Changing one’s relationship to digital devices can help bring clarity, increase happiness, and reduce feelings of stress in one’s daily life. In this series we highlight individuals and digital resources from Menla’s extended community that can help anyone mindfully navigate our interconnected, digital world. This week we look at the bookshelf and yoga book recommendations of Nadiya Nottingham.
What is your definition of Yoga?
My personal understanding of Yoga is that it gives me the freedom to allow my personal practice to evolve with my human body and my universal spirit. In other words, my practice is dictated not by some rules carved in stone but by the natural evolution of my life.
What do you love about Yoga?
No matter how out of sorts my body and mind are on any given day, my practice brings me back into my personal source of light. On a practical level Yoga simply helps me move well and stand tall!
Why do you teach Yoga?
There was no other choice for me. Were it not for Yoga, I would have to go live in the forest. Yoga gives me the tools for living in this world and understanding that everything is temporary except the spirit. Sharing the gift of transformation, which I receive with my students, is an outstanding privilege.
Do you have a favorite book on Yoga?
My favorite books are Yoga for Wellness, by Gary Kraftsow, Yoga Anatomy, by Leslie Kaminoff, and Awakening the Spine, by Vanda Scaravelli. The latter has a very complex asana practice, which I do not necessarily advocate; her life views, however, are well rounded, personal, and independent.
This article is excepted from an Integral Institute of Yoga interview from 2018: www.iyiny.org.
“The Menla Cleanse Getaway was the most peaceful, knowledgeable and supportive environment I have ever experienced for my annual detox. The juices and raw food were creatively prepared and delicious, and the staff was caring and unobtrusive. Being supported by the gorgeous sacred land, a stunning new spa and many wise healers facilitated profound renewal for me on all levels. I am filled with gratitude for Chisti and her team, and I will definitely return!”
Kara S
“I love Menla! The views are gorgeous, the organic vegetarian food delectable, the staff professional and friendly and the program’s top flight!!”
Katherine Cook
“EVERYONE I met with was spectacular in service and friendliness. Twan actually waited for me to get down the mountain one evening when his shift was done to ensure my safety. I never experienced this type of commitment and kindness at Omega or Kripalu. I both teach and do a lot of continuing education, and you guys take the cake!”
Michelle Laccadito