Yoga encompasses harmony, unity and oneness and is a holistic healin system uniting mind, body, emotions and spirit.
Yoga has been around for many thousands of years and originated in India. It grew out of a need in people to understand the various aspects of our human experience covering the physical through to the spiritual. It became an invaluable healing system for understanding and processing the challenges of our lives.
A typical class will incorporate yoga postures known as asanas, breathing practices known as pranayama and meditation.
The yoga asanas have been designed to develop flexibility, strength and to alleviate tension, energy blocks and poor health. Asanas are taught slowly and build up gently to more advanced postures. This ensures that not only the body but the mind is ready for each new stage. Yoga is taught in a non-competitive manner with the emphasis on personal growth and development. Teachers encourage the individual to become aware of their bodies and its limitations so that improvement is gentle and gradual.
Pranayama is aimed at increasing, balancing and awakening prana or the lifeforce energy in the body. It is also very effective at balancing mental and emotional issues and relaxing the body and mind. Students are taught breath awareness and then progress gradually to learn deep full breathing and how to use breath to revitalize or relax.
Meditation is essential to healthy mind and body. It creates calm, focus and awareness of self. It can eventually lead to a deeper understanding of our natural selves and can build increased concentration, willpower and protect us from stress.