Yin Yoga and Restorative Yoga are both floor based Yoga practices that use props. If you looked in the window at people doing these practices, they might look very similar. However, the feelings that the person experiencing the practice would be very different. All types of Yoga will have some similarities. Yang Yoga practices (... Continue Reading →
In order to analyse yoga postures from the perspective of aesthetic versus Functional alignment. I would first like to identify what each means. Aesthetic alignment is based on how a pose looks - in the mirror, to the student or teacher. They are often initiated at the distal areas of the body - for example... Continue Reading →
What happens on trek - stays on trek!!!
Traditional ways that meditation is taught would be classed as a yang approach to meditation. Yang methods direct the meditator to have a particular focus in their meditation and to return to that effort, whenever the mind wanders. 4 commonly taught meditation instructions include; Focusing on the breath - e.g. at the point of entry... Continue Reading →
Wind scalped the top of the mountain, blowing others off their feet. There is nowhere to hide on Kilimanjaro from wind.
After multiple flights across the Atlantic we arrive in Cusco to a warm Peruvian welcome and the charming city that is Cusco. It’s my first time for this trek and it’s been in my head for over 20 years - I’m excited and thrilled to be here. Only a few hours later so taken are... Continue Reading →
To stress something is to bear a load on it, stress is the degree of pressure applied - this we can do to our tissues. Tissues are often subjected to stress but no movement occurs. There is no shortening or lengthening of the tissues. Stretching occurs when the stress loaded is in excess of the... Continue Reading →
Preparation is key Before you go on your trip of a life time spend a few moments deciding what’s really important to you. I appreciate the hidden dreams in the recesses of your brain that you’ve been harbouring - secretly or not - for a week- or for years. To ensure you have an amazing... Continue Reading →
432hz, 528hz and Solfeggio frequencies Modern music is tuned to 440hz when in 1926 a standardised system came in. Most ancient greek and Egyptian instruments were tuned to 432Hz, Himalayan Bowls, old music - mozart, Verdi. Gregorian Chants are based on the Solfeggio frequencies. Music based on 432 Hz is said to transmit beneficial healing... Continue Reading →
I lead an expedition to Everest Base Camp this April & May. I got a good vibe from this group straight away in Dublin Airport when we met. They all knew each other very well & they’d even met our doc on their training weekend - I was the only “outsider”. They took me into their... Continue Reading →
Chakra means wheel in Sanskrit. The Chakras refer to the energy centres in the body. We have many thousands of them, there are 7 main energy centres in the body. Energy flows through the Chakras, but when they are blocked or imbalanced, there is an effect on our emotional, mental and physical wellbeing, which can... Continue Reading →
Originating in Japan Reiki is an energy healing technique which can allow you to reduce stress, clear your mind and balance body, mind and spirit. It is not a religion or dogmatic in anyway. You do not have to " believe" in Reiki for it to work.
Yoga has many benefits for both training for expeditions and while on expedition itself. Whether you’re off to Kilimanjaro, Everest Base Camp or skiing the Haute Route - Yoga has a place in your pre expedition training and while you’re on the mountain!
Yoga is like ice cream.... With so many flavours to choose from, it can be difficult to decide what style is right for you. Yoga is thousands of years old, so many styles have been developed over the years. Here's a simple short guide (in no particular order) of what some of the Yoga styles have in store for you....
A sacred space is a space that is free from distraction , to allow yourself to be truly present in the moment. This makes you aware immediately of your place within the universe and the power that comes with that from the universe. Taking the time out to put things in context; reality, humility, contemplation and spirituality. This can be in a dedicated space within your house or taking the time out to make a space that is available to you sacred - this can be inside or outside in nature. It needs to be a conscious process to take us away from the everyday things that distract us from the connection with ourselves.
What is yoga? What's the goal? What's the point? Is Yoga competitive? Do you have to be fit? Do you have to be flexible? Do you have to wear lycra? Why does everyone wear it anyway? I hate the gym I find it intimidating... I'm really shy.... What about injuries - new & old?
