Karma Yoga

Definition: Karma Yoga lays emphasis on selfless action and service. The underlying message of Karma Yoga is very clear- humans must always work in harmony with the great power that controls and runs the universe. This form of yoga is the path of dedicated work: renouncing the results of our actions as a spiritual offering rather than hoarding the results for ourselves.

STOP AND BREATHE tm

Stop and Breathe tm is a volunteer program I created to provide 'relaxation coaches' in a medical setting.  As a teacher of yoga and meditation,  I have seen the tremendous healing benefits of yoga and meditation and in particular, the breathing techniques. In 2007, I began volunteering at Highland Park Hospital and the Kellogg Cancer Center  working with patients undergoing surgery and treatments for cancer through guided breath work, relaxation, and visualization.  This work has been one of the most rewarding, profound experiences in my life.  I have recently begun training others to become  relaxation coaches so as to expand upon this wonderful service to others. 

Quote:
“My goal is to make the patient more relaxed and less anxious. I want to provide for them a tool that they can take with them during this moment of stress, and also in the future, should the need arise.”

More information on upcoming training workshops can be obtained by emailing Susan at
mindandbodyyoga@aol.com

‘Just Say Om Yoga Club’

Along with another avid  yoga student of mine and another teenage yoga practitioner, I have formed the Just Say Om Yoga Club at Highland Park High School. The main focus is to try and foster a warm and comforting environment with which to explore yoga as tool for stress relief, strength (both mental/physical), flexibility, and relaxation. Teaching breathing techniques alone is enormously beneficial.  One can see that my passion for yoga extends to not only the physical, but the inherent mental benefits as well. Seeing the way teenagers are under pressure and sometimes look for less healthy 'releases', I feel passionate about sharing yoga with this age group.

Quote:
“My goal is to help support and introduce a healthier, safer way to deal with the everyday stresses of life now and in the future. Yoga is a phenomenal tool, and had it been available when I was this age, I know it would have made my own life that much less stressful during my teen years. I am happy to have learned it and now my goal is to share it with others.”