The benefits of Yoga are wide and varied and are different for each and every person. Typically in the Western cultures Yoga is seen as a tool for getting fit, thin and toned. These benefits can definitely be achieved and many more physical rewards acquired. But Yoga can also help many ailments such as: sleep disorders, anxiety, stress, headaches/migraines, blood pressure, asthma etc etc etc. Read below some of the more common body, mind & breath benefits
Strengthens
Maintaining most of the postures for a period of time requires strength which is built up over time and practice. You will notice everyday activities, mundane or otherwise becoming easier and more enjoyable.
Tones
Targeting an area of the body through twists, compression and lifts can cause fresh oxygenated blood to flow into the areas after release, to freshen and re-generation the cells, tissues, skin & muscles giving a new and younger appearance.
Builds Muscle
Through arm balances, inversions and regular practice holding postures in correct alignment, muscle mass can be achieved through your own body’s weight.
Better Balance
The art of holding a standing balance pose, wide leggered stances in binds, back bends, arm balances & inversions give a new sense of understanding your body’s centre of gravity.
Lengthens
The western lifestyle doesn’t generally offer the opportunity to stretch, decompress and open our bodies on regular occasions. Yoga always practices it’s equal & opposite posture to ensure balance so you will feel lighter, taller, thinner & more flexible.
Reduced Stress
Regular practice of asanas and meditation allows your mind space and freedom from constantly thinking about your daily life of work, family, friends and money. This gives yourself a well earned break that can result in clearer thinking & less emotive reactions to thoughts that aren’t healthful.
Sleep Disorders
Whether it’s insomnia, apnea or lethargy you’re suffering from, specific Yoga postures can elevate tension & stress and create positive, calming energy for the mind allowing better sleeping patterns necessary for your everyday functions.
Migraines
Sufferers of migraines can practice specific asanas and meditation to reduce the intensity and/or frequency of spells.
Asthma
Asthma being the more common ailment when it comes to the respiratory system can be releaved and in some cases cured through the regular practice of Yoga, whether it be through the physical postures or through ‘Pranayama’. Emphasis and intention is put heavily onto the breath cycle of the student which enables a sense of control in a safe and relaxed environment.
Pranayama
“Prana” meaning breath or life force, “yama” meaning control or discipline and “ayam” which means expansion. Translation; “expansion of the life force through breath control”. In practical terms Pranayama refers to a set of breathing techniques that are used for relaxation, concentration and meditation whilst giving back vital energy to the practitioner.
Meaning of the word Yoga
The word ‘Yoga’ derives from the Sanskrit root ‘yuj’ meaning ‘to yoke’; therefore Yoga means ‘union’ between god & soul, body mind & spirit. Hence Yoga is a spiritual (non demoninational) path that may lead practitioners from their struggles and daily uncertainteis to liberation.
There are four general kinds of Yoga
Yoga of knowledge YOGA OF DEVOTION Yoga of action classical Yoga or Yoga of the mind
(Hatha Yoga: Yoga of effort is a part of Raja Yoga)
There are other kinds of Yoga: Kundalini, Laya, Mantra, Yantra etc and it is commonly accepted that all types of Yoga lead to the same goal and that each person must choose the Yoga most suitable to his or her nature
Origins of Yoga
The origin of Yoga is unknown but it is probably rooted in the ascetic and meditative practices that arose in India at the time of the Upanishads (around 900-300bc).
Some scholars believe that yogic practices in India are more ancient and that they were already practiced by the people of the Indus Valley Civilisation (2500-1700bc). The first textual references to Yoga that we have are in the Upanishads.
Style of Yoga taught
AoteaYoga’s style is Hatha base infusing disciplines, Ashtanga, Iyengar, Vinyasa & Sivinanda with a lot of flowing sequences to keep the body moving and warm. A lot of emphasis is put on correct breathing and transitioning through postures with intention & precision.
What to expect during class
AoteaYoga’s classes will challenge and benefit the body & mind through different postures and breathing techniques. There will be times when a posture can go deeper through subtle and not so subtle movements so be prepared to listen to your body to know how ‘deep’ you should go. You shouldn’t feel pain at any time through the class but being comfortably uncomfortable is great. By being in this state, relaxation and a calm mind can manifest more easily and as a consequence floating instead of walking at the end of the class may occur.
Beginners
If you are new to Yoga or haven’t practiced in a while, welcome (back). First time Yogis can feel daunted by the prospect of coming to a class and I full well remember my first time too! I can ensure you that the class isn’t full of pot smoking Hippies, insanely flexible people or pressure to be someone you’re not. I can also ensure you no-one will be looking at you or judging your abilities as they will be so focused on their own practice to wonder about anyone else in the class. The only person that will be watching you will be the teacher to ensure you’re working to your ability in a safe environment. Read below to know what to do before, during & after class.
Common Myths
As a teacher you hear all sorts of pre-conceived ideas and myths from students, friends, family or complete strangers about Yoga. These ideas and/or myths usually stem from a number of things ranging from ego to fear, ignorance to insecurities. Below I have listed and answered the most common resistances I have heard from people:
“I’m not flexible!”
Flexibility is a by-product of regular practice. I wasn’t nor are many new students flexible to start off with however, time and determination are great factors to seeing your body loosen up gaining flexibility and the associated benefits.
“Yoga is only for women”
A less known fact about Yoga is that the traditional postures were specifically designed for mens bodies. A lot of postures should be avoided by women due to the heavy compression of the lower abdomen area and through their moon cycle. But it’s true that the majority of students seem to be women and for men (usually new) to come to a class full of women can be intimidating, especially since you’re moving and working your body differently.
“Isn’t Yoga a religion?”
Yoga is secular & non-denominational. The practice of Yoga can sometimes give the experience of enlightenment through asanas, meditation or pranayama which can feel spiritual. This in & of itself isn’t a religious experience, it’s more an experience of heightened senses and awareness, an awakening of the subconscious.
“Isn’t it better to practice Yoga outside?”
Not necessarily – I prefer a controlled environment where there is little to no draft, natural heat (so no air-conditioning or fans) but not cold, out of the sun and away from biting insects. Practicing outside can seem ‘romantic’ but when you’re battling the elements it becomes distracting. However, every now and then I like to challenge my perceptions by taking my practice: to the beach, on grass without my mat, in the pool…somewhere different and unusual, this can be beneficial in so many ways.
“Yoga’s for Hippies!”
Yoga is for EVERYONE! Perhaps back in the 70s Yoga was embraced by Hippies. But now days it is practiced by people from all walks of life, I’ve had doctors to policemen, lawyers to surfers, bodybuilders to Mums…every type of person and body in my classes!
Guidelines
Do let the teacher know if you are pregnant, have an injury or an ailment
Do bring a towel and water bottle
Do wear comfortable clothes that aren’t restrictive to movement
Do remove hard metal jewelry, including piercings and wedding rings
Do wear deodorant and avoid heavy perfumes/colognes
Do turn off your phone before entering class
Be punctual to your classes
Avoid eating 2 hours before class, however, if you need to eat have a small piece of fruit no sooner than 1/2 hour before class
Aviod sunbathing 2 hours before class
Women menstruating should avoid inversions and strong twists
Do rest if your body is telling you to
Do be conscienscious and respectful of other students and their belongings
No talking through class
Have fun and trust the process & journey of the class
Bring a warm jumper or hoodie to wear during savasana & after class
Do drink plenty of water