Loading...
The URL can be used to link to this page
Your browser does not support the video tag.
Home
My WebLink
About
Council Information Memorandum 12-24-1987
C PLYIYO' CITY COUNCIL INFORMATIONAL MEMORANDUM December 24, 1987 UPCOMING MEETINGS AND EVENTS..... 1. NEXT COUNCIL MEETING -- Monday, January 4. Regular City Council Meeting. 2. HOLIDAY SCHEDULE -- City offices closed Friday, December 25, and Friday, January 1. 3. JANUARY CALENDAR -- A copy of the January meeting calendar is attached. (M-3) FOR YOUR INFORMATION..... 1. IMPLEMENTATION OF PLAN FOR 1988 COMMUNICATIONS PROGRAM - The City Council spent substantial time reviewing, discussing, and finally approving each element of the 1988 City Communication's budget. Helen LaFave has developed an implementation plan for the 1988 program by extracting the communication elements approved by the City Council for 1988 and establishing steps and timelines for the completion of each. The timelines set forth in the implementation plan have been influenced by the administration of the residential survey. To avoid any halo effect from County Road 9, the Council directed that the residential survey be administered later than originally anticipated. The results of the survey are to be reviewed by the Council on January 25. Because of the nature of the changes proposed for Plymouth on Parade and the six City government cable t.v. productions, we have revised the timeline for implementation in order that the results of the residential survey are known and reviewed by the Council prior to taking action. I believe that this is the most prudent course of action, given the dollar amounts associated with these two programs. If the results show that the current Plymouth on Parade is ineffective in accomplishing its purpose, we will be prepared to Immediately solicit bids on January 26. (I-1) 3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447, TELEPHONE (612) 559-2800 CITY COUNCIL INFORMATIONAL MEMORANDUP; December 24, 1987 Page two 2. DIAL TONE DELAYS - 14e have received numerous calls from Plvmo,.jtl, residents and businesses, and have experienced difficulties ourselves, in obtaining a dial tone for outbound calls. Renee Metelak (542-2946) of the Northwestern Bell Telephone Company indicates that Bell has experienced growth beyond the capacity of their switching equipment. The problem lies in the Fernbrook office which provides central office services for the prefixes 559, 553, and 557. Additional American Telephone and Telegraph hardware is required to resolve the problem. AT&T has advised Bell that such equipment will not be available and installed until the end of Februarv. Bell representatives have advised AT&T that this is not acceptable. Ms. Metelak advises that Bell is in the process of negotiating with AT&T for a faster timeline. If they are successful, they will provide us with the new date for installation. In the meantime, Bell will attempt to resolve the problem on a day-to-day basis by reallocating telephone circuits through other central switching offices. The bottom line is that the number of people using the telephone at any one time determines the degree of the problems encountered. During the holiday season, high telephone traffic normally occurs and is exacerbated by children out of school using the telephone at peak time business hours. From a municipal point of view, we are concerned about the ability of City residents to access telephone lines in the event of a police, fire or medical emergency. For the City's part, we are encouraging residents to reduce their telephone usage to the minimum necessary to assist in relieving the load problem. 3. NORTHWEST SUBURBS CABLE COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION - Last Tuesday morning, the Cable Commission voted to make certain changes in the Northwest Community Television (NW'CT) Board of Directors. The thrust of the change is to eliminate membership on the Board from specific groups, and rather to provide for a broader based community representation. It is anticipated that the NW'CT Board will work more closely with the Cable Communications Commission Board in the months and years ahead. With the recently revised channel alignments, including reassigning of certain unused public access channels to the cable operator, it is anticipated that the N1WCT will concentrate its production efforts on the remaining access channels. I was appointed by the Board as an "at large" member of the NWCT Board. The other Plymouth representative is Helen LaFave. CITY COUNCIL INFORMATIONAL MEMORA14DU!; December 24, 1957 Page three 4. COMPLAINT FROI PAUL VOLSTAD - Mr. Volstad has previously contactec! me regarding a "yoga" class. He asked that the vooa class he withdrawn because it represents "the practice of refiaion." Mary Patterson responded to Mr. Volstad, indicating that, in our viev,. there was no religious connotation to the program and invited him to observe a class. He did not avail himself of that opportunity, but has continued to raise objections to our offering the class. I have informed Mr. Volstad that based on all of the information available to me, I have no basis to recommend the program be discontinued. It is offered as a stress reduction program which appears to have been popular with many people. Mr. Volstad's is the first complaint we have had with regard to the class on any basis, much less because of a religious connotation. Mr. Volstad has sent us a good deal of material which, in his view, demonstrates our yoga class represents a religious practice. In his most recent letter of December 17, following a telephone conver- sation with me, he is asking that the City Council make a final decision on this matter. I believe the matter of recreational program offerings on a specific program basis are administrative in nature, the fact that Mr. Volstad raises a question of "religious practice" suggests a policy issue. I do not agree with Mr. Volstad's interpretation, but respect his right to disagree. I have not viewed the video's that his resource person, Dennis Prothero, has, nor have I visited any of our classes. The current class offerings are ended, although they are being scheduled again for the winter. Unless otherwise directed by the Council, it is my intention to advise Mr. Volstad that we shall continue to offer the proqram to those who may be interested in it. (I-4) 5. CHANGE IN DEPARTMENTAL STAFF MEETING TIME - At the December 14 meet- ing, Councilmembers expressed concern about difficulties in reachino me and department heads to obtain agenda information on Monday mornings. To be more accessible to Councilmembers about agenda inquiries, we have changed our Monday staff meeting time to commence at 10:00 a.m. I have asked department members to be available insofar as possible in their offices between 8:00 and 10:00 a.m. to receive Councilmember inquiries. We will initiate this policy on Monday, January 4. I am hopeful that this action will substantially eliminate problems Councilmembers had in reaching City staff members about agenda items on Monday mornings. I would appreciate Council feedback on the effectiveness of this action in improving staff accessibility. CITY COUNCIL INFORMAT1014tiL MEMORANDUI; December 24, 1987 Page four 6. HENNEPIN COUNTY SOLID NAST[ TRANSFER SITE - The Hennepin Count Board of Commissioners has voted to purchase the Vantaoe Comhaf,1\ property for the proposed solid waste transfer site. As noted in a previous memorandum, Vantage will retain a right to repurchase the property if within five years the County does not proceed to construct the facility. 7. NEW BRIDGE OVER HIGHWAY 55 AND I-494 - Attached is a drawing showing the three construction stages for the bridge on Highway 55 and I-494. Along with this, I am enclosing a copy of a 1969 drawing which attempted to deal with the capacity problem at the intersection. The current design which is going to be constructed is obviously a far more workable solution. (I-7) 8. SAVINGS FROM COMPUTER CONVERSION - Attached is a memo from Dale Hahn indicating in more detail the dollars anticipated to be realized from the conversion to our new computer system. Councilmember Sisk asked for this information recently. As Dale notes in his memorandum, in addition to the direct dollar savings, which will be ongoing, we will also have the additional capacity to more effectively and efficiently serve our customers with the new computer system. (I-8) 9. POLICE DEPARTMENT OUTREACH BROCHURE -- Attached is a new brochure highlighting the community outreach programs of the Plymouth Police Department. It will be distributed to people inquiring about programs, speakers and services. The brochure was produced by the Communications Coordinator for the Department. (I-9) 10. MINUTES: a. Park and Recreation Advisory Commission, December 10, 1987. (I -10a) b. Planning Commission, December 9, 1987 (I -10b) 11. RESIGNATION -- Ray Anderson, Community Development Coordinator, has submitted his resignation effective December 31, 1987. Ray has accepted a position with the City of Ames, Iowa. Recruitment efforts to fill Ray's position are underway. 12. WAYZATA SOCCER PROGRAM -- Eric Blank advises that at a December 14 meeting with the ayzata-Plymouth Soccer Association, Carol Beach reached agreement with the Soccer Association whereby she would create a new volunteer Plymouth Soccer Association to run the summer soccer program. Carol advises that this agreement still has to be approved by the Wayzata Soccer Board at its next meeting. CITY COUN-21L INFORMATIONAL MEMORANDUi; December 24, 1987 Page five 13. LIABILITY EXPOSURE - CITY SPONSOPFD TRIP TO FLORIDA -- Attach.�a' i, the CityAttorney's opinion or the potential liability of the Cit\ for sponsoring a trip to Florida in March. Because: of tht manner 11 which the trip is being handled, by goinq through a travel aoenc� and using a chartered airline, the City Attorney believes that there is no significant chance of liahility if any of the participants are injured while on the trip. He does recommend that each participant sign a waive of liability form as part of the agreement to participate in the tour, and that the City verify the reliability and track record of the charter airline involved in the trip. A memorandum from Eric Blank addressing the Attorney's letter and recommendations is attached together with a report from Mary Patterson on the reliability and track record of the American Trans Air, the charter airline. (I-13) 14. CORRESPONDENCE: a. Letter from Hennepin County Commissioner Robb thankinq Dick Pouliot, other city staff and volunteers, for helping with the county's household hazardous waste collection project. (I -14a) b. Letter of appreciation from Sharen Hilliard, Wayzata School District, thanking Eric Blank for his participation in "Career Day" at Wayzata West Junior High. (I -14b) c. Letter of appreciation to Dick Pouliot and City staff from Ken Plant, Chelsea Woods Association, for support of the Association's recycling program. (I -14c) f r„� N icy I � N M r z°`2 O i �Oz O ppq^O, 121ry H w w H w M W w .>✓ i Z • H Uozi M w ! C p a.0n, O a�U� O N M r z°`2 O �Oz O ppq^O, 121ry H w w H w w apVc w a.0n, O �,a O Pa A H O S M o y N o U o N i N M. �••{ '� w��a; �z`a� x H� o�4F~0, r- F-4 U i H fH U N rn N N ! Z • U z z w U Cf) N C7 C7 w o P4 ,. p; U �f1 (z. U) U V) N r c WF + Y3 N O` N O M �•7!j F'"' '""' 00 N N T H V) D :2 N V `'oe0 3 cn t4 A U N M r z°`2 O �Oz O ppq^O, 121ry H w w H w w apVc w a O P+W O r� H O Pa A H O S M o y N o U O U w��a; H x H� o�4F~0, r- F-4 U U N rn N N O 0 fcu)••ow U z z w U Cf) N C7 C7 w o P4 C9 o p; U �f1 (z. U) U V) N r c WF + Y3 N O` N O M �•7!j F'"' '""' 00 N N V) D :2 N N M 1951-- CITY 951CITY OF PLYMOUTH COMMUN11CATIMS PLAT: GOAL Use clear, concise communications to: inform the City of Plymouth's target audiences of city policies, programs and ordinances; promote citizen participation in local government; instill a sense of community in Plymouth residents; and create an awareness of the City of Plymouth as an effective service organization. OBJECTIVES I. Review the function, format and content of existing city publications and make recommendations for improvements. II. Develop and enhance the effectiveness of the Plymouth government access cable television channel. III. Supplement current communications by disseminating_ information via other appropriate media. IV. Work with departments to ensure that accurate information is disseminated in response to inquiries. TARGET AUDIENCES citizens homeowner associations civic groups businesses developers/builders city employees potential/future residents media schools other public agencies serving Plymouth property owners 19�S C1T) OF PLYMOUTH - COMMUNICATlOtIS-- Page 2 OBJECTIVI I: Review the function, format and content of current city publication. and make recommendations for improvements. STRATEGY DATE/STEPS TO COMPILETION BUDGETED A. Plymouth on Parade: Improve appearance & readability by developing a bimonthly 4-8 page newsletter & a quarterly recreation booklet 1/15 - develop specs 1/26 - distribute specs 2/22 - Council awards bid 5/1 - first issue in new format Newsletter: $15,000 Rec. Booklet: $16,000 Mailing Service: $5,500 i B. Community Information 6/1 - plan content Printing: $14,000 Booklet: Use current 6/15 - solicit ads Postage: $1,900 format; eliminate dated 7/15 - write articles Mailing Service: $500 material; publish 7/18 - bids -Council approval biannually; add infor- 8/15 - layout/final ads mation regarding city 9/1 - mailing ordinances, public safety & city policies. Mail 1988 reprinting to all residents, thereafter distribute via Welcome Wagon I C. Public Information 10/15 - identify handouts to $850 Handouts: Review and make be reviewed recommendations for re- 12/9 - review/edit formatting and/or editing 12/16 - approval by of five current City appropriate depart - handouts. Produce a ment heads handout on City 12/23 - revise commissions and two 12/30 - print handouts on City parks 195ti CITY OF PLYtIOUTH - COt• MUkICATIONS PLA!; -- Paoe 3 OBJECTIVE II: Develop and enhance the effectiveness of the Plymouth Governmei acres: cable television channel. STRATEGY DATE/STEPS TO COMPLETION BUDGETED A. Develop list of "City 1/4 - get department Communications Coordinator I Special" topics. head input (Bimonthly programs 1/15 - prioritize topics produced by NWCTC for the 2/9-8/9 - complete specials City) 4/9-10/9 (tentative dates) 6/9-12/9 B. Produce six city govern- 2/1 - submit list to City $10,000 ment 5-15 minute programs Council (This amount also includes per year. Cover at least 2/15 - tentative timeline cost to pay producers to two recreation events/ - begin production program daily playbacks, concerts/or Community dub tapes and perform Awards. Produced by City other duties associated Video Producers with channel 37 oper- ations) C. Continue to cover all City Ongoing $3,500 Council meetings and Town Meetings D. Periodically update the Ongoing Communications Coordinator/ datacaster, utilizing City Video Producer publications as primary $3,000 source of information E. Utilize free programming Ongoing Communications Coordinator/ on government -related Video Producer topics, e.g., public safety, public health 1955 CITY OF PLYNIOUTH - COMMUHICATIOWS PLA+ -- Page 4 OBJECTIVE III: Supplement current communications by disseminating information via other appropriate media STRATEGY DATE/STEPS TO COMPLETION BUDGETED A. Develop a "Meet Your Done - take photos $500 Council" handout for 2/1 - write distribution at Council 2/8 - layout j meetings. It will explain 2/15 - Council approval j meeting format. 3/15 - distribute B. Continue to author 2/15 - develop list of Communications Coordinator Wayzata Weekly Reports topics/authors columns 1/4 -7/15 - submit copy 2/18-8/15 (approximate 3/14-9/15 deadlines) 4/15-10/15 5/15-11/15 6/15-12/15 C. Continue to write monthly 1/6-7/6 - submit copy Communications Coordinator articles for Twin West 2/6-8/3 (approximate newsletter 3/2-9/7 deadlines) 4/6-10/5 5/4-11/2 6/1-12/7 D. Install an answering 2/15 - develop proposal which $300 machine to receive will include customer comments on City procedures for services and cable follow-up television programming 4/25 - publicize on cable TV E. Park Brochure 5/2 - write copy, photos, Communications Coordinator map 5/9 - quotes 5/23 - layout 6/6 - Council approval 6/13 - printing 6/24 - distribution F. Develop list of City staff 1/8 - identify topics and Communications Coordinator speakers able to speak at speakers meetings. Distribute list 1/26 - develop list to homeowner associations 1/25 - submit for department and civic groups head review 1/29 - distribute 1985 CITY OF PLYMOUTH - COt-,tTjt�I_(_'-"TlOFIS PLA!: Page. 5 OBJECTIVE IV: Develop procedures to help ensure that accurate information is disseminated in response to inquiries made to Communications Coordinator STRATEGY DATE/STEPS TO COMPLETION BUDGETED 1) Develop a system to follow-up on requests for information which involve multiple departments 2/3 - develop system for Communications Coordinator follow-up to see that 211 8/1 information has been provided by appropriate department 2/15 - proposal to department heads 3/1 - make necessary 6/1 12/1 revisions 3/17 - implement Communications Coordinator OTHER 1988 COMMUNICATIONS ACTIVITIES STRATEGY DATE/STEPS TO COMPLETION BUDGETED Employee newsletter 1/1 7/1 Communications Coordinator 211 8/1 3/1 911 4/1 10/1 5/1 11/1 6/1 12/1 Publicize Recycling Program Ongoing Communications Coordinator - City Center display case February - brochure to be distributed 1/15 with recycling containers PAUL S. VOLSTAD UC. nn S CC . 4r C,' f ^::- .: .. �r c•c C`Cf bErv'E ihE Ir rc'C:' �'. E'i f'�: ,; r - December 17, 198; Mr. Jim Willis City Manager Citv of Plvmouth 3400 Plvmouth Blvd. Plymouth, AS's 57 - Dear Jim: Thank you for your telephone call relative to mx correspondence with the Parks Department. My understanding, from your telephone conversation is that you do not feel that the offering of Yoga classes by the City of Plymouth is in any way a religious practice. As I explained to you over the telephone I am not a specialist in this area, however, I have a resource person who is Dennis Prothero and the data that I sent to your Parks Department was all of the data that he has on this subject. My understanding from Dennis Prothero is that he has videos available for you to also review on this matter. As I requested over the telephone I would like the City Council to make the final decision on this and I am copying Dennis Prothero on this letter who I am sure would be available to supply additional information to the City Council and if necessary show videos on this matter. As I have also previously mentioned to you the YMCA thorougl;iy reviewed this sub j e`t and did feel that the offering of Yoca was a religious practice and withdrew Yoga from the offering of its courses. If you have any questions on this matter, please give me a call. Yours ver truly, ul Volstad Licensed Public Accountant Enrolled Agent PSV/rbm cc: Dennis Prothero JOI:'TS A''D GLk:')S E"ERCIS�75 As TallEllt by S::a-.i F,a,.na of the Kimalayas Edited by Rudolph I:. Fallentine, 'dere is a set of si--ple, pleasant stretching exercises that can be enjoyee with great benefit by everycne. They are desi-ned to improve all structures of the body. By increasin- the circulation to different parts of the body and by restoring, a natural flowing "body image" in the mind, a harmonious feeling of energy throughout the body is established. Good for youn£ and old alike, these exercises are especially beneficial for persons with arthritis or rheumatism. A 90 -minute cassette, designed to accompany the text is also available. Text $3.95 Cassette Tape $5.95 H.4TIr4, YOGA FAI•IUAL I by Samskrti and Veda The clarity of this best-selling manual is considered unsurpassed for teaching hatha yoga to beginning and continuing students. Being experienced hatha yoga teachers, the authors have paid particular attention to the needs and abilities of beginners, selecting those exercises that are most bene- ficial for restoring overall flexibility. Each posture is clearly described and issustrated, therapeutic benefits are listed, and more difficult varia- tions are provided -in order to accommodate each student's level of achieve- ment. $5.95 PRACTICAL GUIDE: TO HOLISTIC HEALTH by Swami Pana The concept known as holistic health affirms the cornlete interrelation- ship between body, mind, and spirit. As an authority in both Eastern and Uestern techniques, Swami Rama presents a philosophy of total health. main- taining that each individual possesses the responsibility and the tools to regulate his own well-being. He discusses the practical aspects of diet and nutrition, cleansing, exercise, utilizinc the emotions; and beim still. "If you have been wondering where to begin in a program for adogting heathful regimes, A Practical Guide to Holistic Iiealth is a 'natural"` The A.R.E. Journal $7.95 YOGA PSYCHOLOGY: A PRACTICAL GUIDE TO IMITATION by Swami Araya, Ph.D. Yoga Psychology is one of the few clear and easy to understand guides which authoritatively reaches the fundamentals of meditation. Questions which inevitably arise in the mind of a beginning yoga student are dealt with in a straight forward manner by an expert in both Eastern and Western psycho- logy. Swami Ajaya explains how to meditate and includes instructions on correct posture and proper breathing and relaxation techniques. Ile explores the broadening experimental basis of this five -thousand -year-old science and shows how to use meditation to help solve the problems of daily life. $3.95 E?`',OTIO` TO E:'LIG!I7E=:".T by Suamf' %ama and Swami Ajaya, Ph.D. A master of yo^a collaborates with an A erican-trained nsycholo-,ist in presenting this practical, holistic perspective on the role of emotions in the development of consciousness. Vany facets of this process are described along with methods that lead to emotional maturity and expanded niareness. This boot: is the natural sequel to Yoca Psychology, expanding upon and supplementing many of the practical guidelines for daily living presented in the very popular earlier book. $3.96 LECTURES ON YOGA by Swami Rama Lectures on Yoga clarifies ancient self -training, prograns that can expand one's physical, mental, and, spiritual horizons. East and best are united to give readers a practical method for self -understanding. "An extremely well organized treatment of the complicated subject cf Yoga. A novice in yoga science would be fortunate to start with this book, and many long-time students will find confusions cleared and questions answered." Cate Tuttle Nationally Syndicated Colunzist $5.95 Copyright, Dhyana :landiran (Center for Higher Consciousness), 1933. CENTZ:� FO: I1IG_iin COI'SCIOUSXESS To live healthy, creative lives, many people seek an understanding of the inner relationships between mind ane body which lead to peace and fulfillment. Over the last four thousand years the Yoga tradition has offered systematic methods for increasing spiritual well-being. Throur.h traininn of the boe. , breath and mind, one is gradually led to hiher levels of self-knouledFe an understandinC. For more than ten years it has been the air. of the Center for Nigher Con- sciousness to provide the environment and instruction leading to the achieve- ment of these goals. A non-profit organization, the Center is established in the Raja Yopa tradition, a system that integrates all of the various practices and disciplines of Yoga. Founded in 1970; the Center's classes, seminars and ongoing programs have been attended by over twenty thousand men and women of all ages and walks of life. The Center for Higher Consciousness is a teaching organization. Current offerings include courses in physical (Hatha) Yoga postures: breathing and relaxation; meditation; philosophy, history and literature of the meditative tradition; and group program for extended study of meditation and Yoga life- styles; individualized private instruction. in Uatha Yoc-a and meditation; and classes in many special interest areas such as diet and nutrition, Massage, anatomy and weight control. The Center houses one of the world's most extensive tape libraries on medi- tation, Yoga psychology and philosophy. T:andala Bookstore, located at the Center, carries a large selection of books on meditation, Eastern philosophies, holistic health and related subjects. Advanced training leading to teacher certification through. the Himalayan Institute is available frog the Center. Nationally, this program has produced highly qualified instructors who now teach in virtually every state in the U.S. and in several other countries. The founder and director of the Center for Hither Consciousness is Usharbudh Arya, Ph.D. Dr. Arya was trained from childhood in the Yoga philosophical tradition. He has lectured and taught worldwide for more than 35 years. Gaining his doctorate from the University of Utrecht, Holland in 1965, Dr-Arya served as assistant professor of Sanskrit at the University of 11innesota. :ie is currently on the faculty of the Himalayan International Institute and is the author of numerous books and artieice on yogai- THE HPLU AYAI' I1TTEMIATIONAL IVISTITUTE The Center is an affiliate of the Himalayan International Institute. Founded by H.H. Swami Rama in 1971 it is headquartered in Honesdale, PA. As an educa- tional institution, it offers a T`aster's decree in Eastern Studies in conjunc- tion with the Univ. of Pennsylvania. It also houses the Eleanor Dana bio- physical research laboratories and provides a home for the combined therapy program which melds Eastern and Western approaches in medicine. TIIMS TO RMER Thursday evenings: at the Center are special events. There is guided hatha practice at 5:15 followed by the initiate meditation at 6:45 and bepinning meditation at 7:00. At 7.30 there is a lecture followed by a light buffet and social hour at L:30. Summer retreat: Each summer the Center sponsors a retreat with Dr. Arya at a local retreat site. This is a good time to enrich your practice and meet others on the spiritual path. COME .VISIT', THE SRI SRI RADHA KRISHNA TEMPLE• .FOUNDERACARYA HIS DIVINE, GRACE . L r *_� i� d , � " - - • •' a .� K; A C BHAKTIVEDANTA SWAMI t FREE DAILY,YOGA'CL`ASSES AT730AM. AND 6:30P.N.. SUNDAY LOVE FEAST'AT 4 30 P M Y• y • ,, `� :,r 216 RIDGEWOODAYE IN MINNEAPOLIS; 'AT FRANKLIN -AND NICOLLET COME ALl' ARE WEL _.�.s...�.r..-i.�rrr.►_�..aT-• .y,..�i.t..y. .rr.a�.. ._... ..L,.. �.r.._f -_. ... The widespread teaching of hotho (physical) yoga in America today is prob- abl) duc Inure ICa ptuvlrlclal altitude toNald the rel!gluns Of Other lul(ure) than it is to ar, up:nlnin redness to whal- cccr wisJum the) play coma n. Yoga exercises are taught as part of YMCA physical education programs, as health sp., csuterlia, on cduc.,tlonal TV, and are ineorpulalcd intu in,litutiunal church youth aili%ities all on the assumption that these techniques are nothing more than a supcnior bland of ph)si.al condi- tioning. Yet this assuiliptiun is really the count presuniption. for while it may suit the wcular fancy to c•,pouse only that se- lected aspect (the of yoga which fils the hourgcois notiun of what yoga is wpl,oseJ to du (i.e. make a bcauliful body), the feet ,till roma ns that even ph)`iial yuoy is ii-w\iiis.,bl) bund up in the whole of Fastern religious mcta- physics. In fact, it 1, quite accurate to say that physical yoga and Indian meta- physics arc mutually inlo&j)enJent; you really can't hale une withuut the other. This puint rna) be Illustrated by referring to the two major traditional uccurences of ph) sical yoga in the East. First of all, yoga postures (usunus) evoked as an integral part of raja (royal) yoga, also known as ashlun-40 (eight - limbed) yoga. Raja yoga is one of the more highly sophisticated systems of psycho -spiritual conditioning, and all the more so because it recognices the pro- found influence of the body upon con- sciousness. (Indeed, its philosophical premise is that the body is but a crude layer of mind.) Asunu (physical postures) is indispensible as one of the eight stages of ruju yoga because the yoga pustures are themselves specifically designed to manip- ulate consciousness, to a greater or lesser degree, into ruju yoga's consummate ex• peiience of sonladlri: undifferentiated union with the primal essence of con- sciousness, 'the munist's equivalent of "God." In his definitive work on Raja yoga, Swami Vivekananda writes of usuna: "A series of exercises, physical and mental, is to be gone through every day until certain higher states are reached. Nerve currents will have to be displaced and given a new channel. New sorts of vibrations will begin: the whole constitu- tion will be remodeled, as it were.", In the context of ruju yoga, then, lite effects of the practice of asuna are recognised os certainly guing far beyond the merely physical and psychological results of Western systems of exercise. Put does it nc"%,.lrily follow that the Westerner pl.ulicinZ physical yoga will autontaliCal- ly (lave his or her cur�sciuu,ne,s nlanipu r ___. :.. a .. ........ ...f r.. .1:, ... L .._ y c (D" ej" a 0- %.'_ -_. _.:, .�_. ------ !:- _..,1 kananda, in comparing asuna to hutho, summarily disnli,ws the latter as having no real worth at all: "This portion of yoga (usuna] is a little similar to /lathy yoga, which deals entirely with the physi- cal body, its ainl being to make the physi- cal body very strong. We have nothing to do with it here, because its practices are very difficult ... and, after all, do not lead to much spiritual gluwlh.'" II is This reputation, as well as the ready availabil- ity of certain teachers of hatha who would perpetuate it, which makes it easy for a Westerner to presume to use the techniques of yoga as but another form of physical self-cultue. But, in reality, neither Vicekananda's partisan snobbery nor a lotus<alt full of hutha gymnasts can mask the fact that hutiod Is Classically understood in much the sante way as raja yoga. In fact, the classic esuleric hand- book of hathu, the Hatha J'ugu PruJiPika by Yoga Swanti Svatrilarania states entphatiC.tlly in the second and third s/o- kus: "Ilarulg 1ht15 solenutly saluted his master, Yogi Svatmarama now presents hathu vid)'a't'id)v n wisdom) solely and exclusively for the attainment of ruju yoga. fur those who wander in the dark- ness of conflicting creeds, un.Ible to reach to the h.ights of ruju yoga, the nl,:rcilul Yogi Svalntarama bac lit the torch of hotha wisdom."''I he nlc.uliug hcle Could not be more pl.rin. The techniques of huth.i are given ,rl a, to prep.11c .I llrl s,ln's ..........uu.. .. L., Ill.- All 11.•1 c,.•1_u •IlV,1iS J to Rata yoga. Howe,ct for arose " praclicc auislJC Ufa loldi LIWIik Uf ,1''i: ClhlirVi, Ili _.l ��� i .�..`.'i •. .. Yoga SU Ie't)" Il ,.11,a. for lCa.l then) up we11: "IndcrJ, frul', tllc pt,,;.., of Hitha Yoga, %ilhout a p!` i,.r V11:''; J?ilp1If1U Ilii Ilnl',j ...Illi itt.li .fI1J (ual debvi lallvr, Ilia) ullli' •t cur."` Ilow Yuba Works The typical ntiJJlc<la,s titi'ca, r.cr, 1.:p.' ing )oga classes ..I (he 1 MCA, nu idea of the ho'•s's and wt-.) 's of seeming efficacy. In the tre•J tio,..11 andel standing, has a Ic.,t deal Inure to du %011 the Ilr.,ttltlollefIf111S1- ble, "subtle" b,J), th,,n it d„r_ w tt, tl.c flesh and bunes cast nlusJc: s.J„": it. While yotj due's pulpa►: to first of ail work on the m!Jscular, glandular, anj physical nervous s)stcros, its real intpurt, as Danielou says, is as "a pracess of con• trol of the gross bad) which aims at free- ing the subtle body."' This subtle body is extremely complex, but can be supern- eiatly described as consisting of 72,(JuJ invisible psychic channels called nuJ;s, which constitute an otherafimcnsional body which directly corresponds to the physical, or gross, body. The subtle bud) is connected to the gross bud) at scleral points, with the seven predominant ones located at distinct points ranging from the base of the spine to the top of the head. These are called ihakrus, and they are believed to control the various aspects of the eonsciau�rle55 of the IndA1Jua1. Physical yoga finJs its most rrf,rleJ cx- pression when it teaches postures v hich bring various channels within the subtle body into a specific alignment with one another and thus alter the consciousness of the practitioner in a specified way. Whether or not this sort of thing is ac- tually going on (and there seems no solid Biblical reason fur saying it's not) it is int• purtanl to undelstand that physical yoga, according to its classical definition,, is in- herently and functionally incapable of being separated from Eastern rclitiIOLJS metaphysics. The Western practitioner who attempts to do so is operating in ig- norance and danger, from the yogi's vicw- point, as well its from the Christian's. I Rdia Yu,Iu by Swami Vivekenjidi. 1.. n-'- kriahna Vi�Ainanda Center, New Yuri.; IJ.)i; pp. 22.23. 1Ibid.; p. 23. S rt,e Ytig.; of Light Halloo Yuy.r Pru,Iti'" Ll. lijo,lated from Sxi,krr1 b1 ILrna-L'Irr.h K kef; IIjn,Lltrd Irum Ccimin b)' Flst Ped-r.•r; Coyjiii,i t 1-171 tt l.i.•, jr•.1 Il:, r_ in,., S"' I U: 0,. t 111 10 ll' 111 tli')I l.l! )Ut I.: (I.l' (...•. kith,) ).,t;J 13..au, of Hi,1r:,(,rc,r.1 .,l>uu in Ir�id, pati,,: )08.1 fi,l; Plulc I.1!!rn 'If llu rrpul�, htillb �umiJrtcJ ,i br,»e pli)�i�a! JAJLIit�c w thOut spiritual 11 UC Vivc of (r(I)�Ik Al t1,ll ril Il, Vii Itic .�,'II l• luai yr ku),d O.Ilh X11 )Q�j i� tirl•icfurc called 'Ihc I,1dJcr �v��) P.O. faux 4IW; berkele), CA 94704 Spiritual Countedelts Projvc.t , .� Tel. t415: 548.794, .T- V Ln 1:L., ?aGCaJoll,NNZ11ti a,G tia ti^ O f4 n• .O Ov W G O u O 4Gi o I w s Ln. o A v a > a .O a O � A E A O a C a >> a s ... t..0 a O 'O O a .. a —: G E O .. N C CG p a m := G m a a i to a a o. `a io 3 E G Ci CO .� Q. to >„ .. c 0i axi a s X L .. a G O ^C a �: G -: O ..' to u a �' .O G 3 ::. to 0 to t L a G .�L R yy ev > F• a u m m -o �. LL to LL 0 �,' a l y c y • bo w r O O y Q. • 'C ta. G O w CM O • R 'B •" „ N to a10 a I a C �% ,G �? u 'S3 3 ��. Low O >' ra. N 'O G a = a 'a ; O to ' 'p G .G •a C "V cc rz � o p 'p Ts 00 O rd E > tE6w C y OE N YaE E IC'3 N O .. O 3> H E> a a a .c is a .. a a a .G .� ... O C 0. -� G ea °A CO C .. 'O E a a >> a rs o' N G o C > O r 0 A v v G a X o0.O m to O" 4 a LL p A exNt S . . .to S...`ni � � a p O O O O O R v O to S> >, w" E s i E .i I O o N a e O >.X •% m' ec G , O 4Gi o I w s Ln. o A v � A E A a >> a s ... t..0 a O 'O O a .. a —: G E v, is .. N C CG p a m := G m a a i to a a o. `a io 3 E G Ci CO .� Q. to >„ .. c 0i axi a s X L .. a G O ^C a �: G -: O E 3 0 a to t o �' .O G 3 ::. to 0 to t L to .N _ OO i u • o w L¢ �,' a l y c y • f G e a s .:. eyo a •" „ N to a10 a I CON a v a �' S S Fa. v• >' ra. N 'O G a = a 'a ; O to ' 'p G .G •a C "V °atFC-. oeo0 -=`a � o p 'p ~� O o Eteo V n G a G o x > tE6w C y OE N YaE E IC'3 .o] I ai a a a CS C y C wi>_ G v a> or h 'C "0 0 � .U) � 'L3 :. 4Gi ttvn E .^ `v >°,�� � u aGi a L to mC Gr c CU v = c O o we L M ► Zor o` o -c E a E- a o E ato �.. lull V) a o d N 3 ., o. O 0 C N y:" W C•vT1 ....�ev6r u v m e c — m L C .. O a., � •C V w e '� 'C .Y � u m C C �' N C L ao> �+ �° mcNyao smo Fs -3E y T7 Q d ,�. 'V u O ti to O aof d C fa to E bo d m C 4! N N 0 M emo vc�� Nm y Nc oN ^ A oV a`, t3aa sC400 0 C v E cDap C >rs C L p r E V) _3 c •=' d¢ v d u —y m N C a ° 1 o m v d u C C� ° .. _ N-°Ec`EcnEm oar E3myc 30, °'° a;'�°eDLZE� eonc'�� E.� m Y" rs u q u � m C y N 1> >, m v m :: 'W y u u a C -a+ m C Su E O .= r= O to W p O L N fl m V O m to N m N> w a. E to �.. d¢ '� O o E° O> v u 0-0 d m L u y 7 3 u d y m C O C Y L NY s h �.a•� o v o.:.Y 3 c �'� E v >�vE^�v3i v x► c m 1 e.-cn o a,,L>'V p A_o y O 3 ;, E OD y ` 'O >, •y m O ' C Lpp •E O m .m m _7 'p ►. ,� E run y A —y ai O— ''o W w.0 A C •� j L p .. y Y .O v Vii .a m m m L d` to 0 c O a, °D z c m o n.5 w > ds dam'^s ��3 a E> o•. H >>`,c� N d C of = p, ` 7 'II 4+ O A m O a' •C 3 'O e m W 3 .r L OCD �c ac c m OLTP MO °' C C E L7 N O ►>. a+ h L s a b O - �' .� p E r°n O L p C `—� v° d OD ._G ¢ N¢ 3 h A Ts m e E m d o° c c 3 ��.do oLO m �c>° m .. c q 0.02v, m p ., m E OG ► T7 7 u° m 3 A t o c m Z c a m c N r vocE °ic °m Otmo'0 ac �0 )o d o c r'w R = N cn0 am cts, c m 0 os Vn ►. ",:..^.F� m:° >v� m:;s a G 0.h a to >, _ _ .a a N V 0! L L S N a Y, G a V s i � > .^ �.• JE,E", -F i Z W a C a� v, Z Z � Z C a v �,, rv.' t c C L •� v .N i A i E G a v. O0p° Q A? O N? O a' a ,G U p` C L1 > E v E y 7 O c v, v d_ C Z Ti 'v : •`• is C? Z v a G ._La _ 0 E Z O oc C a m �+ .^ S E c A G o a a E N L ?� o ALV i `� O o �" L R v a a, La.. A t N N ;� a u Z c r? Z v OC a s d E dcc,°oo co��c cctioc3°� NEa t, —o E;a°aoa i a° o"0 'v L c .. > 3 o c a a 7 v, c a c c cn s F- a N a 3 G ,G. E._ a v� o o i .O ` a ais O` .D t v. = N u .�. - a a m v C a L a a u. os S C C G a N S G s a ^ s C L v c, 3 c c a s ;G oc N a 3 c: U?7 a L L °' N a— a a i? a CC C p t E° �: o v, i C d a i 'eo L _> '� i N ° '> a a E G .T. i i 1 "° a > s _ m c o = G C a> �p = s a s a .c x A o oc, .v c � o c C v ° `v c a 0.'► � v t r° a S G u C o 3 •°J a � E •° a .� S _a •5 a 'n O i E c N a a O_ L C _ i CCL G r C C R d G E° co ` `= C c u— o E s (z U " L a a E a ?` AL o G m a '"' v ° N a •°� a ° G a Es, a E . aL u --L a E Cu C `p ° ti v 3 a .ao ; L a _ a _ a" a _a Enn Ci ev^. ." a o a= v c T 'v G. 3 a 'C c O O C, > �' = G G Z L ti°>_> E a ti 3 d v_ Q a G s a s .p v v E L E N a v a a s C Z O p O N a 0 O a O s �- ca.o� c°oo >, a ... f-• a s N L E= a N ti N v. S u o A a E a N m ea i s ,, d i o N a '� 3 d N a W i o �_, a eo(os Q °' a a L' ac, 0 3 h n U•`- N� >° s� d o c E rs '° o MCI E c. 3 COG i a a 3 .!! G> a y c C A W C to C L, '- �° C ass 3= 's a o a AE•vf,Ln ,V a "c E= to ' u X oQc .g vii a .�• ti t o G Z C A a uao� • E O v aN Ou X` O > 0 .0 ;P ¢ E G s ic E .0ua a G 0.h a to >, _ _ .a a N V 0! L L S N a Y, G a V s i � > Q+ `>� a E i p G Z G E a 'O A i E G a v. O0p° Q A? O N? O a' a ,G 7 O m .0 C z to 'fl a s O Nr. Q a C d Z a 'n F' a a 7 p A d .; La.. A a O Z v OC s d N' .0 2 G G 7 .� O� �. v C E `p tc >•.'C ° E t a .GY W S v. a O G 'n n N S p >_ >_ C X N a �, x CCC 3 N` G ° c a L o y> c a a> a E a a m rs 6iai s 7 o a LCC a u p a C p �: o v, i C d a i 'eo y eGa ti= L E i W N O_ C v O a �a a a a d 7 C eGo 7 c ` a a N° O L C N N d Z !n 'O a G � GLS G > X a Y1 a .� S a i G .� G y 'C c a er a a _� a . Y C Y C C C, G t R d G .� a a 'U s d 'D ea CSX oC v C ver p I d C a R i G a p p a CL t •_ X d a °��N+a=E a 3 cNLc Udc c'�c-° 3o.Ga�s=yc °..°t o� vca oc'flsg�;,i ° �- ca.o� c°oo >, a °a < mw r- an oc v O c a s ;; m s a ,N �^ .p C L i = N rs o f ver p a C N outs h o v sp v a O. p •E d> u ,V a L C C C a A a c v= > y a s C OL' a ¢ a '•' m G s u ,G .0 o 7 N O �: i to a 7 �.., a 7 C Z_ a o :� a VI 0 owl `� v ^ a O L N c ct s i N U a c 2 bo =_ a d o '3 •N >, a a_ .or° ayi a N° W O a a .. �."' E X A G s s 3 a 0 N a p> a y a s vai a' L a C s p E W a .0 G OCb a N C v N 3 v ._ t v. L° a ie � 1° Ems-; E E c .3 D` 'G° ? s H° as c N E c E L .� CE `.WO a-3° E P 2 U„ c 'i E C .:: E R c+ a .. o CC u E p v a E �° E w E v` 5 °: Y 3 v c.a�=(�� �iL �'i�L ° Yoga: An Ancient Technique for Restoring Health Judith Hanson Lasater, Ph.D. Yoga is a wonderful way to promote fitness, flexi- bility, and relaxation. It can be practiced in groups or alone. It has been found to steady the mind, calm the emotions, and tone the body. Basic elements of many yoga systems include asanas, or stretching postures, pranayama, or breathing purifications, and some form of meditation or internal centering. These elements, as well as various individual yoga systems, are elabor- ated upon in this article, which demonstrates that yoga is of universal appeal, not limited to Eastern culture, "Having mastered the body by means of the Yogic teachings, so that it becomes a fit habita- tion for the soul; having the senses, emotions, and mind under control, the wise person dis- cards the worn-out sheaths of desire, fear, and confusion and passes into the state of enlighten- ment and freedom." Bhagavad Gita ealth is just beginning to be studied in the West as a posi- tive state, something to be sought and maintained for its own sake, rather than as the absence of disease. Current stu- dents of health are rediscover- ing some old concepts and philosophies about health, some of them Eastern. One such philosophy is yoga. Actually, yoga is more a technique than a philo- sophy; it is a practice of the principles of the Indian philosophical system of Samkhya, as well as an appli- cation of some of its basic premises. In practice, yoga is an applied science of the mind and body. Practice and study of it help to bring about a natural balance of body and mind in which the state of health can manifest itself. Yoga itself does not create health; rather, it creates an internal atmosphere which allows the individual to come to his own state of dynamic balance, or health. History of Yoga The term yoga has been bandied about for so many years in Western cultures that it has almost lost its meaning. The word is Sanskrit; it derives from a verbal root, yuj, meaning "to yoke or join or fasten or hamess, as in horses to a chariot; to concentrate the mind in order to obtain union with the Universal Spirit; to be absorbed in meditation."' The major systematic presentation of yoga was made in the Yoga Sutras, or more formally the Yoga Aphorisms of Patanjali, in approximately the second century B.C. The literal meaning of "sutra "is "thread"; Patanjali's work is a collection of many such threads, short terse sentences which convey the barest mini- mum of teaching about yoga. The rest was to be learned from a teacher in person. Little is known about Patanjali; he was supposedly a physician, Sanskrit scholar, yogi (one who practices yoga), and teacher who lived in India. Some authori- ties believe that he was more of a cataloguer than an author, and that he did not so much originate as col- lect and edit the teachings, which were already tra- ditional.2 But it is interesting that a physician was so greatly concerned with philosophy, since this is evi- dence that he, and perhaps many others at that time, considered one's outlook on life to be related to one's health. Patanjali is traditionally credited with being the originator of the yoga system. It is relatively unim- portant whether he actually did originate it, because, whether he was author or editor, his Yoga.Sutras are the purest presentation of yoga available, and offer valuable aid to the student.3 The Yoga System One basic assumption of the Yoga Sutras is that the body and the mind are part of one continuum of existence, the mind merely being more subtle than the body. This is the foundation for the yogic view of health. The interaction of body and mind is the cen- tral concern of the entire science. It is believed that as the body and mind are brought into balance and health, the individual will be able to perceive his true nature; this will allow life to be lived through him more freely and spontaneously. 36 Illustrated by Nidra Rosenthal Photos by Chris Wentworth Lasater"Yoga Yoga first attempts to reach the mind, where health begins, for mental choices strongly affect the health of the body. Choices of food, of types of exer- cise, of which thoughts to think, all affect the body. Most Westerners live in a state of constant physical tension, which reflects the mental tension within them. Typically, the Westerner tries to reduce physical tension without first trying to observe or change the mental patterns from which it arose and will arise again. In order to still and observe the mind, Patanjali presents a system called Ashtanga Yoga, or the Eight - Limbed Yoga. These limbs represent all the aspects of the system. The first two limbs that Patanjah be- gins with are the fundamental ethical precepts called yamas ("rein, curb, or bridle," here used to mean "self-control, forbearance, or any great rule or duty"), and the niyamas ("a minor observance"). He contin- ues with the third limb, the basic practices of asana ("staying or abiding," here used to mean conscious movements, termed "postures" in the West), and the fourth limb, pranayama (pro = to bring forth; na = the eternal mystical vibration; ya = being that; ma = to measure). In practice, pranoyama is the measuring, control, and directing of the breath, and thus of energy within the organism, in order to restore and maintain health and to promote evolution. The fifth limb of the system is pratyahara ("drawing back or retreat"), here meaning withdrawal of the senses from attachment to external objects. These five external, physical yogic practices are followed, in Patanjali's system, by the three internal limbs of yoga: dharana ("immovable concentration of the mind"); dkvana ("profound and abstract re- ligious meditation"); and samadhi ("putting together, joining, or combining with," here referring to the union of the contemplating being with the object of contemplation). These first definitions indicate a pathway which leads to the attainment of physical, ethical, emotional, and psycho -spiritual health. Yoga in no way seeks to change the individual; rather, it allows the natural state of total health and integration in each of us to become a reality. Physical Health From Yoga Yoga affects the health of the body in many ways, perhaps most importantly by changing the way we think about our bodies. As we practice the asanas, we become more sensitive to our weaknesses and strengths; we become more aware of our areas of tightness, and of our areas of free and easy movement. This increase 3- orawr:reness can help us make health choices tha: A,i! affezt us profoundly. For example, as the bod% is stretched and used, the muscles alternately contras: and relax, the joints are gently stimulated and beg;:-, to move more freely, the muscles cease to restrict the free movements of the joints, the circulation to such areas as the discs between the vertebrae is improved, and the body is generally "tuned up." "Life is move- ment and movement is life.s4 As we begin to move and use our bodies, we become more aware of OUT health, and begin consciously to choose better nutri- tion and more exercise, which are badly needed (most doctors would say) by the average sedentary Ameri- can. As another example of how awareness can affect health, let us examine one of the first postures, Tada- sana, or the Mountain pose. The student is instructed, as he or she stands erect, to become aware of where he places his weight—perhaps too far forward or back- ward—of how he uses his spine, of the position of his head. As he becomes more aware of the imbalances in his standing posture during class, he becomes more aware of how he stands during the rest of the day. Backache and shoulder tension are often created by unbalanced posture; as we become aware of how we are using our bodies, we are better equipped to change the ingrained habits which may be causing our ten- sion, discomfort, and lack of energy. The physiological changes caused by the practice of yoga have only recently begun to be documented by Western science. Preliminary findings have re- ported such data as: reduced blood pressure; lowered pulse rates; beneficial changes in the fat level of the blood, and in stress hormones and thyroid hormones; regulation of menstrual flow; elimination of stress incontinence; reductions of joint dysfunction and pain; increase in the range of normal joints; and a general subjective feeling of increased well-being.' Although yoga is widely used as a palliative for various physical problems—with varying degrees of success6—it is much more effective when used to create a basic attitude toward health, namely, that the individual can control his or her own health. Yoga restores a state of balance in the body, in which the body can heal and restore itself; yoga is a too] to create a harmonious milieu in which the body, in its infinite wisdom, can attain a health which is radiant and unceasing. Finally, one of the most important aspects of any health program, especially in the tension -racked West, is relaxation. Yoga classes generally end with 5 to 15 minutes of conscious relaxation. This state differs from 36 sleep in that the mind is aware of the process and is not at all dulled; in this asana the student is poised midway between wakefulness and sleep, with the body relaxed and the mind receptively alert. This regular practice teaches the art of relaxation, which, again, may be extended into everyday situations where life demands an intense response and yet an alert, focused mind. Mental Health from Yoga Mental health is another specific goal of yogic prac- tice. Many Westerners believe that yoga demands withdrawal from interaction with the world. On the contrary, as the 33rd Sutra of the second chapter of the Yoga Sutras states, one who practices yoga must interact fully and lovingly with those around him. It is only in a relationship with another, intimate or casual, that one can learn the nature of one's attach- ments, needs, and fears. A close relationship, for example, might teach one about jealousy and how it shapes one's view of the world. Much self-knowledge is gained by confronting external situations where im- pediments to internal peace are manifested. Salute to the Sun Lorin Piper Yoga teachers often say that if you do only one asana a day, it should be the Sun saluta- tion. This is a series of 12 poses linked by a continuous flowing motion, and accompanied by five deep breaths. Do this series at least twice in a row, more if you desire. As always in yoga, do it slowly and consciously. 1. Stand up straight with your feet to- Section I1: Healing Systems/Oriental System . Another premise of yoga psycholoD, is that emo- tional stability is the first prerequisite for both mental and physical health. As the constant and discipline,' practice of asana, pranai,ama, and deliberate relaxa- tion begin to bring the student's organism into bal- ance, the periodic emotional storms that occur in everyone's life will come into clearer perspective; and the student will be better equipped to observe and deal with situations that may be precipitating unneces- sary problems. By learning to watch the movements of the body and the breath, the practitioner of yoga is brought directly into the present moment; this con- tinual refocusing on right now is supremely necessary if one is to let go of past patterns of rigid and neurotic behavior, which limit the full expression of creativity and the enjoyment of life. - Finally, the student of yoga learns to take things more in stride, to accept the ups and downs of life with a little more detachment, but not with less interest. He will simply accept them more calmly, so that his health is not interrupted by emotional ten- sion or imbalance. As the body's health improves, the undistracted mind becomes a true servant of the creative intelligence which lives in everyone. gether and your palms together in front of you. Relax and begin to inhale. 2. Continue inhaling as you raise your arms up and back over your head, arching your back slightly. 3. Exhale as you bend forward and touch your hands to the floor in front of you. Keep your knees straight and let your head hang relaxed. 4. Inhale as you move your right leg back, letting the knee touch the floor. Extend this leg back as far as possible. Keep your hands and left leg in place, the left leg bending in the Y Lasater,'Yo,,a Asana and Pranayama: Physical Steps to the Mind But how can these principles of mental balance be concretely applied to one's life? Yoga stresses the very powerful tools of asana and pranayama as a way in which the mind and body can become more fully integrated—and this is another definition of health. Western psychology and medicine are fond of separating the body and mind, and of making of them two different aspects of the individual. Science speaks of psychosomatic and somatopsychic diseases. In an Eastern view this would not be correct; rather, it would seem that the body is merely the concrete manifestation of the mind. This concept holds tre- mendous potential for the psychologist who is willing to recognize the interconnection of body and mind as being literally true. In the Rest, it is considered that the human embryo begins life as a physical organism; from this life comes the formation of the brain and, finally, the development of the mind. Eastern views disagree, holding that the consciousness associated with mind manifests through the brain and, from that, to the physical body. movement. Lean your head back and look up between your eyebrows. 5. Exhale, and place your left leg back next to the right, pushing your buttocks up into a triangle and letting your head hang relaxed. Exhale completely. 6. Holding your breath, lower your body to the floor, touching your chin, chest, knees, feet, and hands to the floor, and keeping your buttocks, thighs, and abdomen lifted. 7. Inhale, relax your lower torso, and bend your upper torso and head backwards until your arms are straight. L 39 ASON.2 is one way in which the student can, exre!- ience the unity of body and mind. The second chaptc- of the Yoga Sutras, verse 46, defines asana as that which is comfortable and easy, as well as firm. It is dynamic position, in which the practitioner is per- fectly poised between activity and nonactivity, be- tween doing and "being done by" the posture. There is a corresponding mental balance between movement and stillness. Indeed, Patanjali teaches that each pos- ture reflects a mental attitude, whether that attitude be one of surrender, as in a forward -bending asana, or the strengthening of the will, through backward - bending postures, or the creation of a physical prayer with the body, as in the practice of Padmasana, the well-known lotus posture. Asana is a two-way street. Once the mental atti- tude has been created, it can then be spontaneously expressed as an asana; if one takes on the external form of an internal attitude, soon that attitude moves through body into mind, thus creating it there. Which- ever way one works, the results are the same. Asana is thus both a preparation for meditation and a medita- tion sufficient in and of itself. Those who think that 8. Exhale as you fOTM the triangle again by pushing your buttocks up. 9. Inhale as you move your right leg forward until it rests on the floor between your hands. Extend the left leg back and lean your head back as in pose 4. 10. Exhale and bend forward until your hands touch the floor. 11. Inhale and stand up, stretching your arms back over your head, arching your back Slightly. 12. Exhale as you bring your hands down in front of your chest and relax. C 40 a practice like asana is unnecessary or unimportant in a healthy life are making the mistake of dividing the mental and the physical, and are failing to see the beauty of life expressed through the form of the physical body. Another advantage that asana has in helping to restore and maintain total health is that asana is direct, nonlinear, nonrational, and nonverbal; hence the compulsive "chattering monkey" of the mind can be temporarily quieted during the practice of asana. This quieting encourages the balancing of the mental functions of the individual, since it allows the intui- tive aspects of the mind to have free play; it is this aspect of brain functioning that has been indicated in the electroencephalographic biofeedback experiments during meditative states.' From this viewpoint, we can see how asana can help overcome the perennial dichotomy of Western psychology, i.e., the seeming difference between the body and the mind. Patanjali does not recognize this split, as can be seen from the way in which he joins the movements of the body and the evolution of the mind in his presentation on yoga. He begins his book with a discussion of the higher states of conscious- ness that become available to the yogi when body and mind have become perfect vehicles for them. In fact, the state of samadhi requires that the practitioner be in excellent health, both mental and physical; other- wise the human system would be unable to stand the stress of losing its normal mode of perceiving reality. In addition, Patanjali suggests that the asana and the prana}yanra practices will bring about the desired state of health; the control of breath and bodily pos- ture will harmonize the flow of energy in the organism, thus creating a fertile field for the evolution of the spirit. In the Sutras, the practices of pranayama and asana are considered to be the highest form of purifi- cation and self-discipline for the mind and the body, respectively. The practices produce the actual physical sensation of heat, called tapas, or the inner fire of purification. It is taught that this heat is part of the Process of purifying the nadrs, or subtle nerve chan- nels of the body (perhaps akin to the acupuncture meridians), which allows a more healthful state to be experienced and allows the mind to become more calm. The Remaining Limbs: A Movement Inside The last four limbs of yoga become increasing- ly more subtle in their application to the psycholoR),. of the individual. The fifth limb, termed prat -vahara, is the natural outgrowth of the strength gained from Section I1: Healin_ Systems /Orient a! System, the practice of pranayama. Protyaharo is the conscious and willful withdrawal of energy from involte:ne:.t -Mth the senses. This does not mean that the indivi- dual loses interest in the world, but rather finds hLnn.,- self less attached to the outcomes of various happen- ings. What pratyohara does mean is that the constant disturbances of the mind caused by the senses are no longer so powerful, because the person is less attached to the sensations as they arrive. These sensations are not only the physical ones, but also the "mental sen- sations" or emotions, which include love, hate, fea-, Just, jealousy, greed and desire. The yogi does not cease to love; instead, his love becomes more pure, because he expects and asks for less and less in return. Perhaps an example will clarify this statement. Every person has experienced love in some form. But many have become angry when the object of their love did not return it, or did not act as the lover ex- pected. It was the disappointment of these expecta- tions which produced the anger, a mental sensation which is the opposite of being in the state of pratyo- hara. As one's love is purified by disciplined practice, it can be freely given, because it no longer matters whether the person receiving the love acts "lovable." No expectations are created; so none can be disap- pointed by the beloved. This is freedom in rel_�tion- ship. Ironically, because the yogi is free of the attach- ments associated with loving, he can love much more freely and deeply than can one who is bound up in the "What is it going to get me?" attitude toward love. This concept of protyahara thus has important psychological ramifications. Much of our emotional imbalance can thus be seen to be self-created. A per- son who is governed by powerful sensations coming in from the outside can never achieve the inner peace and tranquility which most people seek; instead, he or she will waste much mental and physical energy in trying to suppress unwanted sensations and to heighten other sensations, and in trying to manipulate other people into providing desired sensations. The lack of freedom from this constant upheaval in energy will eventually emerge as a physical or mental imbalance, which someone else, usually a doctor, will term a disease. Patanjah says that the above process is at the root of human unhappiness and uneasiness. When people seek out yoga, hoping to find that inner peace which is so evasive, they find that it was theirs all along. In a sense, yoga is nothing more than a process which enables us to stop and look at the processes of our own minds; only in this way can we understand the nature of happiness and unhappiness, and thus trans- cend them both. One who has thus overcome this 4? duality will thereby live in the dynamic state of peace and health. The sixth limb of the system is dharana, roughly translated by the word "concentration." This is not the forced concentration of, for example, solving a difficult mathematics problem; rather it is a form of meditation which could be called receptive concen- tration. When the mind has become purified by the practices detailed above, it becomes able to focus ef- ficiently on one object or point of experience. If the yogi chooses to focus on a center ("chakra") of the inner energy flow, he or she can directly experience the physical and mental blocks and imbalances that remain in his or her system. This ability to concen- trate depends on excellent psychological health and integration and is not an escape from reality, but rather a movement toward perception of its true nature. The next limb is termed dhyana, or meditation. This differs from dharana in degree rather than kind. In dhyana, the consciousness of the practitioner is in one flow; it is no longer fixed on one object as in concentration. The distinction can be further made in this way: dharana is to dhyana as the individual drops of water are to the continuous flow of the whole river. The final step in Ashtanga Yoga is termed samadhi. In this state, it is said, the object of the meditation and the meditator become one. This is like the unity of process; it is like the union of function and struc- ture. The polarity of viewer and viewed, like the polarity of opposites, is no longer relevant; the mind does not distinguish between self and non -self, or be- tween the object contemplated and the process of contemplation. Importantly, samadhi does not mean the "destruc- tion of the ego," as is often thought by the Western psychologist. To the contrary, the perfection of sa- madhi embraces and glorifies all aspects of the self by subjecting them to the light of understanding. The person capable of samadhi retains his or her indivi- duality and personhood, but is free of the emotional attachment to that personhood which so dominates the consciousness of other people. What could be a more perfect expression of total health than this inte- gration of the physical, mental, and spiritual aspects of the self, with a correspondingly clarified and simplified perception of the world. Yoga: Unity in Variety Just as there are many types of people, there are many types of yoga. Besides the Ashtanga Yoga of Patanjah, perhaps the most famous forms of yoga are Section II: Healing Systems!Oriental System, those described in the Bhavagad Gita, the best-knov.-- part of the epic Mahabltarata The Gita mentions Karma, Jnano, and Bhakti }'oga These are not so much different types of yoga as they are different applications of yoga to daily life. In addition, Hath, Raia, Tantra, and Integral Yoga have been popular, especially in recent times in the U.S. Let us examine the similarities and differences among these various yogas, as well as their applications to health. Raja Yoga starts with the mind; its goal is a com- plete stilling of the mind, so that the light of the in- dwelling spirit may shine out. It makes use of asm.a and pranayanta, and some consider it merely another name for Ashtanga Yoga. Tantra, sometimes called Kundalini Yoga, is the worship of God as the Divine Mother; it stresses the union of the male and female aspects of the individual, as represented by the archetypal male and female, Shiva and Shakti. The goal of Tantra is the union of dynamic and static aspects of personality; it is quite different from practices which dwell on renunciation and desirelessness, and sees no contradiction between Nature and Spat. Jnana Yoga stresses the use of the mind to trans- cend the mind; it works with that part of the human mind which strives incessantly to know and under- stand. It trains discrimination; it is eight -limbed, and its other seven limbs are detachment, self-discipline, longing for freedom, hearing the truth, reflection upon that truth, and meditation, which is defined as consolidation and transcendence.$ Bltakti Yoga uses the natural desire to love and be loved; the Bhakti Yogi worships God in the personal form, an approach which underlies all the world's great religions. Karma Yoga is the yoga of action. But all the fruits of the actions are surrendered; the practitioner gives his work freely for the service of others; uncon- cerned with rewards, he offers them to God. Integral Yoga, also called Purna Yoga, is the form presented by the twentieth-century yogi Sri Auro- bindo; it attempts to integrate all aspects of action, wisdom, and peace into one yoga, and is thus non - dualistic. Its practices aim at integration on three levels: psychic integration, of the various facets of the self; cosmic integration, of the aspects of the Universe; and existential integration, which comes when one fully realizes that the self and the Universe are one. Hatha Yoga has several literal translations. The underlying root syllable hath means "to oppress," and suggests the use of force or strength; this force comes from the self-discipline of practice. In addition, Lasater/Yoga Alternate Nostril Breathing Lorin Piper Alternate nostril breathing is a simple and effective method of regulating the breath. By repeating this procedure two or three times, you can begin to experience the sense of peace that yoga has to offer. Use this technique whenever you feel the need to unwind and feel more well- balanced. Rest your right thumb lightly against your right nostril. Rest your ring and little finger lightly against your left nostril. Now, before you begin the exercise, exhale slowly through both nostrils. Press your right nostril closed with your right thumb. Slowly and quietly inhale a deep breath through your left :.ostril to a rhythmic count of 5. Keeping your right nostril closed, press the left one closed. Hold the air in your lungs for 5 rhythmic counts. ha has a meaning of "sun," and tha of "moon." Thus Hatha Yoga can be understood as the integration of the sunlike and moonlike aspects of the individual; this could mean the left and right sides of the body, and hence the right and left sides of the brain. This integration would be manifested by an even flow through the body's channels of energy, and by a high level of health. Hatha Yoga includes asanas, prana- yama, and other purificatory practices, and is some- times considered to be the same as Patanjali's "tapas." Summary and Conclusion It is clear that all the types of yoga which we have explored have common philosophical backgrounds and psychological goals. The most striking common feature is the wholeness of the personality." Western philosophy has constantly been criticized for its in- ability to reconcile the body and the mind. In yoga, as taught by Patanjali, mind and body are a continuum. T 4 _� Open your right nostril and exhale throug-. it to a rhythmic count of 5. Without pausing, inhale through your right nostril to a rhythmic count of 5. Press your right nostril closed and hold the air for 5 counts. Open your left nostril and exhale through it for 5 counts. Repeat this cycle for five or ten minutes, taking care not to speed up or slow down your breathing, but to keep it at a comfortable pace. Each aspect of self is part of all other aspects. This corresponds with the definition of "holistic" currently in use. With very few exceptions (among them Carl Jung), Western philosophers have emphasized the rationally approachable aspects of human consciousness. Yoga accepts all of man's consciousness, including the ra- tional, the emotional, the blissful; it excludes none as unimportant or irrelevant. Rather, the integration of all aspects of self results in a higher whole, a ve- hicle for manifesting health and consciousness. The hallmark of yoga is transformation, not sublimation or elimination; the integrative force which character- izes yoga is manifest in every life form, and the aware- ness of this evolutionary trend, along with the choice to participate in the process, is just another definition of yoga. Rather than making the student something that he is not, yoga allows him to become more fully what he 4.; already is. Yoga intensifies the individual's conscious- ness of his perfection and health. Yoga can clearly speak with relevance to the holistic health practitioner. It teaches that to understand health and pathology in others, one must first examine oneself; without self - insight, insight into others is impossible. Health is the ability to move freely with conscious- ness from an inner focus to an outer one, to move with consciousness from a rational to a nonrational and emotive mode, to move with consciousness from a focus on material values to a oneness with the meta- physical values of the higher self. Centrally, yoga is holistic, integrative, and accepting of the inner nature of man. It is life -affirming and death -accepting. It is a process and a goal. And it is a powerful and versatile too] for creatine and understanding health and, there- fore, for allowing us to understand, help, and heal one another. Notes r Monier -Williams, Sanskrit -English Dictionary. All definitions in this paper are taken from this work. Geraldine Coster, Yoga and Western Psychology, p. 75. 3Two translations of the Yoga Surras available in the United States are those by Rammurti S. Mishra, The Textbook of Yoga Psychology, and I.K. Taimni, The Science of Yoga. 4B.K.S. Iyengar, personal communication, Berkeley, Ca., May 1976. sPaul Copeland, The Physiology of Yoga. 6 , "Recent Research of Dr. Bhole," Yoga Journal, pp. 31.33. 'Robert Ornstein, The Psychology of Consciousness. °Haridas Chaudhuri, Integral Yoga, p. 62. 9 , Integral Psychology. Section I1: Healing Systems!Oriental Svster.: Suggestions for Further Reading Mircea Eliade, Yoga: Immortality and Freedom, Translated by Willard R Trask. Princeton Univer. sity Press, 1958. Georg Feuerstein, The Essence of Yoga Grove Press; 1974. B.K.S. Ivengar, Light on Yoga. Schocken Boole; 1970. Swami Rama, Rudolph Ballentine, M.D., and Swa-mi Ajaya, Ph.D., Yoga and Psychotherapy: The Evo- lution of Consciousness Glenview, Illinois: Hima- layan Institute, 1976. Ernest E. Roods, Yoga. Penguin Books, 1968. Judith Hanson Lasater, B.A. in Sociology, A1. A. ir. Government, University of Texas at Austin; B.A. in Physical Therapy, University of California, San Fran- cisco, 1974; Registered Physical Therapist (R.P.T.), California; PhD., with dissertation on "Psvchological Effects of Hatha Yoga, " California Institute of Asian Studies, San Francisco. Instructor in Anatomy and Kinesiology, Institute for Yoga Teacher Education, San Francisco; Instructor in Anatomy for the Childbirth Educator, Holistic Childbirth Institute, San Francisco. Certified Bradlcv Natural Childbirth Instructor. Assistant Editor, Yoga Journal, published by the California Yoga Teachers Association. Has studied yoga primarily with B.K.S. Ivengar, both in the United States and in India. Has taught and lectured on yoga nationally for seven years, including presentations at the Stanford Wdical School, to pro- fessional associations, and on radio and television, Has contributed chapters to Charles Garfield, ed., Rediscovery of the Body (Dell, 1977), and to Sura R'orton, ed., Yoga Over Fifty (Devin -Adair, 1977). A 4 I f I Introduction Yoga is one of the six schools of Indian philosophy. Unlike the other schools, it is accepted not only as a philosophy but also as a science and practical method of self-unfoldment, the application of which can lead to the absolute Truth. Because of this emphasis on practice rather than theory, the other schools of philosophy —� frequently refer to and utilize the experiences of the yogis, particularly their exploration of the conscious, unconscious and superconscious levels of their being. In the history of Indian philosophy, yoga developed in many different aspects including: karnza yoga—the yoga of action; bhakti yoga—the yoga of devotion; J and jnana yoga—the yoga of knowledge. Besides the development of these different methods of spiritual practice, hatha yoga gained popularity among ascetics and those interested in the physiological conditions of the body and the control of breath. Because of its emphasis on asanas and pranayama rather than on philosophical matters, hatha yoga was not accepted as a formal school of philosophy. Raja yoga, the royal path, which is correctly called astanga yoga or the eightfold path, includes the teachings of all paths of yoga. The practice and philo- sophy of raja yoga was codified by Patanjali, approximately 200 A.D., in his Yoga Sutras, a work consisting of 196 aphorisms or sutras. The eight angas or limbs of J this path are: 1. Yanzas —restraints 2. Niyamas — observances External 3. Asanas — postures 4. Pranayama — control of breath S. Pratyahara — control of senses 6. Dharana — concentration Internal 7. Dhyana — meditation 8. Samadhi —Self -realization Patanjali describes the yamas, niyamas, asanas, pranayama and pratyahara as external forms of practice and dharana, dhyana and samadhi as internal forms. JPatanjali's teaching of raja yoga begins with the five yamas and niyamas, the moral disciplines of yoga. These disciplines are as important for the beginning student as they are for the accomplished yogi. ix r _ r In his Yova Sutras, Patanjali accepts some principles of hatha yoga, but does not describe asanas or pranayama in detail. He emphasizes concentration and meditation, the dharana and dhyana aspects of raja yoga. In the second chapter, sutra forty-six, Patanjali defines asana as "a particular posture of the body, which is steady and comfortable." In the system of raja yoga this definition applies to those postures which are used in thS_p actice of meditation. This is made clear in sutra forty-seven: "The posture is perfected, made steady and comfortable through relaxing, not forcing the effort and by fixing the consciousness I on the Infinite." The hatha yoga school treats the subject of asanas, pranayama, and other more subtle forms of practice at great length. Its exponents developed these aspects of raja yoga after Pataniali's codification of the Yoga Sutras. Approximately 1350- 1550 A.D. Swatmarama systematized and codified the science of hatha yoga in his extensive work, the Hathayogapradipika. In this classical text on hatha yoga, S\vatmarama explains that "ha" repre- sents sun and "tha" represents moon. Hatha yoga means the practice of uniting grana and apa?aa, sun and moon. "Ha" and "tha" are also symbolic expressions of pingala and ida (the two main channels of subtle enerp, in the body), of right and left, of male and female, of active and passive. Swatmarama begins the Hatha)fogapradipika by explaining that hatha yoga is a stairway for those who wish to attain the loft}' raja yoga. Thus, yoga should not be practiced for the sake of perfecting the postures only. This is a particular problem in the West where yoga has become especially popular in the form of hatha yoga. The goal of hatha yoga ultimately is to attain the goal of raja yoga. There are from at least eighty-four to one hundred and eight asanas. As such, it is not always easy to discover which postures should be practiced by begin- ning students and which should be practiced by advanced students. In this book, the writers have included those asanas which are easy and beneficial for beginning students and have paid particular attention to the needs and abilities of Western students. If students follow the practices of this book as outlined they will be greatly aided in understanding the basic principles of hatha yoga. Matthew Monscin, M.D. 4 X Attitudes, Hints and Cautions Asanas, unlike other physical disciplines, are not correctly practiced unless the proper mental attitudes are cultivated; they should be practiced with patience, determination, and joy. A number of preparations are helpful in bringing about the proper mood. • Set a specific time each day for your practice. This should be a time when you do not feel pressured into rushing through the postures. Pick a time when the likelihood of disturbances is at a minimum. It is also important to practice your postures every day, regularly. In this way you will find yourself unconsciously preparing for the postures before actually beginning them. • The most beneficial times to practice asanas are the mornings and evenings. Practicing asanas in the morning helps you remain calm and alert the entire day. In the evening, asanas relieve the day's tensions and help you to later enjoy an undisturbed and peaceful sleep. In the morning the body is stiffer, so take greater care practicing your asanas. A warm bath or shower when you first get up will help relax your muscles. Then, before beginning the asanas, practice sufficient stretching and limbering exercises. You should save the more difficult asanas for the evening. • Practice your asanas in a clean, quiet, well -ventilated area, one which is free from drafts. Wear loose and comfortable clothing; cotton or other natural materials are best, for they allow the body to breathe. It may also be helpful to have an 'asana suit' or set of clothing which you use exclusively for your practice. • Always practice postures on an empty stomach. Wait at least four hours after a heavy meal and two hours after a light meal. Do not drink liquids immedi- ately before doing postures. As we state in the introduction to the asanas, many of the postures increase intra-abdominal pressure and affect the internal organs. Prac- ticing with food in the stomach will cause discomfort and can lead to more serious problems. For this same reason we also recommend that the bowels and bladder be empty. 4 i Women should not practice asan.7s during menstruation. This is a natural cleansing time in which many physical and physiological changes occur so you _ should allow your body to rest. Practicing asanas may cause cramps and excess i bleeding. Also, during pregnancy you should check with your physician before jcontinuing any of the exercises or asanas. Do not become discouraged if your body does not respond in the same way each day. Sometimes you will discover that the posture you found easy yes- i terday is not so easy today. It takes time and regular practice for both the body and mind to stabilize. The important thing is to keep practicing regularly. Approach each day's practice as an opportunity to study anew the body's movements and capacities. Never develop a sense of competition either with fellow students or with oneself. This reduces your practice of asanas to a level of mere physical perform - ante. • Study your body and its movements. Be aware of your capacity and learn not to go beyond it. In any posture, concentrate the mind on the muscles that are being stretched and learn to distinguish between stretching and straining. Any shaking, straining, or pain indicates that either you are doing something in- correctly or that you have gone beyond your capacit} . Gentleness and regularity .J in practice is far superior to forcing the body into a posture prematurely. Let y common sense prevail. J• Let the body movements flow evenly and gently with the breath. Generally, whenever you expand the chest you will inhale naturally; whenever you bend the torso toward the lower half of the body you will exhale. Breathe evenly and deeply without jerks and pauses. The breath, however, should not become a source of distraction through over -conscientiousness; it should be allowed to flow easily and naturally. In almost all of the postures, we have recommended even, deep breathing. Breath retention is not recommended for beginners. • Follow any exertion by relaxation. The length of relaxation depends on each individual; your breathing and heartbeat should return to normal before doing the next posture. However, never allow the mind to drift toward sleep either between postures or during the relaxation exercise at the end of your postures. 1 Yama and Niyama The yamas and niyamas, the first two rungs of astanga yoga, make up the gateway through which we must pass if we are to enter the path of yoga. They are the moral foundation upon which the successful practice of yoga is built, and should be practiced to perfection on all levels—thought, word and action. We are not, however, expected to master these principles completely before beginning the practice of asanas, pranayama, and the other rungs of yoga. The yamas and niyamas are ideals whose perfection we will become aware of on increasingly subtler levels as we progress on the path of yoga. It is necessary that the increased awareness and self-control obtained in the preliminary practice of yoga be used in a positive and constructive manner, as it is only those of pure mind and heart who can attain the highest states of their being. The yamas are moral disciplines and restraints which regulate our relation- ships with other individuals. The niyamas are constructive observances designed to organize our personal daily lives. Briefly, the yamas and niyamas include: YAMA AHIMSA Non-violence with mind, action, and speech; non -hurting, non -injuring, non -harming, and not killing. SATYA Truthfulness. This refers to the avoidance of all falsehood, exaggera- tion and pretense and is necessary for the unfoldment of our intuitive, dis- criminating faculties. ASTEYA Non -stealing. This refers not only to stealing physical objects but also to taking credit for anything that is not rightly ours. i BRAHMACHARYA Literally, "walking in Brahman." Bramacharya is the control of sensual desires, allowing one to use that energy for higher purposes. M j Brah. nzachary,a is frequently translated as celibacy; however, it more properly refers to continence in either celibate or married life. APARIGRAHA Non -possessiveness. This refers to using the things of the world for their intended purposes, without a feeling that you own them or that you are owned by them. NIYANIA SHAUCHA Purity. Purify the body by eating pure, healthy foods and by prac- ticing cleansing exercises. Purify the mind by ridding oneself of undesirable thoughts and emotions. SAMTOSHA Contentment. You should not allow outside influences to disturb your inner tranquility. TAPAS Literally, "that which generates heat." This refers to those actions, disciplines, and austerities which purify the mind and the body and increase man's desire for enlightenment. SVADHYAYA Self -study. This refers to the study of the scriptures and of the internal states of consciousness. ISHWARA PRANIDHANA Literally means "surrender to the Ultimate." When you unite your individual will with that of a higher principle, all egotism, pettiness, and selfishness are removed. 7 SO 71 j Brah. nzachary,a is frequently translated as celibacy; however, it more properly refers to continence in either celibate or married life. APARIGRAHA Non -possessiveness. This refers to using the things of the world for their intended purposes, without a feeling that you own them or that you are owned by them. NIYANIA SHAUCHA Purity. Purify the body by eating pure, healthy foods and by prac- ticing cleansing exercises. Purify the mind by ridding oneself of undesirable thoughts and emotions. SAMTOSHA Contentment. You should not allow outside influences to disturb your inner tranquility. TAPAS Literally, "that which generates heat." This refers to those actions, disciplines, and austerities which purify the mind and the body and increase man's desire for enlightenment. SVADHYAYA Self -study. This refers to the study of the scriptures and of the internal states of consciousness. ISHWARA PRANIDHANA Literally means "surrender to the Ultimate." When you unite your individual will with that of a higher principle, all egotism, pettiness, and selfishness are removed. 7 :ti 4PH�FRMOV == rc = -�-H' ./ •�a. _: id's �=moi. �=..f - z, - c €1j !Ilk Jim .T fq t.••" •fes �. `S F._ r � r €1j !Ilk Jim .T fq COMMENTARIES OST TEACHING r Mrse z� cin- YouY0: By Anagan Stearns Then I first began my practice of Hatha Yoga, in 1963, I was in bad shape. I was 25 and worked for a publishing company while living in New York City. I was an intellectual, so I thought, and hadn't taken part in any sustained physical activity since the re- quired physical education classes at school. I was skinny to the point of being scrawny, and on good days I felt only half -alive. Inwardly I was ashamed of my body—not that I admitted this, even to myself. In a vague way, I felt that I was above the body. Yet, when I was growing up, I had felt inferior: I was small and poor at sports; I was myopic and bookish. But I told myself it was all right, even a mark of superiority. I wasn't like the high school jocks—the guys who wasted their time on athletics, the guys who identified with their bodies—I was above all that; I identified with my mind. Of course, there were moments when my longing to be healthier, stronger and more vital surfaced, but the wish seemed hopeless—my character was set. After a few weeks at a new sport or exercise I would lapse back into inertia, telling myself that I had no problem—not really—I was above body consciousness. Such was not the case, of course. Later it became clear to me that 1 was completely tied up in my identification with my body, but the identification was a negative one. In fact, I was just as trapped in my identification as any high school letterman. It was yoga which changed this for me, as perhaps nothing else could, since as yoga somehow had a spiritual connotation, which made it acceptable to me. Sure, it was a physical practice, but the first book I ever read on the subject let me know that it wasn't really, a physical practice. It was based on different, higher principles. So, as an intellectual, as someone sensitive and sympathetic, as someone living from the higher centers of awareness (rather than below the diaphragm), I could accept it. I not only accepted it; I hurled myself into it. Instinctively,, 1 felt that it was a way out of my trap. But like 18 any "way out," it had its own danger. It, too, could becor.:: a trap. It could have become an obsession or a crutch and ii. fact it was, at first. But that was all right since I had a lo. c` problems that Hatha Yoga seemed to help solve. It built ul,. my ego and gave me a positive identification with my bode. But then the wheel began to turn. I began to feel superior, not only mentally but physically. For example, I would tell myself (and others) that I was flexible, rather than muscle-bound; that I had true health and not just a strong physique; that my inner systems were toned up, no, just the external ones; that my energy was conser ed, rather than dissipated; and so on. The negative identifica- tion seemed to be resolved, but in fact it was not. Instead, i; was overlaid with a positive identification that was defensive and false. Deep within, there was still resignation, and despair. I think I was saved from this misfortune by two things. the first being psychotherapy. I had the good fortune to work with therapists who were able to help me see my own motives and release many of the tensions that made my identifications, both positive and negative, necessary. Secondly, I found a spiritual teacher, Swami Satchi- dananda, whose approach to Hatha Yoga is completer balanced. Consequently, over the years, I came to rely lei and less on Hatha Yoga as a compensatory practice. On, result was that I began to evaluate yoga—and those like myself who practice it—in a somewhat different light. During this time, I also had the opportunity to observe a lot. I not only taught for the Integral Yoga Institutes, but supervised the teaching and conducted teacher training programs. I got to know people connected with other organizations and broadened my acquaintance with different approaches to yoga. The more I observed, the more convinced I became that many people who go deep;% into Hatha Yoga are powerfully, if unconsciously, identified with the body. They may have a different kind of problem than I did, but they are seeking a similar kind of compensation. Of course, Hatha Yogis are not unique in this regard. It is well known, for example, that many psychologists are attracted to the profession because of their own emotional difficulties, and the same could be said of other fields as well. There is a certain wisdom in this since the solution to a problem often exists within the problem itself. In this way it is possible to work through the problem, rather than against it. However, when a person is deeply involved in something for reasons he or she avoids admitting, you may hear a certain familiar rhetoric. For example, .in Hatha Yoga, there is the person who works for hours each day to develop another inch of stretch, yet this person will tell yo - he is not really interested in flexibility at all: He interested in the spiritual dimension of Hatha Yoga; or he is exploring; or there is some other "inner" reason for the practice. It can't be the obvious one: that he craves the Yoga Journal I G , U - � E o O � m3 sod mss'' L� ref Swam] Satchidananda in Simhasana, the Lion Pose. prestige that being able to stretch further will bring (for ether we admit it or not, when we gather together it is -�n the one who can stretch furthest who becomes the center of attention). Behind such obvious vanity, there may be other, less obvious feelings. Some of these may be connected directly with the body, others may not. For example, a person may feel unattractive, or have a fear of aging, or feel profoundly worthless, as many people do. Such a person may even be inordinately modest about their achievement in Hatha Yoga, yet it is just this achievement which sustains their sense of themselves. Sometimes it is not the achievement that reassures a person, but the actual sensation produced by the practice which results in a change in energy flow in the body. Without the constant charge and release of energy, a person's mental stability may become endangered. There have always been people who maintained their stability by lifting weights or running long -distances or doing Hatha Yoga regularly. Beneath the obvious differences of these practices, there is often the same motive. This does not mean, of course, that any intensive practice is bound to be neurotic. Even when it is, as I said earlier, it can be precisely the means for facing the neurosis. Often, however, it is merely self-delusion. It is useful, though, to be able to discriminate among these possibilities in oneself and in others. From my own experience, I have found ways of doing so, ways of understanding whether some kind of trip is taking place. of these ways is very simple, obvious and yet not iious: it is to look at the face. The Face Is Part of the Body For many of us, the face is the neglected part of the bode. This is true not orl%- for athletes in general, bu; fc - the Ha -.he Yogis as well. It seems almost noel to recall t':,. the face is a par, of the bode, but people Aho are bcc. conscious, in terms of a physical discipline. tend to forg_; this. The body is beautiful, but there, perched right or. tot is something that appears to be an afterthought: a face the ; looks as if it belonged to someone else, or shoo'.'. «'hat is the purpose of Hatha Foga? The answer ca-. take mane forms: to optimize the functioning of the ir,ne- systems; to establish systemic or holistic health; to make the entire body conscious and subject to conscious contre'.; to prepare the physical -vital system to accept and regulate greater energy or consciousness; to use the body as a steppingstone to explore other, higher "bodies"; and so on. No doubt Hatha Yoga serves multiple purposes, some of which overlap, some of which are stages in a sequence. Certainly one valid description of the purpose of Hatha Yoga, at least in the initial stages, is to release tension from the body. It should be a cardinal understanding that nothing solid can be built upon a shaky foundation. In terms of the bodvmind, normal functioning must be restored before supernormal functioning can be entertained. Yet thi principle is frequently ignored. There are people who can't function well enough to keep a job, or otherwise support themselves, who want to be the Buddha right now. And there are people whose normal breathing is to a degree dysfunctional, including many athletes and people doing yoga,I who do intensive pranayama. On top of disturbed breathing patterns—of which they are probably unaware— they impose another pattern, thinking it will be beneficial. More likely, it will make their condition worse, although they may at first perceive certain temporary positive effects. The body should be relaxed, free from tension, and functioning naturally before the life energy—the pranic currents—are regulated for higher ends. But many people are not interested in this intermediate goal, in just being natural and relaxed. They are in a hurry for something more. I know I was in a hurry, and more than once I had to stop my practice, and go back to the beginning, because I had pushed too quickly. In the long run, it is quicker and more effective to proceed one step at a time. John Lennon expressed the same sentiment in one of his songs: "Children don't do what I have done/I couldn't walk and I tried to run." So let us concentrate for a while on the initial goal: What is needed for the release of tension? There are a number of body -oriented therapies which can offer helpful models in this regard. One of the best worked out, both in theory and in practice, is that of orgonomy—the science and therapy developed by Wilhelm Reich. In orgonomy, the body is seen as comprising seven functionally distinct segments, each of which may (or may not) be armored. Armoring is a term for chronic muscular contraction which holds in energy and blocks its normal flow. The purpose of Reichian therapy is the same as the initial purpose of Hatha Yoga: the complete and permanent release of armor, so that natural functioning is fully restored. Once a person has realized this natural, though rather uncommon state of relaxation and self-regulation, he or she is in a position to choose to work toward higher levels of regulation. In terms of anatomical sequence, the first of Reich's seven segments is the eyes, or more generally, the upper Yoga Journal 19 "... one good way of evaluating an approach to Hatha Yoga, or a teacher, is simply to look at the face of the person doing the poses.... " face including the forehead. The next segment is the lower part of the face, primarily the jaw and mouth. Then comes the area of the neck and throat, and so on, down to the pelvic segment. Armoring in each area produces certain consequences, both biodynamically and in terms of character. Some areas will be more armored than others, but all have to be worked on to some degree in the course of the therapy. The sequence of the work varies according the pattern of armoring in the individual.2 How does this relate to Hatha Yoga? Simply this: the face, which comprises two important areas of armoring, is largely neglected in yoga, at least as it is frequently practiced. People will stretch out the rest of their bodies to unbelievable lengths, freeing them (at least temporarily) of tension, and somehow forget their faces. Perhaps this is because the face is the reflection of the conscious mind, which is wilfully directing all this effort below. In his writings, Reich warned about what he called "armor pushers." When I first read this, I didn't know what he was talking about. But after observing other yoga teachers and students, I discovered what he meant. It is possible to release the armor from one area of the body by simply "pushing" it to another area, rather than dissolving it altogether. It is then that you get the phenomenon of the athlete—whatever his game—who has to keep training in order not to feel down. Without constantly shoving the armor around, the person may feel depressed, heavy, closed in. This can also be the case with some forms of massage. I have seen the same thing in yoga. Yoga, which is supposed to release tension, instead becomes a kind of narcotic. If it were truly releasing tension, then the longer a person practiced (over the years) the less he or she would need to do—assuming that they had no purpose beyond freeing the body of armor. But instead, I have heard advanced yogis (advanced in hyperflexibility) admit that they have to do at least two hours a day, "just for maintenance." Something is wrong here. The means has become the end. The body has become Dr. Frankenstein's monster. "And how do you feel," my wife asked one of these yogis, "when for some reason you're not able to do any poses for a few days or a week?" "I feel as if I were dying, as if my whole body were closing down and I was suffocating," was the answer. Incredibly, this person was unaware that the answer was a confession that something had gone wrong. The tension had not been released. It had just been pushed aside, temporarily, and when practice was interrupted, it was ready to move back in—to reassert itself like seven iron bands encircling the body. When I understood this, I could also understand something that, earlier, I had felt intuitively but hac r.. trusted: that one good way of evaluating ar, approa::r. Hatha Yoga, or a teacher, is simplN• to loot: at the fare cf t person doing the poses—although this is the part of t- , body mos: generally ignored. 1 remember taking a spe seminar i:-. Hatha Yoga from a teacher who could be cu., impressive when he did the poses, and who was hel. `. when it came to the mechanics of the poses and ref r,irc practice. Brit there was no relaxation in his practice—i: v, a constant effort and strain, accompanied by forced ar., unnatural breathing. I found that I could not look at his fat; for more than a few minutes because of the pain I sa•, there. Such an appearance is no accident: The face is as much a part of the body as the abdomen. Abe Lincoln once observed: Every man by the age of forty has the face he deserves. So when looking for a teacher, or at pictures in a Hatha Yoga book, I woul suggest looking at the face before choosing. I have beer. impressed by some books as long as my attention on the pictures was focused below the neck. Then I looked at the face, and I asked myself, not whether I like to do the pose like that person does the pose, but whether I would like to be that person. I say this because yoga is a w'ho'•: thing—you can't take one part of your body or your beim and segregate it from the rest. Yoga means integration, or; every level. So I look at the face, and ask myself, what is this person like, inwardly, while he's in the pose? Is he peaceful, relaxed? Or is he straining in some subtle way? Is his whole practice a humorless pursuit of the ideal? I'm sure that there are any number of teachers and books which satisfy the criteria I have outlined here. As I mentioned earlier, I myself was fortunate to find a teach whose approach to Hatha Yoga exemplifies this kind wholeness. When I first saw Integral Yoga Hatha, the thing which attracted me—and which my own practice has since convinced me of—was that Swami Satchidananda, in demonstrating the poses, looked truly relaxed, free of tension, and completely human. He exemplified the real meaning of asana: he was steady and comfortable, inward]; peaceful. The whole person was doing the pose.3 Opening The Face Many people unconsciously tense the face while doing the poses, and this is something for a teacher to look out for. I said earlier that yoga, as it is generally practiced, tends to neglect the areas of the face which can be armored, but this statement requires amplification. The problem is made greater than it need be by the oversight of many practitioners and, certainly, some asanas have a beneficial effect in this area. However, solving the problem is not merely a matter of correctly applying a traditional body of knowledge. It is my impression that the real, traditional Hatha Yoga was a forced yoga; that it was a way of using the body as a lever to catapult one's consciousness into another dimension. It was a way of exploiting the body to which it gave, at best, only an instrumental value. At bottom, it did not respect or value the body, and by extension, "this world." Both were to be transcended—the goal was "elsewhere." The classic fa of the yogi was one where the brows were contracted forced mental concentration. Traditional asanas which are beneficial to the face are Simhasana (an excellent pose which, in my experience, is 20 yoga Journal ,� fJ / ' r f� Even In a difficult pose, such as Ekpadhastrsbasana, the face, neck and shoulders should be at peace. not done often enough) and Sirshasana, the effect of which is good, though quite general. In addition to these, some modern yoga teachers have incorporated practices which directly affect the face. I have noticed that many teachers have their students do neck rolls, and in his book Swami Satchidananda advocates eye movements. (In the Integral Yoga classes, these eye movements come before an} of the poses, so that tension is released from this area first.) In addition, he has people enter extended Savasana (or Yoga Nidra) with a series of tensing and releasing actions, culminating in tensing and releasing various parts of the face. These practices are good for preventing the accumulation of tension in the face. I have found that they can be used not only for releasing daily tension, but, also, for gradually dissolving subtle and chronic contractions. On the basis of my own experiments and experience, is clear that the basic prirciples that are employed in the asanas can be extended and applied to the upper segments of the body: to the neck, to the mouth and jaw, and to the eyes. These principles are simply: isolate a particular dimension of movement of a particular muscle or organ; tense or stretch the muscle or organ along that dimension to the point where the level of contraction is encountered; hold that tension or stretch; and, coordinate this with the breath so that the underlying tension is released with the release of the breath. In so doing, the breath is never labored, but remains slow, steady, and relaxed throughout. The Neck When I work on the face independently of the rest of the asanas, I generally start with the neck. This brings additional blood supply to the head, and makes it easier and more effective to then work on the jaw and mouth, and finally the eyes. 1 have noticed that people often do neck rolls when they feel stiff in this area. It is a great temptation, and I used to do them myself. But over a period of time, I found that while they offered a momentary relief, they were in fact almost completely ineffective. Shortly after stopping. the tension would return. What I do now is to isolate the different dimensions along which the neck can move. To begin with, we can quickly isolate three: 1) backward and forward; 2) sideways (as if bringing each ear to the respective shoulder, without however raising the shoulder to meet it); and 3) twisting, or looking over each shoulder. In performing these movements, it is helpful first to stretch Yoga Journal the neck gentle up. As l mentioned before, these stret_'i : are not done in a continual mo%entent, as in calisthcni, but as asanas. In other words. you go into the stretch a7:.. hold, releasing with the release of the breath, Such hol,..,.. and breathing are the t,,%o fundamental requisites fo- T, effect:\ eness. In addition to these dimensions. there are two which are good for the neck. One is to stretcl. forward—with the ja\� out like a turtle—making sure is the neck that you stretch forward and no: the shou)ders c- chest. The other is the opposite movement, to hunch the neck down into the shoulders—like a turtle drawing ii.. Here it is desirable to hunch the shoulders. Only after completing these movements do I do s nn;e neck rolling. By now the head feels as if it were rotating on smooth ball bearings, and only now is the practice useful. Even so, the neck rolls should be done only in the follo\\inL way: Imagine that the top of the head comes to a point and that by rotating it you can mark a circle on the ceiling. Begin by rolling the head and making that circle as small a: possible—a minimal rotation—then enlarge it slowly. l; there is any tension—if you feel any "crunching" in th_ neck—do not enlarge the circle. As soon as you feel tension, stay with that size circle until the tension is released. By gradually increasing the size of the circle, you can. eventually reach the point where the head is moving freer around, like a dead weight, without any danger of damage to the neck. The neck is quite delicate, so the practice should be done with great patience and attention, or not at all. (It is an optional practice in my experience.) After slowing down gradually, stop and roil the neck in the other direction, just as cautiously as before. The Jaw and Mouth The jaw and mouth can be stretched and tensed in a surprising number of ways. The jaw can be stretched do%. -. from side to. side, and forward. The jaw can also clamp: down, tensing the masseters. For this I find it best to use a damp washcloth or something equivalent to clamp down on. The mouth, too, can be moved from side to side, and so on. as can the tongue, which is actually part of the cer ic:'. segment—functionally speaking—since it is rooted in th area of the throat. The best approach is to experiment an find the movements that work best for you. There will b more tension in some areas than others, so it is natural t concentrate on those. And again, it is not a matter cf moving the face around in restless grimacing, which i`• virtually useless, but of stretching and holding in coordination with the breath. The particular pattern of breathing that works for n• - may not be appropriate for everyone. It is up to each to find an individual pattern, but certain general principles appl in all cases. My own particular pattern is as follows: I inhale slowly and fully (a full breath provides the energy needed to work through the contraction) as I move into the stretch or as I tense; then I pause for a few seconds, holding both the breath and the stretch, but never holding so long that it requires any effort to do so; then I slowly exhale (as slowl. as is comfortable), feeling that I am sending the energy c: the breath out through that part of the body and relaxing it. I do not begin to release the stretch itself until I am a fey.= seconds into the exhalation, and then I release it slowly. As a given stretch lasts only for the duration of or. -- 2- ''Children leans very early that the face must be rigidly controlled, and the problem only gets worse as x•e grow older. '' complete cycle of the breath, I do the same stretch a number of times, on succeeding cycles. Sometimes I alternate cycles—so that I stretch on one, breathe normally on the second, stretch again on the third, breathe normally on the fourth, and so on—continuing as long as it seems appropriate. As 1 said, this is the pattern I use, but variations are possible. For instance, Magda Proskauer in San Francisco teaches a similar method of releasing tension. She has people tense on the inhalation and release on the exhalation, without an}, retention. The tensing and releasing are alternated, with a restful breath in betweer..4 In any case, the breath should be relaxed and never forced, never made to conform to any particular count. The Eves By now the idea is clear. It is the same when it comes to the eyes. The way I learned eye movements was simply a matter of moving the eyes back and forth along several dimensions (vertical, horizontal, diagonal), and then rolling them around in all directions. The effect is beneficial, but only in terms of releasing superficial tension. The basic principles of asana—that is, stretching, holding the stretch, and using the breath to release—are not applied. When they are, the release is much deeper. These principles can be applied to near and far focus as well. Of course, this practice requires more patience, more attention, and more care. The eves are delicate, too, so the approach must be cautious and intelligent. In my own practice, 1 find that restful breaths in between are particularly appropriate here. Also, without getting into a lot of complicated practices that would not be appropriate for most people, there are some general practices used in the Bates Method NE T Shirts Flom— / AGE „nue• m» .nlnlpe-.en; � �� • � l ti l 1 1 N U-1 L.- j/ 1Q7 S. 1... 0 712 !-P-9, &U2 a.ea" JPUI SII. n.OIn.+O. L. 1!- S. '6 S. S.:. 11115 Y U3 N.'n N.,, e-10 .,,.nn. it!!: A—b-nee 1L tit M•n•,., I y'y ON 811 U.", LP mt R.- D.,, 11121 M•••^.' lr IDa Nc1..• R•�. lr j]7 1.,, L]3� \�i.. n.^G iP 122 A-... %R' .,^ Iflu ,n �•nl 1! u Sn„. LP ttj J-' l/ 723 N.- a.e. LP 121 0..b�. Gn•i. s..e t co.o• t'. •-_ Oltp- .' ,n_ _Ice= a,eo.. CODE NO COLOR SIZE 0-v POSTAGE TOTAL ENCLOSED NAME ADDRESS CITY STATE ZIP 22 of eve treatment, such as sunning and palming, thl” a easily added to the stretching and roliingLig~, is natural food for the eves and darkness the natu-al res'. Tension is created in the eves la -gel\ because -e use the _ so much for detail, and because of artificial lig:~t. Sunrir, the eves helps to alleviate this. At the same tim:the e\ c s• seldom get a complete rest, even at night. Lig'-.t is t}._ stimulus for eves and most of us do no, sleep in complete darkness. This means that they are neer completell. rested, unless we take the time to palm them. All that I have said is simply an extension of yoga to the upper segments of the body—to the face. The face is a tremendous yet little suspected repository of tension.. Children learn very early that the face must be rigidly controlled, and the problem only gets worse as we grow older. The body cannot really be freed from tension unci'. the face is also freed, until the face is full} aline. What I have suggested here are not rules o- prescriptions, but notes on an individual practice. It is the result of experiment and reflection, and effort to synthesize different approaches based on a common set of principles— the principles of Hatha Yoga. I would assume that anyone undertaking a similar kind of practice would also experiment and apply these principles to their own individual situation. If they do, I would expect that the', would find what I have found: that it makes the practice of yoga deeper, more complete, and more enlivening. FOOTNOTES 1. This important and largely unsuspected fan, along with its implications, is speller out in a book titled Dr. Breath by Carl Stough (William Morrow andComp 1970). Further useful view's on this general subject are expressed by Ge Gurdjieff (l•iet.•s from rhe Real World, E.P. Dutton, 19-3) and I.K. Taimni commentaries on the sutras dealing with pranayama in The Science orYogc. Outs' Books. 1967). 2. Perhaps the best book on the subject of orgonomic therapy. both theory and prac- tice. is Man in the Trap by Dr. Elsworth Baker (Avon Books. 1967). Also, of co the works of Wilhelm Reich. published by Farrar. Straus Q Giroux. 3. Integral Yoga Harha by Sri Swami Satchidanar.da (Holt, Rinehart and Winstcn, 1970). 4. For a more detailed discussion of Magda Proskauer's approach, see Getting Ciear by Anne Kent Rush (Random House. 1973). 5. There are a number of books available on the Bates Method; my own favo ire is The Art of Seeing by Aldous Huxley (Harper. 1942). Anagan Stearns has been affiliated with the Integral Yoga Institutes since 1970. He was editor of Integral Yoge magazine from 1973 to 1976, and chairman of the National Teachers Board from 1974 to 1976. He and his wife Ganga currently direct the Integral Yoga Teaching Center In Sea Girt, N. J. T S-" -.4w— S- MIO . La a x La 6 c0,0,, V.1—, W-1, 6 Lc 81..1 PLEASE SEND $4,50 FOA CAC• T S..IAT PLUS POSTAGE 75 for Ont 6 50 can Iod c.' •o•n.1 a.elnR led 6%.1Rt U.. P:1lt! •"D.n 4,. NIt4t 10. elt..trY Iyn Del t.'I ,n D,/�•r1t Irl wltGO"�t. A•.:.'l TC SCREEN ART DESIGN 2210 WILSHIRE BLVD. RM. 185 SANTA MONICA, CA. 90403 1 06 ,4 YJ o AHIMSA IMPORTS pure coit,tn drawstnne pant,. shirty. shorts, mhes. T-shirts. hamans. woolen sha.sls. V.holes:Je onl.,. ayalluble to stores. co -or,. yoga centers. ,p,r:tudl eommunnies, nets age group, "lanrr distrihutor Gf Chinese and Tibetan carpet Free catalog asailable: 4himsa Imports 9 Creek Lane Mill Valley. CA 9J9.1 1415) itE 4499D Yoga Journal a IL The following discussion between Richard Hittleman and his students ,took place during a six-day seminar at Pajaro Dunes, California. The ,students attending were from diverse backgrounds as to religion, age, 'profession and culture, and had been involved in the study of Hatha Yoga and vedanta for varying lengths of time. This excerpt is reprinted from the transcripts of that seminar, first published fby Bantam Books (copyright © 1978) Guide for the Seeker. We have selected those parts of the dialogue that concern basic questions most students ;have about yoga and religion and, also, yoga and transcendent experiences. As 'Mort Levitt states in the introduction to the book, he found that at every workshop /"those questions which were being asked by attending students. ..were so consistently similar that they undoubtedly echoed the questions of 'seekers' throughout the world who are involved in the quest—regardless of what form this quest takes." In reading this book, we found this to be true and Mr. Hittleman's answers to be invaluable. His straightforward and incisive responses, both to difficult iphilosophical questions and to problems of a more personal nature, allow us to see just hoAr. closely aligned yoga is with traditional Western religious values—The Editor By Richard Hittleman Student:I have been very unhappy for the past few years. 1 have read that yoga, which leads to Self -realization, can help me change my life, so I have come here to learn about it. RH: There is nothing to be learned about Self. Self [atmal is your true and eternal nature. You are now and have always been Self and you can never be anything but Self. Therefore, there is no possibility of "real-izing," that is, of making the Self "real." Student: If 1 am Self then why am I unhappy? RH: Because you have forgotten your true nature and you now believe that you are a body and a mind. Body and mind are subject to endless change. That which changes gives rise to pleasure and pain, happiness and despair. Before your present unhappiness you were happy and eventually your present unhappiness will pass, only to be followed by more unhappiness at a later time. This cycle has no end. What is constantly changing cannot be real. Only that which is permanent and eternal is real. Therefore, re- establish yourself in Self. This is yoga. Student: Does this result in permanent happiness? RH: Yes, but not as you are conceiving happiness at this moment. The happiness. the bliss of Self, is not the opposite of unhappiness as you are presently experiencing it. Self -bliss [anandal transcends duality. In your present state you know- of happiness only in relation to your degree of unhappiness, and vice versa. When one resides wholly in Self, opposites do not ;:rise; bliss alone obtains. Student: How could 1 have forgotten Self if that is my tr, nature? RH: When the mind is turned outward and becomes lost in 24 Yoga Journal the %vorld. Self is forgotten. The mind flows outward because one believes that his or her fulfillment lies in the orld and therefore constantlN seeks it there. But the wise person knots better. He or she turns the mind inward. finds Self, and remains there. Another Student: if we cannot find fulfillment in the world, why does it exist? RH:NN"ho says it "exists"? Does the world come to you and say, "I exist"? No. You see the world so you say it "exists." But how do you see it? Are you seeing something that is really external and apart from you, or is the world that you see actually a projection of your mind, which then becomes lost in its own projection? Merge your mind with Self and then you will know if the world exists. The nature of the world cannot be Known until mind is turned inward and merges with Self. Another Student: You said that we believe we are a body. Do you mean that I am not a body? That it is not real? RH: Let us be clear on the meaning of real as it pertains to our yogic study. What is born and dies and is subject to continual change between birth and death is transient and hence unreal. Inherent in all that is unreal is pain, miser}, despair, and suffering. This unreality of that which is transient is contrasted in our teaching with that which is eternal, never -changing, without qualities, and beyond duality. This eternal principle is designated "Self' and "Reality." I should point out here that we will be using the pairs of opposites such as Self and not -Self, wise and ignorant, real and unreal, only as conveniences for ?iscussion. In the ultimate sense, merged in Self, no iistinction as to what is real or unreal can arise. The body, a temporary sheath in which you appear to find yourself, cannot be considered real in the sense of eternal. Since your true nature is that of eternal Self, you are not the body. The fact that your senses, nervous system, brain, etcetera, perform their various functions and interpret to you the experiences of an organism—pain, hunger, satisfaction, and so forth—does not mean that your Reality is that of the body. Anyone who has meditated seriously knows that he loses the sense of bode during meditation. When, eventually, the body dies, the Self certainly does not die. The ignorant matt identifies with and limits himself to a body, making it the focal point of existence. He maneuvers this illusory body through an illusory world, seeking happiness, fulfillment, and peace. But his quest has no possibility of success. He is like a thirsty man on the desert who, each time he sees a mirage of water, believes it will quench his thirst. He reaches out to drink and the water vanishes. That is why the wise men speak of life that is lived in this type of quest—identifying with the body and seeking fulfillment in what appears to be an external world—as filled with incessant suffering, disappointment, rest- lessness, and frustration. Student: If I am not in the body, then where am I? RH: Yes, that is the fundamental question. Find out where you are. student: How can I find out? AH: There are a number of effective techniques. They are all based upon the principle of dissolving the ego, which is also the mind. The mind, the thinking machine, the computer which I designate "ordinary mind" to distinguish L it from. Universal 'Mind—the unadulterated Inteiiige-... Self—is in constant turbulence. This turbulence is ca',!F�_ "thinking" and is extolled b�, ordinar% men. Qie;inc t: c mind, w;;hdrawing it from the world (the mirage) wh ic; projects. and tracing it to its source is what must be d Another Student: If we stop thinking we won't be ably t function. RH: Do you make this observation from your experience (The student did not reply.) RH: You believe that you are your mind; so of course you believe that if your mind is inactivated you will also become inactive. But are you actually your mind? Student: I've never really thought about it. RH: Yes, that has been the case until now. But now vo:: desire to Know Self, so now you must investigate. What you call "functioning" transpires very well, indeed, it usuall\ transpires much better, when your identification with you-, mind ceases. You must recognize that you are not your mind any more than you are your bod,:. Student: You are primarily an instructor of yoga. It must be your conviction that yoga is the best path. RH: Yoga encompasses many avenues and many tech- niques. There are the physiological and esoteric paths of Hatha and Kundalini Yoga; Jnana Yoga, which is the path of knowledge; Bhakti Yoga, the path of love and surrender to God; Karma, the Yoga of action without attachment; Raja Yoga, which is the synthesis of these and which carries the seeker to the ultimate state. Therefore, in my view, there is no path that cannot be considered yogic. Yoga is the mergence of what, at this moment, you think of as "I" with Self. Yoga is both the means and the goal of this mergence. When it is said that a person is "practicing yoga," what is meant is that he or she is using the techniques of yoga to achieve yoga. In Reality, however, there is no mergence. There is only Self. Because in one's ignorance [avidva] one has the illusion that he or she is separate from Self, we speak of "mergence." In Self there is no possibility of the existence of a separate "I." Only Self EXISTS; only Self IS. When one recognizes Self, one sees no other. What you now conceive of as the world, is Self. All creatures, people, things, and conditions in all the universes are only Self. Another Student: Does one retain any sense of individuality in the mergence? RH: Why do you ask? Student: I'm attempting to visualize what this ultimate state is like. I'm trying to feel what it would be like if I lost myself. RH:There is no possibility of "loss." Loss and gain are fantasies of the ordinary mind. But all such speculations as to what the enlightened state [samadhtl is like are meaningless and consume time that could be devoted to practice. Consider the peculiarity of what you just said: "I am trying to feel. . .something, something. . .if 1 lost myself." How many Ts do you count in this statement? There is the I who is "trying to feel" another I who may lose its "self." So there are two Ts and a self. Where did you get all these personal entities? Which of these is your real 1? your real self? Investigate. You can make this question, Yoga Journal 25 ".The physical health and well-being that are experienced through this practice are by-products. The Hatha Yoga system is primarily, concerned with the transcendence of the 7. ' " "Which is the real I?" the seed of your meditation. This questioning, seriously pursued, will reveal the illusory nature of what you cherish as "I." Another Student: Although you said that you viewed all paths as "yogic," there are many other paths Aith different names that are followed by people who may never have even heard the word "yoga." Is the goal the same in all these manifold paths, systems, and methods? RH: Yes. The means may be multiple, but the goal is the same for all. There is only one ultimate goal: recognition of Self. Another Student: Here, at the workshop, we have Hatha Yoga classes three times each day. If the body is illusory, why do we devote all this attention to it? RH: Hatha Yoga is a remarkable path to mergence with Self through the body—not the gross body, but the subtle body. As the classes proceed, you will be instructed in the pertinent details. All the physical exercises [asanas] and breathing techniques [pranayama] are practiced toward that end. The physical health and well-being that are experienced through this practice are by-products. The Hatha Yoga system is primarily concerned with the transcendence of the "I." The Hatha practice strengthens and purifies the subtle body through the techniques performed by the gross (physical) body. The objective of this process is to enable the subtle element prang to be directed into a channel [nadil where it ordinarily will not go. The entrance of the prana into this channel has a two -fold effect: first, the thoughts cease and the mind is at rest; second, a unique energy [shaktil which lies dormant in a sleeping but potentially active state is aroused. This is the energy or shakti which is designated kundalini. When activated, the kundalini is led by the student through a series of centers [chakras] and made to unite with the energy of Siva. This unification is actually the mergence of the "I" energy [the kundalini] with the energy of Self [Siva]. Thus, yoga is achieved: The 1 is dissolved in the Self -experience. Student: Do all the major religions in the world teach the way to Self? RH: All proclaim the fact of Self as God, Brahma, and so forth. Most also recognize the need for ego annihilation. However, the methods that are advanced for ego annihila- tion and Self -recognition are, in many of these religions, what I refer to as "indirect." 26 Student: Can you give us sorne examples? RH: h's unnecessary. We have no neer to contend. or become enmeshed in controyers.. Student: But I would like to be able t,, present viewpoint on a number of these religious r naner discussions I have with certain, people. RH: I advise against such discussions. Ther are and enervating. Practicing yogis do not exsenl tt.e energies in these types of discussions. Student: Don't you think it's helpful to others if voL c< point out genuine fallacies in some of the things tht_. believe in with all their hearts? I mean, if you can do i'. sincerely and without offending them? RH: What business is it of yours what others believe in? You should first find out what you believe in. You belieyc that you are contained within a body and a mind. See if thi: belief is valid. Then you will know if it is necessary for yo to instruct others and change their beliefs. Student: You are instructing us. You are changing our beliefs. RH: It is not my intention to do so. I have no interest i-. "beliefs." I teach only the fact of Self. if such instrumi^-. causes your ordinary mind to substitute one illusion f,: another—that is, one belief for another—m• instruction is indirect. Student: You have taught me to believe in Self. RH: Are you two selves—one that "believes" in another Self is not to be believed in. Self IS. Another Student: You frequently use the word recognize in relation to Self. Do you think that's the best word? RH: Well, recognize means to "know again." It may com, close to indicating that state at which we are pointing finger. Obviously no word is adequate, but I pre recognize to realization. I also use other words such as awareness and manifest according to what a particular explanation may seem to warrant. Student: I notice that you just used the word prefer. Do you have preferences? RH: One can make choices and indicate distinctions without ,having preferences in the sense in which "preference" is usually understood. In all such distinctions it is the absence of the "I" that is critical. The state of Enlightenment is sometimes defined as "choiceless awareness." The enlightened man may appear to choose, but the absence of ego nullifies the karma which is accumulated by the ordinary man in his choosing. Another Student: I would like to get back to religion for a moment. If one is a Catholic or Jew and becomes interested in yoga and the yoga philosophy, how can one become actively involved in the yoga practices? I mean how can the doctrines be reconciled? RH: You are assuming that these doctrines are in conflict. 1 see no conflict. At one time, in my ignorance, I did distinguish among them. But as my understanding and insight increased, the conflicts were resolved and eventually disappeared. Moses, David, Solomon, the prophets, Christ and other gurus of the Old and New Testaments, these were great saints and yogis. They incarnated as guides to Self. They instructed those who he "eyes to see" and "ears to hear." Moses, Gautama, Jesu Mohammed, Ramakrishna, and Maharashi taught the Self -doctrine to different people at different times and in varying situations. Therefore, there may appear to be Yoga Journal Richard Hlttleman with a student. differences among their teachings. But these are super- ficial. They all taught from Self. If you view their teachings with this knowledge, there is no contradiction or conflict. There is only Self. Self is devoid of differentiation. The superficial distinctions of the teachings have been accentuated through misinterpretations by those who came afterward and who did not possess the pure Knowledge of Self. The blind led the blind: the distinctions became the bases for all manner of doctrinal structures around which multitudes of peoples were organized. This process is on- going: even today thousands are regularly slaughtered in "religious" wars. What has all this to do with Self? Student: So one who seeks Self in the pure or direct way cannot be part of an organized religion. RH: That is not necessarily true. Each person will make that determination according to his or her level of under- standing. If you recognize that the true basis of your religion is Self. there may be no need to abandon this religion; only the perspective will change. Student: But it does seem to me that if I undertook the yoga practice seriously I could not continue to subscribe to certain tenets of my religion regarding the nature of God and His actions, and I could not continue to worship in the same way as I have in the past. RH: There is no need for you to make a decision about this now. As your understanding increases, certain changes will evolve naturally. These will be recognized as the natural course of development and you will not feel that you are forsaking or renouncing your religion. When one grows from youth to middle -age, one does not feel that he has betrayed his childhood. The development is entirely natural. In the same way, your growth in Self-awareness is natural. However, if a sense of conflict should remain, you will always find the way to incorporate this growth into the existing structure of the religion. This incorporation of new interpretations into their religions has been the accom- plishment of many outstanding religious leaders. Student: But in order for this "growth" to materialize, do I X no; have to practice the yoga techniques that we arc learning here? RH: The way you are learning Hatha Yoga here cannot be ir. conflict with any maior religion. Nor can observation of the breath, quieting of the mind, self -inquiry, fixation of the attention upon a particular object, or listening for the Lnne- sound be contrary to any liturgy. No deity, worship, ritual., ceremony, or prayer need be involved in your yoga practice at this time. Of whom do you think the yoga classes in the Western world are composed? There are very few Hindus and Buddhists. Primarily, these classes are made up of people who have a religion: Roman Catholics, orthodox Jews, Mormons, and probably just about any other you can name. Yoga presents the doctrine of Self; it seeks no converts. Another Student: What about sin? I mean, the fact of sin is fundamental in most of Christianity and Judaism. RH: All sin is ignorance of Self. There is no "fact of sin" in Self. Student: The entire basis of Christianity is sin and redemption. RH: The teachings of those around whom the religions have been structured are primarily concerned with recognition of Self. Attain Self and then you will know about "sin and redemption." "Seek first the kingdom of God." Student: We are told that the original sin is desire for knowledge. RH: Determine the source of this desire; relinquish your preoccupation with sin. Another Student: Isn't murder a sin? RH: Self cannot murder. Student: But if a man murders another, has he not committed a sin? RH: What will it profit you to know if murder is a sin or not? Will you consider murder permissible if I say that it is not a sin? Are you planning to murder someone? (Laughter) - Student: No. At least not at the present time. RH: Then attend to your practice and don't be concerned about who may murder whom. These are endless speculations of the ordinary mind. They distract you from turning the mind inward. Student: All right. But let me ask just one more thing on this subject. If I see a man about to harm another man, shouldn't 1 prevent him? Shouldn't I be concerned? RH: When that situation arises, you will act as you must. All these anticipations and fantasies of how one should act in a particular situation turn you away from Self. Another Student: My work brings me into contact with many religious leaders. Very few of these seem to me to be people who have achieved Self-consciousness. RH: In what way does this concern you? Student: Well, I mean just personally, when I go into a church and listen to the sermon, it's obvious to me that the reverend who is delivering the sermon has not transcended his ego, and the sermon is meaningless; often it's ridiculous. RH: Then why do you attend? Student: It's expected of me. RH: You must recognize that those who are in attendance at that sermon are also seeking. Their level of understanding oga Journal 27 ''All desire to influence people and events, on whatever plane, and however noble the motives or objec- tives, binds one to the not -self, thereby perpetuating suffering. '' may not be as yours, but, nonetheless, they are seeking, and that very sermon may be quite meaningful to many among them. Those who have not had your opportunities deserve your tolerance and compassion. Recognize every- one as seeking Self—the learned and the unlearned. Student: It is certainly difficult to understand how many of the people that you see in everyday life are seeking the spiritual experience. RH: Jesus taught that first the mote was to be cast from one's own eye. This is not to be understood in the superficial sense that each has his own personality flaws, but rather that, in ceasing to judge and in turning the mind inward, there is no possibility of perceiving faults and errors in other people; indeed, when you recognize that you have no self, then there are no "others" to be judged! In response to a question concerning visions during meditation: Student: There must be millions of people in the world who are attempting to cultivate ESP. You're always hearing about it everywhere. RH: Because this "perception" is of a subtle nature, and the ordinary man is functioning on the gross plane, it is not consciously known to him. Therefore, he speaks of this unfamiliar level of perception as "extra." When the gross, outward -flowing senses which cognize the external world are turned inward, they become subtle. Clairvoyance, for example, is external sight turned inward. In addition to this subtle, "Extra" perception, there are phenomena which exceed the ordinary man's wildest fantasies of power, control, and manipulation. None of these things are truly "extra" to the human being. They are wholly contained within the universe, the microcosm, of each person. To most, however, they remain "unknown." During the course of yoga and related practices, these subtle planes [lokas] are uncovered. The yogi can explore and absorb them [lava] and utilize the elements of which they are composed. However, it is only the ill-advised student who will have the desire to involve himself with these elements for gratification. The ignorant man is highly desirous of uncovering, cultivating, and utilizing such powers because through them he envisions himself controlling, influencing, and manipulating people and conditions. But he desires all this exactly because he is ignorant. He has no comprehension that such powers are utterly useless in effecting his enlightenment and liberation; indeed, how- can he understand what formidable obsracles the\, represent? He is unaware of seel:ing S,:-. 1 the doctrine of Self is explained to hien, he has no: "eL. s hear." He remains asleep. dreaming of pov.er. control. a:: manipulation to gratify his senses and ego in an iLso'. wend. To him, such power may lie in ESP. So, altho-_ asleep to his real nature, he anempts to cultivz—_ "powers. " The yogi, the awakened man, understands the na., - of his quest. He recognizes that self manifests when. h discards, eliminates, and transcends all that is of th not -Self. If he consciously seeks to accomplish an} -thine, iL is not to acquire, but to discard. Any need to cultivate ESP is totally absent. All desire to influence people and events, on whatever plane, and no matter how noble the motives or objectives, binds one to the not -Self. thereby perpetuating suffering. So shun the acquisition of power, influence. an control as you would the plague. Another Student: But ESP properly applied could be used to the great benefit of mankind. RH: That is a speculation of ordinary mind. First, find out what inhibits your fusion with Self. BE Self, then you can determine if mankind needs to be "benefitted." Another Student: We were discussing "visions." Western religion and metaphysics are replete with examples of seekers who earnestly, even fanatically, sought visions. RH: Such desires are obstacles. Visions are diversionary. Student: They were yearning to see God. RH: "God" and "Self" are conceptualized as the alternative to "self," to "ego." Put an end to conceptuali- zation and there is no further need to "see God." The sufferings inherent in such yearnings are, indeed, setfA inflicted. Student: What about those who see Christ, the Vireir. Marv, and the saints? RH: Possible signs along the path. Observe them dispas- sionately and move along. Student: A vision of Christ is said to evoke tremendous outpourings of love. RH: Then pour out your love and move along. Student: Is Christ Self? RH: Yes, Christ told you that All are Self. Student: Can Christ lead you to Self? RH: Nothing "leads" to Self. Self IS. Student: But you speak of a "path." Canot Christ guide one on the path? RH: Christ said, "I and my Father are One." If you are of a worshipful or Bhakti nature, then surrender yourself— which is the not-Self—and all that can remain is Self. Complete surrender is what is required. If it helps you to surrender to Christ, then do so. Student: And He will guide? RH: He will do what He will. If you surrender, it must be absolute and unqualified. You cannot qualify your surrender with questions and petitions. VN'hen the Bhakta surrenders. he assumes no further responsibility for his life. It has been placed totally in the hands of the One to whom he has surrendered. Complete surrender, the path of Bhakti Yoga, is an alternative to the recognition of Self through the practices we are discussing: Kundalini, Jnan [self -inquiry], Raja. 4 Student: Do you recommend reading the Bible? RH: If you read the Bible—or any scripture—from the Viewpoint w -e have been advancing here, you will discern 28 Yoga Journal -- - �.�. .._<_ �a�a•.�rvas�-.rnsi. �n..at�a�ersavry.w..:Y-s.tr��.r.a�..:••�•r -•�+.r�a•.•r+arq .....,i. those sections which deal direcriv with the re:o_r.ition of Self, and those which are ir:a'irec-. Another Student: You said to ,erd c^^cectua'iza,;c-:." Is this the same thing as turning the ordinar' mind inward r Yes. The "I" thought is the root of al: thouzh:s. Al' uehts arise from the concept of "I." Turn t`.e mind inward and dive down to this root. N%*hen you cucut :`e root, you eliminate conceptualization. Student: For many years—this is when I was younger—I was obsessed with observing the teachings of Christ. It had to do in part with the way 1 was brought up and partly with my own genuine feelings of following in the footsteps of Christ. But it was a constant struggle and I was unhappy and filled with guilt. I was actually becoming ill. The church couldn't help me so I finally went to group therapy with a friend, and that helped me to realize that I could only be what I am and I shouldn't try to be something that I fantasized myself to be. Well, as I said, this was all quite some time ago, but since you speak about Jesus being a "yogi." I'd like to hear your view of whether His teachings are really meant for everyone or are for just a very few people. How many people do you know who can truly "love his neighbor" or "turn the other cheek"? RH: The yogis speak of Jesus as a "Bhakta." meaning that He espoused the doctrine of love, humility. sacrifice, and surrender. But His teachings of this doctrine are for those with "ears to hear." For those who do not have such ears, this teachinc is and e%er. r.,„sc_,.,_.... IX r, the t::rns the o cheek the.c is no c:.es::cr. c'. "e` ... ' i- _lied. It i< < n-,ar:ifes::..._.. Of Se::. o ..is be. „e;:,. ir: Self, of hi_ „ing frcn:. t: ~e cer.:.-. Ee.-;g Self. Jesus di,. not teach a., C-2 n,ar sc_ r.: _ t_ other r„er, a- e e-:. He spoke a Self, and ,.:osL e:.rs:c he2r are n into Se;. through t'r,e po•a er o` His ,,, ods, �ti'ha; He is teaching yqu is that it is net a m_�t:er of iudgin2 that one has beer, "wronged•' and ma'-:inc a deliberate decision to ignore thi, wrongdoing b "turning the other cheek.'' What the ordinary man mai judge as "wrong.” the Bhakta does r.c: recogize as such, for judgement is not the nature of Self. Self dictates. "Judge not, that you be not judged.” Student: Then His teachings were nor for all, but only for those who had "ears to hear"? RH: All "hear" according to their le%els of understanding. In your own case. His teachings precipitated an intense conflict. but this was all favorable because you eventually discovered that you could not take these teachings literally and turn the other cheek at will: you could not impose them on yourself. They must manifest as actions that flow from Self. Realizing this, you are now disposed to turning inward and seeking the source of the teachings.--'- Richard Hitt'eman is cne of the best k^own exponents of yoga in Ame-ica. He is the author of many books on the subject and has a national television series entitled ''Yoga For Health.'' In recent years he has been conducting yoga seminars at Pajaro Dunes in Monterey Bay, CA. "Caress .. . a touch or gesture of affection. " The essence of the CAPTAIN CARROT CARESSER is its simplicity. No prior knowledge of massage is necessary, just a desire to help someone feel good. The CAPTAIN CARROT CARESSER is designed to be easily rolled over yourbody. You can massage yourself or, better yet, Orr fv�,j�IL�' is have someone do it for fit'' you. The caresser can be used sitting, standing or lying ( down, but the easiest way is to sit ck comfortably on a chair 441 and lean lorward with the back slightly arched, as shown. Long or short strokes can be used and the emphasis can be shifted from the right or left side by ".. varying the pressure of either hand. �•'' The CAPTAIN CARROT CARESSER is best used with imagination. Think of what feels good to you and then return the �r favor to someone else. Send $14.95 To Captain Carrot Caresser 2901 Routie Road, Dept. YJ, Sacramento, CA 95827 Yoga Journal 29 CITY OF PLYMOUTH 3400 PLYMOUTH BLVD., PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 554^7 TELEPHONE (612) 559-2800 MEMO LATE: December 15, 1987 TO: Jim Thomson, City Attorney FROM: Eric J. Blank, Director of Parks and Recreation,_ SUBJECT: RESIDE F' S OPPOSITION TO YOGA CLASS we have now received three letters from Paul S. volstad, a Plymouth resident, expressing his opposition to the inclusion of yoga in our program offerings based on religious connotations. The Superintendent of Recreation, Mary Patterson, has reviewed the class content for appropriateness. Currently, we have found nothing to suggest that this program should be removed from our class offerings. Please review the enclosed information from a legal standpoint. Let me know your evaluation of the situation as soon as possible. Thank you for your assistance. EJB/np Attachments cc: City Manager Superintendent of Recreation PAUL S. VOLSTAQ 1,cE _ Fu: . GCCE Fra C!,CE BE'n'E TnE /I . '+E:E',,E SE S'., _� • .: ._.:S�F FL Ems. .� • G�Vf: �� r f.' .�.�E" 5,, _ . F, -iv �f '.� nv_ 'F'. November 9, 1987 Mary Patterson Superintendent of Recreation City of Plymouth 3400 Plymouth Blvd. Plymouth, MN 55447 Dear Mary: Thank you for your letter of November 6. 1 disagree with the findings in your letter. This matter has been extensively re- viewed by many various organizations, including the YMCA and it has found that all forms of Yoga represents a religious practice. Even in your letter where you refer to mental control techniques, these have the connotations of a religious meaning. I again request that the Yoga program be removed from the City of Plymouth agenda. Failure to remove this I will seek other legal remedies. Yours very t P ul S. Volstad Licensed Public Accountant Enrolled Agent PSV/rbm November 6, 1987 PLYMOUTH Paul S. Volstad Suite 100 13895 Industrial Park Boulevard Plymouth, M� 55441 Dear Mr. Volstad: I am writing in response to your correspondence directed to James G. Willis, City Manager, dated November 3, 1987. Prior to offering the Plymouth Park and Recreation yoga program, the instructor and I discussed the possible religious connotations that people might place upon it. We both agreed that religion had no place in a program offered through a public agency. In discussions with the instructor, Bonnie Dow, today; we again reviewed the content of the program as she presents it. The basic format includes stretching and exercise, along with stress reduction techniques. I also contacted several of the class participants to poll their feelings regarding possible religious overtones of this program. The individuals that I contacted were very positive about the class, commenting that the physical and mental control techniques that are presented are not directly related to any religious beliefs. These students felt strongly about the value of this program and would be willing to share their views personally. In all written evaluations received from participants, the class has been very highly rated. I would invite you to observe this class to evaluate for yourself its appro- priateness for a city park and recreation department. At the current time, I find nothing to suggest that it is a program that needs to be removed from our class offerings. Thank you for your interest in our recreation programming. Sincerely, Mary Patterson Superintendent of Recreation /np cc: James G. Willis Eric Blank Bonnie Dow 340C PLYMOJTH BOULEVARD. PLYMOUTH MINNESOT1, 55447. TELEPHONE (E12) 559 2E PAUL S. VOLSTAD E•.tc,'ie4 Tc, Belpre Tne l•.ie•rc Fe.en✓e Se.c,ce. SUFE 15, 13E9` Pk Pr. E_.. • PLYI:'J'. . 6' ..ES: --e= . r IC -2; November 3, 1987 Mr. James G. Willis City Manager City of Plymouth 3400 Plymouth Blvd. Plymouth, MN 55447 Dear Jim: I just received a copy of "Plymouth on Parade" and it was called to my attention one of the courses that was being offered in the fitness pro- gram. On page 32 a program is being offered in Yoga. I have not noticed that this program was being offered in the past and it surprises me that the City would offer this type of program. Many years ago the YMCA did extensive studies on the offering of Yoga and determined that Hatha Yoga as being offered in your book represents the practice of religion. I was furnished extensive data on this which even- tually was furnished to the YMCA's and based on their studies Yoga was not offered in any of the YMCA's in the Metropolitan area. It would seem that by the City of Plymouth offering Yoga it has undertaken to offer a class in religious instruction. Based on that information I am wondering whether or not the City of Plymouth will also be offering in the future Bible Study classes. I would recommend and request that the Yoga class be withdrawn effective immediately as it does present a conflict of interest with the City of Plymouth. Yours very trul Paul S. Volstad Licensed Public Accountant Enrolled Agent PSV/rbm 1, ra r till 0i F�1tt►��ii.r 193-14 YOGI, y� Cc ore perfOrrr'e ; it C Se e: C` C Ce' . rn."`i7 L S'O',,' mp'veme '- V t ,. mot Onl2cc momen': fO ce7 '. p )5".pnS yOoc provioes muscie contrc'• focuses mine concentrotor, is energ, procJC o^b is c S" reliever that bangs o sense of well being' You wi; quickly grasC the oncie! f y� z-;:, secrets that con become c lifetime program of total heo'tn Orad fitness yoga cha,ienges the ne�,co^ner os well as the emenenceo yogo enthus os': Instruc'or bonnie D::. Location V,'OyzCiC Ecsf jr High Cofeter.c Doy'Dotes Wednesdays. No', 16 -Dec 1:. Time i 45-E 45 C, Fee LOW IMPACT TOTAL WORKOUT You will enjoy the vol e o' exercise 'eChniCUes I^Co porC'co i": Inns prc-"o"r t;; stretch and Sho",^ t^e e^.t.re bode' I-- C- class will include yoga Choir exercise- S I Cc' G,CS. lig~t weig'',t wotkOJ1s facia: ex.erGses Ono mc': limited loud Impo Any leve; o` exerc se ac 1 is welcome. You ac not hove t-- be o dancer tc ta.= this cross Pieose fa' �: t', ins' Jctor Obcut making up missed classes of ot')e' locations instructs- Lu-Sov:acrK� r". Time 5 5� a • _ 236.7 ^ Tuesoovs&Thursdoys � De; 1-17 (no class Dec 3; S1 � �_ `ar5classes n.r. 1 1 , 236-1 Tuesdovs&ThursOCys 4' Jc^ 5 -Fe D 25 Once c weev S18fcr 8 ciasseS T, Ce o wee : SJG `C' 1 b GCSSe • 1! , �� l , j, U .. 32 - I I �In c 6 I i I I I .,, _ cam• ' I �♦' ". � i I 1 L I < I � I I I I^ I I, I I ! I I II I I I I I .,, _ cam• ' I �♦' ". � i I 1 L I < I I I^ I I, I I ! I I II I I I I 1� I OW 41 / I- � � e l tE'2i•11 '_ .. I 1 L I < I � I I IL I / / I 1� I OW 41 / I- � � e l tE'2i•11 '_ .. Vye' f .4, ! -4 1 if 01 -ID fay.- 14 T CITY OF PLYMOUTH 3400 PLYMOUTH BLVD., PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 5544 TELEPHONE (612) 559-2800 MEMO DATE: December 17, 1987 TO: James G. Willis, City Manager FROM: Dale Hahn, Finance Director— r, SUBJECT DOLLAR SAVINGS RESULTING FROM COMPUTER CONVERSION In my previous memo dated December 9, 1987, I provided examples of savings and improvements resulting from the computer conversion. These savings were demonstrated in employee hours saved. The Council has since requested that these employee hours be converted to dollar savings. In the area of recreation, the projected savings was estimated at two hundred employee hours per year. The employees performing these tasks are at different salary levels. I have calculated the average hourly rate plus fringe benefits to be approximately $13.00 per hour. The dollar savings for recreation is projected to be $2,600. (200 hours x $13/hour). In central equipment, the anticipated employee hour savings was estimated to be forty hours. The average hourly rate of $13.00 per hour would also pertain to these employees. The Central equipment dollar savings would be $520 (40 hours x $13/hour). For the utility billing process, there was a typing error in my previous memo which indicated the savings would be approximately sixty hours per year. This amount should be sixty hours per month, or seven hundred twenty hours per year. The majority of these hours are for stuffing of the bills and are at a much lower rate. The average labor rate I have calculated for this process, is approximately $6.50 per hour. The present utility billing system cost compared with the proposed system is shown below: Present Proposed System System Labor for folding, stuffing and postage (720 hours x $6.50/hour) $ 4,680 $ -0- Supplies and equipment maintenance 11,200 14,200 $ 15,880 $ 14,200 Based upon the information above, the net savings for the new proposed utility billing system will be approximately $1700. As I mentioned in my previous memo, the proposed system will reduce the turn around time by several days. This turn around time has been a major concern of many citizens, and I believe they will be pleased to have the additional time to respond to their billing. While the savings may seem small for these examples compared to the cost of the new computer system, I would again like to emphasize, that the primary improvements will be in the areas of improved accuracy, timeliness, and more meaningful and useful information. The Holiday Plus report furnished to Council is a good example of this. This report required an outside programmer to generate. The new system will provide this report quickly and without additional cost. Minutes of the Park and Recreation Advisory Com fission Meeting December 10, 1987 Page 42 Present: Chair Edwards, Commissioners Reed, Anderson, Beach, Roser, and LaTour; Councilmembers Zitur and Sisk; staff Blank, Patterson and Pederson Chair Edwards called the December meeting to order at 7:35 p.m. in the Council Chambers. 2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES A motion was made by Commissioner Reed and seconded by Commissioner Beach to approve the minutes of the November meeting as presented. The motion carried with all ayes. 3. VISITOR PRESENTATIONS a. Athletic Associations. None were present at this meeting. b. Staff. Director Blank announced that Mary Tilley would be resigning this month in order to raise her family. She is expecting twins in early March and has decided to set aside her career for now to care for her family. Staff is in the process of interviewing candidates to replace her. Over 100 applications were received. C. Others. There were no other visitors. 4. REPORT ON PAST COi.JNCIL ACTION a. St Mary's Neighborhood Park/Plymouth Creek Soccer Field. Council approved proceeding with an in-house study on the soccer field at Plymouth Creek Park to determine if natural or artificial turf would be more cost effective, and they approved staff sending out Requests for Proposal on the St. Mary's neighborhood park design. b. Lions Park Play Equipment. Council approved the purchase of the Lions Park play equipment, which will be ordered in the next week or two for installation in early spring. 5. UNFINISHED BUSINESS a. Parkers Lake Update. The installation of lights has been completed, the bronze dedication plaque has been installed and the County Road 6 bypass lane is in. The final payment for Phase II of Parkers Lake is being processed. b. Neighborhood Park Projects Update. Work at Amhurst, Rolling Hills and County Road 61 parks is now completed. C. Park Usage and Cost Study Report. Director Blank reviewed for the Commission the report he prepared for the City Manager as part of PRAC Minutes December 10, 1987 Page 43 the City Manager's Goals and Objectives for the City Council. H'_ indicated that the Council has directed staff and PRAC to begin studying ways to reduce expenditures and increase revenues. H' stated that part of this process will mean holding public nr-weetinOE to get resident input on issues such as the possible implementation, of user fees. It is the Council's wish that these meetings begin sometime in January or February, 1988. Director Blank's discussion with PRAC included the current park system plan, which identifies the City's park standards and park usage philosophy; a review of the Task Force Report on Park and Recreation Financing for Facilities and Programs; the growth in the park system in terms of acres and programs since 1980; and park maintenance costs for neighborhod parks, playfields, city parks and costs per facility for things such as ice skating, soccer, softball, etc. Director Blank concluded his remarks on the Park Usage and Cost Study report by reviewing the City's philosophy on building and maintaining park facilities: - Build the appropriate facilities in the appropriate locations to meet the need in that population or attendance area. - Design facilities so that they can be maintained in a reasonable fashion based on appropriate use. In new parks, create the smallest possible area that will require high maintenance. - Provide safe, attractive facilities to the public that present a good image for the City. - Make necessary repairs as quickly as possible, so that unsafe conditions are corrected and further deterioration and poor public image are not created. Commissioners then began a discussion on charging user fees to athletic associations and whether or not this was a good idea. Chair Edwards stated that she, Commissioner Latour and Commissioner Beach had attended a workshop sponsored by MRPA for board and commission members at Becker Park this past week and that the main topic was on charging user fees. She wondered if it would be appropriate to charge athletic associations a percentage of the maintenance costs based on what percentage they use the fields. Director Blank responded that currently it is the philosophy of the City that youth athletic associations would not be charged for ordinary maintenance of fields, but could be charged for special events, tournaments, etc., requiring extra -ordinary maintenance. Director Blank reminded the Commission that they would be reviewing the Park Rental Policies and Fee Schedule at their January or February meeting and that would be the time to change fees if the Commission felt it was necessary. Commissioner Rosen stated he was concerned about the increasing maintenance costs we will incur if we continue to build parks at our present rate. other commissioners expressed similar concerns and PRA,-- Minutes December 10, 1987 Page 44 stated we should build parks with more natural areas requiring lesE maintenance. Director Blank stated that staff was already movinc in that direction and pointed out that the three parks built in 19 had very small active areas requiring little maintenance. Director Blank then shared with commissioners a copy of a survey he received that the St. Paul Park and Recreation department had prepared. The survey listed metropolitan area recreation budgets and their per capita expenditures. Plymouth's per capita expenditure is $35, while the average is $38. Councilman Sisk expressed interest in receiving a copy of this survey, and Director Blank stated that he had shared it with the City Manager who would likely include it in his next information memo to the Council. The Park Usage and Cost Study report will continue to be discussed at future meetings. d. Plymouth Creek Site Planning. Director Blank has met with Mayor Schneider and the City Manager on this subject and will be meeting with Brauer and Associates in the next week or two. Four possible sites have been narrowed down to two for the location of the proposed community center, and the Mayor would now like the choice to be narrowed to one site. Director Blank stated that the Commission needs to make a recommendation on that site by January or February. e. Park Name (Amhurst). Director Blank informed commissioners that letters had been sent to all those who attended the original planning meetings for Amhurst Park inviting them to suggest a name for this park. Six responses were received. Of those, three had suggested the name Turtle Lake, one suggested Amhurst, one suggested Deer Park, and one suggested Hugo G. Broman Park in honor of the man who originally owned the land. George and Mary Carhart, 14921 45th Avenue, were present at the meeting because they were interested in what name would be selected. Commissioner Rosen indicated that he was under the impression we did not name parks after people. Other commissioners concurred as well as staff. Commissioner Reed asked the Carharts which name they preferred, and they said they had chosen Deer Park, because so many deer roam the park. Their second choice had been Turtle Lake. Commissioner Reed then asked if the Carharts felt residents would know which park they were talking about if it was named Turtle Lake. They responded that most of the residents living near the park are new to Plymouth, but they should know that Turtle Lake is near this park. A MOTION WAS MADE BY OCMISSIONER REED AND SDOONDED BY CCM ISSIONER BEACH To RECON11Z TO THE CITY COUNCIL THAT THIS PARK BE NAMED TURTLE LAKE PARK. The motion carried with all ayes. Director Blank stated that this recommendation as well as the one naming Rolling Hills and Heritage neighborhood parks would be forwarded to the City Council. y- PRAC Minutes December 10, 1987 Page 45 f. Wa-,,zata Soccer Club. Director Blank and Rick Busch met wit1, representatives of the Wayzata -Plymouth Soccer Club this week tc further discuss whether or not the City should take over the sonar^r soccer program for the house league children. Director Blanl: pointed out to the Commission that offering this program would mea.-. opening it up to the children in the Plymouth -New Hope Athletic Association as well, which would be an additional 400-500 kids. He indicated that it would mean a significant increase in clerical and staff time as well as field use. Commissioner Rosen asked if there would be enough available fields to run the Wayzata -Plymouth traveling program, and this new proposed program if both were offered at the same time? Director Blank responded that if we take on the summer house league, it could involve as many as 1,000 or more children, which would put an added burden on all our soccer fields. Some groups would get less time than they have enjoyed in the past. Director Blank stated that staff expressed to the Soccer Association a desire to have them continue with the program as it is now for at least one more year, and that we would provide them with some technical assistance they might need. It was the consensus of the Commission that staff continue to push for the Wayzata -Plymouth Soccer Club to run the program themselves. The Club will get back in touch with staff after they have had a chance to discuss with their other members the City's suggestions. Commissioner Beach asked if it was okay for a commissioner to become involved in an athletic association, and staff said there was no problem with that. Councilman Zitur expressed some concern for the children living in Plymouth that are in the Osseo school district and where these kids play soccer. Director Blank said that Maple Grove Park and Recreation offers a summer and fall soccer program for these children, and they are also able to join the Plymouth fall soccer program. Director Blank pointed out that the new proposed Bass Lake Playfield will be for these kids, also. 6. NEW BUSINESS a. New Plats. There were no new plats to discuss. b. 1987 Annual Report. Staff has begun to put together the annual report for 1987. Director Blank stated that it might be somewhat condensed this year in an effort to get more people to read it. Commissioners were invited to make suggestions for what information to include in the 1987 report. A draft copy will be available by the January PRAC meeting, with the final report ready by the February meeting -7. 7. OCMMISSION PRESENTATION Chair Edwards stated that the workshop she attended at Becker Park was excellent. Commissioners Beach and LaTour were there also. She urged other commissioners to visit this park and take a look at the building there. She feels its about the same size as the proposed Parkers Lake Pavilion. PRAC Minutes December 10, 1987 Paqe 46 Commissioner Rosen wondered when a new commissioner would be appointee tc replace Bruce Bauman. Director Blank indicated that an announcement hay been placed in the Plymouth Post inviting people to apply for tt:i vacancy by January 6. Director Blank was confident that a replacenen t would be on the Commission by February. 8. STAFF CCM4JNICATICN There was no communication by staff. The meeting adjourned at 9:47 p.m. CITY OF PLYMOUTH PLANNINC COMhISSION MINUTES DECEM3ER 99 1987 The Rea_alar Meetinq of the Plvmouth Planning Com7lssion called to order at 7:30 P.I. MEMBERS PRESENT: Chairman Steigerwald, Commissioners Nire, Stulberq, Zylla, Plufka, Marofsky and Pauba MEMBERS ABSENT: None STAFF PRESENT: Community Development Coordinator Rav Anderson Associate Planner Al Cottinqham Assistant City Engineer John Sweeney *MINUTES MOTION by Commissioner Stulberg, seconded by Commissioner Plufka to approve the Minutes of November 24, 19S7 as submitted. VOTE. 7 -Ayes. MOTIO14 carried. PUBLIC HEARINGS Chairman Steigerwald introduced the request by Robert Worthington, Opus Corporation. A representative was not present to speak on this application. The item was tabled until later in the meeting. Chairman Steigerwald introduced the request by Midwest Brick and Supply Company. Reading of the December 2, 1987 staff report was waived. Chairman Steigerwald introduced Mr. Dan O'Brien representing Midwest Brick and Supply. Mr. O'Brien reviewed the request and discussed the two variances, one of which would allow paving up to the building where four over -head doors will be installed and there will be storage of materials in this area. The second variance would allow the storage of bricks on an unpaved surface; and, to allow a Class V gravel sur- face as opposed to a paved surface for the drive aisle. He commented that a condition of approval could be that the use of the unpaved surface could be reviewed in one year; and, if there were problems, they would then be willing to pave the areas. He further noted they had reduced the size of the outside storage area. Commissioner Stulberg inquired if they would be storing materials next to the building. Mr. O'Brien responded affirmatively. -270- ROBERT WORTHINGTON OPUS CORPORATION REVISED SITE PLAN CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT (87119) MIDWEST BRICK & SUPPLY COMPANY REVISED SITE PLAN AMENDED CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT AND VARIANCES (87118) Paqe 271 Planning Commission Minutes December 9, 1957 Commissioner Marofsky stated concern regarding the situatioit when vehicles are backed to the loading docks, the drive aisle circulation would be blocked. Mr. O'Brien stated that these were not "docks", but are drive-through doors and vehicles would not block the drive aisles. Commissioner Plufka stated concern with materials to be stored next to the building and the factor of pedestrian safety. Mr. O'Brien stated there would be no pedestrians in this area since there are two exit doors at the north and south ends of the wall. The few pedestrians who would be in the area would be employees. Chairman Steigerwald inquired about the typical customer, and where on the site would they be viewing the bricks? Mr. O'Brien showed the outside display area and the parkinq adjacent to that, notinq also, an inside display area for customers during the business day. Chairman Steigerwald asked where these customers would be entering the building? Mr. O'Brien stated they would use the main entrance. Mr. Kevin Murphy, Midwest Brick & Supply Co., stated the outside display area is more for people to view the material after business hours. The inside display area is to help prevent pedestrian traffic around the storage area during business hours. Commissioner Stulberq asked about the location for the chain link fence? Mr. O'Brien pointed out that area on the site plan surrounding the outside storage area. Commissioner Plufka asked for an explanation of how the circulation on site would work with the loading and unload- ing areas? Mr. O'Brien reviewed the circulation. Commissioner Plufka stated it was difficult to understand why the storage area was needed next to the building. Mr. Murphy explained the types of materials to be stored adja- cent to the building and the need for the storage area. Among the items to be stored next to the building are pal- lets of bricks. Commissioner Marofsky inquired if the traffic going through the storage area would be truck traffic. Mr. Murphy responded that traffic in the storage area would include fork lifts and trucks loading and unloading. Page 272 Planning Commission Itinutes Decmeber 9, 1957 Commissioner Plufka asked why, the brick would b(- stored oii a gravel surface. Mr. Murphy explained that during the summer months, the asphalt may soften in the heat and tends to break-up with the constant turning of the fork lifts; and, the bricks tend to sink into the softened asphalt. Commissioner Marofsky asked if staff had reviewed the stor- age of brick next to the building. Coordinator Anderson stated it was his understanding that this area would be for materials other than brick. The petitioner had described the area next to the building as storage for fireplaces and other merchandise sold by the company which had not been described as including bricks. Discussion ensued regarding the storaae of materials next to the building and its impact on the site. Chairman Steigerwald opened the Public Hearing, as there was no one present to speak on the item, the Public Hearing was closed. MOTION by Commissioner Stulberg, seconded by Commissioner MOTION TO APPROVE Plufka to recommend approval of the Revised Site Plan, Amended Conditional Use Permit and Variances for Midwest Brick and Supply Company, Greenland Investment, and changinq Condition No. 6 to read: "The drive aisle between the stacked pallets for brick will be paved by May 31, 1988 and the area may be used until that time with an "unpaved sur- face". Condition No. 15 was added to read: "Approval of the 10 -ft. variance allowing a 0 ft. drive aisle setback on the east side of the building." MOTION by Commissioner Marofsky, to amend the Main Motion, adding Condition No. 16 to read: "A 25 -ft. drive aisle shall be striped to show the limits of the storage area." MOTION died for lack of second. MOTION by Commissioner Plufka, seconded by Commissioner MOTION TO AMEND Pauba to amend the Main Motion by changing Condition No. 6 to read: "The drive aisle between the stacked pallets shall be gravel -based and used for one year, at which time the City will inspect the site prior to the renewal of the Conditional Use Permit". Commissioner Stulberg noted this amendment allows a gravel surface for approximately 18 months and since any approval by City Council would not occur until January, 1988, the drive aisles would not be paved until summer. Roll Call Vote. 4 Ayes., Chairman Steigerwald and Commis- VOTE - AMENDMENT sioners Stulberg and Marofsky, Nay. Motion carried. MOTION CARRIED Paoe 273 Planning Commission ttinutes December 9, 1957 110TIOt! by Commissinner Vire, seconded Commissioner Dauhd to amend the Plain Motion by deleting Condition t! 15. Commissioner Zvlla aqreed since the request does not meet the variance criteria. Roll Call Vote. 4 Ayes. Chairman Steigerwald and Commis- sioners Stulberg and Plufka, Nay. Motion carried. Roll Call Vote on Main Motion as twice Amended. 7 Ayes. MOTION carried. Chairman Steigerwald introduced the request by Opus Corpora- tion; reading of the November 24, 1957 staff report was waived. Chairman Steigerwald introduced Mr. Robert Worthinqton, representing Opus Corportion. Mr. Worthinqton had no questions or comments. Chairman Steiqerwald opened the Public Hearing; as there was no one present to speak on this item, the Public Hearinq was closed. MDTION TO AM, -K, VOTE - AMENDMENT MOTION CARRIED VOTE - MAIN MOTIOt; MOTION CARRIED ROBERT WORTHINGTON, OPUS CORPORATION REVISED SITE PLAN AND CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT (87119) MOTION by Commissioner Pauba, seconded by Commissioner MOTION TO APPROVE Plufka to recommend approval of the Revised Site Plan and Conditional Use Permit for Robert Worthington, Opus Corpor- ation, subject to the conditions listed in the November 24, 1987 staff report. Roll Call Vote. 7 Ayes. MOTION carried. Chairman Steigerwald introduced the request by Thomas Bisanz, Northland Land Company. An overview of the December 2, 1987 staff report was presented by Coordinator Anderson. Commissioner Plufka inquired if the proposed number of units is the mid -point within the range from the original approval? Coordinator Anderson stated it was not, however, this parcel had grown in size since the initial approval and a 40 -unit increase has been moved from the site on the northwest to this site with concurrent changes to the property lines. The revised mid -points are consistent with the approval for a maximum of 1,147 dwelling units in this PUD. Mr. Ron Erickson, KKE Architects, Inc., reviewed the approval noting the proposed number of units is the exact mid -point for this land since the adjustment of the lot lines. This is a low -scale project and could have more open area if the buildings were stacked to 4 - 5 stories in height. He showed where the site was in relationship to the VOTE - MOTION CARRIED THOMAS BISANZ NORTHLAND LAND CO. REVISED PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT PRELIMINARY PLAN CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT, PUD FINAL PLAN/PLAT (87110) Paoe 274 Planning Commission Minutes December 9, 197 overall Planned Unit Development (PUU) and ho,� it related to other public open space within the PU-5. He stated it Has the petitioner's Kish to have smaller buildings with a town- house appearance rather than the massive apartment -type buildings. He reviewed slides of the "Mallard Ridge" development in Maple Grove, noting this proposal would be similar. He stated this development has high quality hous- ing with site amenities and explained the clustering of the buildings around the amenities. He discussed the location of the clubhouse and that, from this location, residents would have an excellent view of the lake. The petitioner is requesting 20.9% lot coverage due to the, size of the balconies proposed for each of the units. He stated that many cities do riot use balconies to calculate lot coverage and, in fact, rewards the developer for this amenity. The average building setback along 19th Avenue is 67 ft. with the closest point being 40 ft. It is the petitioner's opinion that, since they have provided a greater right-of- wav for 18th Avenue along with the landscaped medians, a reduced setback should be considered. The City Council had indicated consideration for reduced setbacks along 18th Avenue during the approval process for Parkers Lake North 2nd Addition. He explained they did not provide a 20 -ft. setback from the building to the drive and this orientation was due to the unobstructed area for emergency vehicles to access each of the buildings. He requested the Commission consider the drives at 20 ft. in width, rather than 24 ft. as shown in the plans before the Commission. He stated the project would benefit from a greater setback from the building to the drive aisle, if the drive aisle were 20 ft. in width. This would also help to control vehicle speed throughout the development, since a narrower drive would not present a "raceway atmosphere". He stated that this unit -style is the future for the rental market. Chairman Steigerwald expressed concern with the pedestrian safety around the buildings and that there is only a 3 1/2 ft. setback between the building and the drive. Even though the petitioner has stated a 7 1/2 ft. distance could be pro- vided between the building and the drives, there is still concern whether this would be adequate. Commissioner Zylla inquired about the number of unenclosed parking stalls. Mr. Erickson responded that they have .75 open parking stalls per unit, or 183 stalls. Paoe 275 Planning Commission t1inute. December °, 19c,7 Chairman Steigerwald stated that if lie li ed "ithifi this project he would riot be inclined to qo to tree pool at the opposite end of the complex where it is within 40 ft. of major roadways. Mr. Erickson stated that this location has great visual pluses with its view to Parkers Lake: arid, with the berminq around the pool, you would not see it from the roadways. Chairman Steigerwald stated that if this was a "village concept" then the amenities should be placed in the center rather than on the outside perimeters. Mr. Thomas Bisanz, United Properties, stated they are providing three separate amenitv areas and the clubhouse could be rented by the tenants for private gatherings. He noted that this location was chosen because it is on a key corner for the entire PU') and also because the clubhouse would provide a unique entry into the project. Commissioner Plufka inquired if the clubhouse would be open 12 months a year. Mr. Bisanz responded affirmatively, not- inq the building contains the rental office along with party rooms and a sauna. Commissioner Plufka inquired if the amenities were open to everyone. Mr. Bisanz responded, by reservation only. Commissioner Plufka stated additional concern with the location and the lack of parking around the facility. Commissioner Marofsky stated that it seems the petitioner wants high visibility for the complex and the rental office by placing the clubhouse and pool in this corner. Mr. Bisanz responded that there were three purposes for this location; the first being that this is one of three ameni- ties spread through the project; second, it is a gatehouse for the project at its entrance; and, third, this building would be used for marketing and management of this project. Commissioner Marofsky stated concern with the 40 ft. setback to 18th Avenue which would set a precedent for future devel- opments that may request this reduced setback. Mr. Erickson noted the developer provided an 80 ft. right- of-way rather than 60 ft. The City Council stated the building setbacks would be reviewed with each development. This greater right-of-way was provided to allow a traffic island in the roadway and produces the additional setback distance. Page 2/0 Planning Commission ►Minutes December 9, 1957 Commissioner Zylla inquired if there were. a need for twa cars per unit, then, where Aould the additional vehicles be parked? He is concerned they would park in the City street. Mr. Erickson stated that the past history for this type of project shows that the amount of parking provided is adequate for this project. Chairman Steigerwald noted that if he were having guests in his unit, where would the visitors park? Mr. Bisanz responded that the Ordinance only requires 1.5 stalls per unit; and, they are providing 1.75 stalls per unit. They could provide more parking for the project but it would reduce the amount of private open space. Chairman Steiqerwald stated that these building types would attract younger people who would have the need for more quest parking and would Lend to have more than one vehicle per unit. Commissioner Wire stated concern with people walking out of their building, right into the driveway. He believes that 3 1/2 ft. is definitely not adequate. Mr. Charles Womack, Womack Architects, stated that they have 14 ft. from the driveway to the door. Commissioner Wire acknowledged this but noted that the wing wall obstructs vision until you are within 3 ft. of the drive. Mr. Womack stated the wing wall is only 6 ft. in length, having a 7 -ft. apron between the drive and the wing wall. Discussion ensued regarding the entrance setbacks and the concern with pedestrian safety. Chairman Steigerwald stated that 7 ft. is not enough room to park a vehicle in front of the garages. Mr. Bisanz stated they would prohibit the parking of vehicles in front of the garages. Chairman Steigerwald inquired about enforcement. Mr. Bisanz stated the management would enforce parking restrictions. Commissioner Zylla expressed concern that the entrance and exit to the site in the northwest corner does not match the entrance at the southeast corner of the project. Mr. Womack stated that widening of the northwest access was felt to be unnecessary since most of the traffic would be entering and exiting through the east entrance. Chairman Steigerwald opened the Public Hearing, as there was no one present to speak on this item, the Public Hearing was closed. Paqe 277 Planning Commission Hinutes Decemher 9, 1967 MOTIOI! by Commissioner ltiire. seconde^ b Chairmali Steiger%ald to recommend approval for the Revised Planned Unit Development Preliminary Plan, Conditional Use Permit, PUD Final Plan and Plat for "Mallard Pointe", subject to the conditions as listed in the December 2, 1967, staff report. Commissioner Plufka stated this is a unique project and he would like to visit similar projects in the metro area to see how the problems discussed by the Commission have been handled and/or resolved. He believes this item should be deferred. Commissioner Stulberq inquired how far alonq the construction of the project in Maple Grove is. Mr. gisanz noted that 76 units are leased, Nith 50 units occupied. Commissioner Stulberg didn't believe there would be a way to adequately determine how the traffic works in this type of development with only a portion of the development completed and occupied. MOTION by Commissioner Marofsky, seconded by Chairman Steigerwald to amend Condition No. 4 to read: Signage shall comply with the approved PUD Sion Plan. Roll Call Vote. 7 Ayes. MOTION carried. MOTION by Commissioner Marofsky - to Table the request for redesign of the plan, changing the location for the clubhouse. MOTION died for lack of second. Commissioner Stulberg stated that relocating the clubhouse would provide more useable space, however, the real issue is to assure that all the amenities for the project are accessible to the residents. Commissioner Marofsky agreed that all the amenities should be brought together as a whole. MOTION by Commissioner Marofsky, seconded by Commissioner Stulberg to Table the Motion and direct redesign to develop more accessible amenities. Commissioner Plufka noted that the location of the amenities were fine, however, his concern is with the proposed parking. It was his opinion that the Commission should visit a similar project but to not defer this project only on the basis of concern about the amenities. Mr. Bisanz noted that this development is a "PUD within a PUD. They initially proposed a trail along Niagara Lane to be an easement rather than an outlot; however, the City would not accept this for a residential area. MOTION TO APPRO` - MOTION TO AMEND VOTE ON AMENDMENT MOTION CARRIED MOTION TO TABLE Paoe 27 Planning Commission Minutes December 9, 1957 Commissioner Harofskv stated that he understands that issue, but is concerned about the 40 ft, setback. h1r. Bisdf17 stated these setbacks are "reall\" 70 ft. from the right-of- way of Niagara Lane. The Citv Council in their approval referenced that the setbacks for each area would be reviewed at the time of development. Commissioner Stulberg noted they were not just reviewing the clubhouse location, but all the amenities. There should be more useable open and recreational space for this development. Assistant Engineer Sweeney stated the petitioner should not propose revised plans at the meeting, as in the case of the aisle widths. It is difficult to prepare reports for the Commission's revieH when the petitioner changes the plans and staff has not had a change to review them. If the petitioner seeks approval of an alternative dimension, that should be part of the proposal. Roll Call Vote. 6 Ayes. Commissioner Plufka, Nay. MOTION VOTE - MOTION CARRIED carried. Commissioner Wire noted four concerns he would like addressed: 1. The distance between the entrances to this project and that perhaps a third entrance should be located between the two; 2. There is a need to better define the drive aisle widths for the project, and these should be 24 ft. in width because of the length of the drives; 3. The transitional berming of the site should be extended further to the west to provide better transition between the residential and future industrial property to the north; and, 4. To clarify the entrances to each of the buildings and note how much room will be provided between the entrance and the drive. Commissioner Stulberg expressed concern with the accessibil- ity of the open space for all the residents; and, the petitioner may wish to consider grouping all the amenities in the center of the complex. Commissioner Zylla stated his concern with the parking shortage and that adequate guest parking should be provided without eliminating any open space. He has no problem with the location of the clubhouse; however, the tot lot should be combined with the other amenity area. He suggested the green areas between the buildings be enhanced with additional landscaping. He does not have a problem with the 20 ft. wide drive aisles, but the entrances to the site should have the same design. Page 27' Planning,, Commission Hinutes December 9, 1917 Commissioner Plufka stated the plan is adequate, but thF developer should submit plans and information that reflect the desired 20 ft. drive aisles, rather than submitting plans for 24 ft. drives and suggestinq the change at the meeting. He also expressed concern about adequate parking for the units and the clubhouse area. Commissioner Marofsky noted his concerns with the effective open space and that it should be used as such. He was concerned about the clubhouse location and the fact it would be used as an office. He would consider the 20 ft. drive aisles but would like to review that when the Commission has had time to visit similar projects. Commissioner Pauba had no concern with the proposal. Chairman Steigerwald stated he has the same concerns as expressed by the other Commissioners and also wants to visit existing similar projects. He believes the amenities should be centrally located. Mr. Bisanz informed the Commission that the "Mallard Ridge" project in Maple Grove is located next to the Groves Square Shopping Center at Weaver Lake Road, just east of I-94. Coordinator Anderson informed the Commission that the project in Golden Valley, located northeast of Boone Avenue and Highway 55 is worth viewing. Chalrman Steigerwald introduced the request submitted by Hew -Lyn, Inc./FGC Corporation. Coordinator Anderson gave a project overview. Commissioner Marofsky asked about the 30 ft. front yard set- back for this project. Coordinator Anderson responded that the PUD design allows for reduced setbacks. Chairman Steigerwald introduced Mr. Greg Frank, McCombs, Frank, Roos, Associates. Mr. Frank reviewed the concept plan that was approved in dune of this year and the dif- ferences between the proposals. He noted the original plan showed the 158 -unit building as proposed on this plan and that they have added four new properties on the northeast portion of this project. He reviewed the open space areas with the totlot and trail system that links the areas to- gether. He noted they had approached the owners of the exception parcel and, the property between Nathan Lane and this property, but both of those owners chose not to participate in this development. Commissioner Plufka inquired how many new acres of residen- tial land had been added to the project. Mr. Frank res- ponded, approximately 12 acres. Commissioner Plufka noted this additional acreage allows for an additional 139 units. DAVID PETERSON HEW-LYN, INC./ FGC CORP. REVISED PUD CONCEPT PLAN, PRELIMINARY PLAN/PLAT, REZONING AND CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT (87109) Page 2�P Planning Commission Minutes December 9, 19F7 Mr. Frank confirmed that number. Commissioner Plufka inquired about the size of the totlot located east of thc_ 108 -unit buildinq. Mr. Frank responded, it would be approximately .8 acres. Commissioner Zylla inquired if the petitioner had worked with the residents of the project to the west. Mr. David Peterson responded they had sent the proposed layout to the Homeowners Association. Commissioner Marofsky inquired if the 2.8 acres for Outlot D included the pond area. Mr. Frank responded that the 2.8 acres is the land above the 100 -Year Flood elevation. The Commission discussed the apparent loss of open space provided in the approved Concept Plan versus the ne" proposal and the additional number of units. Chairman Steigerwald opened the public hearing noting that he wanted discussion as to PUD layout first and then would be asking for discussion on the other items. Mr. Glenn Olander-Ouamme, 10750 55th Place North, President of the Harrison Hills Homeowners Association, noted that the neighborhood was not involved with the revisions to this PUD as they had been when the original concept plan was under review. He expressed concern with the traffic on the 55th/56th Avenues as continued east to Nathan Lane. He expressed additional concern with the 108 -unit building on 56th Avenue and the density and traffic congestion it would generate. He also expressed concern with the transition proposed between the townhomes and the land to the west. Mr. Paul Franke, 5525 Yorktown Lane, expressed his concern with the traffic volumes that will be using 55th Avenue to come and go from this development. Chairman Steigerwald asked Mr. Greg Frank to review the phasing plan. He showed the phasing plan of this project noting it would develop in four phases. He pointed out that, prior to the construction of Phases III and IV, 56th Avenue is required to be extended to the east and intersect with Nathan Lane. Chairman Steigerwald noted the Commission must determine if this is a PUD by the Ordinance standards. Commissioner Plufka stated concern with 139 additional units 12 acres. The project does not provide any additional amenities or open space for these additional units. 1 - Al Paae 251 Planning Commission Minutes December 9, 1957 Commissioner Marofskv noted he had the same concern and that the only additional open space that the petitioner gained, was due to the fact that the City determined they did not need a trail in the southwest corner of the project. Commissioner Stulberq noted his concerns with the open space and the fact that they have decreased the percentage of open space. He felt the distribution of the open space was poorly done. Commissioner Wire noted he liked what he sees on this re- vised concept plan, with the exception of the 109 unit building. He felt they should redistribute the density and provide better transition to the surrounding area. Commissioner Zylla inquired how the addition of land merited the bonus point change. Mr. Greg Frank reviewed how the bonus points had changed on this project with the increase in the number of acres, thus, the density change. Commissioner Zylla noted he would like to see the density based on 3 bonus points rather than 5. Mr. Frank noted the additional bonus points were awarded for the size of the project since one could put together a better overall plan with greater land area than if you had only 40 acres. Commissioner Stulberg agreed that with a larger parcel of land, the development is generally better. Commissioner Marofsky inquired how the petitioner received 3 bonus points based on 64 acres. Associate Planner Cottingham responded that the bonus points are based on gross acres and that the 64 acres was net acreage. The net acreage deducts land below the 100 -Year elevation of the City's Storm Water Drainage ponds. Commissioner Zylla noted a concern that the townhomes had not been clustered into one area. Mr. Frank reviewed the transition that they were trying to achieve by spreading out the townhomes. Chairman Steigerwald felt this project does merit PUD status, but was concerned with the lack of open space around the high density areas. He expressed concern with the addition of the 108 unit building. Mr. Olander-Quamme expressed concerns with the effective use of the streets and the concern of blocking 55th and 56th Avenues with a fence during construction. Chairman Steigerwald noted that this fence would be placed at the property's west line and would not affect the Harrison Hills development. Page 257 Plannino Commission Hinutes December 9, 1957 Mr. Olander-Ouamme reiterated his concern Hith the concentration of the density in the proposed apartment buildings. Chairman Steigerwald closed the public hearinq. MOTION was made by Chairman Steiqerwald, seconded by Commis- MOTION TO TABLE sioner Plufka to Table the consideration of the application and to continue the public hearing. Chairman Steigerwald noted the petitioner should consider the redistribution of the 158 and 105 -unit buildings; and, should provide more open space around these buildings if they stay with this design. Commissioner Plufka stated concern that the townhomes, located north of 57th Avenue, appear to be in a neighborhood all to themselves. He felt they should relocate the 108 - unit building and provide more amenities for this building, similar to that provided in the single family area. Commissioner Marofsky also had concern with the 1OS-unit building and inquired about the possibility of switching the townhomes and the 108 unit building around on the site. He also asked about the possibility of redesigning 54th Avenue and Saratoga Lane into a cul-de-sac which would delete some of the single family lots in that area, but would save the cost of construction of the road over an area with poor soils. Mr. Greg Frank explained that the road alignment was recom- mended by the City's Park Director, to provide access to the park by a looped street system rather than a dead-end street. Commissioner Zylla stated the location of the 158 unit building is not appropriate. He had other concerns regard- ing the layout of the townhomes and their aesthetic appear- ance. He stated there should be better transition between the 108 unit building and the single family lots to the west. Chairman Steigerwald encouraged the petitioner to work with the Harrison Hills homeowners on the redesign of this project. Mr. Olander-Quamme reiterated the residents' concerns with the project. They oppose having the second apartment build- ing located in the northwest corner of the site due to the difficulties with transition. Roll Call vote. Seven ayes. Motion carried. VOTE — MOTION CARRIED Page 253 Planning Commission Minutes December 9, 1957 Chairman Steiaer"ald informed h1r. Olander-Ouamme that staff would notify him when this project is rescheduled for a Planning Commission meetinq. OLD BUSINESS Chairman Steigerwald introduced the request by Ken Streeter, KENNETH STREETER Streeter Investment Company. Reading of the November 24, STREETER INVESTMENT 1987 staff report was waived. REVISED PUD PRELIM- INARY PLAN/PLAT, SITE Chairman Steigerwald introduced Mr. Ken Streeter. Mr. PLAN, AND VARIANCE Streeter noted that staff was not supporting the requested (87068) variance to allow for the gas price signs next to the pump islands rather than on the pylon sign. He stated that if the price signs were located on the pylon siq_n, it would detract from the pylon sign and the rest of the building. Commissioner Plufka agreed with Mr. Streeter. MOTION was made by Commissioner Marofsky, seconded by MOTION TO APPROVE Commissioner Stulberg, to recommend approval for the preliminary plan/plat, site plan and variance for Ken Streeter, changing Condition No. 11 to read: "A variance is granted to allow a freestanding price sign on the north side of the gas pumps. All other signage will comply with the Ordinance." Commissioner Plufka inquired about building materials. Mr. Streeter responded that the building would be brick and that the overhead doors would face west. Vote. Seven ayes. Motion carried. VOTE - MOTION CARRIED Annoi JRNMFNT The meeting adjourned at 11:10 p.m. 7 CITY OF PLYMOUTH 3400 PLYMOUTH BLVD., PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447 TELEPHONE (612) 559-2800 MEMO DATE: December 23, 1987 TO: James G. Willis, City Manager FRCM: Eric J. Blank, Director of Parks and Recreation SUBJECT: CITY SPONSORED TRIP TO FLORIDA I have received correspondence on this matter from the following: 1. City Attorney, Jim Thomson 2. Superintendent of Recreation, Mary Patterson 3. World of Leisure Travel Mr. Thomson indicates in his memo that he has no problem with the City's participation in this particular program. He has reviewed it with the City's insurance company and has asked us to comply with two items. In accordance with his memo, we have asked all participants to sign a waiver of liability form that he has provided for us. Mary Patterson has also contacted the FAA to independently verify the reliability of American Trans Air Corporation. At this time, we have 12 people who have paid the $50 deposit to participate in the trip. 2000 First Bank Place West Minneapolis Minnesota 55402 Telephone (612) 333-0543 Telecopier (612) 333-0540 Clayton L. LeFevere Herbert P. Lefler J. Dennis O'Brien John E. Drawn David J. Kennedy Joseph E. Harnitcn John B. Dean Glenn E. Purdue Richard J. Schieffer Charles L. LeFevere Herbert P. Lefler III James J. Thomson, Jr. Thomas R. Galt Dayle Nolan John G. Kressel Steven B. Schmidt James M. Strommen Ronald H. Batty William P. Jordan William R. Ska!le u^ Rodney D. Anderson Corrine A. Heine David D. Beaudoin Steven M. Taller Mary Frances Skala Christopher J. Harristhal Timothy J. Pawlenty Rolf A. Sponheim Julie A. Bergh Darcy L. Hitesman David C. Roiand Karen A. Chamerlik Paul D. Baertschi 1.(,1cN(lc Lcli( i h(°nn(,ch Dl -;m i December 17, 1987 Mr. Eric Blank Park & Recreation Director City of Plymouth 3400 Plymouth Boulevard Plymouth, 1'17 55447 Re: City Sponsored Trip to Florida Dear Eric: I have been asked to review the potential Mability of the Cite for sponsoring the trip to Florida in March, 1988. It is my understanding that the trip is being handled through a local travel agency and that the flight will be on a chartered airline. The tour does not include any chaperoning or supervision by City personnel. In other words, the participants are free to do what they desire while in Florida. In addition, any person under the age of 18 must accompanied by an adult. I have discussed the matter with Don Kuplic, the City's insurance agent, to ensure that any potential liability arising from the trip would be covered under the City's insurance policies. Fe informs me that the policies would cover any such occurrence. Because of the manner in which the tour is being conduct- ed, I do not believe that there is a significant chance of liability if any of the participants are injured while on the trip. That does not mean, of course, that the City would not be brought into a lawsuit in the event of such an injury. The tendency in such a situation for the injured party who wants to pursue litigation is to bring an action against everyone who was involved in the program. In this case, that would probably include the City, the travel agency, and any other entity involved in the injury such as the airlines or Disney World. T Eric Blar:' December- 17, 19c' - In 9c' - In order to minimize the risk of any potentia'_ 1_iahility tc the City, I recommence than the steps. take;.. 1. The Cite should attempt to independently verify the reliability and track record of "American Trans Air" which will be the charter airline involved in the trip. 2. Each participant should sign a waiver of liability as part of the agreement to partici- pate in the tour. I am enclosing a form fcr your use. You can incorporate the form if you desire into the contract that each participant will sign. Be sure, however, that the caption "Waiver of Liability" is prominently displayer. You should understand that the Waiver of Liability forr. is not "fail-safe" because these types of exculpatcry aareements are strictly construed by the courts. I have, however, drafted the form in the best way possible for the Citv. Please feel free to contact me if you have any other questions. Sincerely yours, LeFEVERE, LEFLER, KENNEDY, O' BRIEN & DRAWZ ` Japes;% Thomson, `Jr. 2822LT08.I34 Enclosure cc: Jim Willis (w/enc.) Don Kuplic (w/enc.) WAIVER OF LIABILITY I understand that my participation ir. the City's sponsorec trip to Florida is completely voluntary on my part and that the trip is being offered for my benefit. I agree and understanc. that my participation in the trip is undertaken at my own risk and that the City of Plymouth, its agents or employees, will not be liable for any claims, injuries, damages, of whatever nature incurred by me or any person under the age of 18 accompanying me as a result of the passive or active negligence of the City of Plymouth, its agents or employees. On behalf of myself and any person under the age of 18 accompanying me on the trip, expressly forever release and discharge the Citv of Plymouth, its agents or employees from any such claims, injuries, or damages. 0066WAO1.I34 CITY OF PLYMOUTH 3400 PLYMOUTH BLVD., PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447 TELEPHONE (612) 559-2800 MEMO DATE: December 23, 1987 TO: Eric Blank, Director of Parks and Recreation FRCM: Mary Patterson, Superintendent of Recreation The air carrier for the City sponsored trip to Florida in March is American Trans Air. I have spoken to two people regarding their reputation. 1. Robert Riddle is an aviation safety inspector with the Federal Aviation Administration. He has taken a surveillance flight with American Trans Air to Las Vegas. On the way to Las Vegas, he inspected the cock pit and its operation, and on the return trip, he inspected the cabin and flight attendant operation. He found performance in both areas satisfactory. He felt that their plane was very clean and tidy, and to him that indicated a well run operation. Riddle also stated that American Trans Air is well established, having been in business at least 10 years. He is not aware of any incidents indicating a concern for safety. 2. Richard Sullivan works for the Department of Transportation regarding consumer complaints. In the period from July 1 -December 15, there were 76 complaints regarding American Trans Air. He indicated that we should be aware that they have provided some scheduled service during a portion of that time as well as charter service. He was not sure how many of the complaints regarded just scheduled service rather than the chartered. He found that most of the complaints regarded baggage handling. When asked how this performance compares to other carriers, he said that that was difficult to say, because of variations in size. Major carriers such as Northwest, US Air, etc., might have several hundred complaints in one month. In summary, neither of the two individuals that I spoke to regarding American Trans Air had any concerns about their ability to perform satisfactorily. NP/hp 1681 COPE AVENUE EAST. M.APLEVJ00D, MN' 55109 (612) 770 -1327 Mary Pat-teAzo►z Pt ymouth PaAkz & RecAea-tion Dept. 3400 Ptymouth Btvd. ptymouth, Mn. 55447 DeaA MaAy, December 15, 19€I you made zeveAat Aequeztz o6 uh AegaAding the touA opeAa-toA 60A youA RecAeation Dept. .touA to OAt ando, FtoAida in MaAch o6 1988. .the name o6 .the whotezate .touA opeAatoA iz TAanz Gt obat Tou tz . TheiA toeation iz 8200 NoAmandate Btvd. Suite 0504 Mpt.6. , Mn. 55437 They have been in buz nezz in the Twin Citiez zinee 1972. They ane a veAy Aeputabte 6iAm and we have uzed them 6Aequentty in the pant 4evenat yeaAz. The chaAtcA aiA company that wit t be used 6oA thin touA iz AmeAican TAanz A .A. They aAe toeated in Indianapotiz, Indiana and weAe incoApoAated in 1973. They have "neveA tont a pazzengeA" in att o6 the yeaA,5 .that they have been in buzinezz. Thin company 6tiez 10 Liott aiAcAa6t and 8-727'x. Att o6 theiA zeAvice iz ehaAteA heAvi ce. you atzo a.6ked about caA inhuaance 6oA the caAz uzed 6oA youA touA. it is not necersaAy 6oA ciien-tz to take the inzuAanee oibeAed i6 they aAe atAeady coveAed by theiA own inzuAanee poticiez. IU ctientz don't take the co.2.izion damage waiveA inzuAance, they mutt have a cAedit caAd oA make a $100.00 cath deposit to be te6 t with the eaA company until the eaA iz AetiuAned .to the opeAa.toA. Cott o6 .the cottizion damage inzuAance 6oA eaA being uzed iz $10..99 peA day pptuz -tax. Accident inzuAanee iz $3.00 peA peAzon, peA day. e 1681 COPE AVENUE EAST, MAPLEWOOD. MN 55109 (612i7710 1327 Page 2 16 you have any other queztkonz neganding your touA, MaAy, pteaze cacti me. you can eats me any time about anything eoneenn�ng the tour. Sineenety, Man�.t HendAickz Group Toun DiAecton Ask Mr. Foster Ir"Se VWSN"Uw E F. konB.IF, rrl0Ni C Oft.N I 5 ION EF - - BOARD OF HENNEPIN COUNTY COMMISSIONERS 2400 GOVERNMENT CENTER MINNEAPOLIS, ,MINNESOTA 55487 December 10, 1987 Richard J. Pouliot 12105 29th Ave. N. Plymouth, K%' 55441 Dear Mr. Pouliot, The Hennepin County Board of Commissioners wnuld like to express a sincere than: you for helping to make the county's household hazardous waste collection a success. Nearly 4,500 people took unwanted household and garden chemicals to the cuwrt.y's collection sites in September. Materials collected included about 50,000 cans of paint, 3,000 car batteries, and chemicals which filled hundreds of large drruns. Because of this project, all of these materials were kept out of 'Main Cities area landfills where they could have contributed to groundwater pollution. The prcject would not have been possible without you and the other volunteers who helped staff the drop-off sites. The County Boatd has passed a resolution on a unanimous vote which thanks you for your efforts. Thanks aaain. Sincerely, E. F. Commissioner, 5th District RESOLUTION h0. The following resolution was offered by Co=issioner Keefe, seconded by Commissioner Johnson: WHEREAS, household hazardous wastes pose a threat to waste haulers, the county's transfer stations and waste -to -energy facilities, and also pose a threat of poisonings and fires in the home, and are of concern to local building inspectors and fire marshals, and WHEREAS, household and garden chemicals improperly disposed of in landfills can lead to groundwater contamination, and WHEREAS, because of these concerns, the county and local municipalities set up a collection program for three Saturdays in September with 15 collection sites throughout the county, and WHEREAS, approximately 4,500 people brought household hazardous wastes to the collection sites, with the materials including about 50•,000 cans of paint, approximately 3,000 car batteries and other chemicals which will fill hundreds of large drums, and WHEREAS, the project would not have been possible without the cooperation of municipalities in the county and hundreds of volunteers who helped staff the collection sites, BE IT RESOLVED, that the county expresses a sincere thank you to all volunteers who participated and helped make the program a great success, including representatives of Thorpe Brothers Real Estate, Citizens for a Better Environment, Minnegasco, League of Women Voters, Minneapolis recycling program, Ramsey County, Scott County, Sierra Club and Clean Water Action Group, and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the county thanks all cities in Hennepin County for their efforts, especially those that provided sites and volunteers, including Bloomington., Hopkins, St. Louis Park, Shorewood, Minneapolis, Corcoran, Osseo, Orono, Plymouth, Golden Valley and Crystal. The question was on the adoption of the resolution, and there were seven YEAS and no NAYS as follows: COUNTY OF HENNEPIN BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS YEA NAY OTHER Jeff Spartz X Randy Johnson X John Keefe X John E. Derus X E. F. Robb, Jr. X Sam S. Sivanich X Mark Andrew, Chairman X RESOLUTION ADOPTED. ATTEST: Cle the Co my Board y ta PUBLIC SCHOOLS ependent School District 284 WAYZATA WEST JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL WAYZATA BOULEVARD & BARRY AVENUE WAYZATA, MN 55391 (612) 476 -'2 -.c' - December 15, 1987 Mr. Eric Blank 3400 Plymouth Blvd. Plymouth, MN 55447 Dear Mr. Blank, Thank you so much for participating in our Career Day for ninth graders on December 9. The student responses to the presentations have been very positive. You have provided valuable information that students cannot get from textbooks. Thanks for taking your valuable time to help young people begin to make the important decisions that will shape their academic and career futures. That so many of you were willing to share your expertise is impressive. Best wishes for a joyful holiday season. Sincerely Sharen Hilliard Coordinator of Gifted and Talented for Secondary Schools SH/mh INUERM TDO CITY MANAGER CCY COUNCIL FUSUC WORK DFUM rawila DfRECTOR RAIib1M WoTOR FWX SWM DIRECTOR _..._. MORMSTVJK 930UNT 1K emum 11 CHELSEA WOODS ASSOCIATION December 14, 1987 To: Dick Pouliot Plymouth City Staff 3400 Plymouth Blvd Plymouth, MN 55441 From: Ken Plant Chelsea Woods Association Dick: This is a tardy, but none -the -less, sincere thank you on behalf of CWA residents for your enthusiastic support of our recycling program. In particular, your presentation at our semi-annual meeting on this subject was excellent and very effective in promoting our effort. You'll be pleased to know that we already have well over 50% participation and have reduced our bulk buriable garbage from 12 1/2 cubic yards to 7 1/2 cubic yards! Again, thanks for your presentation at our meeting. Very truly yours, Ken Plant 1505 YUMA LANE • PLYMOUTH, MINNESOTA 55447 • 475-2725 I 10 3225 Rosewood Lane Forth 11 3215 " • 12 3205.or 12920 32nd Avenue Forth 13 12930 32nd Avenue Forth 14 12940 Itit 15 12950 it" 16 12960 if"