Yoga is everywhere and is for everyone! It was introduced to Western society in the 19th century by an Indian spiritual leader, Swami Vivekananda, and we have been practicing yoga in our living rooms, local gyms, studios, hospitals and schools ever since.
Most yoga styles are based on the same foundation: with common basic postures (asanas) and have the same underling principles such as relaxation, exercise, breathing techniques, good diet and meditation.
We take up yoga for various reasons. Practicing yoga asanas has been recommended by doctors and scientists as it has been shown that it has a powerful and beneficial effect on our physical and mental states. Also many people who practise yoga find a great spiritual benefit that promotes happiness in their lives. The main health benefits associated with yoga include a reduction of stress-related conditions like migraine headaches, insomnia, depression, anxiety, and gastrointestinal conditions. Regular practise also helps with lower back pain and joint stiffness, improves our sense of well-being, mood, self-control and many more.
If you are new to yoga don’t worry! It’s never too late to start. Sometimes a hard question is how do you know which type of yoga is right for you? Should you choose a type of yoga based on your current fitness level, personality, goals or simply your state of mind? The key is to listen to your body and choose the class that suits your needs. You may even discover that depending on the day you will want to practice different types of yoga.
If you feel like taking up a challenge and you prefer fast-paced, vigorous and physically demanding form of exercise try Ashtanga, Hot Yoga or Power Yoga. If your body needs a break; sign up for a more gentle form, focusing on breathing or meditation, such as Hatha, Yin or Iyengar Yoga.
To experience the maximum benefits of Yoga you should commit yourself to regular practice. This will help you to discover what yoga means to you personally. It may be self-awareness, discipline, stretching exercise, focus or spiritual experience… There is no right or wrong when it comes to yoga!
See you in class!
Namaste.
Agnes
