Our digestive system starts working even before we take the first bite of food. And, it will be busy working on your chewed-up lunch for the next few hours - or sometimes days, depending upon what we've eaten. The process of digestion allows the body to get the nutrients and energy it needs from the food we eat.

The first part of the yoga lessons on Digestion begins with the Tongue. In this class, we will explore the Tongue from an allopathic point of view as well as from Ayurveda. The poses will focus on releasing and relaxing the tongue and jaw, which are main areas where people tend to hold tension both in yoga poses and throughout their days' activities.

The second class covers the stomach and the digestion that takes place in that organ. This lesson will explore the ayurvedic doshas and their effect on the stomach. We will look at the relationship drinking enough water has to do with digestion as well as two types of pranayama breathing; Ujjai and Kapalabhati. The asana practice will work to create heat or tapas to ignite the digestive fire.

The third class covers the small intestines. Again we will explore this organ from allopathic and ayurvedic view points. We will look at how the pitta dosha influences the small intestines and how the accumulation of ama affects the digestive systems ability to absorb nutrients. Pranayama will practice Sheetkari and Sheetali cooling breathing techniques. The asana practice will focus on poses that support the pitta dosha.

In the fourth lesson we explore Jainism, the liver and its relationship to the Yama, ahisma or non-violence. We will look at different ways to support the liver through ayurvedic techniques. The asana portion will be a Yin Practice developed by Paul Grilley to draw healing energy into the liver.

Enjoy exploring your digestive system through theory, pranayama, and asana. See how you feel after your practice and throughout the day. Note any changes, feelings, or sensations that may be different from what you are normally feeling. Then you will be able to change, add, subtract or whatever you need in order to use these lessons to bring about a greater sense of well being into your daily life.

If you are interested in purchasing this series of Yoga Lessons please contact Francesca Boyle, francesca.shree@me.com or visit her website for more information at www.shreeyoga4u.com