“Beauty is not in the face, but a light in the Heart”
YOGA – Means to yoke or unite.
The aim of practicing yoga is to unite mind, body and spirit so that all function beautifully together, allowing us to live harmoniously and realize our fullest potential.
There are 8 stages of yoga, of which, only one is a physical practice.
The physical practice of yoga is known as HATHA yoga.
There are many styles of HATHA yoga;
Iyengar , Ashtanga, Anusara, kundalini, Bikram, Sivanada, Jivamukti, Kali Ray
Triyoga and the list goes on.
When Beginning, the first step is choosing which style is for you. Trying various classes is the best way to find out, you may find you enjoy elements of all. So finding a teacher you resonate with is even more important.
Think about your personal preference, do you need a fast paced practice, restoring gentle practice or something in-between. Ask teachers for advice and guidance.
Why Yoga?
Many activities tone and build muscle, but none fine-tune the body like
Yoga. It is the ultimate full-body workout and the beauty of yoga is that it does not matter if you are a complete beginner or have been practicing for years. No matter what level you are, you will still practice the fundamental postures.
There are around 30 that are used regularly, although there are many more in the greater scheme. In time these postures will become familiar and easier. As your practice grows these poses will remain the same but the depth of experience and awareness changes.
Re-aligning the body brings relief from aches, pains and general stiffness. The physical body benefits immensely, posture corrects, energy flows and a certain grace becomes very obvious. Awareness is heightened and with the clarity that comes from your practice, your own journey to self-discovery becomes clear.
Is Yoga difficult?
No. Seeing pictures of great yogis doing pretzel like contortions is NOT what we do. There are about 30 poses that are used to practice regularly. They are used for most levels at a different intensity, for example, a more advanced yogi may hold the pose longer, or use more energy.
Can Yoga keep you young?
People age fast when the body is neglected through lack of movement. Even a very gentle restoring and rejuvenating practice will bring the body back to a more youthful place. A continued practice will keep it there. Creating an abundance of energy and kick starting the optimum detox.
Do I need a lot of time?
No, it is easy to fit yoga into your life's schedule and its important
if you want to reap the benefit. It needs to become part of your life.
It can be practiced in a class, private sessions or alone.
You can also take it around the world with you!
You really don’t need anything.
Understanding Yoga
There are eight branches or 'limbs' of yoga. Working on any one branch causes the others to grow, ultimately coming together to form one whole, represented by the trunk rooting firmly into the earth.
The 8 Limbs are:
- Yama (ethics) “do unto others as you would have them do unto you”
- Niyama (self-discipline and inner awareness)
- Asana (posture practice) the body is your temple
- Pranayama (controlled breathing)
- Pratyahara (detachment) Understand the link between body, mind and soul. The higher self has no attachment.
- Dharana (concentration/focus)
- Dhyana (meditation) deep inner awareness
- Samadhi (union with the true self)