Yogamint

Move

24-Oct-2009

Blanket Your Insides

The Surprising Spring of Winter Warmth

The idea of a cold shower is anathema in the West. In the realm of popular ideas, it is generally only thought of as a means of cooling off overzealous sexual desire. But the reality is most people in the world shower without the luxury of hot water.

There is something natural about this. When devotees bathe in the Ganges early in the morning, the river is ice cold. The result is not only cleanliness, but also a refreshment of spirit. The cold water against the skin draws the flow of blood to the extremities and stimulates the nervous and immune systems. These benefits are increased when you massage yourself beforehand with almond oil and vigorously towel off afterward.

Ishnaan, or conscious bathing, is very therapeutic, but it’s also practical, especially in the approaching winter months. The increased blood flow warms the body, and the sensitized nerves make you aware of the body’s natural, radiant heat. So be brave and try it. You’ll warm up to it soon.

Tell a Friend

Print

Anonymous commented on 29-Jan-2010 08:36 AM5 out of 5 stars

This is so true. Whenever I've done a cleanse, I start the day with the almond scrub and cold shower. I feel so holy, exhilarated. Try it!

Comment


No Very




Captcha Image

more mints

eat

move

  • 29-Jul-2010

    Chin In Chest Out

    Yogic Chin Lock

    Very often, if not always, yoga has an emphatic focus on the movement of the spine. When you move into an asana (posture), you line it all up and then rest for a moment, letting it take effect.

    read full article

  • 18-Jul-2010

    Dress for Success

    The Impact of White

    Ever notice that when people who live in equatorial climates dress up nicely, they usually wear white?

    read full article

  • 08-Jul-2010

    The Wind and the Waters

    Falling for Negative Ions

    There is one luxury even the most severe ascetic yogi won’t pass up. A waterfall isn’t just beautiful.

    read full article

think

  • 22-Jul-2010

    Pass the Popcorn

    Intermission from Stress

    Sometimes you just wanna scream! Life is full of responsibilities, needs, worries, demands on your time . . .

    read full article

  • 04-Jul-2010

    Delete the Files

    Eleven Minute Lullaby

    When you lie down for your nightly sleep, what gets in the way? Usually, it comes down to excess mental activity.

    read full article

  • 24-Jun-2010

    My Three Minds

    Positive, Negative, Neutral

    Yogis understand that a human has not one, but three functional minds. They work in a specific order . . .

    read full article

elevate

  • 20-Jul-2010

    Gems for the Journey

    Let Your Being Shine - A Dedicated Email

    When you embellish your personal environment with sacred objects, you are following an age-old tradition . .

    read full article

  • 15-Jul-2010

    Be a Superhero

    Reveal Your Secret Identity

    These days, it’s really hard to keep secrets. Whether it’s the UN, the CIA, or a big bank, someone is letting it slip.

    read full article

  • 01-Jul-2010

    Seva Me

    How Giving Comes Around

    From the time you were a child, you've been told that volunteering is good for you. And it’s true . . .

    read full article

Return to Article