How We Love Each Other: Males & Females Ft Dr. Cathy Shaffer

Join Conversations with the Queen as we address an important subject, "How We Love Each Other: Males & Females" Ft Dr. Cathy Shaffer. This show will give both men and women a deeper insight on how we can create more harmonious relationships with each other. The call in number 917.932.8881

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/109-9penstation/2013/11/26/how-we-love-each-other-males-females-ft-dr-cathy-shaffer

Generational Division Ft. Avenging Wind

Join Conversations with the Queen as we welcome Avenging Wind. We will address the generational Division. We will discuss topics like shift in music and parallel with the increase in private prisons, the golden era versus new school, and how women and men are portrayed in music. The call in # is 917.932.8881 http://www.blogtalkradio.com/109-9penstation/2013/11/19/generational-division-ft-avenging-wind

Biography
How can an unseen force be described? Simply--it cannot; it must be experienced.

Avenging Wind is such a force: an artistic emissary of a new narrative of free expression; an artist without apology.

. His origins hail from Memphis, TN-home of the Blues. He has been making music for approximately 2 decades, much of which found him in obscurity. The occasional coffee shop emcee battles, and Hip Hop performances drew him local/regional attention, but this was ultimately underwhelming.
We find him in this 'now'- rising from the ashes like the fabled phoenix, and through a musically alchemical fusing of Hip Hop, Soul, Funk/-Jazz and Blues doused with fierce lyricism, Avenging Wind speaks through an innovative medium he simply refers to as: New Blues.

The world is starved for new narratives, and Avenging Wind means to be a forerunner in that endeavor. In a nutshell: he is The New Blues Man.

Ra Sekhi Arts Temple of Healing Ft. Nia Yaa

Join Conversations with the Queen will be discussing the Ra Sekhi Arts Temple of Healing Ft. Nia Yaa.The Ra

Sekhi Arts Temple has continued in the tradition of our ancestors by passing the lessons of energy.

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/109-9penstation/2013/11/12/conversations-with-the-queen

Ra Sekhi Arts Temple of Healing was founded by Rekhit Kajara Nia Yaa Nebthet in 2007. Since then we have attuned over one hundred people in over 10 states. We have continued the tradition of our ancestors in passing the energy and lessons. We have practitioners in most major cities and will continue to share our lessons to promote health and wellness in our community. RA SEKHI ARTS TEMPLE OF HEALING Dua pose About Our Founder, Rekhit Kajara Nia Yaa Nebthet Rekhit Kajara Nia Yaa is the founder of RA SEKHI ARTS TEMPLE. Author of two books Ra Sekhi Kemetic Reiki Level 1 and 2. She is a natural healer and teacher of all ages for over 20 years sharing lessons in health, wellness, women's health, black history, yoga, and metaphysical sciences. She is an artist and entrepreneur for over 20 years. Rekhit Kajara is a Heal Thyself Ambassador of Wellness, Medicine Woman, Priestess, Community Activist, Afrikan Holistic Health Consultant, Spiritual Warrior, Sacred Woman, Educator, Mother, Tree hugger and Nature lover who has dedicated her life to promote health, wellness and natural living to our community. http://www.rasekhihealing.com/

The Entertainment Industry: Pros and Cons Ft. Brother Blaze

Join Conversations with the Queen as we discuss the pros & cons of the entertainment industry with Author, activist, and playwright Robert Brotha Blaze Murray. The call in number is 917.932.8881 http://www.blogtalkradio.com/109-9penstation/2013/10/29/the-entertainment-industry-pros-and-cons-ft-brother-blaze

The Science of Chi Ft. Adisa El

Join Conversations with the Queen for the Science of Chi with Adisa El. We will be talking about Chi energy, all that it comprises, and how to utilize it for our highest intentions. The call in number is 917.932.8881 http://www.blogtalkradio.com/109-9penstation/2013/10/15/conversations-with-the-queen

"Hip-Hop, The Occult, & the Subculture of Zombie-ism" Ft. CITI Hampton

Join Conversations with the Queen as we discuss "Hip-Hop, The Occult, & the Subculture of Zombie-ism Ft. CITI Hampton. We will talk about his upcoming album release, as well as his views on how the hip-hop culture is being utilized for both positive and negative projections of powerful energies. The call in # 917.932.8881
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/109-9penstation/2013/10/01/hip-hop-the-occult-ft-citi-hampton

My job is to sell you inspiration" says citi with a look of the deepest sincerity, with eyes that are piercing and cold as they are gentle. They exude the subtle confidence of a quiet and humble fearlessness. They tell the story of a man traveled and showcase the soul of a someone who was fallen and has been redeemed. The 27 year old rapper/producer/ singer -songwriter and polymath has decided to take a break from his vigorous schedule of writing, recording and producing, as well as hobbies that include things such as Tai chi and mer-ka-ba meditation to tell his story and give you a first class trip to his traveling mind.
"Time is an illusion contorted under the subjection of individual’s consciousness. I incarnated into this body on the second month of the fourth day in the year of 1986 of the Gregorian calendar. Prior to that my soul existed in the bosom of the All and it is well over 76 trillion years old" It’s this kind of new wave space age futuristic philosophy that has led some people to consider Citi a “weirdo” or a “Hipster” a “loser” or “genius” but all of which embody the essence of his way of life, the tao of the Dropout.


Born in Nassau County, Long Island, to two ordained Christian ministers who made ends meets by taking trades as a custom tailor, and a nurse’s aides respectively. As a child people always considered him different, a child aloof who always seemed lost in his own world. While his friends who lived in his housing project complex building were outside playing basket ball, tag and hide and seek, he would stay inside and rummage through his father’s book and record collection Listening to everything from Bob Marley, to Curtis Mayfield, to Fela Kuti while reading books such as Kahlil Gibran’s “The Prophet” but it was parents’ divorce at the age of 12 that made Him want to try his own hand at creative expression. He began writing poetry as way to cope with the pain of his family breaking up. Those poems turned into rhymes and at 17 he began producing beats and starting coming up with full fledged songs.



"my music is about is about love, life, righteousness, and royalty because I believe if you love life and live righteous you can become royalty I experienced alot of hurt and been through of alot of things that could’ve drove people crazy in the process to complete this album. From living in poverty and dodging eviction notices, from having to deal with the people I work with trying to sabotage my career by deleting my masters recordings of this project. My girl leaving me. The process of finishing this album made me a man. I was able to take the dreams of a Ghetto child and use them to build the vision of a man living life in search to become a king.”


Citi’s Debut Album “The Traveling Mind Of City Hampton” is a sixteen song opus entirely written and produced by Citi aimed to spark conversations, Kush rolled joints and your Consciousness. These songs tell the story of a man filled with hope and faith who knows he’s a child of a force that is greater than him but also battles with the finite struggle of his own mortality. He learns the universal law that what goes up must come down , As so above as so beneath and in all life is simply a school and some individuals are smart enough to learn through observation and some are brave enough to learn through experience. Each song is a testament to his journey from the rebellious war cry of “Zone out” to the cosmic swag of “Here I go(the introduction)” where in the opening lines he boldly declares“ the revolution will be digitized/ I rather give my own life than let the mission die/ I’m in the sky watching heaven and hell intertwine showing bitch niggas the exit sign in my enterprise/


The sound is warm and embracing, as it is abrasive and sonically borrows influences and inspirations from Genres ranging from hip hop, soul and progressive pop music that make for Interesting and ear opening experience to say the least “ I made this album for the dreamer and for those who sometimes feel as if they are a prisoner of circumstance or of the past or simply their surroundings. That’s why I experimented and tested the boundary sonically and lyrically to show people they can let go and let their mind be free because now is the time, the Future is now so Tune in, Turn on, and Dropout.

Dolphin Plank Pose

Step by Step

Start in Dolphin Pose, knees bent. Then walk your feet back until your shoulders are directly over the elbows and your torso is parallel to the floor.

Press your inner forearms and elbows firmly against the floor. Firm your shoulder blades against your back and spread them away from the spine. Similarly spread your collarbones away from the sternum.

Press your front thighs toward the ceiling, but resist your tailbone toward the floor as you lengthen it toward the heels. Lift the base of your skull away from the back of the neck and look straight down at the floor, keeping the throat and eyes soft.

Stay anywhere from 30 seconds to a minute. Then, release your knees to the floor with an exhale.

Benefits

Calms the brain and helps relieve stress and mild depression
Stretches the shoulders, hamstrings, calves, and arches
Strengthens the arms and legs, and core
Helps prevent osteoporosis

The Relationship Detox Pt. 2

Join Conversations With The Queen as we discuss how to detox holistically from previous relationships with world renowned author and holistic healer Queen Afua. This will be part 2 of her presentation. The show starts @ 9pm Et The call in number is 917.932.8881
blogtalkradio.com/109-9penstation 

Overcoming Obesity Ft. Dr. Yew

Join Conversations With The Queen as we discuss how to adapt a holistic lifestyle that will help one to overcome the burden of being overweight and obese. Dr. Yew will be our featured guest who will provide his insight and expertise in the area of holistic health to the subject. The call in # is 917.932.8881
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/109-9penstation/2013/09/17/conversations-with-the-queen

Hip-Hop Beyond The Music: A Culture. An Ethnicity? Ft. S.Frosty.

Join Conversations as we discuss "Hip-Hop Beyond The Music: A Culture. An Ethnicity?" Ft. S.Frosty.

S.Frosty currently, operates as a captivating stage host, a diligent public project strategist, creative marketer, and an audio-visual tech operator.Be sure to tune in to hear this topic discussed from a unique perspective. The call in number is 917.932.8881

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/109-9penstation/2013/08/27/hip-hop-beyond-the-music-ft-sfrosty

Paul "S.Frosty" Jackson was born and raised in Philadelphia, where he currently resides. Possessing a great respect and intrigue for the region and it's unique subcultures, he turned towards the worlds of the arts, entertainment, event affairs, and community affairs. Currently, he operates as a captivating stage host, a diligent public project strategist, creative marketer, and an audio-visual tech operator.

Recently, S.Frosty performed the role of host for the 2012 run of University City District's esteemed "40th Street Summer Series". He has been summoned back to guide the stage in 2013. And, since it's inception in June of 2010, he has co-planned and stage hosted the annual "Love, Us" grand production, set at The Rotunda of the University of Pennsylvania.

He also has hosted, produced, and booked projects at such esteemed establishments such as The Blockley [Pourhouse], World Cafe Live [Philly], the Live Nation TLA, Silk City, The Arts Garage, Sanctuary Wholistic Arts Gallery, The Rotunda of the University of Pennsylvania, and the IDEA Performing Arts Center within the Live Nation Susquehanna Bank Center.

He is a dedicated networking specialist, working to unite the needy with resources, the talented with exposure, the skilled with the tools to compete, and the powerful with those who need a boost.

The Womb Detox: What's Growing Inside of You? Ft. Queen Afua

Join Conversations with the Queen as we hold our monthly segment with Queen Afua. Queen Afua will be discussing The Womb Detox: What's Growing Inside of You?. We will speak about all the issues women go

through with womb health and how we can detoxify this organ back to optimal health. The call in number is 917.932.8881. http://www.blogtalkradio.com/109-9penstation/2013/08/20/the-womb-detox-whats-growing-inside-of-you-ft-queen-afua

Vision Class Check In Ft. Shira J

Join Conversations with the Queen as we discuss Vision Class with the creator Shira J. Vision Class is an awesome internet based lecture series that guides one into the knowledge of how to manifest ones life purpose. The Call in number is 917.932.8881  http://www.blogtalkradio.com/109-9penstation/2013/08/06/conversations-with-the-queen

Yoga Pose for August: Garland Pose

Step by Step


Squat with your feet as close together as possible. (Keep your heels on the floor if you can; otherwise, support them on a folded mat.)


Separate your thighs slightly wider than your torso. Exhaling, lean your torso forward and fit it snugly between your thighs.


Press your elbows against your inner knees, bringing your palms to together in Anjali Mudra (Salutation Seal), and resist the knees into the elbows. This will help lengthen your front torso.


To go further, press your inner thighs against the sides of your torso. Reach your arms forward, then swing them out to the sides and notch your shins into your armpits. Press your finger tips to the floor, or reach around the outside of your ankles and clasp your back heels.


Hold the position for 30 seconds to 1 minute, then inhale, straighten the knees, and stand intoUttanasana.

http://www.yogajournal.com/poses/2472

The Power of Positive Thinking: We Change Our Language We Change our Lives Ft. Cathy Shaffer

Join Conversations with the Queen as we address the power of positive thinking Ft. Dr. Cathy Shaffer. We

will speak on how the language that we use defines ad creates our reality. The Call in number is 917.932 .8881

Cathy Shaffer Over 10 years of experience in education: consultation and instruction. Personally dedicated to 

professional development, as demonstrated by, a commitment to higher learning. Skilled in administering diagnostic assessments and collaborating with, families, schools and communities. Possesses strength and experience in working with individuals of many backgrounds, cultures, disabilities and age groups.

Responsibility through Self Defense The Trayvon Martin Case Ft. Adisa El

Join "Conversations with the Queen" as we discuss the Trayvon Martin Case from a self-defense perspective with Master Martial Artist Adisa El of Courage. We will explore this issue from a unique and solution oriented angle. The call in number is 917.932.8881.

Adisa El (Adisa Heru-Tehuty Hannib-El) Founder of I Am Courage: Warriors Rites of Passage, Kupigana

Ngumi/Martial Arts rites of passage program for all age groups. Founded in 2006 to live and provide a greater access to martial arts training in Adisa’s life, greater access for his community and for people in general who don’t have access or are learning martial arts ``outside themselves``. I Am Courage is a platform medium that promotes the development and nourishment of the action of Courage, which is necessary to have to achieve all and any virtue in life including healing, healthy lifestyles, and from self-development to community development via a rites of passage process. Adisa is a 3rd generation martial artist, 1st degree Black Belt and holds ranks and experience in several arts, he is a trained Afrikan/Moorish Holistic Health practitioner, Reiki Master, Entrepreneur, Actor, Artist Manager, Martial Arts Instructor, Writer and Mentor, Motivational Speaker. Along with those before him who started the Kupigana Ngumi movement, noticed the lack of “our martial art” presence and cultural expression in their communities, as Capoeira is in Brazil, and Salsa is in Cuba. So they through their own efforts developed and introduced martial arts training and schooling to their peers and communities and “I Am Courage” is Adisa`s own efforts for his community in the territory in which he resides. He also serves on the M.U.F.T.I./Vanguard Enforcement and Security as the Grand Mufti/Vanguard in Canaanland/Kanaanta (Canada) of the Moorish Divine and National Movement of the World. He supports and works with various organizations active in the true upliftment of the quality of life among his people and all of humanity. “I Am Courage” has been traveling performing, doing workshops and lectures in schools, programs, festivals, etc. throughout the country and receiving independent film roles. ``We Will Find A Way, or Make One`` - I Am Courage, Salute!

https://www.facebook.com/IAmCourageWarriorRitesofpassage
http://iamcourage.webs.com/

Evolution Through Cultural Identity Ft Derek Rouse

Join "Conversations with the Queen" as we explore the concept of "Evolution Through Cultural Identity" with

Derek D'International Rouse of Ma'at International Travel Network. We will discuss the role that Cultural Identity plays in self-development. The call in number is 917.932.8881 http://www.blogtalkradio.com/109-9penstation/2013/07/16/conversations-with-the-queen

Derek Rouse is a 24 year old social entrepreneur and youth ambassador from Philadelphia, PA. He is the Founder/CEO of Ma'at International, a Pan-African cultural tourism travel club network, as well as current Vice President. of the National Alliance of Market Developers (NAMD) organization in Philadelphia, one of the oldest and largest African-American marketing. PR, and business professional organizations in the U.S.
Ma'at International is an “Africana Studies” Group Travel Club, Youth Study Abroad Honors Organization, and Global Cultural Tourism-Investment Network started in January 2011 by 23 year old social entrepreneur & Africana Studies student, Derek "D.International" Rouse from Philadelphia, PA. The name “Ma’at” was chosen because she is the Kemetic (Egyptian) deity of Truth, Order, Law, Morality, Justice, Reciprocity and Balance. All of these principles are what they teach and what their company stands upon. They are an organization creating platforms for international opportunities in volunteering, internships, labor, investing, & "Know Thy Self" cultural exchange & study abroad tours. We want to help educate students, teachers, mentors, and parents about the importance of Africana Studies by combining socially-conscious traveling & interactive education thru national & international cultural tourism of historical sites, culturally conscious concerts/event series, and community development through wealth-building, co-branding, & fundraising.

Prosperity in Challenging Times Ft. The Mooney Twins

Join "Conversations with the Queen" Mon. July 8 @9pm Et for our show discussing "Prosperity in Challenging Times" Ft. The Mooney Twins. The Mooney Twins maintain a place in the entertainment

industry and their great strides in the human self development movement; as well as the connection with their father, the legendary, Paul Mooney.The call in number is 917.932.8881
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/109-9penstation/2013/07/09/conversations-with-the-queen

The Mooney Twins maintain a place in the hearts of Americans nation wide for their contributions to the

entertainment industry; their great strides in the human potential/self development movement; and also in

connection with their father, the legendary, Paul Mooney.

In the early years of their careers, the Mooney Twins (Dwayne and Daryl Mooney as photographed from left to right) were perhaps most fondly remembered for their star roles as young Kenny Rae and Benny Rae in the 1979 sports/fantasy comedy film “The Fish that Saved Pittsburg.” The inner city- community legends and trailblazers of ”Conscious Comedy” have dedicated a lifetime to energizing communities with resources and progressive, often life changing information, through the medium of comedy, social criticism/discussion and philanthropy. They remain beloved for their humanitarianism and humorous social commentary in communities throughout the United States.

The Mooney Twins behind the scenes and on camera credits include decades of special appearances, live comedy shows, and interviews on networks such as BET, UPN, WB, NBC, CBS, Showtime and more.

Their lifetime associations include very special relationships and memorable collaborations with comedy royalty, including Richard Pryor, Paul Mooney and Dick Gregory. Their school of peers include Chris Rock, Bill Maher, George Lopez, Steve Harvey, D.L. Hugley and Russell Peters.

As social philanthropist, the Mooney Twins enjoy a long list of humanitarian awards and honors that span the 30 years of their careers in comedy and public speaking.

Yoga Pose of July Marichyasana I

Step by Step

Sit in Dandasana (Staff Pose). Bend your left knee and place the foot on the floor, with the heel as close to the left sitting bone as possible. Keep the right leg strong and rotated slightly inward, grounding the head of the thighbone into the floor. Press the back of the right heel and the base of the big toe away from the pelvis. Make sure the inner left thigh presses firmly against the left side of the torso.

As a preparation for the full pose, twist your torso to the right and press the back of the left shoulder against the inside of the left knee. Use this leverage to lengthen the left side of the torso along the thigh. Then gently unwind and face forward.

Reach your left arm forward and rotate it inwardly, so the thumb points to the floor and the palm faces out to the left. As you reach the left arm forward, lengthen your torso forward and snuggle the left shin into the armpit. Then on an exhalation, sweep the forearm around the outside of the leg. The left hand will press against the outside of the left thigh or buttock.

With another exhalation, sweep the right arm around behind your back. Clasp the right wrist in the left hand. Exhale and extend your torso forward from the groins, keeping the lower belly long. Lower the front torso as closely as possible to the right leg. Be sure the shoulders don't scrunch up into the ears; draw the shoulders blades actively down your back.

Stay in position for 30 seconds to a minute, then come up as you inhale. Repeat on the other side for the same length of time.




http://www.yogajournal.com/poses/939



Benefits

• Calms the brain
• Stretches the spine and shoulders
• Stimulates abdominal organs like the liver and kidneys
• Improves digestion

Mystic Philadelphia Ft. Ras Ben

Join Conversations with the Queen Mon. July 1 @9pm Et as we discuss "Mystical Philadelphia" Ft. Ras Ben. Ras Ben is a well known innovative educator,  counselor, wellness provider, peace-keeper/mediator, sacred timekeeper, and scribe. The call in number is 917.932.8881. http://www.blogtalkradio.com/109-9penstation/2013/07/02/conversations-with-the-queen

Ras Ben is an innovative educator, counselor, wellness provider, peace-keeper/mediator, sacred timekeeper, and scribe. Originally from Washington, D.C., Ras Ben has served in the Philadelphia area for over a decade, falling in love with the city after receiving his M.A. from Temple University in African-American Studies in 1992.

Ras Ben is a self-published author and has recently released Rocks of Ages: Anu Edition. Rocks of Ages is a culturally-centered survey of the therapeutic use of crystals and sacred stones, and explores the importance of utilizing them in these high-frequency times.

A family man who advocates healthy home environments for the youth, Ras Ben has been married 24 years and is the father of seven children.

Ras is a spirited man who brings a divine presence to all events he is a part of…

Summer of Greatness Ft. Louis Narcisse

Join us Mon. June 24th as we discuss a "Summer of Greatness" Ft. Louis Narcisse of Pharaonich Brand. We will discuss his career as an artist and designer. We will also explore the concept of greatness. The call in number is 917.932.8881. http://www.blogtalkradio.com/109-9penstation/2013/06/25/conversations-with-the-queen

Born in Brooklyn in 1972, I think my mother was a big influence in my love for fashion. As a single mother of three, she took pride in her & her children’s appearance. We then moved to Long island in ’83 & ever since 1st grade we attended Private schools, so no real expression of individuality & school & especially being a twin my mom still used to try & dress my brother the same or at least similar. In my sophomore year in High School I transferred to Uniondale Public High School & it was then I was free to dress differently & boldly! Having worked at some clothing stores & the local mall, I developed my sense of fashion & got my own style of dress. This was when designers Like Karl Kani was coming up & I admired how He turned his own personal style into a brand! It’s at that point I wanted to work in fashion & one day have my own clothing line. I spent the next few years working in Fashion affiliated jobs, first starting out in a Screen-printing Factory for several years & then went on to work in the Garment Industry in Manhattan, where I worked as a graphic designer rapidly moving up to Art Director, working for 12yrs in the #1 Apparel company in the US. Having as much experience & passion for the Fashion, I feel like it’s time for me to leave my mark in an rapidly growing industry. 2003 is when I created the Pharaonic Clothing Line under Pharaonicorp LLC. The clothing line first started out as just a hobby but realized that my production knowledge & design sense I could easily turn this hobby into a brand. I’ve spent the last several years taking classes & attending seminars formulating the Pharaonic Brand into what it is today. The idea for the Pharaonic brand came about because I didn’t really see too many clothing line representing the African Diaspora & also because we as descendants of African ancestors have through the decades, centuries & millennia have forgotten our vast history! This is why most of my graphics represent something from our lost legacies & great period in our history! I want the Pharaonic Clothing brand to remind us all of what great heritage we have & come from. My goal is pretty much summed up by the clothing lines motto “Get Back to Greatness” Because we owe it to our ancestors & all those who have paved the way for us to be here today!

Music, Sound, Creation Ft. Tebe Zalango

Join Conversations with the Queen Mon. June 3 @9pm Et for our show "Music, Sound, Creation" Ft. Tebe

Zalango. Tebe Zalango is a talented and inspiring Violenist, gituarist, and hip-hop artist. He strives to not only bring versatility through his many talents but to educate through his music as well. So tune in while we discuss the importance of music in the process of creation. The call in number is 917.932.8881 http://www.blogtalkradio.com/109-9penstation/2013/06/04/conversations-with-the-queen

As a child growing up in Decatur, Tebe Zalango had his hands on a violin before he left kindergarten.

One day he heard Vivaldi's "Four Seasons" on the radio and told his mother, "I want to do that!"

Zalango's mother took her son's proclamation at face value - he immediately began learning violin - even though he would rather have been playing with the neighborhood kids instead of the many hours of practice. Zalango may have grated at the practice then, but now he relishes his musical gifts. He is getting steadily closer to a year-end release of a debut double album that has been the work of a lifetime.

It may be his commercial debut, but Zalango been selling CDs for years. He personally burns thousands of them during his travels to play across the country, and even in places like Mexico and the Bahamas. It is the mode of his travels that is unusual.

Zalango has no agent. Like a troubadour, he simply travels to distant cities - Atlanta, Chicago, New York - and hits the streets, bringing about "5,000 flyers and 500 burned CDs" wherever he goes. During the day he talks to people, whips up interest, hangs fliers and sells CDs. At night he performs at the nearest open mike, wherever it may be.

"I make connections," Zalango said. "They let me know where and when the shows are. Sometimes I'll be asked to open up for a well-known performer. I let God lead me. The decision to travel comes out of the blue, and I don't fight it."



‘Music is my life'

To read the rest of the article click HERE

Yoga Pose of the month June: Reclining Big Toe Pose

Benefits

Stretches hips, thighs, hamstrings, groins, and calves
Strengthens the knees
Stimulates the prostate gland
Improves digestion
Relieves backache, sciatica, and menstrual discomfort
Therapeutic for high blood pressure, flat feet, and infertility



Step by Step

Lie supine on the floor, legs strongly extended. If your head doesn't rest comfortably on the floor, support it on a folded blanket. Exhale, bend the left knee, and draw the thigh into your torso. Hug the thigh to your belly. Press the front of the right thigh heavily to the floor, and push actively through the right heel.

Loop a strap around the arch of the left foot and hold the strap in both hands. Inhale and straighten the knee, pressing the left heel up toward the ceiling. Walk your hands up the strap until the elbows are fully extended. Broaden the shoulder blades across your back. Keeping the hands as high on the strap as possible, press the shoulder blades lightly into the floor. Widen the collarbones away from the sternum.

Extend up first through the back of the left heel, and once the back of the leg between the heel and sitting bone is fully lengthened, lift through the ball of the big toe. Begin with the raised leg perpendicular to the floor. Release the head of the thigh bone more deeply into the pelvis and, as you do, draw the foot a little closer to your head, increasing the stretch on the back of the leg.

You can stay here in this stretch, or turn the leg outward from the hip joint, so the knee and toes look to the left. Pinning the top of the right thigh to the floor, exhale and swing the left leg out to the left and hold it a few inches off the floor. Continue rotating the leg. As you feel the outer thigh move away from the left side of the torso, try to bring the left foot in line with the left shoulder joint. Inhale to bring the leg back to vertical. Lighten your grip on the strap as you do, so that you challenge the muscles of the inner thigh and hip to do the work.

Hold the vertical position of the leg anywhere from 1 to 3 minutes, and the side position for an equal length of time. Once you have returned to vertical release the strap, hold the leg in place for 30 seconds or so, then slowly release as you exhale. Repeat on the right for the same length of time.

Phases of Rebirth Ft. TrueGod

Join Conversations with the Queen as we discuss "Phases of Rebirth," with independent hip-hop artist TrueGod. We will discuss his upcoming album release "Soul Revival 2", his radio show, his brands, and how he is handling single parenthood. The call 917.932.8881
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/109-9penstation/2013/05/28/phases-of-rebirth-ft-truegod

The Art of Dying Ft. Queen Afua

Join Conversations with the Queen as we host our monthly segment with Queen Afua. This show will be centered around the topic "The Art of Dying."; how we make life decisions that are detrimental to us physically, mentally, financially, spiritually and emotionally. We will explain how these decisions shorten our lives and what we can do to be dedicated to our own highest and best good. The call in number is 917.932.8881


http://www.blogtalkradio.com/109-9penstation/2013/05/21/the-art-of-dying-ft-queen-afua.

HAIR'itage: Telling the Hair Story of the Black Woman

Join Conversations with the Queen as we discuss Hairitage with members of the cast. HAIR'itage is an original play about the evolution of the Black woman’s Hair by Niccole Nero Gaines. The call in number 917.932.8881

To listen to the show visit http://www.blogtalkradio.com/109-9penstation/2013/05/07/conversations-with-the-queen

May's Yoga Pose: Lotus Pose

Step by Step

Sit on the floor with your legs straight in front. Bend your right knee and bring the lower leg up into a cradle: The outer edge of the foot is notched into the crook of the left elbow, the knee is wedged into the crook of the right elbow, and the hands are clasped (if possible) outside the shin. Lift the front torso toward the inner right leg so the spine lengthens (and the lower back does not round). Rock your leg back and forth a few times, exploring the full range of movement of the hip joint.

Bend the left knee and turn the leg out. Rock your right leg far out to the right, then lock the knee tight by pressing the back of the thigh to the calf. Next swing the leg across in front of your torso, swiveling from the hip and not the knee, and nestle the outside edge of the foot into the inner left groin. Be sure to bring the right knee as close to the left as possible, and press the right heel into the left lower belly. Ideally the sole of the foot is perpendicular to the floor, not parallel.

Now lean back slightly, pick the right leg up off the floor, and lift the left leg in front of the right. To do this hold the underside of the left shin in your hands. Carefully slide the left leg over the right, snuggling the edge of the left foot deep into the right groin. Again swivel into position from the hip joint, pressing the heel against the lower belly, and arrange the sole perpendicular to the floor. Draw the knees as close together as possible. Use the edges of the feet to press the groins toward the floor and lift through the top of the sternum. If you wish, you can place the hands palms up in jnana mudra, with the thumbs and first fingers touching.

Padmasana is the sitting asana par excellence, but it's not for everybody. Experienced students can use it as a seat for their daily pranayama or meditation, but beginners may need to use other suitable positions. In the beginning, only hold the pose for a few seconds and quickly release. Remember that Padmasana is a "two-sided pose," so be sure to work with both leg crosses each time you practice. Gradually add a few seconds each week to your pose until you can sit comfortably for a minute or so. Ideally you should work with a teacher to monitor your progress.

http://www.yogajournal.com/poses/488





Benefits

Calms the brain
Stimulates the pelvis, spine, abdomen, and bladder
Stretches the ankles and knees
Eases menstrual discomfort and sciatica
Consistent practice of this pose until late into pregnancy is said to help ease childbirth.
Traditional texts say that Padmasana destroys all disease and awakens kundalini.