What is Yoga?
Yoga is a combination of breathing techniques, physical postures, relaxation and meditation. Yoga has been practiced for over 4000 years and it can be done standing, sitting or even lying down.
The word Yoga comes from the ancient Sanskrit word "yuj" meaning “yoke” or “union”. The practice of yoga helps quiet the mind and increase self awareness. When the mind and body work together as one, your breathing slows down, excess stress and tensions are relieved and balance, coordination and overall health improves. Your quality of life is enhanced when you feel more at ease.
Why do Yoga?
There are many rewards that come with a regular practice of yoga. Even if you are unable to get up from a chair, you can still enjoy the health benefits that come from yoga. The aging body is caused by stress, poor diet and ingestion of toxins. Stress motivates us into action, but if it is not released, stress chemicals (adrenaline, and cortisol) stay in the body obstructing digestive and immune systems. Over time the body is depleted of energy and that can cause dis-ease.
Yoga helps to release the stress chemicals that age us by increasing oxygen intake, which cleanses the systems creating more energy to move the body. When the body moves into and out of stretches and postures, joints stay lubricated, muscles get longer and stronger, and balance and concentration are a result. Working within your own limitations in a non-competitive environment allows you to focus on and listen to the hints your body may be giving you. There are a multitude of benefits produced by yoga and below you will find just a few.
How do I find an instructor?
It is important to work with a teacher who is certified in their particular style of yoga to be sure you get the safest, most accurate information. Certification typically consists of 200 to 500 hours of training and includes basic anatomy and physiology. There are many different styles of yoga. The focus of each style may vary, but most incorporate breathing (pranayama), posture (asana) or flow (vinyasa), meditation (dhyāna) and relaxation (savasana).
How do I start?
Start out with a beginner class even if you are a professional athlete. There is a difference between strength and flexibility, so start slow and always proceed at your own pace. Refrain from comparing yourself to the instructor or others in the class. Be non-judgmental when you find yourself challenged by a stretch or posture. Instead of thinking, “I can’t do this,” be compassionate and aware of what you can do: “I can do this!” By practicing yoga regularly you will notice a gradual improvement.
How do I know which yoga class is appropriate for me?
Yoga classes that tend to be easier, or more focused on relaxation, may be described using these words: gentle, restorative, easy, beginner.
Yoga classes that are vigorous or challenging may be described using these words: hot, power, vinyasa (flow), Ashtanga, Bikram, Kundalini, Forrest.
Depending upon how the teacher directs it, a yoga class could include a combination of beginner and advanced stretches and may be identified by these names: Kripalu, Iyengar, Viniyoga, Anusara.
Before starting any exercise program, please check with your doctor if you have any major health issues or concerns. Remember yoga is a practice.
For more information, please feel free to email me at: laurie@ladaley.com or call (603) 801-8624. Thank you for your interest in yoga.
