Enlightening Yoga

When Kathryn Curtis put her passion for yoga to the test, the results were quite riveting. The PhD student in York University’s department of psychology, faculty of health, is the lead author of a pilot research project that suggests yoga reduces physical and psychological symptoms in women with fibromyalgia, a condition that causes fatigue and chronic pain in muscles and joints. “I was inspired to do this project as I have a deep love for all aspects of yoga, and wanted to be able to make this practice accessible to those who might benefit from it most,” says Curtis.

Eligible research candidates completed an eight-week yoga intervention in which they provided pre- and post-program salivary cortisol samples, attended two 75-minute hatha yoga sessions weekly, filled out multiple questionnaires concerning pain, and took part in a final follow-up session. In total, 19 female Read more

Northern Karate Schools: Taking Karate to a Whole New Level

The ancient practice of the martial arts has transcended time, becoming a respected discipline and a leader in today’s health and fitness market.

A great way to gain strength and agility, martial arts can have a life-altering effect on both young and old, instilling the invaluable virtues of respect, commitment, and perseverance.

“Karate is much more than just kicking and punching; it takes ordinary people and shows them how to do extraordinary things,” says Cos Vona, a director of Northern Karate Schools. Read more

Fit Soul, Fit Body: A Recipe for Happiness

Physically speaking, society isn’t what it used to be, and that’s a good thing. For the most part, we’ve migrated far beyond our TV-dinners and chain-smoking tendencies, into a world of flax spinach wraps and daily Pilates routines. Overall, we’re treating our bodies better. But physical fitness is just half the solution to a twofold problem. You don’t have to step back 2,500 years and consult the Buddha to realize balance is the key to completeness. If you read Fit Soul, Fit Body, it’s clear that reaching your highest level of health is about nourishing the physical and the spiritual, at the same time.

The book is the result of two experts, each in opposing fields, who combine their knowledge to form a one-stop guide to health and happiness. Brant Secunda, a world-renowned shaman and healer, brings his expertise from a 12-year pilgrimage with the Huichol – indigenous natives from Western Central Mexico Read more