Question 1

What is Practicing Presence?

Accepted Answer

It is giving attention to only what is happening at the present moment while remaining aware that you are aware. It is simple but often misunderstood. Presence allows for a higher level of awareness. It could be described as a quickening of intelligence.

Question 2

What Are Your Recommendations For Beginning The Practice of Presence?

Accepted Answer

You don’t necessarily need anyone to learn to do this, but it can be a confusing journey. If you would like assistance, book a session- or more with me. Each individual has a certain starting point that I can identify and provide explanations based on that point. From there, as a practice, it will become clearer. I can also provide you with a detailed plan of action -a plan tailored to you- to assist you along the way.   If you would like to read about the practice, I have a list of recommended books on my ‘Blog’ page.

Question 3

What Are The Possible Benefits of This Practice?

Accepted Answer

Happiness with no cause. Many seek happiness in experiences and through relationships which is fleeting and unstable. Presence brings stable happiness to experiences and relationships. It is up to you and how willing you are to practice; there is no limit to the improvements it can make in your life.    A transition occurs where consciousness evolves from a reactive nature to a nature of knowing. The seeing of things and events begin to change. Words often do not fully express the outcome, it is really up to each individual to find out for themselves.

Question 4

What Can I Expect in A Session?

Accepted Answer

When we meet for the first time, there will be introductions. I will explain the practice of presence to increase your consciousness. The practice is so simple that it almost seems too easy, but it is effective. This stuff works if you are willing to do it.  We will review your daily routine and identify the best areas to begin practicing presence.  I can explain meditations, and answer any remaining questions that you may have. The session is primarily a dialogue between us and you will leave with a definite starting point.

Question 5

What If I Need More Information Before I Book A Session?

Accepted Answer

Just ask! Please send an e-mail with any questions you may have to eastandwestyoga.com@gmail.com

Question 6

How Long Will it Take to Achieve Results?

Accepted Answer

Results depend on each person’s willingness to practice, so there are no set time frames for results. It could be a few days, a few weeks, or even a few months.

Question 7

How Will I Know When I Am Progressing?

Accepted Answer

The sense of unease diminishes.  Spontaneous laughter arises. You care for others, but no longer care what anyone thinks of you. You feel free. You feel better as the result of your own being.   There are some ups and downs in this practice but they are really no more than old habits attempting to arise. Once you understand the practice, these are easily identified.

Question 8

How Will I Be Held Accountable?

Accepted Answer

You won’t need to be held accountable because once you “get it”, it becomes so enjoyable there is no need for accountability. This is a personal process and you will know that you are progressing.  This is not psychology, self-help or any other form of therapy. I am a yoga instructor, not a mental health professional. This is not something to be held accountable for. This is increasing consciousness and it happens because of you. I am simply providing some insights.    You may find that you would like an occasional support or refresh meeting and those are always available. You may want to join in this practice with others in the form of retreats or other group settings that will be hosted through EastandWestYoga.com. These can be enjoyable as you have the opportunity to meet with others who are experiencing similar outcomes.

Question 9

What Is Yoga Philosophy?

Accepted Answer

Yoga means “union”; this is the union of the finite or conditioned mind into awareness. Yoga has a long and varied history. It has been interpreted and re-interpreted. There are other means to come into this knowledg of presence, it just happened that I found it through yoga.    And yes, it did start with the physical practice of yoga. Most people automatically think of yoga class when the word yoga is mentioned and the physical practice is helpful but its not everything. Its was only the beginning for me.    I use the term Yoga Philosophy because that is the way I came into this knowing. However I combined the traditional writings and teachings of yoga with teachings of the West. For me, both were needed to come to a full and complete understanding. Hence the name, East and West Yoga.

Question 10

What Have You Learned From Studying Yoga Philosophy and Presence?

Accepted Answer

Through studying Yoga Philosophy, I have come to the understanding that someone can read and study this for eternity and never know the truth of it. To me, if you study and practice something for years and get nothing from it, either you have misunderstood (as I did) or it is inaccurate information. To me yoga is presence. Its the same thing. In a physical yoga class, presence is the actual practice, the asanas are secondary.    The words may sound cryptic and confusing. It’s important to note that you can only fully understand Yoga Philosophy when you have the willingness to do it yourself and for yourself.    It’s a wonderful feeling, and if you are at all interested, I urge you to give it a try. The results are seen in the practical application. That's where my learning really took off. I read and studied for a long time, but when I finally put it into practice it was fantastic!