~Peter Hoeg

They follow in this order: yama (ethical standards); niyama (self-discipline); asana (posture); pranayama (breath-control); pratyahara (sensory withdrawal); dharana (concentration); dhyana (meditation); and samadhi (final liberation).

Raja yoga attracts individuals who are introspective and drawn to meditation. Members of religious orders and spiritual communities devote themselves to this branch of yoga. Even though the path suggests a monastic or contemplative lifestyle, entering an ashram or monastery is not a prerequisite.

In this new series, entitled “Shame 101″, we will explore the many facets of shame paying special attention to the role it plays in human development and interpersonal relationships. We will discuss the ways shame binds to affect, creating an unconscious pull that influences our thoughts, images and actions.

I am indebted to the work of Dr. Gershen Kaufman for his groundbreaking contribution to the field.

I admit it.  I love tapioca. This recipe makes a classic-tasting pudding. That being said, there are endless variations. One of my personal favorites is to sub coconut milk and sprinkle servings with toasted coconut. Enjoy!

1. Pour 3/4 cup of the milk into a medium-sized, thick bottomed pot. Add the tapioca and soak for 60 minutes. Whisk in the egg yolks, salt, sugar adn the remaining milk. Scrape the vanilla bean along its length using spoon. Add bean paste along with the pod to the pot. If using extract, stir it after the pudding has completely cooked.
2. Over medium heat slowly bring the mixture just barely to a boil, stirring constantly. This should take about 15 minutes. Reduce heat and let the mixture simmer another 20 minutes. The time will vary. Watch closely and the tapioca will tell when it is ready.The beads will swell and become nearly translucent. The custard will be dramatically thick as well.
3. Remember to keep stirring. This will keep the mixture from scorching.
4. Remove from heat and let cool a bit. This is best served warm, but is equally delicious cold.

Serves 4-6 or 1 ravenous tapioca lover.

Each branch has its own unique characteristics and functions that guide a particular approach to life. Some people may find one branch more inviting than another. This is not a one size fits all philosophy. However, it is important to note that involvement in one of these paths does not preclude activity in any of others. As a matter fact, many of the paths naturally overlap and to our natural curiosity and drive for wellness it is not uncommon to enter on one branch and find yourself drawn to another.

In this series, entitled Branches of Yoga, we will briefly explore the various branches of yoga. You may already be a yogini practicing the postures with a teacher or by yourself. If you are a hospice worker you are actively practicing karma yoga. Perhaps you came across this blog searching for an in-depth study of yoga philosophy, setting you on the path for jnana yoga.

Remember you need not be limited to one expression. You may practice hatha yoga (taking care of your physical body) while simultaneously cultivating the lifestyle of a bhakti yogi (expressing your compassion for everyone you meet). Trust that whichever avenue of yogic expression draws your interest, it will probably be the right yoga path for you.

Written with gratitude to Mara Carrico.

~Elsa Joy Bailey

“The human individual, given the chance, tends to develop his particular human potentialities. He will develop the unique alive forces of his real self: the clarity and depth of his own feelings, thoughts, wishes, interests; the ability to tap his own resources; the strength of his willpower; the special capacities or gifts he may have; the faculty to express himself, and to relate himself to others with his spontaneous feelings.”  – Karen Horney

gluten-free grain is a protein powerhouse. Broccoli is a super source of calcium. Pair this dish with some white beans or chick peas and you’ve got yourself a healthy complete protein meal that’s ready in minutes.

3 cups cooked quinoa
5 cups raw broccoli, cut into small florets
3 medium garlic cloves
2/3 cup sliced or slivered almonds, toasted
1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan
2 big pinches of sea salt
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup heavy cream

Optional: top with sliced avocado,chili flakes, crumbled feta or goat cheese

1. Heat the quinoa and set aside. It can also be made now, if not already.  Should take about 15 minutes to cook.
2. Parboil the broccoli by placing 3/4 cup water into a large pot and bringing to a simmer.  Add a big pinch of salt and stir in the broccoli. Cover and cook for a minute, just long enough to take the raw crisp off. Transfer to a strainer adn run cold water to stop the cooking. Set aside
3. To make the broccoli pesto, puree two cups of the cooked broccoli, garlic, 1/2 cup almonds, Parmesan, slat and lemon juice in a food processor. Drizzle in the olive oil and cream.  Pulse until smooth.
4. Just before serving, toss the quinoa and remaining broccoli florets with about half the broccoli pesto. Taste and adjust the flavor. You might want more pesto, another pinch of salt or a squeeze of lemon.
5. Serve with a sprinkling of almonds or with any of the optional toppings.

Serves 4 – 6.

Jung suggested that the way an archetype matures, functions and blends with other archetypes is affected by our personality (genetics) and our experience (environment). He also stated that because our inner archetypes are designed to do different things and pursue different goals (old brain/new brain) they can be in conflict with each other.

For Jung it is the way that our parts or archetypal processes mature, develop and become integrated, are thwarted, or are in conflict within the self, that is the source of our problems.