Can a mouse meditate? A new study suggests the answer is ...kind of.

Researchers from the University of Oregon in Eugene have replicated some of the same brain patterns exhibited by human meditatorsin the brains of mice no tinymeditation cushions or squeaky oms required.

Still, experiments show that the meditating mice were more relaxed and less stressed than those with no rodent meditation training.

The authors say the work, published Monday in PNAS, provides aproof of concept that will allow them to learn more abouthowmeditation affects the brain.

Previous research has shown thatjust one month of mindfulmeditationcan have a significant impact on humans both physically and psychologically.

Itreduces self-reported anxiety and decrease the amount of the stress hormone cortisol in theblood.

Imaging studies of meditators brains also have detectedincreased activity in the anterior cingulate cortex, or ACC. This areaof the brain is involved in a wide variety of functions, including emotional regulation and cognitive control.

Scientists also have seen an increase inwhite matteraround the ACCof meditators. Thats important because white matter serves as a kind of insulator, enablingelectrical impulses to move more easilybetween neurons.

Although scientists have observed these positive physical effects of meditation on the human brain, they still dont know what causes them.

We think of meditation as a human thing, a high-level thing, but we want to examine the low levelbiology of it, said Cris Niell, a neuroscientist at the University of Oregon who co-led the study.

The teams first step in this quest was to create a mouse model that could replicate a human meditators brain.

Theycalled it, jokingly, the mouse meditation project.

Training mice to focus on thebreath, orspend 20 minutes on abody scan was obviously not an option, but the scientists had another plan up theirsleeves.

Michael Posner, a psychologist at the University of Oregon, had shown in earlier work that another effect ofmeditation in humans was achangein the rhythms of the brain. Specifically, he found that particular oscillations near the ACC became louder after a meditation session.

Everyone has these oscillations in their ACC, but they are stronger and more powerful in people after they do meditation, said Aldis Weible, a researcherat the University of Oregons Institute of Neuroscience and thefirst author on the study.

The authors knew they couldnt get mice to meditate in a traditional way, but they wondered if they could make the mouses ACC oscillate in the same rhythm as human meditators.

To do this, they genetically engineered mice that have a special protein in their brains that causes neurons to fire when they areexposed to light. The researchers were able to put the genetic code for these proteins exclusively in the neurons of the ACC.

Next they connected a light source to the mices brains so they could expose these proteins to different patterns of light. By flashing the light, theywere able to make the ACC neurons fire at the same pace that they saw in human meditators.

We are not necessarily making the mice meditate, but we are changing the pattern of activity in the brain region,Niell said.

Tests revealed that mice that were exposed to the same patterns exhibited by human meditators were more relaxedthan those that did not get the meditation treatment.

When placed in a box that had a dark side and a light side, the meditating mice were more likely to explore the light side, and to rear up on their little hind legs and look around than other mice.

Both these behaviors indicate a de-stressed mouseand suggest that the behavioral effects of meditation in humans can be recreated in mice.

The authors also experimented with getting the ACC to oscillate at different frequencies, but they saw the most calming effects when the mouse brain was set to oscillate at the same pace as a human meditators brain about eight times per second.

Niell said the work is significant because it gives researchers a scientific tool to study how meditation works in the brain, and it suggests that periodic stimulation could be used to affect change in the brains of people who dont want to meditate.

The researchers wonder if one day a similar protocol could be used to help people recover from stroke or post-traumatic stress disordermore rapidly.

This first publication is a proof of principle, he said. But hopefully in six months or a year, Ill be talking to you about what it is that actually changes in the brain as a result of meditation.

deborah.netburn@latimes.com

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Can a mouse meditate? Why these researchers want to find out - LA ... - Los Angeles Times

Many people avoid meditation simply because they think it is all about oms and crunchy mantras. But, at its core, meditation is something so natural and innate that your dog/cat definitely knows how to do it better than you.

Have you ever watched your dog or cat closely? They can sit for great lengths of time, and just stare. They have endless patience with themselves. They arent thinking, I should go run a little bit to work off my breakfast, or You know, I should really finish tearing up that stuffed hedgehog, or Did I poop in the right place this morning? Where should I poop later? What if I dont poop in the right place?! These thoughts would be completely absurd. But, these are the types of thoughts that plague our minds day after day.

Meditation is about quieting the minutia of the mind and existing without judgement in the moment; letting go of that report that is due at the end of the week; letting go of the worry about who will feed the cat while youre away; letting go of working out financial tactics for next month. It is about bathing your mind in a few moments of rare serenity a lot like your dog/cat does every single day.

Sure, they dont have as many responsibilities as you do, but that doesnt mean you cant learn a lesson from them. Here are 6 signs you should follow your pets lead and start meditating:

You are anxious. Anxiety is essentially a misfired thought that proceeds to ricochet aggressively against the walls of the skull, gaining power and momentum with each collision. It is a spiral of questions, insecurity, fear and self-doubt that becomes more of a reality with every minute it swirls inside your head. How can we calm this storm of the mind? Meditation, of course. Does your pet overthink things? Of course not, that would be silly So why is it okay for you to?

You cant sleep. When you cant sleep, you feel absolutely dreadful. Your brain feels sluggish, you feel unproductive and often dietary choices arent the most nourishing. To get that relaxation response your body needs to fall asleep, try mindfulness meditation. It has been shown to improve sleep quality, lower stress and reducedepression. Go ahead, show me a dog or cat who has trouble sleeping.

You are absurdly busy. When you dont think you have time to eat a quality meal, never mind meditate, that is precisely the time you need meditation the most. Okay, your pet really isnt that busy, but if they were, you know they would still take the time to have a nice nap or take a little quiet space. Or, at the very least, they would go to bed early so that they feelready to slay the next day! Do you do these things? Even if you are busy, maybe taking a 10 minute meditation break isnt so impossible to squeeze in. Youll feel so much better as a result and be more productive during the rest of your busy day, so it pays off.

You have low self-confidence. If you dont think youre worthy of what you have, or what you could have, its time to spend a little more time with yourself. Meditation is the practice of being with yourself and accepting yourself simply as you are, without judgement. With practice, meditation can help you to realize that you are enough, and that you deserve to be truly happy and confident in who you are. Your dog has no self-doubt and is confident in both of you. Emulate that sort of enthusiasm for yourself.

You feel tired all the time. Maybe you get plenty of sleep, but you still wake up tired. Whether it is stress, anxiety, depression or something else, you need to find a way to let your mind reset. Taking some time to meditate in the morning, during the day or before bed could help unlock the pressure release valve on that big brain of yours. Then, when it is time to play ball, youll be ready to go all in.

Your back hurts. Your pet has impeccable posture. Why? Because they use their limbs, they stretch and they dont sit hunched over in chairs. As I sit here, hunching my shoulders to navigate a relatively narrow keyboard, I feel grateful knowing I have a ballet class tonight and a yoga class tomorrow. Its the only way I know how to undo the effects of sitting for long swaths of time. But, if you do not currently have a physical wellness routine thatactivates the sleeping muscles of the spine, abdominals and buttocks, you may be suffering from seat-induced back pain. And as back pain is notoriously tricky to healsince, you know, your back is pretty much involved in all basic movementsthe injury and its limitations can feel incredibly discouraging.

However, studies have shown that meditation can be a powerful source of pain relief. Meditating can help manage pain and even encourage the body to heal faster, without drugs. With such a problem with opioids in the nation, drug-free pain relief isundervalued.

Meditation is so important for our mental wellness. Go sit alone in a quiet room for twenty minutes. Close your eyes and focus on breathing deeply and regularly. Meditation doesnt have to be a crunchy practice for the yoga elite. Everyone could use some mindfulness. Our pets live in the moment, why cant we?

Related:Heres How to Get Yourself to Workout When Netflix Is Slowing You DownThis Cannabis Compound Eases Pain and Anxiety (and Wont Get You High)Get Sick Less After Winter Workouts by Eating Carbs

Disclaimer: The views expressed above are solely those of the author and may not reflect those of Care2, Inc., its employees or advertisers.

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Your Pet Is Better At Meditating Than You | Care2 Healthy Living - Care2.com

These tinymeditation shelters offer protection and a place to rest forhikers exploring the Lithuanian forests. The shelters are a placewhere people can find solitude to reconnect with nature and find harmony with the environment. A slithering stone pathway that weaves throughout the forest garden was inspired by a Lithuanian fairy tale about serpents.

The project, named Gapahuk, is part of a larger Meditation Garden designed by Bjrndal Arkitektstudio which won the American Architecture Prize 2016. Used for individual meditation and as a place where hikers can rest and get warm, this cluster of shelters was built during the Human Birdhouse Workshop in Lithuania last August. The team cleared a forest clearing and shaped pathways that naturally weave in and around the garden. Two fireplaces installed in front of the shelters are surrounded with sitting areas. Holy stones added to the site look like totems of masculine and feminine origin, while a symbolic stone pathway represents a Lithuanian fairy tale about serpents.

Related: FORT II is a Meditation Pavilion Made from 810 Reclaimed Shipping Pallets

The workshop took place on the property of famous Lithuanian children books author, poet and film/theatre director Vytautas V. Landsbergis. The idea was to design and build architecture in the style of Constructive Shamanism, which brings together architects, builders and spiritual practitioners to strengthen and reveal the connection between humans and nature. References to Lithuanian mythology dominate the project, with visitors participating in spiritual ceremonies and singing mantras around a bonfire.

+ Bjrndal Arkitektsudio

Via v2com

Lead photo by Lidija Kaleinikovaite

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Tiny meditation shelters are the perfect place for hikers to connect with the forest - Inhabitat

Mindfulness and meditation techniques are being used in schools across the country.

A recent study by the University of California-Davis and the non-profit organization Mindful Schools shows mindfulness triples students ability to focus and participate in class activities.

Fourth graders meditating? Kindergarteners practicing mindful breathing? Its not a big deal at Harris Hill Elementary School. Every class here has students doing the same thing.

Theyre less impulsive with each other, they think about their words before they speak. So it definitely spills into the daily routines," says Heidi Palmeiro-Potter, a 4th grade teacher at Harris Hill Elementary School.

Mindfulness can be different things like meditating, deep breathing, says Adam Elbousty, a 4th grader who participates in the meditation practices.

School psychologist at Harris Elementary Michelle Braun-Burget began testing these techniques three years ago with students.

What Im finding is there are a lot of students even at this age, which is K through fifth grade, five-year-olds to ten, and eleven-year-olds, who are anxious and nervous and have trouble focusing," says Michelle.

If someones having a hard time they give them the strategies also. Ive heard students say do your breathing. Heidi says.

The point behind the techniques that mindfulness brings is helping those children learn coping strategies no matter what their circumstances are," Michelle said.

Michelle also added that now students are more self-confident.

Theyre just more aware of themselves and what makes them upset, what makes them nervous and they have better control now of how to deal with it," Michelle points out.

MindfulSchools.org says its trained teachers in all 50 states and more than 100 countries so far, helping more than 750-thousand students.

MINDFULNESS IN THE CLASSROOM REPORT #2397

BACKGROUND: Meditation is an activity where a person learns to focus their attention, and becomes less stressed and calmer. Statistics have shown that people who meditate in groups have seen a decreased crime rate in the area. Furthermore, stress is a risk factor for coronary disease, congestive heart failure, diabetes and high blood pressure. Since meditation reduces stress, meditation also reduces the risk of suffering from these diseases. According to one article, those who meditate can reduce their risk of being hospitalized for a coronary disease by 87%, and reduce the possibility of getting cancer by 55%. Most of the meditation techniques started with Eastern religious or spiritual traditions; but in the present, many of the people who meditate dont use it for religious or spiritual reasons. Meditation includes: * Mantra meditation * Mindfulness meditation * Spiritual meditation * Meditation used as part of other practices like yoga, tai chi and qui gong (Source: https://www.project-meditation.org/a_wim1/statistics_on_people_who_meditate.html & https://nccih.nih.gov/research/statistics/NHIS/2012/mind-body/meditation)

MINDFUL SCHOOLS STUDY: A study conducted by the University of California, Davis, in conjunction with the non-profit organization Mindful Schools, wanted to see how mindfulness meditation affected students. The study involved 937 students and 47 teachers in 3 Oakland school districts. The study was divided into a control group and a mindful group. Those in the mindful group would use the mindful schools curriculum that contained the mindful educator essentials; whereas, the control group would only contain 4 hours of mindfulness instructions for the students. The study found statistically significant improvements in the mindful students ability to pay attention and participate in class, compared to other students who were in the control group. The educators who participated in the study said they saw in their students: * 83% improved focus * 89% better emotional regulation * 76% more compassion * 79% improved engagement (Source: http://www.mindfulschools.org/about-mindfulness/research/)

MINDFULNESS IN EDUCATION & EARLY IN LIFE: Mindfulness meditation in the classroom can help both the teacher and the student. By implementing meditation, teachers benefit from reduced stress and burnout. They perform better in their jobs, have more emotionally-supportive classrooms, and develop better classroom organizations. Students also benefit in their education, as well as their human and personal development. With meditation, they improve in their cognitive outcomes, social-emotional skills, and well-being. These improvements lead to long-term benefits in life. Having good social skills from a small age predicts education, employment, and less crime, substance abuse, and mental health outcomes in adulthood. (Source: http://www.mindfulschools.org/about-mindfulness/research/)

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Meditation techniques now being used in schools across the country - WNDU-TV

PUNE: When a former monk with strong connections in the music world, and a former corporate executive get together, the resulting venture is likely to be unique, to say the least.

Ashwin Srisailam, a former monk turned entrepreneur, who has hung out with Michael Jackson in the past and counts AR Rahman among his friends, and Diane Bacchus-Quddus got together to set up Ahhaa in 2015. The app, launched by AR Rahman, was then a platform for inner growth and fulfilment. After being selected for acceleration at Pune-based Edugild in 2016, it has since undergone a change in what it is doing. Srisailam told ET that the focus has now shifted to creating 'Ahhaa spaces' or meditation zones in corporate and educational campuses.

"The aim is to help with inner growth using content for inner well-being. The first such space is coming up at Avantika University in Ujjain, followed by one each at the HCL campus and at Cambridge University Press campus in New Delhi," he said. This would be a light design lab geared towards immersive content using virtual reality.

Bacchus-Quddus said, "While the content has been created based on insights from us (the founders), the music for the Ahhaa Space has been specially licensed by AR Rahman himself. The content will focus on four key areas, insights, inspiration, music and meditation."

The trigger for setting up this venture was the realisation that most people working corporate jobs, and students, face a high degree of stress in their daily lives, which impacts both their personal and professional life. These spaces would use virtual reality, audio and video content presented over small three-five minute capsules on specific topics, aimed towards inner growth and 'feeling awesome'.

The plan is to expand this over time to other educational institutes, as well as collaborate with other people, including celebrities, to create content. According to the founders, the world has 3.2 billion workers, and the expected market opportunity is pegged at $320 billion and growing at 12.2% if one is to take an average spend of $100. Ahhaa pegs the available market for this venture at $16 billion if it takes 50% of the available market as its target at $169 billion annually.

At present, it has Ajay Malik on board as an investor, along with ex-Washington DC Mayor Adrian Fenty, and Richard Ross, Partner at Perkins Coi as advisors, among others. Over time, the company will create more content as it expands to other places as well.

To start with, the spaces would be 1000 sq ft, but will move to smaller caf-like formats as well over time.

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A startup that focuses on creating meditation zones in corporate campuses - Economic Times

Before the All-Star festivities this past weekend, BSN Denver had a chance to sit down with Jamal Murray for a discussion on everything but basketball. T.J. McBride and Murray talked everything from hip-hop,meditation and Murrays family, to growing up in Canada, Kentucky and Coach John Calipari. Heres part one:

T.J. McBride:Lets start with music. I saw that you were a big J Cole fan and that is something I have identified with and something that people have not really talked about much. What is it about hip-hop and J Cole in particular that has really grabbed ahold of you and something that has been instrumental going forward for you?

Jamal Murray:Heis a lyricist. He is deep. He has a good vibe and flow and he is more rapping about real stuff and real situations than just the typical stuff. I listen to his words a lot and write a lot of it down on whatever to kind of find the perspective that he comes from.

T.J.:So you are more of a 90s hip-hop guy, right? A little more old school stuff? Because you were listening to Busta Rhymes back at Kentucky all the time. What is some other 90s hip-hop stuff that you listen to?

Jamal: My dad raised me on it. Wu-Tang Clan, a lot of other old school groups and all of that, so I know a lot of the old school music and J Cole kind of has that newer school but old school at the same time so I like him a lot and he has been my favorite for a long time.

T.J.: So Ill put you on the spot. What is his number one album right now that is your favorite?

Jamal:Theres not. Theres not. Just every song. Just every song. I know every song by heart.

T.J.: So youve listened to 4 Your Eyez Only all the way through, Im sure, multiple times. What is your favorite track off of that album?

Jamal: Theres not a favorite track (laughs). I would probably say Immortal, Shes Mine Part Two, Change. Those are a couple of my favorites but, I mean, I like every song that he plays.

TJ: Are there any other hip-hop guys from the 90s that you like? Is it mostly East coast or West coast?

Jamal: I dont really know. Im from Canada (laughs).

T.J.:So what is the hip hop scene like in Canada?

Jamal: Drake. Drake, Drake, Drake.

T.J.: Are you a big Drake fan then because of that?

Jamal:I mean, yeah, I like Drake. I like his stuff. He has a lot of stuff out and it is really whatever you want; rap, slow, or both.

T.J.:Going off of that, is there any new age hip hop that you are into? Is it like a Kendrick Lamar type of conscious hip hop that you are into?

Jamal: I say mostly J Cole in terms of how much I listen to him. I listen to a lot of stuff. Bob Marley, Logic, anything that is a little bit soothing and a little slower.

T.J.:Is there anybody, out of nowhere, that you can just drop a name on people that they would never expect that you listen to?

Jamal: I mean, you can go through my phone (laughs). You can see these playlists. I listen to tons of music but mostly just heavily J Cole.

T.J.: So a little bit more about Canada. What is the basketball culture like in Kitchener? There has not been a lot of talk being that you played so much AAU ball against U.S. teams and there was not a whole lot of Canadian emphasis outside of the Canadian National team. What was it like growing up in Canada and, in particular, the difficulties and differences you experienced?

Jamal: Well there was not a lot of media attention the first year or second year I was at Orangeville Prep, which was not really known yet. Me and Thon (Maker) took that with us and brought it to the states and played a lot of games there but now in Canada; they have their own league for high school. So they get looks there and a couple guys have already committed to D-1 schools. It has been growing up as a program but we definitely need the states to kick it off a little bit.

TJ:Are you and Thon still tight. Like do you still talk at all and have you been watching him with Milwaukee.

Jamal:Yeah, of course.

TJ:Another thing that really gets pushed under the radar it feels like, because your dad is obviously an enormous influence in your life, but you have talked about how your mom has really held down the fort and really made things stable at home. Care to talk about your mom and give her a shout-out?

Jamal:She is always supportive and she is always there. Whatever we need her to do she is there. She is like one of those good teammates, you know? That always does the little stuff that goes under the radar. Sometimes I come home and their food is ready, the place is clean, my brother Lamar is in bed or whatever it is. It is the simple stuff that makes everything a little bit easier; she does that. My clothes are clean, she gives me calls and messages every morning. She is very supportive and she understands what Im doing and what Im trying to do. My dad has to be with me a lot of the time just to help me out and she does a great job of taking care of herself and taking care of the family.

T.J.: Is your dad still coming around and does he still come to most of your games or is he still back up in Canada?

Jamal: Its hard to be back and forth so he comes down for a long time and then goes back for a while so its back and forth. We try to balance it out.

TJ: One really cool thing that I wanted to talk about: Your dad. He even said that he stopped his life for you. To have that kind of support every single step of the way and to have someone to be in the gym with you and someone who was always pushing you and, not just there as someone who loves you and someone who cares, but hewants you to be the best you can be. How big is it to have that support system behind you?

Jamal:It is good. it is something that you need, especially someone who doesnt look at just your positives but also looks at all of your negatives and whatyou need to work on. He is very detailed about it and he is my biggest critic and my toughest critic. When he is talking to me he is yelling a lot but I listen to it to know what he is saying and how he is saying it.

T.J.: One other thing; your dad had a really cool quotethat I really liked that said: I dont want to give away all my secrets but the whole idea was to block out what he was feeling and that the pain was just temporary. Some kids get hit or cut immediately and it is worse for them than it really is. I tried to show him that pain is something that we all go through and it is a part of life. If you dont get freaked out by it then you can get past it. How much of the embodiment of that philosophy has gone into basketball for you? That seems like that is you as a person even.

Jamal:It has gone a long way. Im always up and down but there are some things, like not getting minutes or not cant make a shot, those things are all temporary. You cant make a shot? You are going to make a shot sometime. Positive thinking, you know? If you dont get minutes just make sure you make the most of your opportunity with your minutes. So when I go into a game I dont think about when I am coming out or what I did wrong. If I make a mistake I just try to make up for it, know it is my fault, and keep playing. Keep a forward mindset instead of lingering back on what happened.

Stay tuned for Part 2 on Tuesday.

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Beyond Basketball: A conversation with Jamal Murray on hip-hop, meditation, Kentucky and family - BSN Denver

Trai has raised the following for consultation: Which tariff offers should qualify as promotional? What should be the features of a promotional offer? (Reuters)

In my recent column Just a matter of opinion (FE, February 7; http://goo.gl/05yy1k), I highlighted that Trais new order on RJios tariff plan lacks merit. Now, Trai has floated a consultation paper inviting views on the various aspects of tariff including the two important issues of promotional offer and predatory pricing which were highlighted in my column (I had raised questions that, in the absence of any clear definition of these terms, on what basis Trai has come to the conclusion with regard to the tariff plans of RJio and whether these are compliant with tariff regulations or not?) Im glad Trai thought it prudent to fix these issues even if it is with an intent of a cover-up.

Lets examine both issues again in the light of a recent consultation paper.

Promotional offers

Trai has raised the following for consultation: Which tariff offers should qualify as promotional? What should be the features of a promotional offer? Is there a need to restrict the number of promotional offers that can be launched by a TSP, in a calendar year one after another and/or concurrently?

It is surprising that Trai has woken up to these questions only after it gave a go-ahead to the consecutive promotional offers of RJio, which created a disruption in the market on one hand and has resulted in lower realisation of license fee by at least 20% as estimated by a research organisation. Clearly, this action of Trai has not allowed unfair practices to play in the market, but has allowed the exchequer to suffer seriously. How can an expert body take such a casual view of the matter and raise post facto questions to get answers after upholding that the consecutive promotional offer is valid?

The consultation paper goes on to acknowledge that the authority considered the implications of offering such concessions to customers and was of the view that too long a promotional period dilutes the promotional character of the tariff plan and, in fact, makes it a regular plan. It is bizarre that despite being aware of this issue, Trai went ahead and allowed promotional offer(s) to operate beyond 90 days.

While there could be some justification for approval of a welcome offer because it was a launch offer, what was the compulsion to approve the happy new year offer that was a consecutive plan. Rather than raising this issue now, this could have been easily raised at that time and an intervention order been issued on the plan. This appears to be a clear case of a cover-up to justify its past decisions.

Trai acknowledges that the authority issued a direction to all access service providers regarding transparency in tariff offers (September 1, 2008). In part-2 of the direction, it said that while publishing their promotional offers to the public, operators should specify:

*The eligibility criteria for such promotional offer; and *The opening and closing dates of such promotional offer (within the existing limit of 90 days).

When the issue is clear that an offer cannot be allowed to operate beyond 90 days, how come Trai allowed the welcome offer to run from September 3, 2016, till December 31, 2016a period of more than 90 days. Trai, in para 3 of its order, has mentioned that the happy new year offer was implemented from December 4, 2016, till March 3, 2017. On the other hand, the announcement was made by RJio to the media at large that the happy new year offer was valid up to March 31, 2017, and not up to March 3, 2017, which makes it a period of more than 90 days. It is important to clarify whether the offer was valid up to March 31, 2017, as stated by RJio or up to March 3, 2017, as stated by Trai. The same is the case for the welcome offer. It is astonishing how Trai acted in complete disregard of its own regulation.

Predatory pricing

Trai raised a question on predatory pricing asking what methods/processes should be applied by the regulator to assess predatory pricing by a service provider in the relevant market?

As a background to this subject, it only refers the following: While the term non-predation has not been specifically defined in the TTO, it finds reference in many documents issued by Trai from time to time, which indicates its usage in the context of its generally understood meaning of abuse of dominant position by an enterprise through predatory pricing. For instance, the explanatory memorandum to the TTO 23rd amendment (2002) states as follows: The authority will continue to monitor the tariffs both with respect to predatory tariffs as well as unduly high tariffs because operators with dominant market presence and operations in more than one service sector will always have the capacity to do so.

Similarly, in the consultation paper on tariff plans with lifetime validity issued in January 2006, Trai noted that predatory pricing generally refers to a situation where a dominant firm (with significant market power) charges prices over a sufficiently long period, so as to drive competitors out of market or deter new entrants, and then raises prices to recoup its losses.

Here again, Trai adopted the practice of half reveal and half conceal. It decided to conceal its own 30th amendment to TTO regulation that touched upon the matter of predatory tariff, and noted that to ensure the tariff plan(s) is/are consistent with the regulatory principles in all respects which, inter alia, include IUC compliance, non-discrimination and non-predation.

In the explanatory statement attached to the amendment, Trai also clarified that the IUC regime specified by the authority reflects the underlying costs of providing the service. Also, the IUC charges as specified will implicitly function as a floor to retail tariffs and thereby the scope for predatory pricing or cross-subsidisation is limited. The term floor under TTO means the lower limit of a tariff for a telecommunication service as specified by the authority from time to time, below which such tariffs may not be offered. This amendment laid down the principle that the underlying cost of providing the service should be considered as the criteria to ascertain whether a given tariff is predatory or not?

In view of the above, various questions arise. First, why has Trai chosen not to disclose in the current consultation paper the fact about 30th amendment in its consultation paper which is relevant to the subject? The honest answer would be because it never adhered to this regulatory principal while examining RJio offers.

Second, in the light if its own admission that there is no criteria for deciding predatory pricing, how did it arrive at the conclusion that RJio offerings are non-predatory? Here again, the honest answer would be that it did not adhere to its own defined principle but wanted to make the legal opinion an alibi. Trai rushed to the Attorney General, a rare exception to its previous practices, to seek his opinion whether the tariff offered by RJio is predatory? It did not require any legal opinion to be obtained to ascertain the legal meaning of the term predatory pricing when the criteria to ascertain this is given in the Trai regulation itself. Trai could have examined it simply by calculating the underlying cost of providing service, which could easily be done by Trai with the battery of experts available with them and close the issue backed with factual data.

This paper makes it clear that the current exercise is an attempt to cover up the recent decisions that were taken not in compliance of regulations, but either in complete disregard or are based merely on legal opinions.

The matter is pending in courts for adjudication and Trai is finding it hard to justify its position. I hope the courts will restore justice to the aggrieved operators which the regulator failed to do.

The author is founder & CEO, Tathya Consulting. Views are personal

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Reliance Jio impact: Trai consultation on tariff issues a cover-up excercise - Financial Express

2018 Census Will Be Biometric Based FG

Ankeli Emmanuel

The Sokoto State federal commissioner, National Population Commission, Barrister Muhammadu Aminu Jason has divulged that the 2018 census will be biometric based to avoid human errors.

Aminu insisted that, as a prelude the commission will today commence the third phase of Enumeration Area Demarcation (EAD) in Illela local government area of Sokoto State.

According to Aminu, the significance of the EAD exercise goes beyond the conduct of the 2018 census hence it will be used as an established national data for generating accurate locality list including house numbering for subsequent census.

He noted that the commission had previously demarcated 37 local government areas in all the 36 states of the federation including Federal Capital Territory, Abuja in the previous EAD excercise. The federal commissioner insisted that Nigerians have no reason whatsoever not to believe the outcome of the 2018 census, as according to him, they are deploying sophisticated technology in carrying out the EAD excercise.

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Puducherry, Feb 21 (PTI) Hundreds of people thronged the Sri Aurobindo Ashram here to offer homage at the memorial of Mira Alfassa, the spiritual coordinator of saint philosopher Sri Aurobindo, on the occasion of her 139th birth anniversary today.

Special arrangements have been made to ensure a comfortable trip for the devotees, Ashram authorities said.

Shamianas were erected to accommodate them outside the Ashram before they inch their way into the premises to sit in meditation before the samadhis of Sri Aurobindo and Mira Alfassa, fondly called the Mother.

The visitors were also permitted to visit the chamber of the Mother where she carried out her spiritual experiments.

The Ashram was established in 1926 and after Sri Aurobindo embarked upon his spiritual works, the Mother an ardent devotee of the revolutionary turned spiritual leader took up the administration of the institution.

The birth anniversary of the Mother was among the important days for the dharshan of the devotees.

This is published unedited from the PTI feed.

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I started practicing at The Ashram right before New year's and just used my 10 visits with the groupon deal I had. I loved attending class so much, I plan to continue to practice here. I think I'm rather particular about my practice. I want strong guidance and a teacher that challenges my body and mind. The Ashram meets all of those needs. The classes are HOT and you will be challenged just by holding postures. You'll gain strength and each teacher I've had helped me adjust my postures to gain the most benefit. I took mostly the power yoga classes and felt amazing afterwards. I'm not sure I ever actually made it through an entire class with out having to take a break. But, like I said, it's a challenge for body and mind. I loved all of the teachers but my favorite class was the 8 a.m. On Sunday. While I loved Gary's 10 a.m. On Saturday it was a bit crowded for my style. If you plan to go to that class, arrive early. Just a note about the studio because I've been impressed with the cleanliness, hospitality and friendliness. Everyone is so inviting and friendly. The teachers know your name and ask you how you feel. Like I said, just writing this review made me miss my practice at The Ashram and reminded me I must go back soon.

The Ashram is a transformational place. If you're looking to really connect with yourself and find balance in your life, this is the place to go. They teach you that yoga is just a breath exercise and how to use breath as a tool to transcend life's struggles. Each instructor is unique and has something new to teach you. I have tried many different hot yoga methods all over the country and the world, quite frankly, and this is my absolute favorite of all.

Best hot yoga studio I have been to, the only studio that practices with more intense static hold power yoga, where the class moves together. All other studios seem to push this ridiculous speed yoga during power classes, and nobody is in sync. When you are part of a synchronized class you can really feel the energy in the room.

Incredible teachers. Love the location and fellow students have always been very warm and welcoming to me who's pretty inexperienced. Highly recommend.

If you want the real deal, this place is the place to be. 1st of all- amazing studio, from the lobby to hallway to bathroom, to yoga room. The heat is so consistent. I felt like a million bucks after Gary's class. This man is so gifted at the practice and art of teaching, along with his wife, Claudia. I am so amazed at the grace, the strength and the love these two have for their guests and yogis. It's like a family. 2nd, After 3 classes, I feel stronger, mentally and physically and have found the best on the Eastside. Well worth it. 3rd- They're so friendly, warm, welcoming, studio is clean, and the classes are catered to all levels. I left feeling so alive. Super challenging but not defeating. GO!!!!

Best Hot Yoga Studio around! I see a lot of complaints about how "Hot" it is here. It's called "Hot Yoga" for a reason! Make sure you are Hydrated! I love this place!

I started doing yoga in 2003 at a gym I used to go to that has now closed. I didn't realize it at the time, but what we were doing was a Bikram series, but the room was just warm. That was a great way to start. After that gym closed, I found no other yoga that was as beneficial to what ails me. So I started doing a regular hot Bikram yoga at a regular Bikram studio. I'm not a believer in the really hot, no matter what they try to tell you about detoxing via sweating or it being a challenge to deal with the heat. A challenge in dealing with heat stroke is something I will pass on. I am a believer in it needing to be good and warm, but not so hot that you can't really work the majority of the poses as a challenge in strength, flexibility, and concentration; and not just in bearing the heat. I started going to The Ashram in 2008, first in Kirkland and now in Bellevue. It is the best studio I have found, and I've been to a lot. I'm pretty much still a Bikram guy (or classic 75 minute, or whatever the name of it is now). The Ashram has some great teachers and their studios are very nice. I have found it to be too hot sometimes, both in Kirkland and Bellevue. I have found a lot of the power classes, which is what they are really known for, too hot. But I have figured out what teachers and what times. For Bikram, try Sean, Ms. Knapinski if she's teaching (can't remember her first name and may be butchering the spelling), or Gary, and stay to the side edges of the room in Bellevue if you can. In my experience, if the instructor is newly certified in Bikram, they believe in the too hot hot, and you will hear the same dialogue as if its Bikram recording that I first heard in 2003 (my apologies to the exceptions). Sean and Gary have a great way of putting the dialogue to give you a minds eye of what to do. For standing bow pulling, for example, that isn't a 50:50 kick and reach (the standard dialogue), I consider it a 90% kick with a rigid upper body right to the finger tips - when you are fully into it, keep both hands high as you can (heard that from Gary, and when I really push it, that is what I try to do). I've learned a lot of those non-standard tips from instructors here, they really make a difference, and those are the master instructors you pay for. Yoga is expensive, at least to me, and The Ashram has increased prices since opening the Bellevue studio. But it is in line with other studios. The price is part of the reason I don't want to mess around with instructor that has less yoga experience than I do. You are an instructor to take me someplace I haven't been before. You can find the good instructors here, but may take a little trial and error. Makes me feel great, give me a good attitude - at least when it isn't so hot I can't sleep at night afterward and sweat for the next two days. And those people that do power 5+ days a week? I don't get it.

I really disliked this place a lot, let's begin with the price which I was told something on the phone and when I went in there the price was higher than I was told and they tried to get out of it by getting me lost in the number calculations which made no sense. I found the owner to be pretty Rude and unfriendly which in the few other yoga facilities I had been to they were all the very opposite. Also rules, too many stupid rules to be told day one to be turned off. Such as "do not take anymore water breaks other than the ones your instructors give you, so we don't distract others" really!? I take water when I want and need in 110 degree working out temperature! Or at least every where else is like that! Overall not a friendly place.

The environment a little too hot. But the instructors are very friendly. Overall 3 stars is enough.

There is something very special going on at Ashram Yoga. Both teachers and students are extremely serious about the pursuit of true yoga. It's not a place where people are just looking for a workout (although you will see many inspiring hard-bodied 60 year old women who look like 25 year olds). You could say the studio attracts "die-hard" yogis -- people who train and honor both their bodies and minds and who are exceptionally self-aware. I feel privileged to practice with such advanced yoga practitioners guided by class A instructors. Sometimes half the class are Ashram-trained yoga teachers themselves. It's hot, I'll admit I used to have a harder time with that (I'm particularly sensitive to heat), but I have learned to keep my body hydrated, so that I can handle it. Drinking more water has transformed my practice, so I don't have to lie down as often. But it's fine to lie down at any time in this studio and you're encouraged to do so. As long as you do a resting pose with presence, it is still correct practice. It is in an extremely convenient location, and when you're inside there is a wonderful feeling of being at home, and a sense of community. The place is thoroughly and regularly cleaned, and everyone takes good care of the place as if it were their own. People really are dedicated in their practice and to the studio. It is a trusting, supportive environment. I was surprised to see a couple low reviews, but the "complaints" seem pretty minor; splitting hairs over a $40 Groupon which is already an amazing bargain, or giving up after one class with a pushy instructor and chatty classmates (which is rare at the Ashram, btw). That would annoy me too and it has only occurred once out of 100+ times I've been there. As for the heat, my advice to anyone new who is struggling is to up your water intake--keep a bottle by your desk and sip water all day every day. It's a different experience to practice hydrated. Also try out a few other teachers to find the ones that have the most compatible style with your taste. Then see how you feel after a couple of weeks. Definitely don't miss Gary's class. I'm grateful I found this place. It's not easy but it is extremely rewarding.

I have been going to Ashram for two years now. The teachers are phenomenal and I have gained so much benefit from the Hot Power classes. I love and crave the intense heat along with enjoying the internal focus needed to improve in ones practice. I no longer have carpal tunnel issues, have been able to maintain toned muscles and even increased my flexibility. As an entrepreneur, I have gained more inner peace and better coping skills to every day life stresses. I find myself tapping into the many mantras shared by the skilled Ashram yogis. I like not having music and simply focus on breath and the voice of my teacher that day. Not only do the instructors really care but the support and development of special friends have made Ashram a mandatory part of my week. The Art of the Art is to Show No Struggle. Namaste!

I have been practicing at the Ashram for about 9 years now. Prior to my experience here, I was practicing at home and reading about Yoga. That was the extent of my yoga. Since being at the Ashram, Gary, his wife Claudia and the other amazing instructors have changed my life. Yoga is not about strength, it is not about flexibility. (Albeit I am stronger and more flexible than I've been in a very long time.) But through my journey at the Ashram and Gary's instruction, I now have a deeper understanding of my practice and of my body. Yoga is breath, yoga is consciousness, yoga is being present for the time you are on your mat, it's respecting your body and your practice. It's for you and no one else. I love leaving the studio after a class and taking that energy, that feeling with me everywhere I go and into everything I do! It has transformed me into a healthier, and happier person! Thank you Ashram! Not only the instructors and instruction, but the people in that room who energize me every time I attend! Namaste and BIG LOVE!

A few years back I was broke and floundering and could not afford Hot Yoga. Gary let me Karma yogi (clean etc) in exchange for free yoga for several months. I really appreciated that, It is very hard to ask for help and practicing yoga is just what I needed to keep my head up. Things going much better in my life now and it was great to have the help when I really needed it. Great studio. Thank Ashram!!

I have been doing hot yoga for one year now (5 days per week), in my college town and figured I'd find a new studio when I came back home from school. I could not have been more disappointed with this one. Firstly, The room is way too hot. I typically practice in 110 degree rooms and only take breaks during designated times. However, during this class I kept having to stop to cool down. It was impossible to get in the zone and even enjoy myself. I usually lay in corpse pose for several minutes after class is over but I had to rush out due to the ridiculous heat. The floor is literally burning hot and it smells absolutely terrible. Secondly, I did not enjoy the way the instructor led class. She was so pushy with everyone doing the same thing at the exact same time. Yoga is all about doing what is right for your body and following your breath. The instructor also NEVER SHUT UP. Another reason why it was impossible to get in the zone and meditate. The class was so boring, especially with no music and her constant talking. All I could think about was how much I wanted this hour of my life to end. Thirdly, before class began several people were talking in the hot room. People were having full on conversations even though it is supposed to be quiet. I can understand saying something short and brief if it was really important but chatting about this and that before class is incredibly rude when others around you are trying to meditate. I couldn't stand the atmosphere here. So many fellow "yogis" had so little respect for those around them. Lastly, the flow of the class was horrible. She poorly transitioned from pose to pose and rushed through several difficult balancing postures. Worst 20 bucks I've spent in a while.

The best hot yoga studio in the Northwest hands down! From the moment you enter the lobby, your greeted always by a friendly smile 🙂 Every teacher is extremely knowledgeable in creating an experience that will leave you refreshed, focused and energized. Always amazed how the yogis have such great studio ethics and respect for the teachers. This was my first hot yoga studio I ever went to and at the end of my first power class, I knew from that moment this was going to become my second home. Found myself improving not just physically but mentally and over all life style. What can i say...oh yeah, i was just happier and I know you would be also. So give a try! The different styles of class offered at the ashram will keep your body balanced, focused or even upside down (in the Yang class ;-)) I love learning new things about my breath, body and mind as each teacher knows just the right thing to say or touch to get me to where I need to be. In end, my whole life changed for all for best and who knew all it took was 1 step through the doors of The Ashrams. I highly recommend this place to anyone new or experienced to come by and get your yoga on 🙂 see you there!

I visited the Ashram Yoga studio today. I was a little nervous since I hadn't done yoga for about 7 years, but my experience was... WONDERFUL!!! It doesn't matter if you're a beginner or more advanced, the sequences of poses flow seamlessly, are thoughtfully designed, and are as challenging as you want them to be. Luba (the instructor) was clear and soothing and obviously very knowledgeable. Loved her. I left feeling revived (and drenched). Even though I lift regularly and do extensive cardio almost every day, I was more than a little exhausted from the awesome full-body workout. Make sure to hydrate beforehand because it gets hot. Go try it. Seriously, like right now.

Ashram is hands down the best method of yoga out there (and I've tried a lot, worldwide). I'll admit, at first I was a little skeptical of their method of simultaneous class flow, consistent sequence, and ultra hot room. But I have come to love Ashram and appreciate the total transformation of body and mind their classes offer. ALL the instructors are amazing, but I especially love practicing with Gary, Claudia, Davin, and Shannon.

. I have NEVER had a yoga instructor yell at me for stopping to drink water, until I came here. This is hot yoga! It's 120 degrees in the studio and isn't yoga about listening to YOUR OWN body? All the power classes follow the same series of positions every time and it gets incredibly boring. I have gone to quite a few yoga studios and this is one I will never go to again. The dressing room never felt very clean either, which is something that bothers me when I have to walk around bare foot. My worst experience there was during a class when a ceiling fan fell on a student!!! He was fine but still, a little maintenance would be a very good thing!!! I am actually shocked there are not more negative reviews.

I have been practicing for the last few years, and in that time tried quite a few studios until I found my yoga home. In the time I was groupon hopping, I tried this studio because it's walking distance from my house. I had high hopes because the location was convenient, but after trying a few classes I have zero interest in returning. The facility itself is nice and the girls at the front and the teachers were actually pretty great, but I just do not enjoy practicing here. First reason: It's WAY TO HOT IN THERE. I have been practicing hot yoga for a long time and can even hang in a 112 degree room doing a hard power class, but the dry heat at Ashram makes my nose hurt and gives me head aches. The floor literally burns your feet when you walk into the room and set up your mat. I catch myself thinking about how hot it is the whole time and having to take breaks often instead of enjoying some Zen time with a clear head and a good workout. Second: I think that the groupons Gary puts out have ridiculously short expiration terms. When I compare the groupons at Ashram with all the other studios in the area.. even if you purchase the 10 or 20 class option you only have a month or two to use them. Most studios will give you up to 6 months to use 20 classes. So when I purchased a 20 class pass and only came twice, I believe I wasted my money. CHECK YOUR EXPIRATION DATES IF YOU ARE CONSIDERING A GROUPON. Third: Terrible customer service. When I emailed the studio to see if they would be willing to honor the 20 classes I purchased, they told me they would give me one free class to make up for it. I may have been able to hang and acclimate to the intense heat if I had 20 classes to do so, but after bad customer service and the insane heat, I decided to move on. I have now found a studio that I'm enamored with and hope you find one that you love to. Hope this review helps for people considering this studio. Check out Bala or Get Zen. Those are two studios I fell in love with. And no, I am not a teacher or owner at either, just want to help people find their happy yoga home, too.

I have already recognized that yoga is not my thing, especially in a hot hundred-and-something degree room. Stretching however is amazing and something I need to be doing more of! My friend introduced me to Yin Yoga that is a "deep stretching yoga in a meditative environment", its 90 minutes and in a warm (not hot) room. I am now obsessed with this class and the instructor, Mel is amazing. He has a calm soothing voice that helps you focus. This class is perfect for me, the temperature is comfortable and the yoga stretches are just enough yoga for me not to hate it. This facility is very clean and calm. The changing area for women is decent sized but does get crowded. There are cubbies available for your stuff and showers. They also have yoga mats and towels available for use. (My 1/30 for November)

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The Ashram Yoga - 64 Reviews - Yoga - 12637 NE 85th St ...