Month: May 2022

8 Best Yoga Poses for Beginners

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First-time yoga students and beginners can be intimidated by all the fancy words and seemingly complicated poses.

But yoga doesn’t have to be complicated! In fact, there are plenty of beginner-friendly yoga poses that can help ease you into regular practice. Here are the 8 best yoga poses for beginners:

1. Mountain Pose

The Mountain pose is a great pose for beginners as it helps to improve posture and balance. To do the pose, stand with your feet together and your hands at your sides. Then, raise your arms overhead and stretch your fingers towards the sky. Finally, take a deep breath in and out and hold the pose for 30 seconds to 1 minute.

2. Downward Facing Dog

Downward-facing dog is another great pose for beginners as it helps to stretch the entire body. To do the pose, start by getting down on your hands and knees. Your hands and knees should be shoulder-width apart. Then, tuck your toes under and lift your hips up into the air so that your body forms an upside-down “V” shape. Finally, take a deep breath in and out and hold the pose for 30 seconds to 1 minute.

3. Warrior I

Warrior I is a great pose for beginners as it helps to improve strength and flexibility in the legs. To do the pose, start by standing with your feet about hip-width apart. Then, step your left foot back about 4 feet and turn your left foot so that it is pointing out at a 45-degree angle. Next, bend your right knee so that it is directly over your right ankle and raise your arms up overhead. Finally, take a deep breath in and out and hold the pose for 30 seconds to 1 minute before repeating on the other side.

4. Warrior II Pose

Warrior II is similar to Warrior I, but with the legs turned out more so that they are parallel to each other. This position helps to improve balance and strengthens the muscles in the legs, hips, and core. To do the pose, start in mountain pose with your feet together. Then, step one foot back about three feet and turn both feet out so that they are pointing toward the sides of the mat. Bend both knees so that they are directly over each ankle and reach your arms out to the sides at shoulder height. You should feel a stretch in both of your legs as well as across your chest and back.

5. Child’s Pose

Child’s pose is a restorative yoga pose that is perfect for beginners who need a break during their practice. The pose helps to stretch the hips, thighs, and ankles while calming the nervous system. Start the pose by getting down on all fours, making sure that your knees are hip-width apart and your big toes touch. Sit back safely on your heels, then exhale and bring your forehead to rest on the mat in front of you (child’s pose). You can stay in this position for as long as you like before coming back up to all fours

6. Triangle Pose

The triangle pose is a great pose for beginners as it helps to improve flexibility in the hips and legs. To do the pose, start by standing with your feet about 3 feet apart. Then, turn your right foot out so that it is pointing at a 90-degree angle and place your left hand on your hip. Next, reach your right hand down towards the ground near your right foot while extending your left arm up towards the sky. Finally, take a deep breath in and out and hold the pose for 30 seconds to 1 minute before repeating it on the other side.

7. Cobra Pose 

Cobra pose is a gentle backbend that is perfect for beginners. The pose helps to stretch the chest, shoulders, and abs. To do the pose, lie on your stomach with your feet hip-width apart and your hands at your sides. Then, press into your hands and lift your chest off of the ground, keeping your hips firmly planted on the ground. Breathe deeply for 30 seconds to 1 minute.

8. Cat-Cow Pose 

Cat-cow is a simple yet effective pose that is perfect for beginners. The pose helps to stretch the back and neck muscles while also massaging the spine. To do the pose, start in a tabletop position with your hands and knees on the ground. As you inhale, arch your back and look up towards the ceiling (cow pose). As you exhale, round your back and tuck your chin towards your chest (cat pose). Repeat this sequence for 30 seconds to 1 minute.

The poses highlighted above are just a few of the many that are perfect for beginners. These poses are a great way to get started with yoga and can help to improve strength, flexibility, and balance. Yoga is a great way to improve your overall health and well-being, and these poses are a great way to get started.

Significance of Mala Beads in Yoga

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The interconnectedness of yoga, meditation, and mantra chanting is essential to understanding the significance of mala beads. Each practice supports and enhances the others. When all three are combined, they create a powerful tool for self-transformation.

The mala has long been used in the practice of Yoga, and is especially useful for dharana (concentration) and dhyana (meditation), also called the Sixth and Seventh Limbs of Yoga, respectively.

Mala beads have been used in yoga and meditation for centuries as a way to keep count of mantra repetitions, or as a tool for concentration. Mantras are powerful words or phrases that are repeated during meditation. They can be chanted out loud or internally, and are often used to focus the mind and connect with the Divine. Malas are used to keeping track of mantra repetitions, as well as to assist in concentration.

Yoga and mantra chanting are both ancient practices that help us to connect with our higher selves and achieve a sense of inner peace. The use of mala beads in yoga helps to keep us grounded and focused on our practice. It is believed that the repetition of mantras can help to still the mind and bring about a state of deep meditation.

The use of Mala in practicing Yoga has been around for centuries. It is particularly relevant when it comes to the Sixth and Seventh Limbs of Yoga: dharana (concentration) and dhyana (meditation).

Holding a counter bead between your fingers brings mindfulness, dharana (single awareness) into a mantra repetition.  The beads help keep your mind clear of distractions, so you can focus on what’s happening in the present moment.  Through practice, dharana lasts for two beads, then three, then the whole Mala.

The mind then becomes still, and a continual flow of concentration is generated. It’s termed dhyana when the attention remains steady and continuous.  This results in a steady, continuous flow of attention known as dhyana.

At this point, dhyana enables the mind to become absolutely quiet and still.

Mala beads are a beautiful and sacred way to connect with the divine energy within us all. They can be used as a reminder to stay present and focused on our practice. By repeating mantras with our mala beads, we create positive vibrations that bring about inner peace and clarity.

If you are looking for a way to deepen your yoga practice, using mala beads may be the perfect addition. Choose a mantra that resonates with you, and see how the power of intention can transform your life.

Namaste!

The Three Kinds of Luck in Feng Shui

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Feng Shui is an ancient Chinese philosophy that teaches us how to create harmony and balance in our lives. One of the key concepts in Feng Shui is the idea of luck. In this blog post, we will explore the three different kinds of luck according to Feng Shui and how we can use these concepts to create more balance and harmony in our lives.

There are three different kinds of luck in Feng Shui: Heaven luck, Earth luck, and Human luck. 

Heaven luck is the luck that we are born with. It is based on the time, date, and location of our birth, as well as the planetary alignment at the time of our birth. We can use our knowledge of our destiny to our advantage by understanding our strengths and weaknesses and working with them. Activating your good luck and avoiding your bad luck is the key to harnessing your heaven luck.

Earth luck is based on the energy of our surroundings. This is the luck that is affected by your immediate environment. Your home or office, for example, has an energy field that can either support or hinder your Earth Luck. The placement of furniture, art and other objects within these spaces can either enhance or block the flow of positive energy, so it’s important to pay attention to these details if you want to improve your Earth Luck. 

Human luck is based on the choices we make in life. We create our own Human luck through the decisions we make every day. We can also change our Human luck by changing our behavior or thought patterns. This is the luck that is within your control. It is based on the choices you make in life and how you treat those around you. You can improve your Man Luck by making sure that your actions align with your goals and by being conscientious of the impact that your words and deeds have on others. 

Feng Shui is all about creating balance and harmony in our lives. The concept of luck is an important part of Feng Shui philosophy. Understanding the three different kinds of luck can help us create an environment that supports your health, wealth, and happiness.

Types of Yoga

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There are many different types of yoga, each with its own unique benefits. What differentiates them is the emphasis that is placed on certain aspects of the practice, such as the postures (asanas), the breath (pranayama), or the meditation (dhyana).

Through the years, there have been many different interpretations and variations of yoga. As it has become more popular in the West, many people have adapted the practice to fit their own needs and goals.

Here is a brief overview of some of the most popular types of yoga:

Hatha Yoga: Hatha yoga is one of the most popular types of yoga in the Western world. It’s a slow-paced form of yoga that emphasizes gentle movements and deep breathing. If you’re new to yoga, Hatha is a great place to start because it gives you time to learn each pose without feeling rushed. 

Vinyasa Yoga: Vinyasa yoga is a more active form of yoga that incorporates flowing movements. If you’re looking for a workout, Vinyasa is a great option. It’s also a good choice if you’re already familiar with yoga and are looking to challenge yourself.

Iyengar Yoga: Iyengar yoga is a type of Hatha yoga that focuses on alignment and precision. If you’re someone who likes things to be just so, Iyengar yoga is the perfect choice for you. This form of yoga uses props like blankets, blocks, and straps to help you achieve the perfect alignment in each pose. 

Bikram Yoga: Bikram yoga is a type of Hatha yoga that is practiced in a heated room. This form of yoga is said to detoxify the body and improve flexibility. If you’re looking for a hot yoga workout, Bikram is the way to go. 

Kundalini Yoga: Kundalini yoga is a type of yoga that focuses on awakening the energy centers of the body. Kundalini yoga is a more spiritual form of yoga, and it often incorporates chanting and meditation. If you’re interested in exploring the deeper side of yoga, Kundalini is a great option.

Yin Yoga: Yin yoga is a slow-paced form of yoga that emphasizes long holds in each pose. Yin yoga is a great way to stretch deep into the muscles and connect with your breath. If you’re looking for a more meditative form of yoga, Yin is the way to go.

Now that you know a little bit about the different types of yoga, it’s time to choose the right one for you. If you’re not sure where to start, try taking a few different classes to see what you like best. Or, if you’re feeling really adventurous, you could even try a yoga retreat!

No matter what type of yoga you choose, remember to breathe and have fun. Yoga is meant to be an enjoyable experience, so don’t take it too seriously. Relax, let go, and enjoy the ride!

Wearing a Mala

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The Mala is a unique string of beads that can be worn however you want, as long as you treat it with value and respect. It’s first and foremost an instrument for meditation, but it’s also jewelry, and there are many ways to wear one.

Here we will show some tips on how to put on your Mala every day or while meditating:

Wearing a Mala During Meditation

Wearing a mala while meditating is popular among some people. It gives them the feeling of being grounded and anchored after experiencing so much energy during their meditation practice.

You can attune your energy to the mala by wearing it for 40 days. This is an excellent opportunity to break old habits and establish a daily meditation practice. Wearing the Mala as a necklace while practicing meditation can be soothing. It feels good and serves as an extension of your intention

Personal energy can get absorbed into your beads, so you will need to recharge and cleanse the beads from time to time.

Wearing a Mala as a Necklace

The most convenient and comfortable way to wear a mala is around your neck. The beads are not only an easy tool for counting mantras. The Mala can also be quite beautiful and feels natural on the neckline, giving you peace while going about your daily life. 

A high-quality Mala is made of semiprecious gemstones, crystal, and sacred seeds. Each of these materials has its own meaning and powers. Wearing a mala necklace is a good way to use the energy from these materials. Use them for your chakras and to benefit from the metaphysical properties.

You can layer and wear multiple necklaces with your Mala, especially those with healing metal symbolic pendants and crystal pendants. This will help you to work on your personal intentions while

Wearing a Mala as a Bracelet Wrap

There are two types of Mala that can be put on your wrist. One is a wrist Mala that commonly have 27 beads. A Wrist Mala is good for those who want to set an intention for themselves each day as they touch their bracelet throughout the day.

The second option for wearing a mala on the wrist is to wrap your entire 108 mala beads around your wrist a few times very evenly. Keep in mind not to wrap it too firmly as the mala may be damaged. Snugly tuck the tassel under the beads or let it dangle freely, whichever is more comfortable for you.

If you’re practicing yoga, be careful to wear your mala necklace or wrap the mala around your wrist since any sort of physical activity may snag the beads and cause them to weaken or break.

Left Wrist or Right Wrist? 

A draped Mala necklace may be worn on whichever wrist is most convenient for you. There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to which wrist is best. It is important not to confuse wearing a mala on one’s wrist with how they are usually worn during mantra meditation.

The most important thing about wearing a mala is that you must be comfortable and in tune with your personal intentions.

Wearing a Mala is like wearing the Universe around your wrist. It should be comfortable and in tune with what you want for yourself, so that it can serve its purpose – helping lead us toward our highest good.

© 2021 The Mala Tree. All rights reserved.⁣

Crown Chakra Meditation

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The Crown Chakra is located at the top of the head. It is our connection to the divine, and it is through this chakra that we receive guidance and wisdom.

When the Crown Chakra is in balance, we feel connected to our higher purpose and are able to live with intention and clarity. We are open to new ideas and ways of being. We trust our intuition and have a strong sense of our own identity.

If the Crown Chakra is out of balance, we may feel disconnected from our higher purpose, or like we are just going through the motions of life without any real direction. We may struggle with making decisions, or feel like we are stuck in old patterns of thinking. We may also feel disconnected from our spiritual selves.

A simple Crown Chakra Meditation can help to bring balance and harmony to the chakra. Here is a simple way to meditate on the Crown Chakra.

BEFORE YOU START: Choose a time when you can relax and meditate. You may want to set the mood by using oils, candles, or incense in the color of the chakra. Find a comfortable place where you can sit or lie down without being disturbed.

1. Close your eyes and imagine a thousand white petals surrounding your head like a soft, protective cap.

2. In the center of the flower, there is an opening. A light shines through it. This is your link with God – your connection with everything that ever was, is, or will be.

3. Envision this light flooding your body, entering each cell and fiber of your being with pure consciousness.

4. A level of awareness that goes beyond your rational thoughts and the five senses, one that takes you into a greater understanding.

5. This is your link to understanding the universe.

6. Believe that everything happening in your life is meant to happen, and will benefit you greatly. Envision the power of this connection as a bright light surrounds your body—filling you with its Divine Radiance.

7. You are learning new things. The things you used to believe were true are not necessarily true. You are discovering new possibilities. This is Enlightenment.

8. Now you can let your thoughts roam free and explore without being limited by your rational mind.

9. When you do this, you’re essentially aligning yourself with your Higher Self… which allows for new experiences, fresh starts, and personal growth.

10. Stay relaxed as you open your eyes to the present moment.

The Crown Chakra is a powerful energy center that can help us to connect with our higher selves and the divine. When it is in balance, we are able to make decisions with clarity and live with intention. A simple crown chakra meditation can help to bring balance and harmony to this chakra.

Brow / Third Eye Chakra Meditation

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The Brow or Third Eye Chakra is located in the center of the forehead, just above and between the eyebrows. It is associated with our ability to see clearly, both physically and intuitively.

When this chakra is balanced, we have a strong sense of intuition and inner knowing. We are able to see things clearly, both literally and figuratively. Our thoughts are clear and focused, and we are able to see the big picture.

When this chakra is imbalanced, we may have trouble seeing things clearly. We may be foggy-headed or easily confused. Our thoughts may be scattered or unfocused. We may also have difficulty trusting our intuition or inner knowing.

This meditation will help to balance and open the Brow or Third Eye Chakra.

BEFORE YOU START: Choose a time when you can relax and meditate. You may want to set the mood by using oils, candles, or incense in the color of the chakra. Find a comfortable place where you can sit or lie down without being disturbed.

1. Make yourself comfortable and take deep, slow breaths through your nose.

2. Beginning with the feet and ankles, tense each muscle group in your body until you reach the neck and head. As they relax, feel yourself sink into the floor or chair.

3. It may help to envision the Third Eye Chakra, located between your eyebrows, as a physical entity.

4. Picture the Ajna symbol with white wings on either side of a circle. Concentrate on the golden triangle inside the circle to connect your physical being with your Higher Consciousness…

5. Now imagine that symbol being bathed in the color Indigo. This is a color with violet-blue hues. These hues are coming down from the Crown Chakra at the top of your head. They are also coming up from the Throat Chakra at the base of your neck.

6. The Third Eye Chakra is represented by a lotus flower. To meditate on this chakra, picture the roots of the lotus deeply rooted in your forehead, connecting with the Sushuma, the central column linking all of the chakras together.

7. As you meditate, focus on the area between your eyebrows. You might feel a spinning sensation. This is the Third Eye vortex. You might also sense a pulsing feeling. This is chakra energy.

8. Be aware of any other sensations you may experience, such as smelling the fragrance of the Third Eye Chakra lotus.

9. The Third Eye is just as real as your two physical eyes. It helps you to understand things, see things that are far away, and know the answers to big questions. You need to take care of it and use it every day, as you do with your physical eyes. Let your intuition guide you to a life that is more enjoyable and satisfying.

10. Ease back into the present moment.

The Third Eye Chakra is a powerful tool that can help us to see clearly both physically and intuitively. When this chakra is balanced, we are able to focus our thoughts and see the big picture. This meditation will help to open and balance your Brow or Third Eye Chakra, so be sure to try it regularly!

Parts of a Mala

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A Mala is a string of 108 beads with one larger guru bead, usually worn as a necklace or bracelet. It is used as a tool to help the wearer focus on their mantra while meditating. The quality of a Mala is important as it is meant to last a lifetime.

The parts of a well-constructed Mala are very symbolic and spiritual:

OVERHAND KNOTS

The traditional way of making a Mala is done with overhand knots, which not only makes it stronger but also provides the perfect space for Japa Meditation. You can use each bead as you go through your mantra and count repetitions to help yourself feel calmer in this fast-paced world we live in today. The knots between the beads represent the interconnection of all things in the universe.

GURU BEAD

The Guru Bead is the spiritual focal point of any necklace. It’s often 109th in number, and it symbolizes homage to both oneself as well as their guru from whom they’ve received a mantra or quote that has been used by them during meditation. The guru bead is a reminder that the wearer is on a spiritual path.

TASSEL

The tassel is a representation of our connection to the divine and each other. The fact that they come together as one represents oneness, which resonates deeply with us today because it reminds us how much love there really can be in this world-especially when we’re feeling disconnected from those around us or ourselves for any reason. It also represents enlightenment and the unfolding of our spiritual journey.

MARKERS / COUNTER BEADS

Depending on the type of Mala (Tibetan, Zen Style, Mantra), markers are used in the construction of a mala to identify the repetitions or rounds of a mantra. It can be made from various materials such as metals or semiprecious stones.

A Mala is not only a beautiful piece of jewelry, but it also has a lot of spiritual significance. The 108 beads represent the 108 opportunities we have to make a positive change in our lives, while the guru bead reminds us of our connection to the divine. The tassel represents unity and oneness, while markers or counter beads help us keep track of our mantra repetitions. Whether you’re wearing your Mala for meditation or simply as an accessory, know that its symbolism will always be with you.

© 2021 The Mala Tree. All rights reserved.⁣

Throat Chakra Meditation

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The Throat Chakra is the fifth chakra and is located in the throat. It is associated with the element of sound and the color blue. The Throat Chakra governs communication, self-expression, and truth.

A balanced Throat Chakra allows us to express ourselves clearly and truthfully. We are able to communicate our needs and wants, and we have no problem speaking our minds. We feel confident in ourselves and our abilities.

An imbalanced Throat Chakra can manifest as a fear of speaking or feeling like you are not being heard. You may find yourself shy or withdrawn. You may have a hard time expressing yourself, or you may find yourself talking too much.

If your Throat Chakra is imbalanced, there are a few things you can do to help balance it. One is to practice meditation. Meditation can help to quiet the mind and allow you to focus on the present moment

This meditation will help to open and balance your Throat Chakra.

BEFORE YOU START: Choose a time when you can relax and meditate. You may want to set the mood by using oils, candles, or incense in the color of the chakra. Find a comfortable place where you can sit or lie down without being disturbed.

1. Get into a comfortable position and breathe in through your nose slowly and deeply.

2. Start by tensing your muscles, one group at a time, from your feet to your head… as you sink into the floor or chair, feel the weight of your body…

3. Now focus on your lower head and neck. Imagine a beautiful blue mist entering your mouth, bathing your throat cavity, swirling around your ears, caressing your neck, gliding over your tongue, and relaxing so that the area becomes supple and free from tension.

4. Know where your tension is and focus on that area. The blue mist will help you release it.

5. With each inhale, envision the blue mist becoming more concentrated…with each exhale, see it gradually filling your throat, mouth, tongue, ears, and neck…giving you the courage to speak your truth with compassion–to yourself and others.

6. Relax and focus on the blue mist swirling around your Throat Chakra. Allow yourself to think about what you want and what you need. You always have the right to ask for what you desire– never feel like you’re asking for too much. Your requests are valid, so make sure they’re being heard with respect and patience.

7. Commit to speaking up for yourself, in some way, every day. …

8. By meditating on this beautiful mist daily, you will strengthen your Throat Chakra and move closer to having your needs met by others. You already have everything within you that you need to meet those needs yourself.

The Throat Chakra meditation is a great way to open and balance your chakra. If you have an imbalanced Throat Chakra, this meditation can help to restore balance. Meditation helps to quiet the mind and focus on the present moment. This allows you to express yourself clearly and truthfully. You may find that you are more confident in yourself and your abilities after practicing this meditation technique regularly.

What is a Mala?

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A Mala is a beautiful and spiritual piece of jewelry made commonly of 108 beads and a guru bead. It reminds you of what’s important in life, your intentions, your mindful path to wellness, and your oneness with the Universe. You can hang it on your neck as a necklace or wear it as a bracelet. You may also keep one that is solely intended for meditation. The most potent Mala is the one made from gemstones, sacred seeds like Rudraksha, or both. The Mala originated in India 3,000 years ago.

The Mala is a useful tool for meditation, and the beads help you focus on your intentions. A “Mala” becomes a “Japa Mala” when you use it for mantra chanting. “Mala” means “garland” in Sanskrit. “Japa” means recitation of mantras. Aside from Sanskrit mantras, you can also use your personal mantra or affirmations such as “I am loved,” “I am successful,” or “I will receive blessings” when using the Mala.

The process of making a Mala is as important as the materials used. The person who makes the Mala must do so with love, attention, and care. It should be made with the right intention and respect.

When you receive your Mala from The Mala Tree, it is already infused with good energy. You can further enhance its power by setting your intention when you first put it on. You can also charge it under the light of the moon or sun.

The most important thing to remember is that a Mala is not just a piece of jewelry. It is also a powerful tool that can help you in your journey to self-discovery and enlightenment. Use it with respect and love, and it will surely bring you good energy and blessings.

Meditation is often a quiet and personal experience, but it can be challenging to keep your mind focused on one thing. That’s where mala beads come in! The comfort of holding a Mala is therapeutic. These strings of meditation-themed jewelry act as an easy way for you to count mantras or meditate so that nothing distracts from the process at hand. The Mala has been around since ancient times. It acts like an anchor, guiding your hands from its simple movement during meditation practice while also being used for counting mantras or acting as tactile guidance in silence time itself.

It acts as both an aid and reminder throughout these silent moments – visually guiding one’s hands away from distractions while stimulating calming responses through gentle touch that slows down heart rate rather than speeding it up like sitting still without any guidance might do.

High-quality Mala Beads have overhand knots between all the beads. The act of constructing a mala is an act of meditation as well. This process protects the beads and makes the Mala stronger.

Bask in the sacred energies of our hand-knotted Mala necklaces and Wrist Mala. We devote discipline, art, and love in each piece that we create.