The Spa Goddess Goes Natural Body

So it's 15 minutes into the massage and I'm zoning out into outer-spa-space thinking to myself, "You're going to have to sue me to get me off this table."

I know critics aren't supposed to gush, but it's either that or I lean over like a bed-headed Bond Girl and light up an after-massage cigarette. And I don't smoke. Yeah. This massage was that good.

Let me qualify this, because I was raised in the South, and that's what we girls do. I don't always rave about massage, but I do tend to get better massages than other people. Invariably, whoever I'm with at the spa will always get the therapist who talks all the way through her massage, or the one with a sly sadistic streak. I believe the more you celebrate about your life, the more you'll have to celebrate. This is true of spa treatments, too. The more you get into your spa experience, the more you'll get out of it. This is why I get to be the Massage Goddess.

Let's just say that my new favorite person, Sam, is a gifted Esalen-style massage therapist. I don't usually ask for a male therapist, because there's just too much weirdness about a strange guy touching me all over my naked body without him at least getting down on one knee with a big, fat engagement ring, but I was strapped for time, and Sam was available for a same-day appointment.

So anyway, the place is called Natural Body Spa, and it is a chain with multiple locations in six Southeastern states, including Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia. I went to the Decatur location, which sits in a row of strip-mall stores that all look the same, right at the intersection of Church Street and Ponce. It's a chain establishment, which means it's hit-or-miss with the massage therapists because there tends to be a big employee turn- over rate. (Massage therapists are nomadic and it seems unnatural for skin-worshipping gypsies to settle down.) But we took our chances.

I called at 10 a.m. on a Friday. I asked if I could get a 90 minute massage before 2:45 when I pick up my kids, and they said they had a 1:15 with Sam. I asked if they could move it back to 1 o'clock and they said they had someone booked before that.

Then I remembered my son has a playdate. Yay, I thought.

"Let's book that appointment with Sam," I said.

I wondered what my massage was going to cost. I peeked at their earth-toned website and discovered that a 90 minute Deep Tissue Massage costs MORE than a "Natural Body Signature Massage." (Read: Swedish.)

I decided to call back and ask for the Signature Massage rather than the Deep Tissue, save $15 and simply ask the therapist to do some extra work on my rhomboids, those painful little muscles between my shoulder blades. Then I'll just tip the therapist the difference.

I ask about the price difference.

"Yes it is more expensive." says the receptionist. "It's because the therapist has to work a lot harder to do a Deep Tissue Massage." Then she quickly suggests, "You can change it, I'll change it for you to the Swedish. It's definitely just as good, I guarantee you." she says, liltingly.

I stuff a twenty into my purse for the therapist before I leave.

I always do a body scrub in the shower before I go and leave my hair wet and pulled back into a ponytail. That way my skin is soft for days afterwards, and I don't have to worry about my hairstyle. I just let go and relax on the table, not caring that I'm going to look like Einstein in about an hour and a half. I take my notebook and a fast pen, leave my mascara off and my jewelry at home, and head out.

In downtown Decatur the traffic is bad, pedestrian and otherwise, and I have to dig four quarters out of the bottom of my purse to put in a meter. But I find a spot right in front of the spa--the parking angels are with me today and I am grateful. I am buffeted by a wave of citrusy lemongrass before I even walk in the door.

Jonathan greets me with licorice tea, and I fill out a "Natural Body Client Profile," which asks me if I have varicose veins, if I have had any cosmetic surgery done, and if I am taking birth control pills, among other things.

The nerve. I wander around the shop for a while, checking out the merchandise. I want the "Scent Ball," a nifty little thingy that you annoint with oil and plug into the wall. I want the Sherpa booties and hand-mittens that warm up in the microwave. I want the Red Clover hand lotion, every hair product that Bumble and Bumble makes--they must stock all of them--and a card with a glamorous painting of a jaded 1950's daughter that says, "She could no longer pretend he was interesting." I've already spent $200 in my head, so I decide to sit down before I hurt myself.

This is when Sam, my therapist, arrives looking Scandinavian and well-trained, sparing me from having to lust after clothes I can't afford in another issue of Elle. We walk down a softly-lit hallway, passing three other rooms, and arrive at our nook. It is small. There is a massage table and not much else. The colors are beige, beige and beige. He leaves me in the room to get undressed, saying "I'll be giving a knock in just a bit," and I sneak a few shots with the Spa SpyCam.

There is a nifty shelf for my tea, a wooden hanger for my clothes, and a wall sconce. No self-respecting spa-worshipper would ever leave her underwear on, so I let loose and sneak under the covers. They are three-star hotel quality--clean and white and a little rough--but hey, I didn't have to launder them. I'm happy. If I told you exactly how the massage went, you'd be too jealous and get catty with me. And besides, the memories are starting to blur into a melange of dreamy techniques. Hair mussing was involved. His biceps were somehow cradling my face at one point. I think one continuous stroke went under my body from my hip bones to the top of my head, while I was lying on my back, but I could have been hallucinating.

A lot has changed since the 1950s. What with a housecleaner to keep up the castle, the local noodle bar to feed you, a counselor to talk to you and a favorite massage therapist, you're set up. A woman needs a man like a fish needs a bicycle, but a good massage therapist is not negotiable.

WHAT WAS WONDERFUL

* The joint-mobilization of my hips and shoulders made me feel free and open.

* The neck work was expert.

* The therapist's energy was vibrant and spiritual. I don't know how else to say it. I was high when I left.

* The products available at the spa are excellent. I go there to get all my Aveda and Bumble and Bumble hair products.

* The spa itself feels professional, polished and kind-hearted.

WHAT I WOULD DO DIFFERENTLY

* The massage room was dreadfully small.

* It was really expensive to do a 90 minute deep tissue massage. It's not that difficult to work on me.

* I could have used a good steam before or after.

* I would have someone drive me.

* I would have Sam start over again at the end of the 90 minutes.

IN SUM

Natural Body is a delightful little neighborhood spa. My therapist was extraordinarily gifted. I left feeling like I could write the Next Greatest American Novel. Or at least a few good poems. My spirit was uplifted, and I felt tenderly cared for. I felt like the Massage Goddess.

Vital Stats

Spa Name: Natural Body Decatur
Address: 225 E. Ponce De Leon Suite 150
City/State/Zip: Decatur, GA 30330
Phone: 404-370-1330
Location: Decatur

Specialties: Instructional Couples Massage is available

Fees: $45-50 for 30 min. $75-90 for 60 min. $110-125 for 90 min.

Surroundings: Fun and cozy

Products Used: Jurlique, Naturopathica and their own line, Spa Natural Body

Touch Quality: Sensitive and loving

Extras: I got a little more than 90 minutes of massage, but I'm sure that doesn't always happen.

Spirit: Caring, homey and down to earth.

Rating: mmmmm ( Highest possible rating: mmmmm.)

About the Author: Hadley Richarde is The Spa Goddess. She is a woman addicted to luxury and pleasures of the senses who lives in Decatur and secretly wants to reign over a minor principality. In the meantime, she reviews spas and runs her own massage therapy and relationship coaching practice.

How to Get the Most From Your Massage

Here are tips on how to get the maximize benefit from your massage.
* Be receptive and open to the experience and trust in the professionalism of the therapist

* Don't eat a heavy meal just before a massage session.

* Be on time. If you arrive in a frenzied, rushed state, it will take longer to relax.

* Arrive early to take advantage of a sauna, steam bath or hot tub, which will warm your muscles and make it easier for the therapist to achieve results. If the hot tub has chlorinated water, be sure and shower before your massage.

* Most massage takes place nude but you are fully draped at all times. If you do not want to remove all your clothing, wear clothing that you will be comfortable wearing during the massage and will allow the massage therapist to touch and move the areas of your body you expect will need to be worked on.

*Good communication is important. Before the session, let your massage therapist know what your needs are. During the massage session, report any discomfort, whether it is from the massage or anything else -- room temperature, music volume, lighting, etc. Feel free to give feedback on the amount of pressure, speed of movement, etc.

*Don’t be afraid to discuss any apprehensions or concerns. Your massage therapist is a professional dedicated to do his or her best to help you feel at ease.

*Some people like to talk during a massage session, while others remain silent. In general the massage therapist will follow your lead.

*Deep breathing helps you relax. People often stop breathing when they feel anxious or a sensitive area is massaged. If this is happening, let yourself breathe.

*Tightening up during the massage is counterproductive. Let your massage therapist know if this happens. They can adjust the massage technique or help you relax.

* If your thoughts race, try to quiet your mind by following the hands of the massage therapist. Focus on how the touch feels.

*If anything happens during the massage that seems improper, ask the massage therapist to stop. You also have the right to end the session.

*If you are dizzy or light headed after the massage, do not get off the table too fast.

*Drink extra water after a massage.

*Allow for some open, quiet time after your massage session. It helps your body absorb the results.

*Massage has its greatest benefits over time. The therapeutic effects of massage are cumulative, so the more often you get a massage, the better you will feel and the more quickly your body will respond.

Make The Most Of Your Massage

The worst of the holiday madness is over, and it's time to sneak away to the spa. Find out how to make the most of your massage while you're there. And for your New Year's Resolution, why not try a spa treatment you've never experienced before?

Tips For Enjoying Your Massage

massage is supposed to be a soothing, relaxing experience. So why do so many people arrive at 1:30 for a 1:30 massage? You should be in your robe already! And if you arrive late, in a frenzied state, you might as well have not come. Get there early is the most important tip for enjoying your massage. But there are plenty more. (Hint -- don't eat a big sausage sub right before you get there, and be sure to speak up if you don't like the pressure.

Here are some tips adapted from the American Massage Therapy Association to help you enjoy your massage.

* Be receptive. Don't eat just before a massage session.

* Be on time. If you arrive in a frenzied, rushed state, it will take longer to relax.

* If you don't want to remove all your clothing, discuss it with the therapist. Wear what you will be comfortable in that will allow the therapist to work on the areas of your body that need it.

* Good communication is very important. Before the session, give accurate health information and let the massage therapist know what you want from the massage. During the massage session, Speak up if you have any feedback on the amount of pressure, speed of movement, room temperature, music volume, or lighting.

* Some people like to talk during a massage session, while others remain silent. In general you should do whatever you feel like, and the massage therapist will follow your lead.

* Breathing helps to facilitate relaxation. People often stop breathing when they feel anxious or a sensitive area is massaged. If you realize this is happening, remind yourself to breath.

* Try not to tighten up during the massage. Let your massage therapist know if this is happening. They may need to adjust the massage technique being used. They may also be able to help you relax the affected area.

* If you find your thoughts are racing during the massage, one way to be more "body-centered" and to quiet the mind is to follow the hands of the massage therapist and focus on how the touch feels.

* If anything happens during the massage that you dislike or seems improper, you have the right to ask the massage therapist to stop. If necessary, you also have the right to end the session.

* If you are dizzy or light headed after the massage, do not get off the table too fast.

* Drink extra water after a massage.

* Allow for some open, quiet time after your massage session if possible. Sometimes one needs a little time to integrate or absorb the results of the massage session or needs some "re-entry" time.

Remember, massage has its greatest benefits over time. The therapeutic effects of massage are cumulative, so the more often a person gets a massage, the better he or she will feel and the more quickly one’s body will respond. If you are getting massage to address chronic muscular tension or recovery from a soft tissue injury, more than one session is usually needed, so be prepared to schedule several sessions.

Hot Stone Massage

By: Jane Wyvern

Do you know what hot stone massage is? Ever tried taking advantage of this therapeutic marvel? If you haven't, then read on about what this kind of massage is and what benefits it can provide for you.

Since a few years ago, the idea of using hot stone massage has become widely accepted as a great addition to the world of massages. It's present in the healthcare industry for a good reason. In the previous four years, this type of massage has become the in-thing of spas, clinics, salons, and therapeutic centers across the globe. In today's world, it's considered a very effective way to conduct massage, and complements the more traditional practices.

The Beginnings of Hot Stone Therapy

Despite what many people believe, the concept behind hot stone massage didn't originate in the Arizonan desert, or as part of a saint's vision, as some massage therapists claim. In fact, the origins of this massage go back 5000 years. It was seen in ancient India with the therapeutic traditions of Ayurveda. Research indicated that this kind of therapy saw its origin in the rocks that healers collected from river beds. They would warm them using hot water or coals and then treat bodily discomfort with them. Through these ancient methods, today's hot stone massage entered the practice of healing.

The Basics

This massage method is also referred to as la stone massage or heated stone. It is claimed that it creates a unique connection between people and nature. This idea was perhaps conceived because the process includes using basalt stones of different shapes and forms that have been heated in water. They can aid in healing different kinds of imperfections in the body.

Normally, the stones are put at key areas of the body, such as the hands or spine, while the massage therapist administers a deep massage. By the reckoning of some experts, the stones' heat produces powerful and dramatic results when they are placed in these areas. They can alleviate the discomfort of fatigued and aching muscles. Besides this, proponents of hot stone massage contend that using warm stones can tremendously improve blood circulation and the exchange of lymph in the body.

There are many more wonders of this massage technique. It is also claimed that it can relieve sore muscles, relax the nervous system, loosen tight joints, and release energy in the body that has been blocked. Doing these things will help the body function better.

In summary, there are many advantages to improving your well-being with hot stone massage. Here they are, just to recap:

* Helps circulation
* Relieves sore muscles
* Loosens tight joints
* Relaxes the nervous system
* Lets out blocked energies
* Helps deep relaxation

Given all these advantages, it's not surprising that this massage therapy is seen as perfect for people very sensitive to heavy pressure. It's also considered a good technique for people afflicted by fibromyalgia. And with the relief the stones can offer for sore, tired muscles, it's great for hiking and skiing enthusiasts.

Article Source : http://www.articlecube.com

Jane Wyvern is an established freelance writer. You can find more of her writing at massage-wire.com , lasik-central.com and lecithinguide.com .

Mobile & In-house Massage

Mobile massage therapists come to you. To your home, your office, your accommodation, sporting event or factory. Mobile therapies are often grouped by what type of massage is offered. Corporate massage (also known as workplace) is aimed at providing a massage in the office or workplace.

The advantage of mobile massage is the convenience of having therapy where you want it and when you want it. No parking, driving or annoying wasted time spent in a waiting room. For people with a disability or lack of transport options this is a great and necessary option.

Mobile massage therapists have the same qualifications as their studio counterparts so you will still be covered for workcover, insurance and healthfund rebates. Remember to always enquire about your therapists qualifications and association membership before booking.

Mobile massage basically means the massage therapist comes to you. Whether it be to your house, hotel room, sporting event or place of work. The mobile massage therapist has a table, linen, creams and oils that can be taken to any place to perform your required therapy. Mobile massage covers seated massage, in-house massage, workplace massage, corporate massage and event massage.

The advantage of mobile massage is the convenience of having therapy where you want it and when you want it. No parking, driving or annoying wasted time spent in a waiting room. For people with a disability or lack of transport options this is a great and necessary option.

Mobile massage therapists have the same qualifications as their studio counterparts so you will still be covered for workcover, insurance and healthfund rebates. Remember to always enquire about your therapists qualifications and association membership before booking.

The disadvantage of mobile massage therapy is you won't have the ambience of a proper studio, usually with a more comfortable and often heated massage table, quiet room, relaxing music and the little extras such as cushions, etc. Although you can provide a similar atmosphere yourself. You may also pay more for a mobile therapist as due to distances between patients they may not do as many appointments in a day.

Have respect for you therapist when they arrive. Be ready, properly attired, and have a space set out for the massage table. You may be paying for the time from the moment they enter the room, so don't waste it.

A very popular form of mobile massage is corporate massage (also known as on-site or workplace massage) offers the advantage of massage therapists coming to your business location. Because of long hours at the computer, dealing with customers, or just for a treat for your staff corporate massage can help revitalise and refresh. Most therapists work through your clothes and it can be done will seated at the desk. Consider offering massage at your next corporate function or meeting.

Mobile massage therapists come to you. To your home, your office, your accommodation, sporting event or factory. Mobile therapies are often grouped by what type of massage is offered. Corporate massage (also known as workplace) is aimed at providing a massage in the office or workplace.

Corporate massage (also known as on-site or workplace massage) offers the advantage of massage therapists coming to your business location. Because of long hours at the computer, dealing with customers, or just for a treat for your staff corporate massage can help revitalise and refresh. Most therapists work through your clothes and it can be done will seated at the desk. Consider offering massage at your next corporate function or meeting. Workcover requires adequate protection and prevention for your staff so it may even be tax deductible.

Smart companies are now using corporate massage as an incentive to attract, retain and reward employees. Corporate massage can boost productivity by revitalising the mind and body. It helps to make your employees feel valued.

Seated massage is great for small areas like an office. Most of the corporate and event massage (other than sporting events) will be performed by seated massage therapists. Seated massage is also called chair massage. A specially designed massage chair is provided so you can get comfortable in a limited space. The massage is performed through your clothes so there is no concerns about undressing or messy lubricants.

Seated Massage

Most of the corporate and event massage (other than sporting events) will be performed by seated massage therapists. Seated massage is also called chair massage. A specially designed massage chair is provided so you can get comfortable in a limited space. The massage is performed through your clothes so there is no concerns about undressing or messy lubricants.

A seated chair massage uses a specially designed massage chair (although there are devices with a headrest that attaches to your desk so you sit on your own chair) while you are massaged usually with acupressure techniques to knead, press and rub specific points where tension accumulates in your shoulders neck and back. Seated chair massage is performed fully clothed and without the use of any oils or creams focusing on the head, neck, shoulders, arms, hands, and back.

Appointments for seated massage usually go for around 15 minutes. This is a good time as the person will relax and refresh but not fall into deep relaxation. Much better for work output.

Mobile massage for events. Event massage is exactly what it states - massage for an event. It is a type of massage. The most common form of event massage is at a sporting event. Usually a group of therapists are set up to provide massage therapy before and after the sporting events. For events such as running marathons or in cycling hudreds of contestants may be involved.

Event Massage

Event massage is exactly what it states - massage for an event. It is a type of massage. The most common form of event massage is at a sporting event. Usually a group of therapists are set up to provide massage therapy before and after the sporting events. For events such as running marathons or in cycling hudreds of contestants may be involved.

Although event massage was seen primarily for sporting events it is now known to be of great benefit for other events.

Corporate events are much better with event massage on offer. It allows staff to unwind and de-stress during the event. This allows staff to think better and helps your business increase productivity.

Event massage is also perfect for product launches, trade shows and exhibitions. Attendees are more comfortable and in a much more receptive state when they hear your promotional message or marketing your product or service, which makes for cheap marketingt. Your company will be associated with a memorable massage experience & visitors will leave event with a lasting and positive impression of your company.

Seated massage is great for small areas like an office. Most of the corporate and event massage (other than sporting events) will be performed by seated massage therapists. Seated massage is also called chair massage. A specially designed massage chair is provided so you can get comfortable in a limited space. The massage is performed through your clothes so there is no concerns about undressing or messy lubricants.

Yoga Travel Mat

Yoga mats are small carpets that are mostly used by the people for practicing yoga. Generally, people do Yoga by sitting, standing or lying down on a mat. Yoga mats must be so comfortable unless you can’t practice yoga positions in a relaxed manner. Good Yoga mats are needed to enhance the postures. Good yoga mats even improve the postures. Yoga mats are used to make an exclusive space for doing yoga and also gives you a comfortable resting place for your body.

The important features of good yoga mats are softness, durability, ability to stay firm without crumpling and strength. User can grip the mat floor effectively and no chance to slide across the floor on the mat while doing yoga. Yoga mats are simple to maintain and use for long period. Just you can wash mats once-in-a-while with a mild detergent or in a machine or by hand.

Nowadays Yoga mats are so popular in market that are available in different types and also provide various branches of yoga. Here are some of the main options.

The Cotton Mat is one of the best yoga mat option for doing yoga. While doing yoga you will feel cool and fresh as cotton can saturate high percentage of perspiration. You can easily practice yoga with this and can practice yoga for long time without discomfort.

A Sticky Mat is the ideal surface for yoga because it keeps your feet, hands and elbows from slipping. The friction helps you stretch entirely, without holding back to keep your hands and feet from sliding. This mat should not change the palace as you practice fast pace asanas and it is quite thin.

Travel Mats, if you want a portable yoga mat that can be easily transferred from one place to another place, then Travel mats may be the best option for you. These mats are so thin so you can easily fold it and you can set it inside the suitcase. But they can't give much relax while practicing yoga and if you choose this mats for long time use, these aren’t the best option.

Medication Mats, if anyone is likely to practice medication elements of yoga along with breathing control, then Medication mats are the best option for those people. This helps you in terms of relaxing and meditative mood, and consist of pillow that give you more comfort and helps in relaxing. And you can stand, sit or lying down on these mats.

While you are going to buy a yoga mat, you should take care of few things: First of all be sure that the size of mat must have proper length and breath according to you body. Secondary it should be easy for all types of position while sitting, lying and even in standing pose. Select mats made up of material known absorbent fabric which will easily soak your perspiration. Next point to be taken in consideration is to have proper balance mat should not be slippery. Many varieties of travel mats are available these are easy to carry as well as to maintain. You can purchase better mats for your requirement searching in the sites.

Family travel: yoga in Cyprus

Pamela Goodman's busy schedule left no time for yoga, so a mother-and-child course in Cyprus sounded ideal.

I have been trying to jump on the yoga bandwagon for years, but it keeps leaving me behind. On holiday I have dabbled in the odd yoga class and at home I have signed up for regular lessons only to be defeated by the irregular hours of work and motherhood.

Secretly, I'm rather envious of all those people who have their own roll-up mats and co-ordinating outfits, and who can get their heels flat on the floor in a downward facing dog. So the idea of a half-term break on a mother-and-child yoga retreat in Cyprus last winter seemed too good an opportunity to miss.

The children weren't quite so sure that "opportunity" was the right word, fearing that this was to be another holiday experiment with them as guinea pigs. The youngest, a girl aged eight, had wished more than anything to go on the school ski trip; the eldest, a boy of 13, had fancied a week of sleep and lots of food; only the middle one, a girl of 10 who models herself on that queen of sun salutations, Gwyneth Paltrow, thought that yoga was the coolest way to spend half-term.

Yoga retreats are a new departure for the Anassa Hotel. Unlike most Mediterranean hotels which close their doors between October and April, the Anassa battles it out during the winter months, quietly ticking over with a handful of guests who are wise to the pleasures of the southern Mediterranean off-season.

You can't depend on the weather, of course, as you can during the summer, but Cypriot winters are short, mild and often sunny. In February, the fields are awash with fruit trees weighed down by oranges and lemons, the sea is warm enough to swim in if you're brave and the sun has that revitalising, invigorating strength that you don't get in the UK until May.

So why the yoga? This is a rather happy story of the coming together of two unlikely enterprises - a small, dynamic yoga company based in London and a large, successful family-friendly hotel in the Med - who realised that together they could offer something rather different during off-peak periods. My children were right because our yoga retreat was the first collaboration between Yogaloji and the Anassa - it was an experiment and we were the guinea pigs.

There were 14 of us in our group - six adults (five of whom were women) and eight children (all girls, bar one) ranging in age from three to 13. Most of us were friends already and most of the children knew each other, too. In charge were the two Yogaloji founders, Francesca Quaradeghini and Liisa Halme.

In this great era of holistic revolution, with yoga retreats becoming particularly fashionable, it's sometimes hard to ascertain whether your yoga teacher will know their bhujangasanas from their balasanas, so it is important to check their qualifications.

In Liisa's case (who is the yoga half of the duo) you can rest assured - this is a girl who can not only speak seven languages, but also has four years of full-time teaching under her belt (despite being only in her early 30s) and is fully qualified to sit with one ankle tucked behind her neck.

Francesca, a Cambridge graduate who speaks four languages, is working towards her yoga-teaching qualification, but in the meantime is a registered practitioner of Ayurvedic massage. We're not talking dippy hippies here, but smart, savvy women who mean business. They both have winning smiles and a radiating feel-good factor - we all fell for them instantly.

Each adult day began at 7.30am for 90 minutes' energising yoga, while the older children stayed in bed and the younger ones went to the children's club for pre-breakfast brownie-making. On fine days, the session took place outside - each puff and pant accompanied by the rhythmic sound of the sea. On less nice days, the candle-lit yoga studio came into play.

Mid-morning was the children's turn, starting with the "Teeny Yogini" for three seven-year-olds and moving on afterwards to the eight-to-12-year-olds (teenagers can join in either the adult or the children's classes). Can I hear you stifling a laugh at the thought of children doing yoga? I bit my own lip at the prospect. But they loved it and being the supple, bendy creatures that they are, they all could pop into poses that take most adults months to achieve. My son was the most reticent, my older daughter the most enthusiastic, joining in all the adult classes.

There were few other guests to disturb and that whole, beautiful hotel with its garden and beach was ours to enjoy. The afternoons were free, either for tennis, an excursion or a spa treatment.

By 5.30pm, we were back in the yoga studio, winding down with a few flowing bridges and universal spinal twists into a state of such deep relaxation that by 7pm it was hard to scrape us off the floor.

So was the experiment a success? We thought so. It was decided that four days weren't enough (Cyprus is not quite as close as you think) so the retreats have been lengthened to six, with the next one scheduled for October half-term before February again next year.

Although the course is perfect for mothers and children, we decided that fathers would rather have enjoyed it, too, and my son, in particular, would have quite liked his dad there. But being with friends was a definite plus and essential for that general camaraderie of shared mealtimes and cosy yoga sessions.

I now have my own typed DIY yoga instructions which Liisa distributed to all of us on our departure, and on Sunday afternoons I can be found with my girls in our candlelit sitting-room-cum-yoga-studio deep in the throes of yogic meditation.

Travel back in time with ‘Yoga Culture’

PR Agency: Brand-Comm

openPR) - This season Urban Yoga redefines yoga with new age, radical and fun themes inspired by the uninhibited era of the 1960’s. ‘Yoga Culture’ is a collection that compliments fitness with mental peace. Urban yogi’s looking for the perfect balance will not want to miss out on the body and soul ranges available this season!

The women’s BODY range includes singlets with cross back styles and urbanised Om prints, seamless kimono cuts and ¾ sleeved tops with graphic chest prints. The raglan sleeves on tops allow for more room and stretch while practising yoga or just gyming. ¾ pants with shifted seams and a rolled waistband allow for greater comfort, while retaining a stylish look.

Similarly, for men, the BODY collection comprises of ribbed fabric vests for extra room, raglan sleeves and full – sleeved jerseys. ¾ length shorts complete the look. Shades of pastel and earthy tones teamed with modern prints make this season’s collection a must-have.

If you are the kind who is only into meditation try The SOUL range, available for both men and women. This range is a completely new era lifestyle collection. Women can choose from kimono cowl neck tops, or full sleeved kimono cuts with silk facing. Tunics with satin scarves attached are stylish and practical at the same time. The men’s collection comprises of kurta’s with linen dobby and linen bottoms.

The tops in these collections are priced between Rs. 299/- to Rs. 699/- and the bottoms are priced between Rs. 599/- and Rs. 999/-. The ‘Yoga Culture’ Collection is available at the Urban Yoga Centre located on 100 ft road Indiranagar and at Urban Yoga exclusive stores on Commercial Street and Sigma Mall. It is also available at the Pantaloons showroom, Bangalore Central, Shopper’s Stop and at Landmark.

Integrated Brand-Comm Pvt. Ltd.
# 68, 1st Floor, Transpade Towers,
Jyothi Nivas College Road, Koramangala,
Bangalore – 560 095
Telephone: 91(80)25539369 / 258 Fax:91(80)25520491

About Urban Yoga:

Though India is the land of yoga, there is little or no awareness among yoga practitioners about the need for specific clothes for yoga. At the same time people who practice yoga in India, are not fully satisfied with the clothes they currently wear for yoga. Indus-League, a unique brand lifestyle-marketing firm understood this and created URBAN YOGA which fills this gap for “Spiritual Fitness Wear”. A line of clothing meant for yoga and other holistic pursuits. Urban Yoga was born after intense and detailed research conducted on yoga by Indus-League.

Kerala Yoga & Meditation

Yoga, the science of man, based on ancient Indian wisdom and culture, is an art of living a healthy, balanced, peaceful and contented life. Yoga, being a total integrated system, studies man in his wholeness - body, mind and spirit and is integrated to certain principles, ideas, values, attitudes and a way of life for personal and social benefits.

Conceived by the great sages in their quest for self-realisation, it has come to be recognised during its; long travails from the hermitages to the cities, as the science of man, a philosophy old life, a code of conduct, an attitude and an approach, as well as an art of living which is capable not only of ensuring physical well-being, mental peace harmony, moral elevation and spiritual uplift of man but also of transforming man from his gross animal existence to the sublime heights of divinity.

It must, however be kept in mind that it is a long and arduous journey calling for perseverance, persistence, dedication and total surrender.

There is no instant yoga. It is not a question of merely closing one's eyes or of sitting in a posture. It involves cultivation of an attitude and approach to life. It must not only be a philosophy to be imbibed but a practical philosophy which must be lived. It is therefore, not enough to think of yoga but to do it and to live it in our lives. It is also necessary to understand that yoga is not a substitute for action. Human effort is indispensable. The transformation is not at the cost of action but to enable us to perform our duties more efficiently, more effectively and honestly.

Yoga had recognised and accepted the importance of the mind and the subconscious over the total human personality much earlier than modern psychology did in its present form. Yoga is a stepwise, stage wise eight fold path to final liberation from pain and suffering.These steps progressively take us to the highest state of creativity, of discriminative knowledge and towards attaining the desired perfection.

Of these, the first five, which border on the Psychosomatic Approach, are referred to as External (Bahiranga) yoga, popularly known as Hatha Yoga, while the latter three, which directly affect the psyche are known as internal (Antaranga) yoga, popularly known as Raja Yoga. It is almost impossible to try internal yoga (Raja Yoga) for the average man before accomplishing the external one (Hatha Yoga). The respective sequence of the eight steps as the standard methodology of yoga.

Yoga is based on a deep understanding of man and his position in this world and was the first system evolved in the world to recognise the connection and the interaction between body and mind. It studies in depth the very structure of the human personality, through analysis the psychological complexities and the cause of human pain, sorrow and suffering. It has laid down psychosomatic means through its various psycho-physiological processes for dealing with the body mind complex and tries to harmonize and integrate the human personality at all levels and stages of life.

Yoga is basically a way of LIFE which has been evolved as a system to go beyond the personality - complex and achieve absolute freedom-liberation of the spirit from the matter.

Some Renowned Yoga Centres are:
- Neyyar Yoga Centre
- Somatheeram Ayurvedic Hospital & Yoga Centre
- Ideal Yoga Centre
- Manaltheeram Yoga Centre.

25 Top Yoga Studios Around the World

If you practice yoga, the classes that some hotels offer can be frustratingly easy. But how do you find a challenging class in a foreign city? We did the work for you. Here, 25 top yoga studios in cities around the world. All welcome drop-ins and have English-speaking instructors. Namaste!

By Hannah Wallace

1. Boston

Named Boston magazine’s best yoga teacher of 2006, David Magone practices a style of his own invention: PranaVayu. An integration of Power yoga and Vinyasa flow, it breaks sequences down into accessible pieces. Magone, who currently teaches at Boston’s Sports Club L.A. and Exhale Spa, keeps the mood light and playful right up until the 15-minute meditation at the end of class.

2. Chicago

Classes at Yogaview are a hybrid of Ashtanga, Anusara, and Vinyasa flow. (Founders Tom Quinn and Quinn Kearney trained with Sri K. Pattabhi Jois, Richard Freeman, and John Friend, among others.) Meditation is a fundamental part of the curriculum here, with 10 to 15 minutes at the start or end of practice, depending on the instructor. The 1,300-square-foot studio has two rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows; come summer, Yogaview will move to a larger space two blocks away.

3. Los Angeles

It’s not hard to find a challenging yoga class in L.A. Two popular examples are YogaWorks, with five locations, and Power Yoga guru Brian Kest’s Santa Monica studio. The Hatha teachers at Liberation Yoga, on south La Brea, emphasize the spiritual sides of yoga as much as the physical. Your first class is free.

4. Miami

Word has quickly spread about the Miami Life Center, which opened in November on South Beach. Founded by Kino MacGregor, one of the youngest women to complete the third series of Ashtanga (she recently started on the fourth with Guruji and Sharath). The studio has both “led” Ashtanga classes, traditional Mysore classes (where each student goes at his or her own pace), and a few Vinyasa classes. The Center has two practice rooms with bamboo floors, showers, changing rooms, and a large marble-floored lobby where students linger after class on oversize couches.

5. Minneapolis

Located in South Minneapolis, the Minneapolis Yoga Workshop, attracts a loyal crowd. William Prottengeier, founder and director, teaches Iyengar with an emphasis on meditation. The studio also offers classes in Vinyasa, prenatal, and “thundering years” (for students 10 to15 years old). Print out the coupon on the studio’s Web site, and your first class is free.

6. New York

There’s a surfeit of good yoga studios in Manhattan (and in outlying boroughs). It all depends on what style you practice. For Vinyasa, go to Cyndi Lee’s Om; for Iyengar, head to the Iyengar Yoga Institute in Chelsea. Jivamukti, recently opened an uptown studio on 65th St. and Lexington Ave., but its flagship downtown location is still going strong. At Rolf Gates’s Prana Power Yoga, classes are a mix of Power and Vinyasa Flow-the studio is heated to 90 degrees, allowing you to stretch deeply into pigeon pose.

7. Oakland

Since 1987, when Rodney Yee founded the Piedmont Yoga Studio with two fellow graduates of the B.K.S. Iyengar Yoga Institute, the studio has grown in size and popularity. Today, there are more than 20 teachers who lead a mostly Hatha-based curriculum, with a few specialty classes such as restorative, back care (how to do yoga with a bad back), and Pilates mat.

8. Philadelphia

The focus at Studio B, an enormous space in Philly’s artsy Northern Liberties neighborhood, has long been Vinyasa. However, owner Jami Hogan-Gormley (yoga@studiobyoga.com; 215/313-0089) recently introduced Ashtanga classes, including Ashtanga 101, for those who are new to the set sequences, and plans to have at least one Mysore class this spring.

9. San Francisco

At Yoga Tree, which now has four studios in San Francisco, you can take classes in Jivamukti, Iyengar, Forrest, Mysore, and just plain old Hatha. If you’re a fan of Power-yoga-disciple Rusty Wells, don’t miss his Bhakti flow class at the Castro studio on Monday nights.

10. Washington, D.C.

There are two studios at Tranquil Space on Dupont Circle-the sky studio, with 15-foot ceilings and skylights and the sea studio, which is painted a soothing sea-foam green. Nonetheless, classes can be packed-especially the hour-long Express yoga at noon and at 5:15 p.m. Instructors, all of whom teach Vinyasa flow, are excellent, and the post-practice tea and cookies is a welcome tradition.

11. Bangkok

Run by Adrian Phillip Cox, Yoga Elements Studio, is easily Bangkok’s best studio. Cox trained with Cyndi Lee at Om in New York City as well as with gurus in India. Classes—almost all of which are taught in English—are a mix of Vinyasa and Ashtanga. The studio, located on the 23rd floor of a downtown high-rise, has sunrise and sunset views.

12. Buenos Aires

It is a true challenge to find a yoga class that’s taught in English in the Argentinian capital. Luckily, even if you’re not a guest at the Faena Hotel + Universe, you can sign up for Sat Narayan Simrun Kaur’s Kundalini class. Sat teaches each Wednesday, but if there’s demand, she’ll hold additional classes. She also teaches privately; a one-on-one 75-minute session is just $20 U.S.

13. Capetown

The BKS Iyengar Yoga Centre is one of the larger Iyengar centers in South Africa—and probably one of the most exquisitely located. The studio is set at the base of Table Mountain on the Atlantic coastline of the Western Cape; while you’re in tadasana, you can gaze seaward. Classes are taught by founder David Jacobs, who still makes annual trips to Pune, India, to study with 88-year-old B.K.S. Iyengar himself.

14. Copenhagen

One of the only studios in Scandinavia where instructors teach Vinyasa yoga is Hamsa Yoga Studio. It also offers workshops on advanced back-bending and Thai massage. The Danish modern décor—all-white and sparsely furnished with lotus-shaped lamps (by Danish designer Normann) and 18thcentury wall paintings—is oddly suitable for a yoga studio. If you request it, your class can be taught in English.

15. London

Appropriately enough, Triyoga now has three branches in London: Primrose Hill, Covent Garden, and most recently, Soho. The center’s sterling reputation stems from its challenging classes, which run the gamut from Ashtanga to Restorative,and its holistic treatments such as acupuncture, naturopathy, and massage. At the Primrose branch, Triyoga has Pilates equipment sessions and a new organic café.

16. Mexico City

Located in D.F.’s upscale Polanco neighborhood, Agoralucis is a one-stop wellness center. In addition to a medley of yoga styles (especially Ashtanga and Kundalini), the center offers acupuncture, homeopathy, massage, Tai Chi, and Capoeira lessons. The enormous, light-filled space has five studios, three treatment rooms, and a beautiful Zen garden. Your first class is free.

17. Milan

Recently, yoga has become more popular in Italy, but it's still hard to find classes that are taught in English. If you're a practitioner of Ashtanga, however, it shouldn't matter, since the sequences will be familiar. Instructor Elena de Martin, who studied with Sri K. Pattabhi Jois in Mysore, India and Eddie Stern in New York City, has been teaching in Milan for six years. Her classes at the Accademia Biosofica and the Palestra Forte are popular with locals and expats alike.

18. Munich

Centrally located near the Marienplatz (and a four-minute walk from the Mandarin Oriental hotel), Airyoga Munich for three classes) feels more like a high-end spa than a yoga studio. In addition to two large practice rooms, the 1,500-square-foot space has changing rooms, showers (use of towels, bathrobes, and Korres products included), and an Asian day spa where you can get a post-yoga Thai massage, Sundari facial, or pedicure. As at the Zurich outpost, all major yoga styles are available and classes are taught in English at your request. (The staff is multilingual.)

19. New Delhi

A whole guide could be written about yoga in India, but what if you don't want to attend a destination ashram in Rishikesh or the B.K.S. Iyengar Institute in Pune? The Yoga Studio in New Delhi's Hauz Khas neighborhood is a great spot for a drop-in class. Instructor Seema Sondhi teaches a 90-minute Ahstanga classes (in English) every day at 8:00 a.m. and then again at 9:30 a.m. There are evening classes, too.

20. Paris

Located in the shadows of Notre Dame (in the Fifth Arrondissement), Rasa is a peaceful haven with immaculate white walls, dark wood floors, and slanted skylights that let in the sun. Vinyasa is the main tradition taught here, but there are also classes in Ashtanga, Mysore, and Yin. Check the online schedule for classes in English.

21. Phnom Penh

Australia native Isabelle Skaburskis has found a loyal following at NataRaj, in the upscale, expat neighborhood of Boeng Keng Kang. Skaburskis teaches the little-known Nicky Knoff method—a mix of Ashtanga and Iyengar. Since there’s no air-conditioning, classes, taught on a tiled screened patio with ceiling fans whirring above, are also naturally great for loosening muscles.

22. Sydney

If you practice Ashtanga, Yoga Space is the place for you. Owner Fiona Parker is well loved as are her instructors, all of whom lead classes in the first three of Ashtanga’s six series. (You can also take a Mysore class.) The studio, centrally located in the Paddington neighborhood, smells of incense, and is decorated with Buddhas and fresh flowers.

23. Tokyo

Classes at BeYoga, taught in both English and Japanese, are filled with locals and expats alike; the studio, located five minutes from the Roppongi Hills neighborhood, is near several international schools. BeYoga instructors practice ISHTA (Integrated Science of Hatha, Tantra, and Ayurveda), a yoga style founded in the 1960’s by Alan Finger that emphasizes both alignment and U.S.-based teacher Jonas Westring will be leading workshops in Anusara and Thai massage in late April.

24. Toronto

At Jivamukti Toronto, formerly called Sage Yoga, classes are physically and mentally challenging-and often include music, chanting, and meditation. This window-lined studio, based downtown, has blond wood floors, 12-foot-high ceilings, and a spacious lounge. The center regularly invites guest teachers, such as Jivamukti founders Sharon Gannon and David Life to conduct in-depth workshops and classes.

25. Zurich

At Airyoga you can choose from 10 different yoga traditions, including Ashtanga, Vinyasa, and Anusara. The Zen-like studio, which recently moved to the center of town near Bellevue Plaza, is large and light-filled, with changing rooms, showers, and a tea lounge. Almost all classes are taught in English.