Holy Yoga Masters Session 21 Holy Yoga for Chronic Disease

Holy Yoga Therapy for Chronic Disease, A Health Opportunity to Christ By Gina Tricamo HIV/AIDS In 2009, the World News reported that 39.5 million of the world population has been diagnosed with HIV/AIDS. Furthermore, it is estimated that there is over 1 million people walking around unaware and undetected, passing on the virus unintentionally. We are called not to be complacent regarding the lack of acceptance, and take the steps toward a conscious awareness of the need for healing among believers, unbelievers and seekers who have been afflicted by this epidemic. Among many diagnosed there is a sense that the Sacred has been torn from their lives and they loose sight of God. Before we begin exploring the therapeutic components of yoga, I would like to present a question. How do we begin to engage in sharing the sacred relationship of Christ, through yoga therapy, when one has been afflicted by this disease? To come to a grounded understanding, that will form the basis of our holistic approach through yoga therapy, lets look at the breath and depth of the Divine Order and establish the mystifying, adhesive and sacred relationship of our physical beings in Christ. Colossians 1:17 He is before all things and in him all things hold together. (NIV) The WIT translates, And He is before all things and in and through Him the universe is a harmonious whole. Definitions: Hold: to have or keep in the hand; to bear, sustain, support; to engage in, preside over, or to bind Sacred: consecrated to or belonging to the Divinity: holy; set apart for, and dedicated to; regarded with the respect or reverence accorded holy things In Colossians1:17 the Holy Spirit reveals a hidden mystery of the indwelling of Jesus within the very intricate cells that hold us together for Gods glory. Within the depth of our bodies flows the Laminin Factor!!! Amplified Version: Such (things) are only the shadow of things that are to come, and they have only a symbolic value. But the reality, the substance, the solid fact of what is foreshadowed, the body - of it belongs to Christ.

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* Diagram of the scientific structure Lamininthe Adhesive Molecular Protein Cell

There is no doubt that we are truly formed of the image and likeness of our Creator and Lord, Jesus Christ! This microscopic molecular enigma mysteriously aligns up into a chain binding adhesion of cells forming the CROSS to HOLD (glue) and support our physical body. There is assurance for those fragmented and afflicted by such a devastating diagnosis that there is hope of the Sacred One holding together their homeostasis. Jesus said he would never leave us or forsake us. Within this scripture is the hope and healing for those suffering with HIVS/AIDS and other chronic diseases. Colossians 1:17 is no longer a figurative bible passage, but literally a visual demonstration of Jesus promise of eternal life for our earthly temples! Holy Yoga therapy brings to our earthly temples a Life Force to heal and make wholly ones sacredness. Sections for Discussion: 1. The role of the Church to compassionately address the needs of AIDS 2. Definition of HIV/AIDS 3. HIV Conditions and Characteristics 4. Adaptive Restorative Yoga Therapy 5. The Grieving Process and End of Life Journey

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1. The Churchs Role and HIV/AIDS: A CHRIST CENTERED MODEL Jeremiah 3:15; I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will feed you with knowledge and understanding. The following is an insert from, A Faith Perspective and Initiative by Pernessa C. Seele, on the calling of the church and its role to compassionately address and respond to the needs of the AIDS epidemic. Years ago, when I was working at Harlem Hospital, I was stunned by the sight of people and families suffering from AIDS amid a seemingly heartless community that neither understood the reasons for their pain, nor sought to alleviate their suffering. It was revealed to me that what was missing was the faith imperative - the directive from religious leaders to their congregations to learn, act, and care as their Lord would expect of them in the age of HIV/AIDS. Seele was instrumental in developing and implementing a Christian based Community Outreach, The Balm in Gilead, which provided educational and training programs specifically to meet the needs of faith communities that attempted to become compassionate centers for HIV/AIDS ministries and education. The following is a Christ Centered model outlining the role of the church: Churches are called to respond to the needs of the community by providing unbiased spiritual care when it is most needed Churches throughout the community should deliver AIDS education and direct services to those infected with HIV, along with spiritual care to all affected by this epidemic. The Role of Prayer for the Healing of AIDS: Psalms 5:1 -2; Give ear to my words, O Lord, give heed to my groaning. Hearken to the sound of my cry, my King and my God, for to thee I pray. It has been reported by non-believers that prayer can provide relief from pain and suffering. It is a critical component for prayer partners and intercessory prayer groups to intercede on behalf of those who are living with pain, anguish and daily uncertainty. Provide compassionate care to persons as they go through the various stages of life, which inevitably includes pain and suffering, loss, and bereavement The Church is to create a prism of an inclusive loving God to those who serve in ministry and to those individuals seeking care and support. The care of souls is sacred; it is a shared responsibility among pastors, lay leadership, and those called to the ministry of care (such as the case of Holy Yoga Therapists).

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The Church Body must be mindful that it is the silence, denial, and stigma of AIDS that continues to cripple a communitys response to AIDS education, HIV testing, and treatment. The involvement of the medical , holistic therapist and churches in this battle against AIDS is imperative if we are to conquer this epidemic throughout the global community. As a Church Body we are called to the overall well-being of the church community, whatever their physical, spiritual, or emotional state may be, and encourages them on their journey with God

2. Definition of HIV/AIDS and Characteristics: HIV Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) - It is a virus that attacks the part of our bodies, the immune system, that helps us fight off infections and illness. HIV makes recovery from minor infections and illness harder. HIV is a viral infection that gradually depletes the immune systems ability to ward of opportunist infections. People do not die from HIV itself, but rather from viral, protozoan, and bacterial infections along with HIV associated cancers. AIDS Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) - occurs when the body no longer is able to fight off infections and illnesses. AIDS is not transmitted; it is the result of HIV destroying blood cells that fight infections. HIV weakens the bodys immune system by destroying T cells, specifically CD4 lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell that helps protect against bacteria, viruses and some cancers. The virus becomes part of the cells, and when they multiply to fight an infection, they also make more copies of HIV. When the T-cell count is low, the body becomes vulnerable to attacks on the immune system. Over time the CD4 count drops lower, creating great risk in the homeostasis. Unchecked HIV can cause neurological damage, drastic weight lost and ultimately lead to death. Time Frame It can take several years (up to ten years before detection) to develop symptoms of HIV. It can then take many years for HIV to destroy enough of the immune system that AIDS develops. The only way to know for sure if you have HIV is to get a blood test. Transmission There are only four body fluids that contain enough of the HIV virus to allow transmission between people-blood, semen, vaginal secretions and breast milk. HIV is not transmitted by tears, saliva, sweat, urine or feces.
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3. HIV Conditions and Characteristics: Medical Terms: Hepatitis - Hepatitis is inflammation of the liver. Infectious or viral hepatitis is caused by a viral infection. Peripheral Neuropathy - damage to the peripheral nervous system, which transmits information from the brain and spinal cord to every other part of the body. Thrush - a fungal infection of the throat AIDSdefining diagnosis - an opportunist infection or AIDS-related cancer that signifies the transition from being HIV positive to having AIDS Lipodystrophy - a problem with the way the body produces, uses, and stores fat. Since the widespread use of anti-retroviral therapy began, the numbers of HIV positive people with lipodystrophy has increased. Today, lipodystrophy occurs in 30% to 50% of people who are infected with HIV. Symptoms of Lipodystrophy There are two types of lipodystrophy: fat loss and fat buildup. Men tend to lose fat. Women tend to build up fat.

Fat loss (lipoatrophy) occurs in certain areas of the body: Arms and legs (veins tend to show up more) Face (sunken cheeks, temples, or eyes) Buttocks Fat buildup (lipohypertrophy or hyperadiposity) is when fat accumulates in certain areas of the body: Abdomen (central obesity) Breasts (occurs in both men and women) Back of neck and shoulders (sometimes called a "buffalo hump") Fatty growths in different parts of the body (called lipomas)

Common Symptoms: Extreme side effects from medication Fatigue Depression, anxiety, suicidal ideology Loss of libido Nausea, acid reflux Muscle cramps Night sweats Digestive imbalances Dementia Effects on the Brain

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Cognitive loss remains a feature of HIV infection, and some patients still suffer from incident or progressing cognitive and motor dysfunction even on combination therapy. Because the virus enters the CNS within days of initial infection, latent infection may be chipping away at the brain during the long asymptomatic period in HIV. Reports have indicated an increase in dementia with AIDS patients. Autopsy studies of AIDS patients show brain damage affects up to 90% of patients.

The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) is researching alternative healing modalities. Prominent among them is acupuncture , which has been used to treat depression, anxiety and panic disorder. Other alternative treatments being studied include the effects of prayer, meditation , creative writing, and yoga. 4. Integrated Wellness Yoga TherapyKey Factors of Yoga Therapy for HIV: Creates self-reliance / self-awareness Can be modify and adapted to personal needs Develops a healthy relationship between mind and body Highly intimate and personal Non-invasive Encourages healthy choices Introduces spirituality Provides a supportive community

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Yoga Benefits HIV/AIDS patients by: Slows disease progression Improve mental health Improves body image Subdue panic during emergency room visits Combats fatigue, headaches, nausea Points to consider: In assessment of energy level use a scale from 1 to 5 to communicate physical and mental energy levels before practice and after practice Allow each their own sacred space As Yoga Therapist we need to take in consideration the affects of Lipodystrophy when assessing the body structure and working on muscle mass areas. The body image is emotionally impacted and encouragement through Gods Word dealing with the body is healing to use when addressing this issue (Students will share scriptures to use specifically). The Role of the Yoga Therapist: Learning to be sensitive in evaluating energy levels Construct a balance between normal gentle to a restorative; depending upon what stages in the disease Breath work must be monitored according to the conditions of the lungs due to asthma or pneumonia; do not force breathing under sensitive conditions Student should be responsible to monitor effects of practice on their vital energy: teacher adjust with adaptation Respect confidentiality Provide tools to overcome fears and denial Allowing and embracing the grieving processyoga tears Build confidence in the student Restorative Yoga and HIV
Note: Poses demonstrated by Yoga Therapist Lisa Walford (herself HIV+) at the SYTAR International

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Restorative Yoga Practice Postures are held longer with the aid of props Creates a supportive environment for total relaxation Minimal physical exertion Introduces gentle and progressive movements Proverbs 3: 5 - 8 Lean on, trust and be confident in the Lord with all your heart and mind, and do not rely on your own insight and understanding. In all your ways know, recognize and acknowledge Him, and He will direct and make straight and plain your path. Be not wise in your own eyes; reverently fear and worship the Lord, and turn (entirely) away from evil. It shall be healthy to your nerves and sinews, and marrow and moistening to your bones. Definition: Sinews - tough band of tissue that connects muscle to bone, tendon Compromised students need different kinds of support. B.K.S. Iyengar studies are extensive regarding restorative asanas and the need to balance and conserve the internal energies with those diagnosed with HIV/AIDS. He developed supportive asanas that helps shift a persons mind/mood towards a receptive state that replenishes vital energy. He states, Yoga teaches us to cure what need not be endured and to endure what cannot be cured. He further instructed that the regular practice of yoga can help one to face the turmoil's of life with steadfastness and stability. Iyengar believed that restorative poses pacify and relieve symptoms and encourage hope. As Believers in our holy yoga practice we are spiritually positioned into an assurance of our hope of eternal salvation through Gods love poured into our heart by the Spirit. Romans 5: 3 - 5 Moreover, let us also be full of joy now! Let us exult and triumph in our troubles and rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that pressure and affliction and hardship produce patient and unswerving endurance. And endurance develops maturity of character - that is approved faith and tried integrity. And character produces joyful and confident hope of eternal salvation. Such hope never disappoints or deludes or shames us, for Gods love has been poured out in our hearts through the Holy Spirit Who has been given to us. Iyengar yoga teaches a series of supportive inversions and other restorative poses for people with HIV, especially for those who deal with fatigue and weakness. HIV does battle with the bodys natural defensives, the immune system. The goal is to build up the defensive energy through soothing asanas. It is important not to us up the little amount of energy that is left in the body and restorative yoga regulates life force.

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The sequence might include:
1. Supportive Downward Facing Dog pose (Adho Mukha Svanasana) 2. Supported Headstand (Sirsasana) - can be done against wall or between two chairs 3. Chair Shoulder Stand ( Salamba Sarvangasana) * 4. Supported Half Plow (Ardha Halasana) 5. Supported Bridge Pose (Setu Bandha Sarvangasa) - over two bolsters 6. Legs-Up-the-Wall Pose (Viparita Karani) * (* indicates specific asana demonstrated in the following photos)

Supportive Downward Facing Dog - Supported Sukhasana Lowers blood pressure and alter hormonal levels Supporting the weight of the head will give gentle pressure around the eye Calming for the nervous system Pacifies gastro-intestinal tract Expands chest and boost immune system Induces mental relaxation

Supported Relaxation: Pacifies the gastrointestinal tract Expands chest and helps improve lung capacity Induced mental relaxation

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Basic Supported Bound Angle Pose - Baddha Konasana Releases tension in the diaphragm, the low back and the gastrointestinal tract Enhances pulmonary and cardiac circulation by passively opening the chest Quiets the breath Stimulates the thymus gland boosting T cell counts

Intense side stretch pose - Supta Padangustasana Increases range of motion in the hip joints Creates mild traction for the lower back Relieves compression on the sciatic nerve muscle External Rotation: openness in the entire abdominal area Internal Rotation: openness in the buttocks and back Massages the abdominal organs

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Supported Corpse Pose Cross Bolsters Deeply quieting Improves elasticity to the lungs Balances hormones, helps avoid migraines Relieves indigestion Creates space to all vital organs Increase circulation throughout abdominal and chest cavity Pacifies hyperactivity and irritation Builds emotional and mental stability

Reclining twist - Bharadvajasana Relieves the back and intercostal muscles Relaxes the kidneys and adrenal glands Nourishes the inter vertebral discs

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Child Pose - Garbhasasana Massages the abdominal organs, kidneys and adrenal glands Heals, relaxes and rejuvenates the entire body facilitates forward flexion in the spine, hip and knees

Inverted backbends Passively stretches the vagus nerve and muscles of respiration Increases cardiac output Relieves tension in the shoulders and upper back Helps to avoid headaches
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Legs-Up-the-Wall pose - Viparita Karani Relieves systemic fatigue and stress related headaches Alleviates constipation and diarrhea Can be maintained for up to twenty minutes effortlessly Meditation: Alleviates depression Purges calamity embedded in hidden cavities of the heart strengthens the immune system stimulate mind Creates clarity and focus Alpha Brain Waves 5. The Grieving Process and End of Life Journey Meditation purges calamity embedded in hidden cavities of the heart. Ezekiel 36: 26 A new heart will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you; and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. In 2006, I began teaching adaptive yoga classes to men, women and children diagnosed HIV+. As a result of the positive outcome in April, 2007 I was invited to be part of a Alternative Health Panel discussing the therapeutic benefits of yoga therapy for HIV+ at the POZ Seminar: Being Positive About Being Positive. I provided the following research regarding the benefits of meditation. A research study was conducted Yale Prevention Research Center to determine the affects of meditation and messages on the quality of life for people diagnosed with HIV/AIDS. The researchers noted yoga practice and message as intervention is beneficial to individuals diagnosed, a disease that is often accompanied by social stigma and isolation. The authors hypothesized that, physical, healing touch can make individuals more receptive to yoga practice and benefits of meditation.

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The study involved access for participants to questions and process their experiences with the meditation instructors. The result of the study disclosed, ...a significant improvement in functions, interpersonal well-being and spiritual well-being. The following Metta (loving kindness and forgiveness ) Meditation was used: Phrases offering loving kindness to self: May I be free from danger May I be well May I be happy May I be peaceful Phrases offering loving kindness to others: Just as I wish to be free from danger, may you be free from danger Just as I wish to be well, may you be well Just as I wish to be happy, may you be happy Just as i wish to be peaceful, may you be peaceful Phrases offering forgiveness to self: For all of the ways I have hurt or harmed myself, knowingly or unknowingly, I offer forgiveness Phrases offering forgiveness to others I forgive you for whatever you have done, intentionally or unintentionally - through your actions, words, even through your thoughts. Through what you did and what you failed to do. However the pain came to me through you, I forgive you. The following is a Visualization Meditation for Grieving and Healing developed for those suffering with the physical and emotional pain of their journey: Visualize yourself laying your head upon the Heart of someone you care for deeply, it may be a family member, a beloved friend or the Divine. Allow each breath to respond to the rhythm of the heart beat - rising and releasing, rising and releasing allowing the heart beat to transmit a sense of warmth into your body/mind/spirit. Take in the Divine Breath and release anything that has been burdening your heart. Allow Breath and Heart beat to exchange feelings of loving kindness towards you ... towards others. Allowing Breath and Heart to release sorrow and fears... and Breath and Heart fill you with courage and perseverance. Using imagery allow your heart to rest...upon the bosom, the heart of this Loved one to comfort you... embracing the moment and creating new memory in order to return to this moment in times of discouragement and restore with courage (confusion/clarity, stress and anxiety/calmness, loneliness/contentment, sadness/ peace).

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Taking breath in and out, clarity in and throughout, breath in and out, taking calmness in and throughout, Breath in and out, contentment in and throughout, breath in and out, healing and wholeness in and throughout... Gentle listening to the rhythm of breath and the beat of both hearts in harmony, cherishing this moment of oneness... giving thanks to your Creator, your loved one, this interexchange of love, healing of body/mind.spirit. Meditation developed by Gina Tricamo,RYT for Poz Conference: Being Positive About Being Positive, April, 2007

6. Stages of the Process of Surrendering and Embracing Life Matthew 11:28 Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden and over burdened, and I will cause you to rest I will ease and relieve and refresh your souls. Yoga practice is not just for the good times, but also for the hard times in life. When we practice Holy Yoga we bring a solution for the hard times and a hope for better times ahead as we learn to take in the breath of God and exhale all of us. As we embark on the practical aspects of yoga therapy and end-of-life journey, keep in mind God is the author of his creations, we are just creating a pliable and spatial experience for His beloved to receive His glory in their lives, no matter how difficult the circumstances. Isaiah 41:10 Fear not; for I am with you; do not look around in terror and be dismayed, for I am your God, I will strengthen and harden you to difficulties, yes, I will help you; yes, I will hold you up and retain you with My victorious right hand of rightness and justice. The goal is to help with the process of grief, respect the pain and accept the fact that it is necessary and vital. Tanatology is the study of death and dying. Tanatologists Charles Corr and Kenneth Doka suggested as we embark in the application of Yoga Therapy, and the disciplines of the practice, we strive towards better concepts and a clearer understanding of the issues faced by those individuals who seek to live an examined life and prepare themselves to face death. Holy Yoga Therapy is graced to contribute richly to field of thanatology. Yoga practices such as asana, pranayama, and contemplative meditation can alleviate the anxiety and suffering that results from illness, loss, and death. As the Word of God is weaved up into the therapeutic process, the spiritual awakening creates an opening of the heart and mind to the mysteries of God in life and death. The courage to examine ones life presents the question, Knowing that you will die, how do you wish to live? Psalm 9: 10 And they who know Your name (who have experience an acquaintance with Your mercy) will lean on and confidently put their trust in You; for You, Lord, have not forsaken those who seek You.
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7. End of Life Therapy End of Life Therapy includes: The practice of dying while living Support for individuals experiencing grief and loss Support for people facing life threatening illness Support for those transitioning from physical life to death To allow the dying person to explore living, illness, grief, and dying personalized endof-life Yoga Therapy focuses on: Gentleness, Listening, Encouragement Loving touch/massage Music In this process suffering is alleviated by compassionate, non-judgmental support as the individual moves through the many physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual experiences. Kubler-Ross Grief Cycle: What grief does: Grief resides in certain areas of the body and becomes trapped Grief expends a great deal of energy Grief shut downs all the vital life force and bodily system It is important to know about the Kubler-Ross grief cycle. It is described as a roller coaster ride of emotional mechanisms that catapults the grieving person into various stages and behavioral patterns. The person who is emotionally distraught through a crisis, trauma or death of a love one and/or facing their own end-of-life journey moves back and forth through these various stages. It is important to meet the person exactly where they are at without judgment or advice while engaging in Holy Yoga therapy. We are called to meet the person on the mat (bed, wheelchair, etc.), which becomes a sacred space to feel safe to express freely all their fears, detachments, anger and allow the process of moving towards healing and freedom in Jesus, "If the Son set you free, you are free indeed."

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Shock stage: Initial paralysis at hearing the bad news (not be coherent to what is going on around them) Denial stage: Trying to avoid the inevitable ("This can't be happening to me.") Anger stage: Frustrated outpouring of bottled-up emotions ("Why is this happening? Who is to blame?") Bargaining stage: Seeking in vain for a way out ("God, if you make this go away I promise I will _______.") Depression stage: Final realization of the inevitable ("I just want to curl up and never get out of this bed.") Testing stage: Seeking realistic solutions ("Maybe I will try Holy Yoga." Acceptance stage: Finally finding the way forward ("I am at peace with what is going to happen/what has happened. God will never leave me or forsake me.") Please note that under the stress of the operating grief stages one finds difficulty to focus on Scripture, nor relate to ones surroundings while in yoga class. The body, mind and spirit are in shock and as a result the homeostasis is out of balance. It is important to keep in mind that the person cannot control what is taking place in the psyche. Let us review some examples. Throughout scripture you can learn how the Son of God, Jesus, and holy men of God responded to grief:

Jesus - he sweated blood from profound psycho-biological anguish Job - extremely despondent and depressed Peter - denial and anger Thomas doubting and testing; let me place my finger in your wounds."

How are we called to respond to those who are depressed, sadden and displaced by what has befallen their lives? God appoints us to draw, engage and unite the grieving soul to the yoke of Jesus. With Compassion: Job 2:11, 12: "...for they made an appointment together to come and mourn with him, and to comfort him...they lifted their voices and wept, and each one tore his robe and sprinkled dust on his head towards heaven." With Steadfastness: 2 Corinthians 4:16 "Therefore we do not lose heart, but though our outer man is decaying, yet our inner man is being renewed day by day."

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With Strength: Isaiah 40:31 "Yet those who wait on the Lord will gain new strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles, they will run and not get tired, they will walk and not become weary." With Truth: Psalm 145: 18-19 The Lord is near to all who call upon Him, to all who call upon Him sincerely and in truth. Panatajalis Yoga Sutras
One of the traditional Yogic references to support the foundation of end-of-life Yoga therapy is found in the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali. Listed below is a highlighted overview of the Sutras most relevant for end-of-life therapy. The translations of these sutras are by Swami Venkatesananda. Yoga Sutra 1.2: Yoga citta vrtti nirodhah. (Yoga is the stillness of the movement of though in the indivisible intelligence); in end-of-life care, there are times when confusion, anxiety, and fear are present. Through Yoga practices such as meditation and savasana, equanimity and peacefulness are cultivated. Yoga Sutra 1.3: tada drastuh svarupe vasthanam. (Then the seer exists by itself and as itself.) Yoga allows students to explore and discover who they truly are, the essential self, through introspection and witness consciousness. Through the awareness practices of Yoga, what is important and meaningful may shift and be reprioritized. Daily life is re-examined and daily concerns tend to fade as death approaches. Yoga Sutra 1.18: virama pratyaya bhyasa purvah samskara seso nyah (Different from this is the practice which is based on cessation of all efforts). Whether in asana, pranayama or meditation, integrating a philosophy of non-striving opens the body, breath, mind, heart, and spirit to relaxation and peacefulness within. The cessation of all effort is, in essence, permission to just be and rest in self. Non-striving is an expression of the being of Yoga. The philosophy can extend to affirming to the student that they are complete and whole just as they are. Yoga Sutra 1:23: Isvara pranidhandad va. (Surrender to the omnipresent, ever-existing reality, to God). The theme of surrender, understandably a very difficult practice, is ultimately the core of end-of-life Yoga therapy. The practice of savasana provides an opportunity to practice acceptance and surrendering to the ever-existing reality, and the mystery of life and death. Yoga Sutra 1.31: duhka daurmanasya ngam ejayatva svasa prasvasa viksepa saha bhuvah. (The presence of the following symptoms reveals the disturbance of the mind: sorrowful mood, psychological despair, the motions of the body, and inhalation and exhalation.) Sorrow, anxiety, physical discomfort, and despair, which are recognized in this sutra, are often present for the dying and their families and friends as they face the physical, mental, and emotional anguish of saying goodbye. The practices of Yoga offer preparation, compassion, and a deeper exploration of death and dying that may alleviate some suffering.

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Yoga Sutras 11.3-4, 6, 7-9: Avidya smrita raga dv esa bhiniesah klesah: (Ignorance is the cause of all the other sources of psychic distress, whether dormant, weak or spread out.) drg darsaana-saktyor ekatmateva smita (The power of sight sees; however, when fragmented identifies itself as the seer; there is ego-sense); dukha nusayi dvesah (repulsion abides in the erroneous classification of an object or experience as pain-giving); svarasavahi viduso pi tatha rudho abnivesah (Clinging to life is self-sustaining and a dormant factor is wise beings). The kleshas of avidya, (ignorance of truth of oneness, duality, separation); Asmita (attachment to a disintegrating experience of ego); Ragaldvesha: sukha and duhkha (attachment and aversion); Abhinivesha (clinging to life, finite self, fear of death) can be present trough experiences of loss, grief, death and dying. The relevance of the kleshas can be seen in the previously study Kubler-Ross five stages of grief and dying, which incorporates experiences of denial, fear and anger.

8. What are the benefits of end-of-life Yoga Therapy:

Yoga teaches us to be still with the stages of grieving Yoga encourages one to be nurturing and compassionate towards the grieving process Fatigue and tiredness are symptoms of grief; yoga can energize the body and mind Yoga teaches you grace and surrender Yoga helps to manage and heal the grieving process Holy Yoga strengthens your connection to God, reliance on Jesus and guides you towards the illumination of the Holy Spirit Yoga helps to counter balance the lethargy and out of body experience of grief Back bends can be done standing, seated or lying on the floor Bridge poses is a larger heart opener Pelvic Tilts/low Bridge using blocks During deeper grief energy is expended, provide poses to restore, rejuvenate and heal using blocks, straps and blankets Poses that are close to the earth such as the Pigeon Pose and Child Pose allows a sense of safety to openly grieve Lower body balance such as in the Dolphin create space and freedom to accept where they are in their stages of grief

Energy Work: We have some 72,000 pressure points to create energetic healing in our systems yoga chi gong pose of forgiveness and release is very beneficial to surrender and let God take over

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Weaving God's Words into meditation: I created healing meditation for the many clients that were on their final journeys, I recall a young woman, 36 years old. She had been battling cancer and went blind. I prayed for God to let me see with spiritual eyes so I could communicate with compassion and insight for her lack of sight. I was so blessed to work with her prior to her death. She left behind two young children and her husband, but she was celebrated for her courage to move towards her journey with peace and integrity. In our meditation I would ask her to lay her head upon the heart of her Creator and to rest in his arms...it was so comforting for her to place her self in the safety of Divine Love, knowing that Perfect Love takes away all fears. Gina died, blind and physically ravaged by cancer, but with a new found freedom of her spirit to go to a loving God who would continue to be there for her family. Scriptures for grief and edification: Numbers 6:24-26 The Lord bless you, and watch, guard and keep you; The Lord make His face to shine upon and enlighten you and be gracious (kind, merciful, and giving favor) to you. The Lord lifts up His countenance upon you, and give you peace (tranquility of heart and life continually). Cites of Works:

World News, 2009 The Passion Conference: How Great is Our God, Louis Giglio (You tube video link) A Faith Perspective and Initiative; Pernessa C. Steele Practice Session #15 SYTAR Conference, Patanjales Stages of Transformation in Treating HIV Infection, Lisa Walford, January, 2007 Iyengar, B.K.S., Yoga Ranasya; Bombay: Light on Yoga Research Trust, 1999 Yoga and AIDS by Paula Kout, The International Association of Yoga Therapist Vol. 3 of The Journal of the I.A.Y.T. Integrative Yoga Therapy Teachers Toolbox; Joseph and Lilian Le Page, 2005

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Suggested Playlist and Lyrics: HELD by Amy Grant: Two months is too little They let him go They had no sudden healing To think that providence Would take a child from his mother While she prays, is appalling Who told us wed be rescued What has changed and Why should we be saved from nightmares Were asking why this happens to us Who have died to live, its unfair This is what it means to be held How it feels, when the sacred is torn from your life And you survive This is what it is to be loved and to know That the promise was that when everything fell Wed be held This hand is bitterness We want to taste it and Let the hatred numb our sorrows The wise hand opens slowly To lilies of the valley and tomorrow This is what it means to be held How it feels, when the sacred is torn from your life And you survive This is what it is to be loved and to know That the promise was that when everything fell Wed be held If hope is born of suffering If this is only the beginning Can we not wait, for one hour Watching for our savior This is what it means to be held How it feels, when the sacred is torn from your life And you survive This is what it is to be loved and to know That the promise was that when everything fell Wed be held Repeat Chorus

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