a clear, calm mind…

K.O.’s Yoga Videos

K.O.’s Five Favorite Tools for Anxiety

This lecture explains the use of K.O.’s 5 favorite yoga tools that will help create long-term change for anxiety. The use of asymmetric asana linked to breath (or contralateral practices) keeps the mind very focused and helps create integration between the left and right brain. Pranayama will shift physiology from a more agitated state to more calm while also collecting the attention of the mind. The use of sankalpa, as either an affirmation or a resolution, changes our narrative and helps us resolve to make change. Lastly, I’ll explain the practices of viyoga and samyoga – how to separate from what doesn’t serve you while also connecting deeper to what does serve you.

Practice of Light

The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali references a light that is beyond all pain and sorrow. This practice uses gesture, movement, and visualization to help us connect to this inner and outer illumination by bringing it in and then drawing it from the crown of the head to our own heart. Enjoy an asana sequence using gesture and visualization, followed by a pranayama practice visualizing light, and then finally a meditation on light in the heart.

Asana and Pranayama for Anxiety and Concentration

This unique asana practice, which uses asymmetrical arm and leg movements linked to breath, increases concentration, reduces anxiety, and enhances right-left integration of body and mind.
The ujjayi pranayama practice at the end will include a small retention of inhale followed by a lengthening of exhale, leaving you focused and calm.

Use of Sound in Yoga Practice

Most yoga practitioners are familiar with using sound in meditation; however, many are unfamiliar with the powerful addition of using sound (such as mantra) in asana and pranayama practice. Helping to focus the mind, increasing the length of the breath, and augmenting the effects of the pose are just a few benefits! I will explain how sound has three effects in practice – energetic, cognitive and symbolic. Then, we will do an asana, pranayama, and meditation practice using the mantra Om so’ham ham saha – a truly deep and unique experience.

Panchamaya Koshas: A Guided Meditation

Become aware of the dimensions of your being – notice the body, connect to the breath, observe the mind and access the heart. As we move from gross to most subtle, see if you can tune in and sense the interactive relationship between them.