• What is Yoga? 

Originated in India over 5,000 years ago, the word yoga comes from the Sanskrit word ‘Yuj’ which translates to unite, join or connect. Yoga signifies the union between mind, body and soul.

Yoga helps restore balance to the body and nervous system and increases a general sense of well-being. Through a series of asanas (yoga poses) which co-ordinate breath with posture and movement, the body is stretched, strengthened, toned and aligned. Prana (vital energy) is stimulated, the body and mind are both simultaneously energised and relaxed, bringing a sense of inner calm, peace and tranquillity.

 

• What is Pranayama & Meditation? 

Pranayama (breath control) connects the nervous system and the mind, oxygenates body tissue and purifies the physical and subtle body, helping promote a healthy mind and body.

Meditation is the practice of training attention and awareness; meditation calms the mind and brings focus to the here and now allowing peace, balance, healing and relaxation.

 

• What are Benefits of Yoga? 

Yoga has many physical benefits: flexibility, strength, balance, endurance; improves energy, metabolism and breathing. Improves posture, fitness levels, circulatory and cardiac health. Yoga also has mental benefits: produces a calm clear mind to ease stress, anxiety, depression, fatigue, insomnia. It helps balance and free those emotions. The spiritual benefits of yoga are also key: you become more open to what is happening internally, externally, and more aware of your surroundings, others, and awakened to all that evolves around you.

 

• What if I Have a Medical Problem, Feel I’m not the Right Age, or Not Experienced Enough for Yoga? 

As we grow older, it is common for range of motion and ease of movement to diminish. A consistent yoga practice can bring the suppleness of youth back into your body and help you become more flexible, durable, and stronger. Yoga is designed for all ages, levels and can help you learn to focus your physical and mental energy more effectively and become more vital, creative, and efficient in daily activities.

Many people practise yoga as a way to manage their health conditions. There are many different types of classes which suit different age range, health needs, experience levels, and can be adapted and modified for injuries. However, if you have a medical condition or an injury, always consult a medical practitioner before starting any exercise including yoga.

 

• Can I do Yoga Even if I’m not Flexible? 

Yoga is uniquely designed to help you through time, practice and consistency to build your flexibility. Yoga is about self study, so your body will progress and gain flexibility in due time.

 

• Can I do Yoga if I’m Pregnant? 

You should consult a medical practitioner before attempting any exercise and particularly yoga, to ensure you do not injure yourself. This is particularly important if you are pregnant.

The general recommendation is to not start during the first trimester. During pregnancy the body produces hormones (relaxin) which can sometimes make you more flexible especially in the hips and pelvis. Therefore you will need to be aware of maintaining stability in the joints so that you do not overstretch them, as that can become dangerous during pregnancy.

 

You want to have an empty stomach during a yoga session, so leave at least two hours between a main meal and yoga. Digestion of food requires energy and when you do yoga after a meal, your energy goes to the muscles you’re exercising and the body can’t digest the food properly. It is not healthy and won’t feel good to practice yoga on a full stomach.

You want to wear clothing that is comfortable and allows you to move without restriction. In some yoga poses you are bending forward, so you want to wear a top that won’t fall over your head, exposing your upper body. Shoes and socks are removed during class. Please bring something warm to cover yourself with, or a blanket for Shavasana  (relaxation/meditation at end of yoga class); as the body cools down when you begin to complete your practice.Please leave your mobile phone in your car or on silent mode. Yoga is your time to unplug!

Otherwise, just a smile, positive attitude, and open mind are key elements to beginning your yoga practice….the rest will come in time.