“One of the identifying techniques of Body + Brain/Dahn Yoga,” explains Jo Garner, owner/instructor at the Cedar Crest Body + Brain center, “is a moving meditation to bring the body into a natural healing state.” She calls this moving meditation “brain wave vibration.”
In addition to brain wave vibration, a unique exercise which brings rhythm and vibration to the brain stem and creates alpha brain waves, Jo guides students through yoga exercises which develop a stronger connection between the body and brain. In the exercises she explains where to place one’s focus. The reason for focusing is that “natural healing occurs when you bring your awareness to the part of the body you are working on.”
Focusing on relaxing the body allows natural healing to occur. With a relaxed body, she emphasizes, “the brain will relax and will bring you into an alpha brain wave state.” This body and brain relaxation allows the brain stem, part of the autonomic nervous system, to do its job of healing the body.
Jo emphasizes that Body + Brain yoga is not a religion. However, there are many elements to this exercise and healing methodology. People can come for the valuable physical benefits and the exercise instruction. In addition, a deeper beneficial element may also emerge: emotional release and healing. With physical and emotional healing may come a yet deeper element, which is spiritual healing and a more profound spiritual connection with one’s soul. Participants can come to train and heal at any of these levels.
Given these three levels, how do students find their own way in this program? Jo says it is important to focus on one’s self, not in a selfish way, but to determine what your soul’s purpose is and to heal yourself so you can help others. Calmly and with intention, Jo assists students not only to find their own way but also to reach for greater flexibility, relaxation, and healing.
For more information about Body + Brain/Dahn Yoga, please go to these websites, http://www.bodynbrain.com/ , http://www.dahnyoga.com/ , and click on the New Mexico locations at the bottom of the webpage.
Note: All quotes are from a personal interview on January 12, 2011.
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