Where Yoga Meets Faith

Posted on September 16September 16 by pennyjoliver

How can the practice of yoga complement and enhance our walk with God?

Surprisingly,

I have found there is a harmonious relationship between yoga and faith and this ancient practice can surely deepen our connection to our Heavenly Father while nurturing our soul, inspiring us to live out our faith with greater intention and grace.

In 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, we are reminded that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, and we are called to honor God with our bodies.

Yoga can surely be a tangible way to live out this calling, reminding us to care for our bodies with respect, and love.

One of the most profound aspects of yoga is the emphasis on breath, or pranayama.

In yoga, the breath is not just a physiological function, it is a bridge between the body and the spirit. What if we approached our breath as a prayer? Each inhale could be an invitation for God’s presence, and each exhale, a release of our worries, cares and doubts and fears while surrendering them all over to Him.

This can surely turn a yoga session into a moving meditation, where every breath is a conversation with God.

Yoga also teaches us to be mindful, being actively present in each moment.

This resonates deeply with the biblical instruction to meditate on God’s Word.

Psalm 1:2 says, “But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night.” Yoga offers a unique opportunity to combine the physical act of mindfulness with the spiritual practice of meditation. As we hold each pose, we can meditate on scripture, allowing God’s Word to sink deep into our hearts.

The Bible also teaches us that there is power in letting go and trusting. In yoga, it is also important to let go of what no longer serves us, mirroring the spiritual act of surrendering our lives to God’s will. Matthew 11:28-30 invites us to come to Jesus with our burdens and find rest in Him. As we find stillness in some yoga poses, we can also reflect on this invitation, finding strength not in our own efforts but in His grace.

Surprisingly, there are many ways to integrate faith into our yoga practice.

One way is through Scripture-inspired flows. Starting our practice with a focus on Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” allows us to move through poses that build physical strength, letting the Scripture be our mantra, reminding us that our true strength comes from Christ.

Another beautiful way is taking a moment to sit in stillness, close our eyes, and offer a prayer of gratitude. Reflecting on the peace we’ve cultivated we can also offer it back to God, asking Him to guide us through. Whether we’re on the mat or in prayer, remembering that each breath, each movement, and each moment of stillness can be an opportunity to draw nearer to God!

Halleluyah!

Peace & Love, Penny!

A MIGHTY WARRIOR!

Posted on October 4April 28 by pennyjoliver

Don’t let the drama and the chaos that life certainly throws at you trip you up, get you down or make you feel smaller. You, my dearly beloved, are a “Mighty Warrior!”

Judges 6:1-18 tells us the story of Gideon, a “Mighty Man of Valor.” But he didn’t start out that way. Gideon was a young man in the land of Israel. During this time God’s people were forced to hide in caves along the hill side because the Midianites were terribly oppressive to them. For seven years they cried out to God but God did not help them. Gideon thought that the Lord had forgotten all about him, his family and the Israelites. But it was actually the the people who turned their backs on God when they chose to worship idols.

One day an Angel of the Lord spoke to Gideon and told him,” The Lord is with you, Mighty Man of Valor!” Gideon was so surprised he thought the Angel had the wrong man. Gideon reminded the Angel that his people were weak and that he was the weakest. Full of doubt and unworthiness to be called a man of valor, Gideon asked the Angel for signs that this was true. Imagine asking an Angel for a sign? But then again, I’m guessing you, like I, would want a sign to know when things are true. We are not unlike Gideon sometimes. Thankfully, God doesn’t depend on our level of faith or our circumstances to get things done on our behalf. God depends on Himself and His own character to accomplish His Will.

And in the Mighty Hands of God, Gideon would soon become a “Mighty Man of Valor.” Of course, not because of who he was but because of who God Is!

Which leads me to believe that God is not into calling the qualified. Instead, He qualifies who He calls. I know God is building my faith and qualifying me at this very moment. How about you?

Know that we can all be Mighty Warriors in every aspect of our lives. We simply must “let go” of what holds us back to become what God knows we can be in His Strength!

Camel Pose ( inner and outer heart opener)

Posted on March 15September 17 by pennyjoliver

Considered a back-bending pose in the world of yoga Camel Pose bends over backwards offering up serious health benefits. Stretching our entire body it opens up our chest area and expands our rib cage. As we breath deeply into this pose we send a fresh supply of oxygen to all parts of our body releasing pent up stress and tension. Our nervous system enters a state of calm, our minds are cleared and blood gets pumping. A drop in blood pressure may even result. Energy spent on battling stress is now able to flow to other areas in our bodies and our mood instantly improves.

Camel Pose also stretches our insides too by exposing the part of our bodies we try so hard to protect, our hearts. To move into a Camel one has to be comfortable with being uncomfortable. Leaving one’s comfort zone is never easy. It takes courage to leave the known for the unknown. But you know the saying, “Life begins at the end of your comfort zone.” That’s called faith!

CAMEL POSE

1.) To begin…Start in a kneeling position. Align your hips over your knees. Place your hands on your hips. Now gently and slowly lean backwards by pressing your thighs, knees, and feet to your mat. Lift your chest by squeezing your thighs together, which will create length in your lower back and hips. Place your hands on your back hips. Keep your inner elbows pressing toward one another and downward. This will encourage your chest to lift and open. Remain here and breath deeply. When you are ready slowly come forward by rounding your shoulders and sitting back on your legs. Breath deeply again to absorb all the healthy Camel goodness.

2.) If you are able to continue…slowly reach back by running your hand down your leg. If you feel any discomfort, stop immediately. But, if you are able, rest a hand on your heel as you extend your other arm up over your head. Breathe deeply here for a few counts then rest your other hand on your heel extending your other arm.

3.) As you go for the full Camel Pose…Gently release both hands to rest on your heels by drawing the inner elbows toward each other and rolling your shoulders back. Try to keep a steady breath as it will relax you and then you will be able to go deeper in the stretch. Invite your heart to rise upward. Press your entire body out in all directions. Breathe, melt, surrender. Open up into Camel Pose and let your body sing “Halleluyah!”

thanks for joining me

keep calm and yoga on

penny

BALANCE AND STABILITY YOGA CHALLENGE

Posted on November 9September 29 by pennyjoliver

I know your health and your time is important to you. That’s why each of our Halleluyah yoga workouts are short and have purpose. Today, the purpose is building strong legs, hip, knees, ankles, feet, wrists, abs, core, and more. This will ultimately lead to improved balance and stability. Stability at any age is important yet as we grow older it becomes vital. Start this workout by practicing all eight positions with your right leg forward. Then switch to your left leg. Holding theses positions with deep breathing boosts our heart rate helping us to burn more calories, providing us quicker results!

For more of a challenge, step out farther in the warrior positions below and hold each position for a longer count. Completing this sequence 2 or 3 times on each leg will increase the difficulty as well.

For less of a challenge, step in or lower to your back knee in the warrior positions. You may also hold each position for a shorter time and use a chair or wall to help support you. This yoga workout was designed to meet you where your fitness level is and to offer instructions to help you progress.

This is your time to do something good for you! Before we begin I ask that you sit down and take a few slow deep breaths to clear your head of the cares and worries of the day. Replace those cares with belief that YOU can do anything! Each of us could never even imagine what we could do if we had the faith to try. God left us stories of real men and women of the Bible to help us believe and to have faith. Take Peter. He could have stayed on the boat and never walked on water but He did! (Matthew 14:29). How about the little boy who gave up his lunch to Jesus. Jesus turned his little basket of five small loaves and two fish into a fast food feast that fed over 5,000 people! (John 6:1-14). And the list goes on and on…

…for nothing is impossible with God.

Luke 1:37

When you are ready grab a mat and some water and let’s yoga on!

1.) Mountain Pose Stretch

into

2.) Praying Squat Pose

Stand with your feet at hip width.
Inhale deeply as you extend your arms overhead.
Exhale deeply, lowering your arms while pressing your palms together in a prayer position.
Bend your knees into a Squat Pose like the second picture.
Slightly turn out your toes.
Pressing your palms together while in a squat position will keep your back straight while opening up your hips.
Repeat the process from Mountain Pose Stretch to Praying Squat Pose 5-10 times, increasing the count as you grow stronger!

3.) Mountain Pose Reverse Prayer

Start with feet at hip width.
Stretch your arms behind you and place your hands on your hips.
Try to touch your fingertips behind you, with your pinkie fingers closest to your back.
Raise your palms up your back while continuing to press your finger tips together. Eventually, pressing both your palms together behind you.
Go as far up your back as is comfortable.
Once you arrive at your perfect place, breathe deeply for up to 10 counts.

4.) Reverse Prayer Tree Pose

Begin by placing your left foot on your right ankle.
If you feel comfortable, lift that foot up your leg to your inner thigh. Use your hands to help!
Breathe deeply while balancing for 5-10 deep breaths.
You may still do a Tree Pose with your foot anywhere on your leg.
You may also do a Tree Pose with your hands on your hips, or your palms pressed together in front of you.

5.) Warrior I Pose

With your feet hip width apart, step out 2-3 feet forward.
The longer the step, the more challenging the pose.
Try keep your hips facing forward.
Do not let your forward knee extend beyond your toes.
Slightly let your back toes point forward.
Extend your arms out from your sides, and up over your head.
Sink your hips and keep your back leg straight.
Clasp your fingers together, letting your index finger point to the sky.
Breathe deeply for 10 deep breaths.

6.) Eagle Warrior I Pose

Maintain the same leg position as Warrior I Pose.
Bend your arms in front of you.
Take your right arm and move it under your left arm. When you see your right hand let it swirl up your left arm like a snakes. It both hands meet try to clasp them. If not stay where you are.
Lean back while lifting your elbows and look up.
Breathe deeply for 5-10 deep breaths.
Do the best you can with the arm position. Practice does help. You may also raise your arms like number five, Warrior Pose I.

7.) Humble Warrior I Pose

Maintain the same leg position as Eagle Warrior I Pose.
Place both hands behind your back.
Clasp your fingers. Lift your arms up behind you. Look to the sky with a big, slow inhale.
With a big, slow exhale bow forward over your knee while lifting your arms up behind you.
Repeat the process 5-10 times, inhaling deeply while stretching back, and exhaling deeply while bowing forward.

8.) Supported Warrior III Pose

Maintain the same Humble Warrior I Position.
On your last bow, release both hands to your mat.
Lift your back left leg directly behind you, maintaining the position of both hips. Even a slight lift will do!
Inhale while lifting your leg and exhale while lowering your leg. Repeat this for 5-10 deep and slow inhales and exhales!

Next, hold your leg up with the support of your hands on your mat. Breathe deeply for 5-10 long deep inhales and exhales. You can always use a chair for support. Even an inch is a great way to start!

As you progress you may be able to lift your hands off the floor and even clasp your palms up behind you! Oh and don’t forget to breathe!
Once you have completed this yoga sequence with your right leg forward, it is now time to start from the beginning with your left leg forward!
For best results, practice this yoga sequence at least three times a week.

There are many arm and hand positions that you can do in a Warrior III Pose, as well as any yoga position. You will find your favorite ones as you progress in your practice.

Thanks for working out with me. Until next time, may you believe anything is possible with God and fly high in yoga and your own life!

God Bless!

xxoo

Penny

xxoo

Penny

YOGA FOR YOUR HEART CHALLENGE (For everyone with modifications)

Posted on March 2September 29 by pennyjoliver

This heart opening yoga class is for everyBODY! A less challenging explanation is always included with instructions. Remember that where you find yourself in each position is YOUR perfect place to start!

These exercises below will open our heart area, energize our entire bodies, expand our chest, increase our lung capacity, improve circulation, build strength, work every muscle and de-stress us- all in about 30 minutes! Breathing deeply with continuous movement will activate a relaxed state, resulting in lower blood pressure and increased blood flow to the rest of our body. Meditation may improve cellular metabolism, which can yield major benefits such as blocking degenerative genetic disorders and lengthening the life of DNA cells, according to a Harvard University study.

A heart at peace gives life to the body. Proverbs 14:30

Although we all have problems and daily struggles God says that if we meditate on Him, our hearts can be soaked in peace and serenity even in the midst of all we face. It is only through Christ that we can have this comforting peace with God. (Romans 5:1) But it’s not just any peace, it’s Heavenly peace! (Colossians 3:15.)

…And the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:7

When you are focused and ready to begin, grab your mat, water and let’s get started!

1.) Chair Pose/Forward Bend

Stand up tall with your legs and feet together
Inhale, sitting back into an imaginary chair. Your knees should not extend beyond your toes.
Exhale, straighten your legs and bend forward.
Rise up to a standing position.
Repeat this process 10 times.
This exercise will awaken your body, warm up your legs, and improve your circulation!

2.) Chair Pose Twist into Lunge Twist

Press your palms together in Chair Pose
With a big inhal,e twist to your right.
Try to place your lower elbow beyond your right leg.
Hold the position for 3 deep breaths.
From your Chair Pose Twist position, step your left leg back into Lunge position
Breathe deeply, up to 10 counts.
Come out of the twist if it is too difficult.
Step your back leg in for better balance.
Big breaths before you twist allow more room for a deeper twist!
Twist are amazing for your entire mid section, inside and outside!

3.) Warrior I Pose

Position your back leg’s heel on your mat.
Do not extend your knee over ankle on your forward leg.
Meet your palms together over your head. Your pointer fingers can be extended up.
Arch back and breathe deeply for 5-10 counts.
Warrior I Pose is a great picture taking pose!

4.) Bowing Warrior

Clasp your hands behind your back while lifting them up.
Arch back and sink deep into the pose.
Bend or bow forward with your ear close to your calf.
Keep your arms up behind you as high as possible.
Repeat this 5 times, back and then forward.
Now bow forward, hold the bow and breathe deeply for 5-10 counts.

5.) Chair Pose

Return to Chair Pose
Repeat the Chair Pose Twist to your left side this time.
Step back into Lunge Twist with your right leg.
Complete Warrior I and Bowing Warrior with your left leg forward.

6.) Down Dog To Upward Dog

From a Lunge position, lower both your hands to each side of your forward foot.
Check that your palms are directly below your shoulders.
Step your forward leg back into Downward Dog.
Breathe deeply for 5 counts.
Lower your sitting bones into Upward Dog.
Arch your head back.
Breathe deeply for 5 counts.
Repeat the process 3 more times.
You may also do this on your hands and knees to build up strength.
You may also bend your elbows and arch your head back for a less intense version of Upward Dog!

7.) Half Bow Pose to Full Bow Pose

Clasp your hands behind your back.
Lift them up, arching your head back.
Breathe deeply for 5-10 counts.
Try grasping your feet and arch back into Full Bow Pose.
Breathe deeply for 5-10 counts.
Are you feeling your chest and heart area opening up yet?

8.) One Legged Forward Bend

Sit with your legs extended in front of you.
Bend your right leg, bringing it to your inner thigh or knee.
Inhale, stretching your arms overhead.
Exhale, folding over your leg. Hold this for 3 deep breaths.
Repeat this 5-10 times, then switch legs.
It’s always a good thing to bend forward after bending backwards!

9.) Half Camel To Full Camel Pose

Start with your knees bent.
With your hands on your waist and arching your back, breathe deeply for 3 counts.
Slowly lower your right arm to your foot. Breathe deeply for 3 counts.
Slowly lower the other arm to your other foot. Breathe deeply for 5-10 counts.
Never exceed the pose beyond a slight stretch. Go slow and build strength. When your body is ready, it will ease into this pose.

10.) Leg Overhead/Inner Thigh Stretch

Lie back and raise your legs. Relax your head, neck, shoulders and arms. Breathe deeply for 5-10 counts.
Inhale deeply. With a big exhale, lower your legs to the sides. Point your toes.
With a big inhale, slowly pull your legs up from the sides. Lead the pull up with your heels.
Repeat this 10-20 times, breathing deeply each time.
A terrific exercise for your inner thighs, abs, core, legs and hips!

11.) Bridge Pose

Lie down with knees bent.
Clasp your palms together.
Lift your sitting bones up with a deep inhale.
Lower your sitting bones with a big exhale.
You should try to keep your feet directly below your knees. I am always going for the deeper stretch and moved them in. You can too! Most importantly, listen to your body; it will tell you when it is ready!

12.) Wheel Pose

Lie down with your knees directly over your feet and hands at your ears. Your wrists are facing out.
Now see if you can start pushing up evenly with your arms and legs.
Let the push up come from your palms and feet.
Push them into your mat as you lift your torso.
You may only be able to raise your body a few inches at first.
This pose really takes time. Your whole back side is engaged as well as your upper body. You may need to build up back side strength. I did for a long time. If you consistently practice, your body may surprise you! Mine sure did here!

13.) Body Hug

You did great!
It’s body hugging time!

14.) Child’s Pose

Sit on your knees and fold forward.
Let your body relax into Child’s Pose.
Child’s Pose is a great pose to end a class, as it releases all muscle tension and stretches the neck, shoulders, and upper back.
Stay here and breathe deeply as long as you like!

yoga on!

THE PRAYING HALF MOON

Posted on November 30November 15 by pennyjoliver

A simple yoga pose can often lead us to incredible discoveries about ourselves. The Praying Half Moon Pose is no exception. It looks me in the eye and says, “let go!” My body is always ready, but my mind gets in the way!

You know that deep silent part of you, the one no one knows exists with in you, the one that knows you were meant for more? That deep voice inside is hidden, and therefore quite easy to keep contained deep inside. But isn’t that what faith is all about? Leting that voice rise with in us, speak, and then act upon it?

Hebrews 11:1 tell us,

Faith is the confidence of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

So essentially, looking around here at things on earth keeps me bound to things I can see. Faith, which I cannot see, frees me from the things of the earth. Listening to the unseen voice moves me from bounded to limitless! And then the story of Peter walking on the water comes to mind,

Lord, if it’s you, “Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.” Come, “he said.” Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on water and came towards Jesus. But when he saw the wind he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out,” Lord save me!” Then Jesus reached out His hand and caught him. “you of little faith, “He said,” why did you doubt?”

Matthew 14: 28-31

Poor Peter. There he was feeling fine and divine until he looked around. One would think that Peter, being a disciple which experienced Jesus’ miracles and teachings, should have known he could walk on water if Jesus told him that he could. Instead, the story tell us Peter looked at what he could see – the storm. Then Peter, constrained by his thoughts, was bound to the earth and down he went.

Being in control and relying on what we can see, and avoiding risk, prevents us from true fulfillment. Perhaps even adventures beyond our wildest imaginations could happen if we simply let go of the shore. It’s no denying that Yoga poses can be pretty amazing to do and to see…

…but the most beautiful aspect of life as in a yoga pose is …the letting go!

keep calm, let go, and yoga on

xxoo

Try Praying Half Moon Pose. Use a sturdy chair at first to build leg strength. Then raise a leg, hop out of the boat and walk on water in your own life!

STRETCHING YOGA CHALLENGE

Posted on August 25January 25 by pennyjoliver

Join me in this quick stretch to loosen up your tense muscles and get a new perspective on stretching!

If we are willing, we can stretch ourselves to achieve great things – but God has better for every one of us!

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not unto your own understanding.

Proverbs 3:5-6

For with God nothing shall be impossible.

Luke 1:37

Do you remember? Peter walked on water. Sarah gave birth at age 90. Mary was a mother with out knowing a man. Jesus’ disciples fed over 5,000 people from one kid’s lunch. Moses parted the entire Red Sea for the Israelites to cross. Little boy David killed an armored giant with a stone. Daniel a slept all night in a den of lions. Deborah saved a nation. The list goes on!

Though the people of the Bible were just normal people, they did amazing things! But they had one thing in common: they were stretched! Day by day, year by year, little by little, God stretched their faith. At the point when they were fully able to rely on Him, God blessed them; they accomplished above and beyond what they could possibly imagine!

Now is your opportunity to go deeper in your yoga practice with these Asanas below. Remember to breathe deeply, this will relieve stress and tension, allowing you to stretch deeper. I know God is stretching me – where might God be stretching you?

1.) Standing Stretch

Start by standing tall with your abs pulled in, your butt tucked under, your chest lifted, your shoulders down and your neck lengthened. Lift your arms to the sides, inhale deeply, and stretch them up. Exhale deeply and lower your arms. Repeat 5-10 times, depending on how much time you have.

2.) Forward Bend

In this stance, when you exhale down, extend your torso over your legs. Whereever your hands land on your legs is the perfect place for you. Once you feel comfortable in the Forward Bending stretch, put your left hand near, in front of, or touching your right foot. Stretch your right arm up and gently twist. Repeat on your other side. Stretch each side 5-10 times.

To make it slightly easier, bend your knees. You can also play around with your legs by bending each one separately.

Do number 3-8 with your right leg forward. Then do number 3-8 with your left leg forward.

3.) Intense Pose Reverse Praying Hands

Extend your right leg to the side with your toes pointed. Slightly turn in your left toes. Press your palms behind your back in a praying positio,n lifting the palms as high up your back as you can go. Stretch your entire torso back with a deep inhale. With a deep long exhale, extend your torso out and over your front leg. Lead with your chin. Stretch as far as you can go in this position.

You can always step your back leg in to make it easier, or slightly bend both legs. You can also place your hands on your hips, or clasp your wrists in back instead of the reverse prayer hold.

4.) Intense Pose Stretch

Once you can no longer hold the Reverse Prayer Position, release you hands and stretch deeper over your leg. Try to get your head to touch your knee and breathe deeply, for up to 10 counts.

Step your back leg in for less intensity and slightly lean forward to make this pose less challenging.

5.) Deep Lunge Pose

Bend your right knee. Place your hands on your mat on each side of your foot. Step your back leg in for less intensity, or place your knee on your mat. Breathe deeply for up to 10 counts.

You can always bend your back leg for less intensity or place your hands on your thigh.

6.) Lunge Pose Twist

Raise your right arm and look up. Stretch that body. Hold for 5-10 deep breaths.

Bend your back knee if it becomes too challenging.

7.) Deep Lunge Stretch

Drop your back knee to the mat. Stay here and breathe deeply for up to 10 counts. If you can, grasp your foot; stretch and hold this position for 5-10 breaths.

Take it farther by lifting your forward arm up and pulling your foot to meet your sitting bones. Breath 10 long and deep breaths again!

8.) Bended Knee Prayer Position

Place both your hands on each side of your foot and slide your knee below your sitting bones to come out of the intense stretch. Then bring your palms together. You are ready to pray!

Sit and breathe for a few moments. Enjoy the rewards that any kind of stretching can bring!

Let me know how it goes…

yoga on

xxoo

CHRISTIAN MEDITATION?

Posted on August 22April 26 by pennyjoliver

One important thing the Bible tells us to do is to think about God’s Word. Our thoughts determine our behavior and so what we think about is very important. Jim Downing in his book Meditation says, “God considers meditation a vital exercise of the minds of His children.”

Rick Warren in The Purpose Driven Life, describes meditation this way: “Meditation is focused thinking. It takes serious effort. You select a verses and reflect on it over and over in your mind…if you know how to worry you already know how to meditate.” Pastor Warren goes on to say, “No other habit can do more to transform your life and make you more like Jesus than daily reflection on Scripture…if you look up all the times God speaks about meditation in the Bible, you will be amazed at the benefits He has promised to those who take the time to reflect on His Word throughout the day.”

In Satisfy Your Soul, Dr. Bruce Demarest writes, ” A quieted heart is our best preparation for all this work of God…Meditation refocuses us from ourselves and from the world so that we reflect on God’s Word, His nature, His abilities, and His works…So we prayerfully ponder, muse, and ‘chew’ the words of Scripture…The goal is simply to permit the Holy spirit to activate the life-giving Word of God.”

Meditation, according to Dr. Charles Stanley, Minister and Author of many books, is the quiet contemplation of spiritual truths. When we meditate on God and remember the promises He has given us in His Word, our faith grows and our fears dissolve. In the Book of Psalms chapter 119 and verses 97-110, lists some of the rewards of meditation, such as wisdom, discernment, keen insight, and obedience. Dr. Stanley says the essence of meditation is a period of time set aside to contemplate the Lord, listen to Him, and allow Him to permeate our spirits.

Joshua is one Biblical example of meditation. He was a military leader leading the children of Israel into Caanan. It is significant that his courage and even his hope of victory depended on obeying the Word of God. God promised him success, but there was a condition: meditation and obedience to His Word. Note the word “meditate” precedes the admonition to be obedient. Also note that meditation, God stated, was Joshua’s responsibility. But, there was a reward for doing so: prosperity!

This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.

Joshua 1:8

God desires we have alone time with Him. What a compliment! A King wants to spend time with us! You mean we get to have an audience with royalty? And He listens to us? And although He is King, he allows us to address Him as Father? Who would want to miss that!?

Dr. Stanley also states that if we are really going to set aside time to meditate on God’s Word each day, stillness is key:

Be still and know that I am God.

Psalm 46:10

When we reflect upon God, we meditate on His greatness, grace and goodness. Focusing on difficulties intensifies and enlarges them. When we claim His promises, and look at His majesty, our problems are put into proper perspective.

As we first begin to meditate, our frustration levels are usually at full. As we focus on Him, the reservoirs of tension empty. When we are secluded, silent, and still before the Lord we find that He injects into our bodies energy, power, and strength. God’s spiritual dynamics are at work in our inner beings, refreshing and energizing our minds and spirits. There is nothing to match meditation in its impact on our lives and the lives of others.

A good Yoga practice is about doing your body good with postures and breathing and meditation for a fitter, calmer and healthier “you.” It purposes to connect you to yourself again. It offers lessons of being with yourself on the mat and seeing how you operate there. Then what you learn on the mat your suppose to take into your life. That is yoga at it’s best. Halleluyah Yoga offers you that and so much more! Connecting with the living God, and worshiping, praising and working out for true and lasting peace and wellness!

At Halleluyah Yoga, each Yoga Segment that we have created for you comes with a verse of Scripture to meditate upon with yoga poses and places relevant to each Bible verse. This offers you an opportunity to think upon God as you work out, empowering you with a mental picture and a body movement to remember through out your day. Focusing on God instead of your fears, cares, worries, and doubts makes God bigger than all the bad stuff in your life. This makes it easier to realize you can depend on God, and that He is there for you. Your workouts then become a worship experience that “builds the body” in more ways than one!

Science has been proving for years that prayer and meditation makes for healthier people. Meditation has been around since God created man. After all, God invented meditation for His children, to be able to live successful, healthy , purposeful lives. And if we set aside alone time with Him each day, He promises us”His” prosperity! So, what are we waiting for!

meditate and yoga on!

…let me know how it goes…

xxoo

THE BOAT POSE AND PETER

Posted on May 10April 25 by pennyjoliver

Navasana, or Boat Pose. Nava is the Sanskrit word for “boat” and asana is the Sanskrit word for “pose”.

A full Boat Pose can be a difficult pose to master, but well worth your efforts. Your entire body will need to kick in to help you hold a Boat Pose, which is why it proves beneficial to any yoga practice. It’s a deep core strengthener. As it engages the abdominal area, it strengthens your abs, pelvic muscles, and lower back. Your hip flexors and spine benefit too. It increases lung capacity by opening the chest area and works the psoas muscle – this will improve your balance and posture over time. Your thyroid, intestines, kidneys, and prostrate gland will also be stimulated.

Thankfully, yoga is not about mastering body positions. It’s more about learning about yourself through the avenue of your body. The yoga positions are simply the tools that bring you there. So, whatever effort that you make in any pose will physically benefit your body. What you learn about yourself while holding any pose is what you take away and, hopefully, try to learn from. Your first reaction to getting into a pose often mirrors your reaction to life situations. It reminds me of the story of the apostle Peter and the boat and the day Peter left the boat and walked on water. It’s one of my favorite Bible stories I might add… and not just a story, but a real event that took place in history, recorded for us from Almighty God. We know this about Scripture because God said the Bible was breathed into men and women like us, by God himself. This, all to help lowly man live a better and more fulfilling and adventurous life.

As the story unfolds, we find Peter in the boat with his fellow disciples. A raging storm breaks out and all the disciples are fearful for their lives.

When the disciples saw Him walking on the water, they were terrified, and said, It is a ghost and they cried out in fear. But Jesus immediately said to them: “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid. “Lord, if it is you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.” Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on water and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord save me!”

Matthew 14:26-29

One has to appreciate Peter’s response to his life situation. He responded by relying on his faith in Jesus. Even though he lost focus midway, Peter walked on water – in a raging storm too! Peter is the one and only person in human history ever to walk on water! And don’t forget the disciples in the boat, they had a life situation in need of a response. They did respond too – by doing nothing.

Boat Pose

Sit with your legs directly out in front of you. Place your hands on the floor for support slightly behind your hips. Bend your knees. Lean back onto your sitting bones. Lift your legs. Try to balance on the tripod of your sitting bones and tailbone. Hold Boat Pose up to 30 seconds, although a few seconds will be just fine if you can’t hold it for the full 30. You may have a rocky boat at first. But, with consistent practice, your boat will keep afloat and you’ll be happily sailing.

For an easier version, keep your knees bent. You may also raise just one leg if necessary. Keep the other leg bent with your foot flat on the mat. The most important thing is to try. Your body will benefit from every effort that you make.

Happy sailing!

Halleluyah!

YOGA FOR PRAISING GOD CHALLENGE (Basic yoga postures that praise God)

Posted on April 6September 17 by pennyjoliver

Halleluyah is the Hebrew word for ‘Praise the Lord.” Asana is the Sanskrit word for “posture” or “pose”. And this Yoga Segment is the Praise the Lord Poses Segment!

Offer up praise to God in each Asana and watch Him bless your workout, fashioning it into an inner and outer total body workout! Emerge with joy in your heart, love in your soul and a peace that passes all understanding!

In these postures, you will challenge every muscle. Breathing deeply and steadily will enhance your efforts and soak up all the health benefits. Being attentive in each movement will give you the opportunity to feel how magnificently your body was made. Let God love you with a Heavenly love as you meditate upon these incredible Bible verses!

But God demonstrated His love for us in this: while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

Romans 5:8

This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down His life for us.

1 John 3:16

Before you begin, take a few moments to quiet your mind and body by inhaling and exhaling long and deeply. Accept and believe that God loves you so much that He died in your place. As you position into each Asana, or when your palms meet, pause and offer up your Halleluyah’s!

1.) Seated Side Stretch:

Come in a cross-legged position or whatever is a comfortable position for you! Take a deep breath while raising your arms up from your sides into a praying position and pause. Exhale deeply, leaning to the left side. Try to place your forearm on the mat and really stretch your other arm over. Pause at the end of your exhale. Bring your arms up with a big inhale again. Pause and exhale over to your right side. Repeat for 5-10 times each side.

2.) Reverse Forward Bend:

From a cross-legged position, gently come to all fours. Place all your weight upon your feet. Tuck your hands under your toes and give yourself a deep stretch. From here, slowly rise, one vertabre at a time with your head and arms coming up together with a big inhale. Your hands should meet in a prayer position. Try to gaze upward and pause before releasing back down. Repeat this 3-10 times.

Maybe your hands just don’t go under your toes. Maybe your ankles, calves or knees are a better place for you. Simply do Reverse Forward Bend from your starting point. Always modify any position that challenges you, or you do not feel comfortable doing.

3.) Star Asana and Twist Stretch:

With your legs stretched out wide to the sides, inhale deeply, slowly lifting your arms straight up from your sides. Pause when your palms meet. Exhale and slowly release your arms. Let your right hand touch your left foot and stretch. Inhale it all back up and exhale over to your right leg with your left hand. Repeat, alternating sides, for 5 -10 counts each side.

Maybe your hands don’t make it into a praying position. Just lift them up then. Or maybe your legs will not extend to the sides comfortably. Walk them in a little, or more if you must. Always make it safe for your body by doing only what feels comfortable for you!

4.) Warrior II Asana:

This time we will be doing the same Star Asana to begin, and then stretch into Warrior II from there. So, with feet extended out to the sides, inhale deeply as you also extend your arms out to the sides. Lift your arms up into a praying position. Pause. Then slowly release into Warrior II by lowering your arms to shoulder height while pointing your right foot toes to the right side; bend that knee. Exhale slowly as you release.

Pause for a moment in Warrior II Asana. Pressing your palms together, take another big inhale and exhale in prayer position, pausing again.

Now, take another deep inhale, raising your praying palms while your legs straighten. Your feet face forward while your head gazes upwards. Pause. Then lower to Warrior II position again, and repeat the same process. Do this on each side 5 times.

Again, do each pose the way that feels good for your body. Your hands do not have to meet in prayer pose and your legs can be bent and not so wide. Do try to breathe deeply though!

5.) Intense Stretch Prayer Asana into Triangle Asana:

Come back to your comfortable Star Asana. Gently meet your fingers behind your back. Lift your hands up, following your spine and press your palms together into a Prayer Asana behind your back. Now, rotate your right foot to the right while your left foot rotates slightly. Each of your heels should be on a straight line if possible. Your legs should be straight as well. Take a few good deep breaths, then pause. Release your hands and straighten your arms with your right hand on your mat and your left hand up. Pause and take a few good deep breaths again. Come back to your Star Asana. Repeat with your left leg forward. Do this on each side 1-3 times.

If you find your fingers do not meet behind your back, place your hands wide with palms up on your lower back or hips. Or place them where they feel comfortable behind your back. You may even press your palms into Prayer Asana in the front of your body. You may also need to bend your legs a little and place your hands on your hips or thighs, calves, or ankles to begin, and progress from there.

6.) Praying Lunge Asana:

Turn to your right side with your right foot forward. Bend your legs and place your left knee on your mat. Inhale deeply and stretch your arms up from the sides. Pause. Exhale deeply into a prayer asana. Pause. Repeat on the same leg 3-5 times. Then do it with your left leg forward.

For a deeper lunge, if you are able from the above asana, step your forward leg out about 3-6 inches. Move slowly and stretch into a deeper lunge by stretching your back leg out. With a deep inhale, lift your arms up from your sides. If you are able, press your palms together. I find I can stretch my arms up higher by interlacing my fingers. Pointer fingers are kept straight. Look up. Pause. Exhale, releasing your arms down. Press your palms into prayer asana. Repeat the process of inhaling up, pausing, then exhaling down and pausing, 3-5 times with each leg forward. Always be in Prayer Asana during the pauses if you can!

7.) Praying Chair Asana With Twist:

With feet no wider than hip width, sit back as if you were going to sit in a chair. Lead with your sitting bones, inhaling deeply while lifting your arms out from the sides. Pause. With a big exhale, lower your arms and press your palms together into prayer asana. Inhale deeply, making space in your body for the incoming twist. Then exhale, twisting the prayer asana to the left side. Try to get your opposite elbow to the outside of your opposite leg. Pause. Inhale, going back to the middle with arms up. Exhale and twist to your other side. Alternate each side with an inhale arms up in the middle and an exhale hands pressed in Prayer Asana on each side. Repeat each side 5-10 times.

You may find your thighs muscles burning if you’re sitting too low. You may always stand up in the middle and bend into Chair Asana with each twist. Let your Prayer Asana fall where it may. With consistent practice, you will sit lower and twist more.

8.) Knee Hug into Hand/Toe Asana:

For additional benefits, pull your knees into your chest before getting into Hand/Toe Asana. Breath deeply for 10 counts with each knee pulled in.

After you have completed Knee Hug, take your right foot and straighten it out to the side. Hold and pause with continuous breathing up to 10 counts. Repeat with your left leg. Alternate each leg for a total of 3-5 times. Include the Knee Hug before each Hand/Toe if you like. Also, you may uses a sturdy chair, wall or countertop for support as you learn this asana.

9.) Knee Hug into Warrior III Asana:

Again, for additional benefits pull your knee into your chest before each Warrior III Asana. Hold for 10 counts of deep breathing!

After your last inhale, pause, and then exhale while releasing the Knee Hug. Let your leg straighten as it moves behind you. Try not to lower it to the mat. Try to keep your leg lifted behind you. Try to also keep your front body, torso and hips facing your mat. Breathe deeply for 5-10 counts. At this point, you may go back to a knee hug and do a few more Warrior III Asanas. Bring your right knee into a Knee Hug and do the sequence with your other leg.

You may also use a chair, table or wall for support. Don’t forget to breathe too!

10.) The King’s Asana:

Grab your knee again and give it a hug! Once you have held it for 10 counts of deep breathing, slowly move your hand to your foot as you move your leg behind you. I find holding my ankle really stretches me and provides support as I lean forward with my torso. Slightly bend your standing leg and don’t be afraid to lean forward. Just let go of your leg if you are on the verge of falling. If you can, hold The King’s Asana with continuous breathing as long as you can. Offer up your Halleluyah’s!

Use support for your forward arm. Don’t lean if you don’t need to do so; stand tall and build leg strength while standing on one leg. Try the pose and fall a few times. It’s a learning process. Do whatever suits you. There is no wrong way. Enjoy, have fun and praise God while you do!

…and that’s how you Halleluyah your Asanas!

Blessings!