Entries by derik

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The Peaceful Priority

  “Why is peace unprioritized?” I shared this question with my current teacher training students over the weekend.  They looked equally appreciative and puzzled. You would think that the desire to live in harmony would be greater than the urge for affliction.  Yet somehow that does not appear to be the case. Like many noble […]

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The Great Remembering

Behold. Another season has come to pass and we now edge into the fall season. Recently, I’ve been pondering how limitless the Universe truly is; from the quiet life of a small grain of sand to the unspeakable jewel box of stars that shine so freely far off in the heavens. And how water remains […]

Black Lives Matter and the Next Step

After months of respite in the wake of Covid-19 the silence was broken, a cathartic cry for “Justice!” was heard around the world.  The bandaid was ripped off as they say, repealing a painful and bleeding wound that has been conveniently overlooked for centuries. Stephon Clark, Tony McDade, Ahmaud Arbery, and Breonna Taylor, George Floyd,  […]

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Cliche Yoga Teaching Cues

A few weeks ago, I brainstormed a list of 24 different ways to language yoga postures; from controlling the tone of one’s voice to the art of remaining silent. As part of this process, I also mapped out common expressions, including the most cliche yoga teaching cues. I frequently hear it across gyms and studios, […]

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Approaches to Meditation

There are many approaches to meditation. Finding the optimal technique is a bit like searching for a treasure in a darkened room.  The treasure holds the promise of greater inner-freedom however, and you’ll sift through less idyllic objects as you blindly sweep the floor with outstretched hands. Fortunately, your search for the best meditation method […]

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Tantric-Yoga Methods

Asana, pranayama, meditation, and other Tantric-Yoga methods remold your psyche from a limited understanding (avidya) to greater Self-understanding. In short, they maximize joy and minimize suffering. To become proficient at blending these Tantric-Yoga methods requires ongoing practice, refinement, and moments of inner realization.  It’s an extraordinary journey that gradually begins to touch upon every aspect […]

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Self Healing

Full confession, I have had seasonal allergies for years; itchy eyes, stuffy nose, and sneezing attacks, the full deal. As a yogi – someone who places a premium on self healing – it was a point of consternation. Historically, I’d adjusted my yoga asana practice (to include more inversions) to address it, but had minimal […]