What is Yoga?
An ancient science and philosophy of life practice. Yoga is a way of life that encompasses more than asana (posture). It involves many facets that affect your entire life. Many people come to yoga because of the physical benefits and find that the many other benefits naturally flow into the rest of their life.
I ask this... What is your perception of yoga? What do you think yoga is?
Some Benefits of Practicing Yoga
*Improved posture, strength, balance, coordination, stamina and cardiovascular fitness and circulation.
*Improved mental cognition, memory, concentration, focus and mental capacity.
*Ease of movement, joint mobility, muscular stability, decreased physical discomfort.
*Increased sense of ease and well-being, mindfulness and awareness.
*Connection with community, self and earth – provides grounding and stability.
& so much more
Who can safely practice yoga?
EVERYONE can practice. You simply need to find a class that works for you. For some it may not include a structured asana (posture) practice, or may include modifications to typical postures to meet your needs. Every BODY from infants, to the elderly can practice yoga as a way of life. If you can't do yoga in a class setting, think about private classes.
Some Styles of Yoga (Asana) Practices you may commonly here about:
Hatha, Astanga, Bikram, Sivananda, Gentle, Vinyasa, Power, Restorative, Yin, Anusara - each practice has its own uniqueness, benefits and style. Try a few kinds, or try them all. See what resonates with you.
8 Limbs of Yoga:
Yamas – moral discipline – rules of behaviour
Niyamas – restraints – rules of personal engagement
Asana - postures
Pranayama – breathing practice
Pratyahara – sense withdrawal (acceptance of what is and being okay with that)
Dharana – concentration & focus
Dhyana - meditation
Samadhi – absorption & bliss (shear joy of life)
Things to consider before taking a yoga class:
*Come hydrated and with water for during and after class.
*Don’t eat heavily before class – a light snack only.
*Wear comfortable clothing that will allow you to move freely and without concern.
*Know what type of class you are attending (physical abilities and current level of fitness will help determine the type and style of class you may want to consider – don’t be afraid to ask the instructor prior to class if it is appropriate for you).
*Use the bathroom prior to class to avoid having to disrupt your practice.
*As the instructor if you don't have a mat, if you can borrow a studio mat, or where to purchase a starter mat.
*With current considerations - wear you mask to class. Once you are in your spot, you can remove your mask.