metal rod into the spinal cord of the dolphin. These dolphins do not die immediately. It takes up to 20 to 30 minutes for these dolphins to die, where they bleed out, suffocate or drown from the process of being dragged to the butcher house,” said Sehgal.

Diplomats speak out

The killing has been condemned around the world.

The US Ambassador to Japan, Caroline Kennedy, has even stepped in saying she is “deeply concerned” by the “inhumaneness”.

“UK opposes all forms of dolphin and porpoise drives; they cause terrible suffering. We regularly raise (the issue) with Japan,” said the British Ambassador to Japan, Timothy Hitchens, in a tweet on Monday.

Japan defends the killing

The Japanese government defends the practice, saying it is part of its culture and traditions.

“I believe dolphin fishing is onethat fits into your schedule or a service to give you a pick-me-up.

Namast�,

Theresa Franklin, NCTMB, LMT, RYT, CMT

Olivia Kelly, NCTMB, LMT

Feature Article

Going For the Gold in Yoga?

Some yogis have been putting in extra hours of mindful practice, refining their form and stance, holding their asanas in perfect stillness, hoping to grab top spot in the finals.

No, it isn't for the 2014 Winter Olympics, although if Rajashree Choudhury had her way, competitive yoga would be an Olympic sport.

Choudhury is president and founder of the United States Yoga Federation, the group responsible for hosting the National Championship of Yoga Asana in New York. She says yoga asana competitions are a part of the Indian way of life and competed in events from an early age.

The New York competition is March