The south coast of Sri Lanka is a sanctuary where nature, culture, and wellness converge in a tranquil embrace. Bathed in golden sunlight and kissed by the azure waves of the Indian Ocean, this region offers an idyllic escape for those seeking peace and rejuvenation. The landscape is a painter’s dream—lush, tropical jungles spill into pristine beaches, with palm trees swaying in the warm breeze and the scent of saltwater and jasmine filling the air. In this serene paradise, the rhythm of daily life slows down, and the stresses of the world fade away. The sound of the ocean’s gentle waves crashing on the shore provides the perfect soundtrack to moments of introspection, yoga, and meditation. Quiet coves and secluded beaches like those in Hikkaduwa, Mirissa and Tangalle, invite relaxation, where you can bask in the sun, take a leisurely swim, or simply listen to the symphony of nature…
Read MoreIn the realms of Yoga and Ayurveda, the concept of the five koshas provides a profound framework for understanding human existence and achieving holistic well-being.
Koshas, often described as “sheaths” or “layers” represent different aspects of our existence or ‘being’, from the physical body (densest) to the innermost (subtlest) essence of the self. By understanding and nurturing these koshas, we can achieve a balanced and fulfilling life.
Let’s delve into each kosha and explore practical ways to integrate this wisdom into our daily lives.
Read MoreRecently in a group discussion on the subject of mindfulness and meditation, we explored the effects of meditation on brain activity and how that impacts our daily lives, emotional and mental balance as well as overall wellbeing.
There are various ways that the brain is transformed in meditation, each distinct in activity; fluctuating with our actions and feelings. In this thought-piece I like to refer to the ‘path’ to meditation as a stepped process: starting with dharana (focused concentration, mindfulness), then dhyana (meditation, contemplative stillness) leading to samadhi (expansion, absorption). When practiced correctly, this process can transform the frequency and activity of the brain from higher to lower frequencies. This can profoundly impact how we experience life, by aligning individual with universal consciousness.
Combining kriyas with classic hatha asana (posture) and pranayama (breath)
This asana here is Ardha Baddha Padmottanasana (Half Bound Lotus Standing Forward Bend) that stretches the muscles in the lower back, hip, hamstrings, and shoulders. It is derived from the Sanskrit words Ardha=half, Baddha=bound, Padma=lotus, Uttana=intense stretch, and asana=pose. This is an intense forward bend pose that is in the combination of Ardha Padmasana and Uttanasana. To build up to it, start to practice half lotus and standing forward bends and then begin to combine them, starting by wrapping the arm around the body before progressing to reaching for the foot. A great way to develop balance, stability and flexibility. It activates the solar plexus chakra, and stimulates the ajna and crown chakras due to the inversion.