair Yoga class is a great way to break up the day as your energy is revitalised for the afternoon.

    Have your lives changed working online?

    There’s no doubt that we replaced normal interaction with social networks and mobile applications. These new technologies significantly influence our thinking, or the ways we think. However, the bad side is that it often happens subtly and accidentally. The impact of technology is growing bigger, more intense and stronger. Everything we see and hear, we interpret in the moment. We are not even aware of that. More importantly, we were not aware of how our life actually changed. Yoga therapy brings you self awareness of your posture and breathing. We will be in your home every Wednesdays at 12 noon as part of our Yoga therapy for over 40’s online classes.

    Technology Stimulates Thinking and keeps us Connected

    Everything we see on TV, the internet, social media and similar platforms affects us. If we see a touching story, we are moved, we want to help, we feel it. The music we listen to has the same effect. It causes us to feel things, positive or negative, depending on the song itself. It stimulates us to think, creates our own attitudes and plays a big role in our lives.

    The fact that modern technology really matters in our everyday life is further proven by the fact that without a mobile phone, a laptop and the internet most of us would feel like something is missing. Technology skills are termed computer literacy and without these skills, people are just as disadvantaged as not being able to read or write. Zoe the founder of Bondi Yoga Therapy is also the founder of Computer Coach Australia. She calls herself a hi-tech-yogi because she using both these skills to help people save time and be confident online.

    pineal gland yoga technology effects

    Modern technologies effects our life during lockdown

    Technology during the lockdown due to the COVID 19 pandemic, provides a means of interpersonal communication and interaction with our friends, colleagues and families. After all life is easier and faster to send a message by email or chat  right?  Now working from home we are even more online, and feeling anxious about the future. Many of us are seeking to be informed and in the know of what is happening around the world. In fact there are so many online events and news it is hard to keep up. We don’t want to miss even the smallest thing and we need discernment.

    yoga for over 40's online

    Disadvantages Of Modern Technology and COVID 19 lockdown

    The world of technology world has moved even closer, by bringing work into the home. Some good some bad, what do you think? Modern technology can cause a decline in conceptual and critical thinking. In addition, it can have a negative effect on our sleep or, more precisely, disturb our sleep. This automatically reduces our ability to think, learn and concentrate. The light of the laptop, cell phone, and TV screen can in some way deceive our brain to think it’s day and not night. The body is awake and we feel there is no need for sleep. Fatigue only occurs later, when it’s too late to properly rest and we have missed our sleep window. For this reason we have started a Sleepy time Yoga therapy online class to help you to wind down from the day.

    There Are Some Advantages to lockdown

    The planet is taking a much needed breath. There is a noticeable decrease in pollution as accelerated from planes, suntan lotion in the oceans, people on the streets and cars on the road. We were all spinning so fast and now we have a chance to take a look at the direction of our lives. This is a great opportunity to start a Yoga Therapy practice and spend time to going inside, rather than outside. Our Good Morning Yoga therapy will help you set your intention for the day and start off with an abundance of cleared energy.

    Modern technology is not so bad.  Now we have the opportunity to learn online with Computer Coach Australia, everything is at hand. We can find everything on the internet faster and easier, and with the introduction of 5G the world is being prepared for artificial intelligence. Technology also helps us to be constantly informed – aware of what is happening around us, with our friends, acquaintances and people that we haven’t seen in a very long time. Today, through Facebook, we can find friends from primary school, an ex-boyfriend, and also meet new people. The internet makes all this possible and it would be foolish to say that there are no good sides.

    chair yoga therapy works with zoe

    Just Don’t Overdo It

    As we mentioned before, technology has a good and bad side. What we can advise you is the following – just don’t overdo it. Sometimes it’s okay to surf the internet, lie in front of the laptop, or chat on WhatsApp. From every exaggeration we can become addicts. From time to time go back to your memories of childhood – do something creative or join in on one of our Yoga for over 40’s online classes. Good morning Yoga, Lunchtime Chair Yoga and Sleepy time Yoga

    Balancing technology with the creative is living a life of abundance, and that is why it is wise to start off the day with a sankalpa or intention and affirmations. Our Sleepy Time Yoga class at the end of our day brings in gratitudes and forgivenesses.  To find out more about our Yoga for over 40’s online classes call Zoe +61 407 956 071 or drop us a note below, we love to hear how your going!

    ← Back

    Thank you for your response. ✨

Call now