Kerala University, once envisioned by Sir CP Ramaswami Aiyar for quality education, now grapples with scandals and declining standards. Political favoritism, subpar theses, and controversial appointments plague the system. Scholars call for reform as the legacy of excellence gives way to a grim reality of nepotism and educational decay, writes Kumar Chellappan

Sir CP Ramaswami Aiyar, former Diwan of the princely State of Travancore, may be turning in his grave if he were to read about the happenings in Kerala University, which he founded in 1937. All colleges in the provinces of Travancore, Kochi, and Malabar (predecessors to present-day Kerala) were affiliated with Madras University until 1937, which had made higher education inaccessible for students from average and middle-income families. When the university was launched as Travancore University (its name was later changed to Kerala University after the formation of the State of Kerala), Sir CP brought in the best teachers in the country as faculty members. He even approached Albert Einstein with an offer of Rs 6,000 per month as salary to head the physics department. However, for reasons best known to him, Einstein preferred to join Princeton University in the US.

Gone are the days of the Maharaja of Travancore and the Diwan. Sir CP, who aimed to establish a modern Kerala, faced a multitude of calumnies from vested interests, and there was even an attempt on his life. Immediately after the country was liberated from the shackles of colonialism, Sir CP tendered his resignation and returned to his ancestral house, The Grove in Chennai. Soon after the swearing in of the popular governments, Kerala University began its descent into an abyss. The institution has fallen into a Black Hole. Not only Kerala University, but all universities in the State have become cesspools of political manipulations, favoritism, and the appointment of near and dear ones of comrades to senior positions and teaching posts. The appointment of the wives of CPI(M) minister MB Rajesh, Speaker Shamseer, and Chief Ministers secretary Rakesh in violation of all norms has reached the Supreme Court. Most universities are functioning with temporary vice chancellors following the standoff between the CPI(M) Government and Governor Arif Mohammed Khan. The Governor, famous for his no-nonsense approach to all issues and a stickler for norms, has questioned the double standards of the CPI(M) in the selection of vice chancellors, which has infuriated the commissars and comrades.

What comes next is literally shocking. The degrees, especially the PhDs in humanities, represent the pinnacle of callousness, irresponsibility, nepotism, and spinelessness among the senior staff members. Chintha Jerome, the youngest CPI(M) state committee member, obtained a PhD in English literature by submitting a thesis riddled with spelling and grammar mistakes, as well as factual errors. She couldn't differentiate between Vailoppilli Sreedhara Menon and Changampuzha Krishna Pillai, two romantic poets in the Malayalam language. Even schoolchildren in Kerala are familiar with the significant works of Changampuzha and Vailippilli. Addressing them as Vailoppalli and Krishna Menon is an unpardonable error. Despite her thesis being packed with factual errors, grammatical and spelling mistakes, university authorities gleefully awarded her the PhD. There is a clamour for PhDs among students, as a research degree is essential for a teaching profession according to University Grants Commission guidelines. The Higher Education Department of the Kerala Government has discarded the UGC's directives in the selection procedures for faculty and awarding of doctoral degrees. Jerome has become the subject of jokes on social media due to her subpar English speeches. There is nothing surprising in the British leaving India in haste, as they were taken aback by the way we speak English, remarked an academic in the State.

Chintha's case is not a flash in the pan example of a substandard doctoral thesis. Sunil Elayidam, a professor at Sree Sankara Sanskrit University, obtained a PhD in Malayalam language only after the intervention of a Marxist minister who requested that he be awarded the doctoral degree. The examiner who reviewed Elayidam's work candidly admitted that the thesis was substandard and did not meet the minimum requirements for a creative work.

He had already made headlines for plagiarising Bharatanatyam, A Reader, a work by Davesh Soneji, a social historian based in the US working in the field of performing arts. This earned him the nickname Suniladi, rhyming with Coppiyadi, Malayalam for copying an original work. Many Marxist leaders in Kerala consider a PhD a status symbol, granting access to the intellectual elite.

A PhD in the field of art and literature should embody creativity, and the thesis should serve as a reference point for researchers and critics alike," said Professor Ravi Shankar S Nair, an avant-garde critic in Malayalam literature.

Professor Nair, who meticulously evaluates all PhD theses in the state, highlighted a recent research work by a student of Sree Sankara Sanskrit University at Kalady. He remarked that the thesis, titled Onam: A Cultural Analysis, is of lower quality than an essay authored by a high school student. "The main findings of this PhD thesis assert that thousands of people participate in the Kerala Government-funded Onam-Tourism week with enthusiasm. There is no permanent crowd for this festival; it is a mobile crowd. Since food is freely distributed by temples, all hotels remain closed... these are the findings for which the 'researcher' has been awarded the Ph.D.!" stated Professor Nair.

Appalled by the decline in the quality of higher education, CK Anandan Pillai, a septuagenarian scholar and chief editor of Sahitya Vimarsam, a quarterly magazine, sent a questionnaire to ten academics in the State regarding the selection process of faculties pursued by university authorities and the quality of research theses. All those who responded to Pillai's inquiries were unanimous in their belief that the selection of faculties in universities is the most significant scam of modern times.

"Most of the PhD theses submitted to the universities lack the value of the papers on which they are written. Dustbins are the ideal place for them," remarked RS Sasikumar, an academician with more than three decades of experience. According to KV Thomas, an educationist, PhD theses could be described as the best comedies. "Since none but the candidate reads these creations, there are no complaints," added Thomas. Rasheed Panoor, a teacher with a three-decade-long outstanding track record, suggested that Kerala may be the only State in India where the appointment of vice chancellors is based on caste, community, and religion.

True to what Rasheed has said, the names of vice chancellors are discussed in the liaison committee of the Left Democratic Front before being presented to the Governor.

Sasikumar and his fellow academics have formed a Save University Campaign Committee and submitted a memorandum to Governor Arif Mohammed Khan, who is leading a battle against the CPI(M)-led Kerala Government, requesting him to intervene immediately to rescue the higher education sector in the State from the shackles of Marxists. As this article is being written, yet another PhD scandal has come to light, this time from Sree Sankara Sanskrit University in Kerala. The university awarded a PhD to a Marxist leader for her thesis, which is riddled with errors. Princy Kuriakose, who has been appointed as a member of the Kerala Public Service Commission, claimed in her thesis that Adi Sankara lived during the period 1800 to 1900. When asked about this mistake, the vice chancellor who oversaw the research took the easy way out. See, I am traveling and did not see any reports about this incident. Let me get back to the University and study the issue, said Dharmaraj Adat, the then vice chancellor.

The Malayalam term for University is Sarva Kalaa Saala, which means an institution that encompasses all forms of arts. However, Anandan Pillai suggests that the ideal Malayalam term should be Sarva Kalla Saala (a comprehensive institution for all kinds of thefts - 'Kalla'). There have been instances in the past where individuals going to oil-rich West Asian countries managed to secure employment by presenting wedding invitation letters to Sheikhs as if they were degree certificates from engineering colleges. Welcome to God's Own Country.

(The writer is Chennai-based Special Correspondent of The Pioneer)

See the rest here:

Black hole of nepotism - Daily Pioneer

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has slated Saturday for mock accreditation of voters in preparation for the upcoming governorship elections in Imo, Bayelsa, and Kogi states.

The governorship elections are to hold in the three states on 11 November.

INEC chairman, Mahmood Yakubu, disclosed this at the state headquarters of the commission in Lokoja, the Kogi State capital, during the presentation of official publication/presentation of Register of Voters to the 18 participating political parties in the upcoming governorship election in the state.

Mr Yakubu, who was represented by a National Commissioner, Sani Adam, said that the exercise would take place in only nine polling units three from each of the three senatorial districts of the state.

The chairman announced that similar excercise would simultaneously take place in Bayelsa and Imo states.

He called on the residents/voters in the selected polling units to come out en masse to participate in the exercise, which he described as a litmus test to the real election.

According to him, the commission is well prepared for the governorship polls, and appealed to politicians and electorate to abide by the rules of the game for a peaceful, credible and successful conduct of the election.

We have all it takes in terms of staff and logistics as well as the necessary security support by security operatives to conduct a peaceful and successful election in Kogi.

As a commission, we expect everyone to eschew any form of violence or crisis to help usher in a leader that will pilot the affairs of the state after 26 January, for the desired growth and development, he said.

Mr Yakubu said that the publication and presentation of register of voters to the 18 political parties was imperative toward getting fillers from them on the upcoming election.

He said that the total number of registered voters in Kogi for the election is 1,932,654, comprising 953,941 males and 953,941 females.

A copy of the Register of Voters in PDF will be issued to all the political parties contesting the election.

The commission will deploy Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) in all the 3,508 polling units in Kogi for the election.

Already, we have trained technical support staff that will be deployed to all the Registration Areas (RAs) and the local Governments to provide technical support for BVAS, he said.

Responding, the state chapter of Inter-Party Advisrory Committee (IPAC) chairman, Ukwenge Musa, commended INEC for its preparations and readiness for the 11 November governorship election.

He assured the commission of the support of the participating political parties to ensure that the election was peaceful and successful.

(NAN)

TEXT AD: Call Willie - +2348098788999

See the original post here:

INEC holds mock accreditation of voters in Kogi, Imo, Bayelsa on ... - Premium Times

With demand for puppies continuing to soar post-lockdown, here are the dog breeds that make perfect companions for senior owners.

The last two years have seen many of us welcome a new four-legged friend into our homes, as the UK Kennel Club saw dog ownership soar over the last couple of years.

But with 221 different breeds of pedigree dog to choose from, theres plenty of thinking to do before you select your perfect pup whether you want a large dog, family-friendly dog, or crossbreed.

While every person has different needs, for slightly older dog owners it can be worth looking for a dog with a particular range of attributes.

Breeds needing less in the way of grooming and exercise are easier to care for by those with mobility issues, while dogs with the right easy-going temparament make loyal and loving companions for people living alone.

Here are 10 of the breeds that tick all of these boxes, according to the American Kennel Club.

For all the latest dog news, pictures, advice and information, join our Scotsdog Facebook group here

Poodles - Standard, Miniature, or Toy - have every attribute needed to make a great companion dog. They are hugely intelligent and loving, easy to train, only need walked once a day, and only need groomed once a month. Photo: Canva/Getty Images

The diminutive Cavalier King Charles Spaniel requires a little more grooming than other breeds of small dog, but they are quiet, intelligent, easy to train, and never happier than when they are snuggled up in your lap. Photo: Canva/Getty Images

The Queen's favouriter dog, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is perfect for active seniors as they need several short walks a day. Otherwise they are simple to groom, are desperate to please and are very protective of their owners. Photo: Canva/Getty Images

West Highland Terriers are great companion pet that combine small stature with a big lyal personality. A couple of 15 minute walks each day will give them all the excercise they need and they are very easy to train. Photo: Canva/Getty Images

Visit link:

Here are the 10 breeds of adorable dog that make perfect pets for ... - Fife Today

This

Its a crisp, sunny fall morning on a rooftop in New York City, and it immediately hits me that although Gisele is an iconic international supermodel and author, shes human, too.

While the Gaia Herbs wellness ambassador, 43, is known for being a total meditation and yoga queen now, she used to live a very different life. In fact, it took a big health scare in her early twenties to curate her current self-care practice, which begins promptly at 5 a.m., BTW.

My life changed completelyit was like a rebirth of sorts, Gisele said. What could have really killed me gave me a whole new life.

These days, her routine looks *very* different, and it might have just saved her life all those years ago. Ahead, learn everything to know about Giseles exact meditation and morning routine, which helps power her through her day.

The practice helps center Gisele each day.

I used to wake up in the morning with two cigarettes [and] a Mocha Frappuccino with whipped cream, she said of her teenage years at the events panel. At night, Gisele couldnt sleep (because of the coffee and nicotine), so she drank red wine to fall asleep. She also struggled with severe depression and anxiety.

In her twenties, Gisele's body couldn't handle all the ups and downs of her lifestyleand her adrenal glands started shutting down. Thankfully, she got things back on track by changing her diet, quitting smoking, exercising, and taking herbal supplements.

So these days, instead of waking up with coffee and a smoke, she fills up on all the good stuff: jogging, meditating, yoga and breathwork.

Gisele also feels a major difference in her brain on the days when she makes time to meditate, versus when she hits snooze, sleeps in, and then rushes out the door.

It's dark, everyone is sleeping, and it's really the time that I feel is putting [on] the oxygen mask, Gisele said at the meditation ahead of our interview. This is charging your body for the day.

Deep breaths and alternate nostril breathinga practice of covering one nostril, then inhaling into the other nostril, exhaling out of the otherhelp her in stressful moments, she adds. It can help activate your parasympathetic nervous system, allowing you to feel calmer, per the Cleveland Clinic.

My whole entire day's, like, a different energy, she continues.

After Gisele fills her own metaphorical cup, shes able to tackle the rest of her daily activities with a calmer mind.

I'm very intense and I go hard, [so] the rest is extremely important, she shared at the panel. If we just keep putting our energy out, we're not going to have any more.

Usually, Gisele will find a patch of grass or sand where she can stand and feel connected to the earth.

This time, as she sits down for our group meditation session, she encourages us to take off our shoes and put our feet in the grass to feel grounded, too. Clearly, her love of nature and Mother Earth shows up in her meditation practice as well.

Spend a minute taking a few deep breaths, it would change your day and it would change your life, she said before the meditation.

When it came to the actual meditation, we sat criss-crossed with our palms facing up. It began with a full inhale through the nose, and a long exhale. Then, we did a body scan to determine where we were holding tension (we started with our face, then moved down to the jaw and chest, and finished at our toes).

This content is imported from poll. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site.

During the meditation, which she guided us through, she told us to focus on our breathing, and asked us to notice the thoughts that came up in ours mind and then let them go, instead of pushing them away.

She also guided us through some alternate nostril breathing. And later in the meditation, we did breathwork: Inhaling deeply for a few seconds before sighing it out.

Sometimes, Gisele sets an intention for the grounding practice, which is a short-term goal that you have during your meditation, such as focusing on your breathing. She did this with us, too.

I ask for the earth to take away all the different energies that no longer serve me and fill me with her love and her generosity, she says.

Gisele hasnt had alcohol in over two years, and has been taking Gaia Herbs supplements for two decades. Specifically, she takes ashwagandha (an adaptogen that is said to help with stress) and turmeric (which can help reduce swelling) every morning.

"Gaia is the supplements that I've been taking for over 20 years, so I take them every morning," she says.

After her meditation, Gisele jogs with her dog for about three miles. Then, she does another workout. Gisele has been a fan of jiu-jitsu and yoga for a long time, but she recently started weightlifting as well.

It just helps you feel stronger, she tells Womens Health.

Of course, if she can sweat outside, she'll take the opportunity to do so. Gisele will exercise outdoors a few times a week, usually paddleboarding or kayaking. I always want to make sure that every day, I'm doing something in nature, she adds.

Well, I dont think Im alone when I say everyone can take a page out of Giseles playbook and learn something from her life transformation. I cant wait to see what comes next, Gisele!

Addison Aloian (she/her) is an editorial assistant at Womens Health. When shes not writing about all things pop culture, health, beauty, and fashion, she loves hitting leg day at the gym, shopping at Trader Joes, and watching whichever hockey game is on TV. Her work has also appeared in Allure, StyleCaster, LOfficiel USA, V Magazine, and Modern Luxury Media.

See the article here:

Gisele Bndchen's Exact Meditation And Morning Routine - Women's Health

Stage

Queens Hall arts centre, Hexham An 83-year-old resident rails against the lack of liberty, settling herself on a bench outside and refusing to return despite legal threats and offers of hot-water bottles and fresh knickers

Sun 15 Oct 2023 07.56 EDT

As protests go, it is no Tahrir Square but perhaps no less resolute. At the age of 83, Queenie Blair has had her fill of being nannied. She objects, in particular, to the care-home stipulation against unaccompanied smoking. The staff do not want her setting fire to herself. She prefers her liberty. So she claims what little control she has, sits on a bench and refuses to come indoors.

She spends much of Christina Castlings play sitting there, out in the cold, fending off the various attempts to force, cajole and sweet-talk her back to her room. If it is not legal disclaimers and form-filling, it is hot-water bottles and fresh knickers.

Not a major act of civil disobedience, then, but characteristic of the plays matter-of-fact portrait of life in a care home. Beyond Caring shows what should be the exceptional and the politically outrageous as it is seen from the ground up: the everyday business of a care workers life.

Drawing on interviews with relatives, residents and staff, Castling sets the play pointedly, but subtly, in February 2020, as the residents are coming down with a debilitating virus. At this stage, it is just another stress to add to a litany of shortcomings faced by an overstretched workforce who lack the time to take residents to the toilet, let alone sit down for a healthy chat.

Hanging in the air is the line from Amazing Grace about grace leading us home. After a lifetime of domestic familiarity, the residents find themselves permanently displaced. The heaven of the hymn sounds more promising. Are we too willing, the play asks, to farm out our elderly relatives to a place that is home in name only?

Yet its politics are not strident. Rather, this is a gentle meditation on love and loss, low-key but touching and humane. Fluidly segueing from scene to scene, it is more conversational than dramatic and sometimes loses focus as a result, but in Jonluke McKies production for Gala Durham and the Queens Hall, it is beautifully performed by Judi Earl, Jacqueline Phillips and Rosie Stancliffe, each of them precise, unsentimental and true.

{{topLeft}}

{{bottomLeft}}

{{topRight}}

{{bottomRight}}

{{.}}

SingleMonthlyAnnual

Other

View original post here:

Beyond Caring review a low-key meditation on love, loss and care homes - The Guardian

SALISBURY A half-day class on mindfulness meditation will be offered Saturday at Internal Arts New England, 102 Bridge Road.

The program, taught by Matthew Daniell of North Shore Insight Meditation Center, will introduce participants to an open style of meditation, rather than focus on just one subject such as the breath.

The class will include instruction in sitting and walking meditation, and there will be time for questions and discussion.

Daniell, who has been practicing Buddhist meditation in various traditions since the 1980s, emphasized the value of mindfulness practice.

If applied in a light and steady way, mindfulness can disentangle us from our tendency to habitually believe and cling to the stories we tell ourselves about experience, he said in a news release. It can help open your mind and heart to living more deeply in the present moment in a way that is simple, inclusive and nourishing.

Before leading North Shore Insight Meditation Center, Daniell was the guiding teacher of the Insight Meditation Center of Newburyport.

The program Saturday runs from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. The cost is $45. To register, visit northshoreimc.org.

Internal Arts New England is the home of Great Bay Tai Chi and is a venue for programs offered by other organizations, including North Shore Insight Meditation Center.

See the original post:

Meditation class slated Saturday | News | newburyportnews.com - The Daily News of Newburyport

Peloton has released their first-ever walking meditation classes, which are meditations designed to be taken while walking instead of in a traditional meditation pose. Peloton shared the news via the @PelotonStudios Instagram Stories.

11 new classes are available, housed within a dedicated collection. The instructors include Mariana Fernndez, Anna Greenberg, Denis Morton, Kirra Michel, Chelsea Jackson Roberts, and Ross Rayburn; and classes range from 10-20 minutes in length. You can view the complete class list below:

Note that the classes are designated as a walking modality rather than a meditation modality. However, even though they are walks, at this time they do not seem to track your mileage as other outdoor walks / classes would. It is not clear if this will be changed in a future update or not.

As of publishing time the classes can only be viewed within the collection itself, not within the larger on-demand library. The collection is aptly called Walking Meditations, and the description reads:

Walking meditation is the practice of creating equilibrium in body and mind. Step-by-step, learn to focus on your surroundings and stay present as you mindfully move.

Peloton first teased that this new content was on the way in their weekly This Week at Peloton Instagram post. Peloton also published a blog post with additional information about the new classes. In the article, instructor Kirra Michel shares how walking meditations can be beneficial:

Walking meditations are great ways to become present and grounded whilst in motion, says Peloton instructor Kirra Michel. It might be easier to purposefully pay attention to your breath and sensations while seated in a quiet room, but walking while meditating involves a variety of challengesor rather, opportunitiesto be mindful. (Conversely, some people may find it harder to commit to a seated or reclined meditation position, whether on account of discomfort or restlessness.

Though not confirmed, we anticipate Peloton will add to the collection over time with future walking meditation classes. They also may eventually become available within the broader on-demand library, and not solely within the collection.

For more information about walking meditation, check out Pelotons blog post. Will you be taking any of these new classes?

Want to be sure to never miss any Peloton news? Sign up for our newsletter and get all the latest Peloton updates & Peloton rumors sent directly to your inbox.

See the original post here:

New Peloton Walking Meditation Classes & Collection Released ... - Pelo Buddy

Our Top Picks

Meditation cushions are an essential tool for those looking to enhance their meditation practice and find comfort while sitting for long periods. After researching and testing numerous cushions on the market, we've identified the best options for you. When choosing a cushion, it's crucial to consider factors such as shape, size, and material. It's also essential to find one that provides proper support and comfort for your body type and personal preferences. Our list includes a variety of cushions, including zafu cushions, crescent-shaped cushions, and meditation benches. Remember to choose a cushion that suits your needs and the type of meditation you practice.

The Florensi Meditation Cushion is the perfect addition to any meditation or yoga practice. With its beautiful velvet cover and premium buckwheat filling, this large floor cushion provides comfortable seating for adults during extended meditation sessions. The traditional Tibetan design adds a touch of elegance to any space, while the supportive and breathable materials help to ease tension and promote relaxation. Whether you're a seasoned practitioner or just starting out, the Florensi Meditation Cushion is sure to enhance your practice and provide the comfort and support you need to achieve deeper states of mindfulness.

Rated 9.8 based on 10

JPOST

Pros

Comfortable for meditation, Beautiful velvet cover, Premium yoga bolster

The Degrees of Comfort Meditation Floor Pillow is a large square cushion perfect for adults seeking comfortable seating during meditation, yoga, or relaxation. Made with tufted corduroy fabric, this cushion is both soft and durable for long-lasting use. Measuring 22x22 inches, it is the ideal size for outdoor use, as well as for the living room or around the fireplace. With its stylish grey color, it matches any decor and is sure to become a favorite for anyone seeking a comfortable and supportive seating option.

Rated 9.6 based on 10

JPOST

Pros

Comfortable seating, Versatile use, Stylish design

Cons

May flatten over time

The Retrospec Sedona Zafu Meditation Cushion is the perfect addition to your meditation practice. Filled with buckwheat hulls, this cushion provides the right amount of support and comfort to enhance your meditation experience. The machine-washable 100% cotton cover makes it easy to keep clean, while the durable carry handle allows for easy transport. Available in both round and crescent shapes, and in a variety of colors, this cushion is perfect for any meditation space.

Rated 9.1 based on 10

JPOST

Pros

Comfortable for meditation, Durable cotton cover, Easy to carry handle

Cons

Limited color options

The Codi Meditation Floor Pillow is the perfect addition to any meditation or relaxation space. Measuring at 32 inches, this round cushion provides ample seating for adults and is made with memory foam for added comfort. Its bohemian mandala circle design in a coral multi-color adds a stylish touch to any room or outdoor area. Use it for meditation, yoga, or simply as extra seating around the fireplace or in the living room. This versatile and comfortable cushion is a must-have for any relaxation enthusiast.

Rated 8.8 based on 10

JPOST

Pros

Memory foam added, Bohemian mandala design, Suitable for indoor/outdoor use

Cons

Only one color option

The Getmo Resin Meditation Floor Pillow is a great choice for those looking for a comfortable and stylish cushion to use during meditation or other activities. With its chenille material and thick padding, this cushion provides a comfortable seating option for adults. Measuring at 20x20 inches, it's a great size for use in the living room, balcony, or even outdoors. The orange color adds a pop of color to any room and the durable resin construction ensures it will last for many uses to come.

Rated 8.6 based on 10

JPOST

Pros

Thick and comfortable cushion, Perfect for meditation and yoga, Stylish and attractive design

Cons

Limited color options

The Boho Floor Pillow is a versatile piece of home decor that doubles as a comfortable meditation cushion. With its large size of 22x22 inches and memory foam filling, this pillow provides ample support for adults during yoga or meditation sessions. The multi patchwork design adds a unique and bohemian touch to any living room or tatami area. This square pillow seating is perfect for those looking for a comfortable and stylish seating option in their home.

Rated 8.3 based on 10

JPOST

Pros

Memory foam for comfort, Attractive multi-patchwork design, Versatile for various uses

Cons

May not fit all decor

The Hihealer Meditation Cushion Floor Pillow is the perfect accessory for anyone looking to enhance their meditation practice. With two sets of comfortable pillows and a large floor mat, this cushion set is perfect for women and men of all ages. The buckwheat seat and Tibetan Zafu provide maximum comfort and support for extended periods of meditation, while the calming grey and white design will help create a peaceful atmosphere. Whether you're a seasoned meditator or just starting out, the Hihealer Meditation Cushion Floor Pillow is a must-have for anyone looking to deepen their practice.

Rated 7.9 based on 10

JPOST

Pros

Comfortable for meditation, Comes with 2 sets, Stylish design

Cons

May not fit all body types

The Third Eye Export 32" Blue Mandala Hippie Room Decor Floor Pillow is a versatile and stylish addition to any home. Made with high-quality materials, this cushion is perfect for meditation, yoga, or simply lounging around. The beautiful mandala design adds a touch of boho charm to any room, while the comfortable and supportive filling makes it ideal for extended periods of sitting. The round shape and large size provide ample space for seating, and the durable cover is easy to clean and maintain. Whether for indoor or outdoor use, this cushion is sure to impress and provide a comfortable and relaxing seating option.

Rated 7.6 based on 10

JPOST

Pros

Colorful and vibrant design, Comfortable seating cushion, Versatile use for indoor/outdoor

Cons

Slightly smaller than expected

The TokSay Buckwheat Large Meditation Cushion Floor Pillow is a must-have for anyone who enjoys meditation or yoga. This comfortable and supportive cushion comes with two covers and measures 16"x16"x5.5". Made with high-quality buckwheat, this cushion conforms to your body and provides excellent support for your spine and hips. It is perfect for sitting on the floor during meditation or yoga practice, and is suitable for both adults and children. The gray color is both calming and stylish, making it a great addition to any meditation or yoga space.

Rated 7.5 based on 10

JPOST

Pros

Comfortable sitting experience, Two covers included, Suitable for adults and children

Cons

May be too firm for some

Sioloc Round Floor Pillows are the perfect addition to any home looking for comfortable seating options. These thick meditation pillows are ideal for use as floor cushions for chairs, sofas, or even yoga practice. Available in a beautiful burgundy color and a generous size of 23''x23'', these pillows are suitable for both adults and kids. Made with quality materials, these pillows are durable and easy to clean. Upgrade your home decor and add some extra seating with Sioloc Round Floor Pillows.

Rated 7.1 based on 10

JPOST

Pros

Thick and comfortable, Great for meditation/yoga, Suitable for adults and kids

Cons

Limited color options

Q: What are meditation cushions used for?

A: Meditation cushions are used to provide a comfortable and supportive surface for meditation. They help elevate the hips and promote good posture, which can help reduce discomfort and distractions during meditation.

Q: Can floor pillows be used for yoga?

A: Yes, floor pillows can be used for yoga. They provide a comfortable and supportive surface for restorative yoga poses and can be used to prop up the body in various positions.

Q: What is the difference between a yoga cushion and a meditation cushion?

A: While both yoga cushions and meditation cushions can be used for meditation, yoga cushions are typically larger and more versatile. They can be used for a wider range of yoga poses and can also be used as a bolster or prop during yoga practice. Meditation cushions, on the other hand, are designed specifically for meditation and are typically smaller and more portable.

After conducting in-depth research and testing, we have found that meditation cushions are an essential tool for anyone looking to enhance their meditation practice. These cushions vary in design, size, and material composition, but they all serve the same purpose of providing comfort and support during seated meditation. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced meditator, a high-quality meditation cushion can make all the difference in your practice. We encourage you to invest in a meditation cushion that suits your needs and preferences, and we hope our reviews have been helpful in guiding your decision.

Visit link:

10 Top Selling Meditation Cushions for 2023 - The Jerusalem Post

Read more...

Iva Poshnjari, BNN Bloomberg

Financial planning is often viewed as an analytical, numbers-driven process, but a growing movement is applying mindfulness practices to managing their money. Taking time to calm your nervous system through meditation, journaling or a moment of reflection may lead to better financial decisions through an increased level of self awareness, according to experts. Meditation impacts the way we think and the way we perceive things, Erika Polsinelli, founder of the mediation app Evolve, told BNNBloomberg.ca. It can change how we look at money, how we save money and how we choose to spend it, among other things.

When someone practices meditation, they are influencing their nervous system through breath, Polsinelli explained, which can make an individual less reactive and impulsive in their decision-making.

A meditation practice can take as little as three minutes of your day to be effective and create a shift in your state of mind. Its a really quick way to make changes in your life as fast as possible, she said.

Kundalini mediation, which the Evolve app uses, involves breath work, mantra, movement and mediation to guide people through that inner shift. MONEY HABITS A REFLECTION OF OURSELVES Robyn Thompson, president of Castlemark Wealth Management, said the ability to slow down can help someone reflect on their overall money habits. "When someone overspends repeatedly on things that provide little value, it puts them further from their goals and they will start to feel conflicted inside, she told BNNBloomberg.ca.

According to Thompson, thats because how we spend our money can be a reflection of how we think and feel about ourselves.

When our money is handled, we feel great. When it isnt, we start to doubt ourselves and question who we really are, because who we think we are and what were moving towards (are) in conflict with each other, she said. People forget that finances have two sides. One is analyzing the numbers, the other is emotional. You need to understand why you have certain money habits. PORTFOLIO MANAGER SAYS MEDITATION GIVES HIM CONFIDENCE A portfolio manager who oversees $205 million in assets told BNNBloomberg.ca that practicing meditation has been a huge asset to his career. Meditation made me push past this idea that I wasnt worthy of the success I had created for myself financially, Michael Preto, portfolio manager at Hillside Wealth Management, iA Private Wealth Inc., said in an interview. When you have those daily moments of concentrated breath, you find a level of calmness and confidence you didnt know you had. Preto said meditation has benefited his work and his personal life, as it has allowed him to think bigger, view life from a different perspective and stay calm in stressful situations. Its caused me to step back and make decisions from a place of great confidence when perhaps others may be panicked, like during a market selloff, he explained. For others, practices like journalling may help them explore how they view money and what patterns they need to change. HOW TO TAKE A MINDFUL APPROACH TO MONEY Wendy Brookhouse, certified financial planner and chief executive officer of Black Star Wealth, told BNNBloomberg.ca about how she encourages her clients to take a mindful approach to their money from the very beginning of their work together. Before I build a spending plan for clients, I have them journal the following questions: Whats your first memory of money? How did you parents handle money? What did you love about it? and What are some financial habits you wouldnt want to take on from your family? In Brookhouses view, these questions allow people to safely explore where they stand on these subjects and see how that perspective may be influencing their money decisions. A weekly moment of reflection also helps lift the veil of money, she said. You become less afraid of it and come to understand it and your relationship with it much better.

More here:

Money manager of $205M in assets explains how meditation ... - BNN Bloomberg

Artist Drew Austin was inspired by dappled light when creating the works for In-Dwelling. Amanda Tipton Photography, provided by Leon Gallery.

Drew Austins In-Dwelling is a tiny jewel box of an art show, full of things that glisten and glimmer, that twinkle like tinsel, that collect, refract and reflect light and splash it along the walls and floors of Leon Gallery.

In a sense, it is a lesson in the rays and waves of physics and how the interaction between light and various surfaces determines how we see the world. Each of the nearly 40 objects on display read like a mini-experiment in how shadows form and help our eyes to comprehend shape, texture and dimension.

But that is a cold way to describe a show that is really a collection of intimate moments. The artist wants us to reflect on, and honor, the beauty and wonder of light as it filters through our lives, as it dapples through leaves and drops delicate, radiant beams along pathways, and how that can delight us when we pay attention.

Austin keeps his tactics simple, very simple in fact, creating work out of inexpensive materials and objects recycled from secondhand stores that he mixes and matches to get the effects he wants. This show has a hand-made, thrift-shop feel, in contrast to the refined aura of objects one often encounters in a well-programmed art gallery.

Using that intuitive process, the artist makes pieces like Multi-Level Home, with Guests fashioned from an old decorative, living room mirror, some plastic grapes and a rock made of clay. Or Heaven Ascending which appears to be constructed from an old silver candy dish draped with mylar cut into the shape of tiny tree leaves. Sometimes it is hard to tell exactly what the source material is. Door knockers? Push pins? Make-up mirrors? There is some adventure in trying to deconstruct all of the elements while looking.

But it is not fancy, and its all right at home at Leon, which is a nonprofit with a very open mind about what it brings to the public. Leon does go high-end Ive seen shows there from top-tier, regional artists, like Diego Rodriguez-Warner and Laura Shill but it also gives a break to up-and-comers, like Austin, a recent graduate from Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design who has been working overtime to earn a place in the Front Range art scene.

Leons mission is a worthy one, and it is all in the name of bringing the community together around visual art and because the gallery allows experiments like In-Dwelling, it puts Leon in a sweet spot in the citys art eco-system. (You can support it, by the way: Leon has its annual fundraiser, the Outliers Ball, on Oct. 21.)

It would be easy for this show to fall into the trendy immersive art category because entering the gallery can feel like dropping into a fantasy world of sorts. The pieces do connect and come together as a single, vibrant environment. Everywhere you look there is a 360-degree sparkle. I think it is possible to enjoy the show in that way, in the manner of popular art attractions, such as Meow Wolf.

Only this offering is smaller, just a single room in a 17th Avenue storefront, and less overwhelming. While the pieces do coordinate, they still feel like singular works of art. Part of that is because Austin works in many different media and the objects have personalities of their own.

There are the things that dance in the light: glass and metallic objects, in botanic shapes, like Heaven is All Around Us, a piece that resembles the branches of trees and stretches across the ceiling like a mobile. There are three-dimensional, table-sized sculptures made of clear acrylic, upon which Austin has applied decals cut out of vinyl.

Notably, there is a series of framed prints digital illustrations on paper that capture in two or three tones of color snapshots of various flora. These renderings, free of politics and full of personal observation, are a highlight of the exhibit.

In his artist statement, Austin refers to the Japanese word komorebi, which refers to the sensation of light dappling through leaves and branches, noting how there is no equivalent term in the English language. He talks about wanting to recreate the kinds of emotional content typically too nuanced for language with the objects he concocts.

These small sensations dwell in his mind and in his installation at Leon, one quick instance after the next that is waiting, welcoming, returning, honoring, repeating its cycles. That is how he came up with the title for his show.

But in dwelling on the small, he has come up with something big. A mirror-ball meditation on the natural world, executed, ironically, with the most unnatural materials possible. This show invites us to reflect on our relationship with the sun and other sources of brilliance, and then to take that new awareness back to the outside world around us.

IF YOU GO

In-Dwelling continues through Nov. 4 at Leon Gallery, 1112 17th Ave. Free. Info: 303-832-1599 or leongallery.org.

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter, In The Know, to get entertainment news sent straight to your inbox.

Follow this link:

Drew Austins installation at Leon Gallery uses mylar, glass and other glistening things to explore how light enriches our lives - The Denver Post