Prison Yoga Proves Its Value

Here is an exceptional article and set of photographs published by the New York Times about the practice of yoga in correctional facilities.

Finding a Center in Prison


My initial reaction was so anti-Zen.  Why is the city of Richmond spending tax payer money to teach prisoners yoga?

After reading the article and a bit of reflection, the answer to that question is clear. 

No Zen in Boozing Away Stress

The economy, politics, parenting and personal issues have left a myriad of Washingtonians in search of Zen-ful peace. 

Some have found balance by participating in a free, community meditation session run by Tara Brach, a Buddhist meditation teacher and pyschologist.  Others have turned to an over-abundance of alcohol and other more destructive behaviors.

The Washington Post reported on both this weekend in an article entitled Capital Strains.  It's an excellent read.

In this blog I've shared my view on the importance of stress management for emotional and physical well being.  Stress is negative energy that the body will shed.  It's up to each of us to take ownership of the removal process. 

Whether it's yoga, acupuncture, meditation, running, swimming or (as I promote) hypnosis, I encourage people to explore a natural, healthy approach to stress mitigation.  It is so much more effective and beneficial than finding relief in a bottle of booze.

The Zen-ful Tara Brach runs a community meditation session to help Washingtonians de-stress.