Practice

In his highly recommended book, Mindfulness for Dummies, mindfulness coach Shamash Alidina emphasises the importance of actively switching from a busy 'doing' mode, to a more present state of 'being'.

Loving Kindness meditation: the Metta Bhavana

The Dalai Lama once said: 'My own religion is kindness'. In this Western culture of depressing news, relentless advertising and individualism, it is easy to view the world as sorely lacking in consideration and kindness.

Dancer Pose: Nataraja

This pose can be one of the most graceful and ballet-like of all the yoga balances. It requires focus and poise, and can improve strength and balance.

A Buddhist practice in origin, mindfulness meditation is enjoying fast-growing interest in the West. Taught as a secular practice, open to anyone, its benefits include decreased stress levels, lower blood pressure, and enhanced mental focus.

The Art of partner yoga is not only fun; the practice brings people together and nurtures trust and communcations. Michaela Olexova, of wellbeing website The Baoli,  explains.