APPROPRIATE PLACE AND TIME FOR WORSHIPPING SHIVA

APPROPRIATE PLACE AND TIME FOR WORSHIPPING SHIVA In the Vidyeshwar Samhita of Shiva Purana, describing about the importance of place and time for worship of Shiva says- “Worshipping Shiva at a pure place in a house gives appropriate fruits, while worship done in a cowshed gives virtue, which are ten-times more than the former one. Worshipping Shiva at the banks of a river gives, ten times more virtues than the second one. Worship of Shiva done either in temple, under the basil plant etc. or at the banks of Sapt … Continue reading

THE IMPORTANCE OF AGNI-YAGYA

‘THE IMPORTANCE OF AGNI-YAGYA’ The sages then asked Suta about the Agniyagya, Brahma yagya, and Guru  Puja  in order of importance. Suta said- “Performing ‘havan’ by offering matter and materials into the sacred fire, is called Agni yagya. This ritual is especially meant for the brahmachari (celibates).  Performing havana during the evening time brings prosperity, while  performance  of havana during the morning times gives long life. Making sacrifices to the deities during the daytime is called ‘Deva Yagya’. A brahmin should perform ‘Brahma yagya with the help of the study … Continue reading

CONDUCT OF THE RESPECTIVE CASTES–DHARMA

CONDUCT OF THE RESPECTIVE CASTES–DHARMA On the request of the sages, Suta described about the virtuous and invirtuous activities of a man according to the respective castes he belongs to. He said: “A brahmin who performs the rituals, as described in the Vedas, only is entitled to be called a Dwija. A brahmin who is not that proficient in the Vedas is  called a ‘Kshatriya brahmin’. A brahmin engaged in agricultural activities and business is called a Vaishya-brahmin’. A brahmin who is in the habit of condemning and criticizing others, … Continue reading

RITUALS OF THE WORSHIP OF SHIVA—SACRED PIGRIMAGES

RITUALS OF THE WORSHIP OF SHIVA—SACRED PIGRIMAGES On the request of the sages, Suta describes about the methods of worshipping Shivalinga. He says– “One should construct a Shivalinga either of mud, rock or metal and establish it in such a place where it can be worshipped daily without any hindrance.” “The ‘Char’ (mobile) Linga should be small in size and the Sthira (fixed) linga should be large. The Linga should be constructed along with the pedestal. The rule for constructing a Shivalinga has been specifically described. The breadth of thickness … Continue reading

Triangle Pose Yoga Benefits, Trikonasana

Trikonasana Spread legs wide on the mat, left foot turned in at 60 degrees and right foot pointing straight out. Inhale arms up to shoulder height. Bring muscular energy to the legs and arms, then extend trunk over to the right leg and bring the right hand toward the right shin, ankle or mat. Left arm extends straight up. Look at the fingertips. Switch sides. Benefits Strengthens leg muscles and ankles. Builds and opens the chest. What it looks like Traveling places, a triangle, a magic wand.

Splits Yoga Pose, Benefits, Positions Splits

Hanumanasana Begin in runner’s lunge. Slowly walk front leg out in front, maintaining muscular energy. Benefits Tones leg muscles. Good for sciatica. Splits What it looks like A cheerleader, a monkey, a road runner, a ballerina.

Wide Angle Pose Yoga, Seated, Standing, Upavistha Konasana

Upavistha Konasana Sitting on floor with legs straight in front, open legs to the side, toes pointing up if possible, and bow forward. Benefits Stretches the hamstrings and legs. What it looks like Wide Angle Pose A lazy princess, a doorway to another world.

Warrior Pose 1 2 3 Yoga, Benefits

WARRIOR I Virabhadrasana I Spread legs wide. Turn left foot in 60 degrees and right foot out 90 degrees. Turn hips. Bend left knee to a 90 degree angle, extend arms up over head. Reverse sides. Benefits Opens up and strengthens shoulders, back and neck. Develops good breathing in the chest. Builds stamina, strengthens legs, ankles and knees. Stretches thighs. What it looks like Any major or minor character, proud warrior, victorious runner. WARRIOR II Virabhadrasana II   Spread legs wide. Turn left foot in 60 degrees and right foot … Continue reading

Upward Boat Pose, Posture, Benefits

Urdva Navasana Lying on stomach with both arms extended out front, arch back and lift off arms and legs from ground. Extend out through hands and feet. Benefits Good for the back. Tones the abdominal organs. What it looks like A magic carpet, a flying fish, a boat, Superman, Superwoman.

Tree Pose Asana, Yoga Benefits, Meaning, Variations, Vriksha-asana

Vrksasana Begin in mountain pose. Put weight onto left leg and then lift right foot to the left thigh, toes pointing downwards. Balancing, lift arms up over Table Position head, palms together. Flower the tree by opening the hands and bring arms down to the sides again. Switch sides. Benefits Develops balance and concentration, and tones the leg muscles. Tree Pose What it looks like A tree, a rocket ship.