By Cara Butler. Carlos does not shy away from challenging topics and in fact considers it a part of his yoga practice to stay engaged, educated and involved in societal and global issues. Even when it would be easier to turn inward and ignore the external chaos. This is one of the reasons I hold Carlos in such high regard. I have observed all too often in the yoga world that the teachings and practices are used by some to border on what I would call self-obsession. I … [Read more...]
Conversations with Carlos – Part 1
by Cara Butler, Once upon a time in Christchurch…. actually quite a long time ago….way before any earthquakes, way before I had kids, while I was still very much figuring out what I was doing back in New Zealand after a decade trying my best to stay away…. I somehow found myself a very novice yoga student attending classes in a very cold church hall with a very capable and intelligent teacher from the USA, Katie Lane. Anyone who has had the pleasure of studying with Katie will know … [Read more...]
Touch as a form of yoga communication, the benefits and the pitfalls
YogaNZ Online Forum 2021 In recognition of 'International Yoga Day 2021' (globally celebrated on June 21st) Yoga New Zealand hosted an online panel discussion. The topic of discussion was 'Touch as a form of yoga communication, the benefits and the pitfalls'. Yoga New Zealand invite the global yoga community to view this forum and engage in this important yoga conversation with us. Facilitated by Dr Felicity Molloy, you will hear a variety of perspectives from five of New Zealand's … [Read more...]
POP – Learn more and bring greater awareness into your practice!
by Cara Butler A while back, we were contacted us here at The Yoga Lunchbox looking for help gathering stories and information from women who may have already or were currently experiencing Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP). Without a moments hesitation, as current Editor, I was happy to assist her in whatever way possible. My lack of hesitation to assist her was the result of having created the women's programme at my Yoga Studio, and having personally taught and assisted on various Childbirth … [Read more...]
Expand Your Yogic Tool Kit: Inspiring teachers share their most supportive practices….
by Cara Butler As we all continue to process and progress through this global pandemic together, I find myself wondering how it has affected personal yoga practices. I know mine has personally shifted but I was curious to hear from those around me with more experience and wisdom, so I reached out to five of the best teachers we have in Aotearoa to share their guidance with you all. This is what I asked of them...... ‘Taking into consideration all that has occurred over the past 18 … [Read more...]
‘Tuning In’ with Karla Brodie
By Cara Butler, An interview with Karla Brodie Karla is a teacher worth getting to know. Talking with Karla gives you the sense that she deeply considers her thoughts, her words, her decisions and actions. An example of how to really 'live' yoga in the everyday world. This capacity she demonstrates is undoubtedly born out of the deeply internal experience she has explored, and also taught, for over 20 years. I begin with the final question I asked, as I found her answer particularly … [Read more...]
Honour thy teacher, how to recognise great work in the yoga community
by Cara Butler As both a yoga student and teacher, I have practiced and studied with the intention that I am not seeking the ‘fruits’ of my practice. Being a very competitive girl by nature with a strong Pitta constitution this has definately been a challenge at times .... however I do strongly believe the value really is in the journey, not in the destination. I can say more authentically now as I move into my 40s that I practice and also teach yoga, not for any rewards it might offer but as … [Read more...]