Are you stressed?
Continued exposure to high levels of stress can lead to long-term health problems, such as high blood pressure, IBS, diabetes and heart disease. On a personal level, your ability to enjoy happy relationships is also effected by stress.
As a yoga teacher, most of the people I teach yoga to were advised by their Doctor, or in some case their partners, to try yoga as a way to manage their stress.
If you are looking for a solution to manage your stress, try the following five easy yoga poses. They will help you to feel calm and relaxed.
As with all forms of exercise, please consult your doctor before you attempt these yoga exercises and always work within the safety limits of your own body.
Five Easy Yoga Poses To Release Stress
1. Wind-Relieving Pose
Lie on your back on a comfortable surface, for example a yoga mat or blanket.
Draw your right knee into your chest, and your nose towards your knee.
Relax the shoulders and take 3 -5 rounds of deep yogic breathing.
Relax and switch sides.
2. Seated Forward Bend/Paschimottanasana
Sit on the floor, straight back, with your legs stretched out in front of you.
Raise your arms straight above your head and slowly bend forward and place your hands on your ankles or shins.
Take 3 -5 rounds of deep breathing, keep your shoulders relaxed.
Slowly come out of the pose.
3. Cobra Pose/Bhujangasana
Lie on your front on your yoga mat/blanket
Bend your elbows and place your hands flat on the floor beneath your shoulders.
Tilt your head forwards until your forehand touches the floor.
Tuck your elbows into your side.
Inhale and slowly raise your forehead, nose and chin
Push down with your arms and raise your chest up, gently arching backwards away from the floor.
Keep your hips and legs in contact with the floor, elbows tucked into your side and relax your shoulders.
Take 3 - 5 rounds of deep breathing.
Slowly come out of the pose.
4. Basking Frog Pose
Lie down on your back, bring the soles of your feet together close to your body, with your knees open wide, and move your knees down towards the floor.
Bring your arms over your head and rest your palms on the floor and stretch out.
Keep your lower back pressed down toward the floor, breathe deeply 3 - 5 times.
To come out of the pose, bring your arms back down to the side of your body and straighten your legs.
5. Child's Pose
Sit on your heels. Lean forward and rest your forehead on the ground.
Place your arms by your side next to your body, palms facing upwards.
Breathe gently and relax for at least 2 - 5 minutes.
Slowly come up out of the pose
For best results, practice these five simple yoga poses regularly. They will release stress and tension and help you to relax and feel calm.
Ntathu Allen, Hatha Yoga Teacher designs personal yoga exercise programmes for beginners. She helps you learn easy yoga postures which improve your flexibility, breathing practices to release stress and meditation techniques to soothe and calm your mind. To find out more go to:> http://www.yogainspires.co.uk and sign up for your free monthly yoga and health newsletter, "Healing for the Soul," full of wellbeing and holistic healing tips and; yoga exercises to energise and nurture your soul.
=============
Email:> ntathu@yogainspires.co.uk
http://www.yogainspires.co.uk
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Health Benefits of Yoga - Reducing Stress and More With Laughter Yoga
There are different kinds of health benefits of yoga. Usually, the benefits received from a type of yoga depend on the kind of yoga a person is practicing. One of the kinds of yoga that is gaining in popularity thanks to its health benefits is laughter yoga.
It is said that children laugh around 400 times each day. Anybody who has been around children know they are typically carefree and full of energy. On the other hand, studies have shown that adults laugh only about 15 times a day on average.
Because adults must deal with more stress, it is understandable that they laugh less. However, one of the key points of laughter yoga is that the more a person laughs, the better they will be able to reduce the stress they feel.
In addition to reducing stress, laughter yoga is also said to be able to boost a person's immune system, strengthen his or her heart and improve overall circulation. A person who wants to try out this kind of yoga to improve his or her health can try the following:
- Find a class - Laughter yoga is usually most effective when it is done as part of a group, rather than a person doing it on her own. Because laughter yoga includes more than just laughing, an experienced yogi can help a person get the most health benefits.
- Get ready - Just like any other form of yoga, a person who hopes to truly be able to receive some health benefits of yoga that focuses on laughing must be able to take the time to warm up. When warming up, a person should clap twice, saying "Ho, Ho." Then, he or she should clap three times while saying, "Ha, Ha, Ha."
- Breathing is important - Breathing is important in any kind of yoga. In laugh yoga, a person can breathe deeply by drawing in a large breath through his or her nose that immerses his or her lungs. Hold the breath for about 10 seconds, and then slowly exhale. Pay attention to the way the air leaves the lungs. This process should be repeated three times.
- Laugh - This is easier said than done. The fact is that a person who is not comfortable acting "silly" in a group may need some time to get used to this kind of yoga. The best way to get used to doing this yoga is to realize that everybody else looks just as silly. A person should start the laughing by raising his or her arms in the air and laughing heartily as he or she throws his or head back. Use the other people in the group. People can shake hands, nod, wave and laugh at each other.
- Learn to laugh silently - Laugh yoga does not simply focus on the noises a person makes. Rather, it focuses on the way a body functions as it laughs. Laughing silently can allow a person to get a good abdominal workout, It can also allow a person to work out his or her facial muscles.
If a person has participated in yoga for years, he or she must remember that laughing yoga does not replace all of the health benefits of yoga that has been previously been practiced. A person who is looking to stay flexible will likely want to continue to do other types of yoga.
Anne Clarke writes numerous articles for Web sites on gardening, parenting, fashion, and home decor. Her background also includes teaching, gardening, and fashion. For more of her useful articles on yoga and Pilates, please visit Yoga Supplies, home to many useful articles about health and fitness.
Friday, November 14, 2008
Yoga for Mind and Body
Life today for many people is a stressful situation. We have worries of making enough money to pay for the ever rising cost of housing, food, clothing and other bills. Many deal with work that they do not really enjoy. It seems we are usually in a rush to get to jobs, finish projects and chores, and get children to school or their other activities. As we are trying to do these things we find ourselves faced with traffic and crowds. All while we are trying to find quality time to spend with our families and friends. All of this puts a lot of stress on us, draining a large amount of our energy.
Research has shown that the mind and body are interconnected. What effects us on a mental and emotional level will also effects us on a physical level. People who have emotional problems are usually found to have physical ailments, ranging from headaches to much more series diseases. If we do not deal with our mental and emotional stress, the physical ailments will manifest and get worse.
This is where yoga can be a tremendous asset for us to practice regularly. Yoga helps us connect our mind to our body's movements and rhythms. It teaches us to relax and be at ease. Our bodies become more toned and flexible. Our minds become more clear. We find an inner balance and peace that leads to a healthier life.
Yoga teaches us to be at ease so that when these challenging life situations arise we can deal with them constructively. If we are not relaxed and do not have inner harmony we tend to deal with such circumstances by creating anxiety. It is not the events that bring distress on us, but how we react to them. When we come to this realization it should be easy to see that the power to find happiness is also within each of us. We each have the power to make ourselves more harmonious, and in turn the world a better place.
We find this inner peace by practicing yoga poses, also called asanas, and through breathing. Asana is the Sanskrit word for the poses and positions you practice in yoga. These include many different twisting, standing, back bending, and balancing positions of different parts of the body. This all helps with alignment and balance, making the mind and body stronger. Anyone of any age or ability can practice yoga, though some positions require more skill than others to perform. Breathing awareness and control is also important. It helps strength the mind and body connection while also helping us to slow down and relax.
With how most of our lives are today and the benefits yoga brings, it seems like the two should be brought together. Many people are coming to this realization. Yoga has been gaining in popularity in the West for many years. It has become very common to see its influence very day. Even small towns have been known to be home to a yoga studio.
Chad Lynch has been practicing yoga for several years and wishes to share the benefits it brings. You can learn more by visiting my blog, Spirit Yoga
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Practicing Yoga Asanas - How Your Body Benefits
Yoga is being widely practiced by many people these days. People who have been faithfully practicing it firmly believe that it has tremendous benefits. Constant practice of yoga makes your body very supple. This is one of the many advantages of doing yoga regularly.
There are so many different types of poses that every person is bound to benefit physically in one way or the other. Certain classes of people believe that it cleanses the body totally by flushing out all the toxins. This cleansing reduces pain and gives relief too many disorders. Many believe that it is an excellent way to exercise.
Constant practice of the various postures makes the joints, tendons and ligaments extremely flexible. Researchers believe that performing the various poses brings about a sense of harmony in our body and it is because of this that flexibility is achieved. They also believe that all the different postures of yoga which helps to massage the internal organs in the body and this makes us feel and experience excellent health.
When we perform the various poses or asana we find that the blood circulation improves vastly with blood reaching every nook and corner of the body. This causes the blood to be completely detoxified and it becomes cleansed of impurities. The more we practice the more the blood gets cleansed and rid of toxins. The tremendous extra energy which is released not only makes the person refreshed but it also slows down ageing. Many people who have been practicing yoga for along time hardly look their age though they must be well past 50 or 60. The muscles get exercised well and grow strong. Doing yoga helps a weakened muscle to get back into shape. Those engaged in yoga find that constant stimulation causes drooping muscles to get toned and healed.
Another important factor is yoga practice helps improve our nervous system keeping them in constant action. Many people who have been practicing yoga find that their general heath has improved considerably because of meditation and the various yoga postures. Yoga is a form of exercise that is done slowly with grace. These slow movements performed with deep breathing which is controlled help the body to relax and that's why Yoga is considered as a stress buster. Many people feel extremely relaxed after a session of yoga.
All the yoga poses or positions are known to increase the body's vigor, strengthen the spine and make the stomach muscles firmer. All the various poses include body movements which are efficient inducing greater stamina and endurance power.
Asanas are the Sanskrit names of the common yoga positions and poses. An Asana helps a person to meditate effectively and efficiently.
Yoga helps a person to coordinate his mind with that of the body's movement. Because of this harmonious coordination of mind and body the person begins to lead a healthy life.
Most of the yoga postures include standing, twisting, balancing, back bending of the various limbs. This helps to align the body giving a sense of balance to it. The body and mind thus become stronger. People of varying age, flexibility and strength can do the various postures accordingly. The corpse pose, mountain pose and four limb staff pose are the more common basic yoga postures.
Abhishek is a Yoga teacher and he has got some great Yoga Secrets up his sleeve! Download his FREE 106 Page Ebook, "How To Maximize The Power Of Yoga!" from his website http://www.Health-Whiz.com/82/index.htm. Only limited Free Copies available.
There are so many different types of poses that every person is bound to benefit physically in one way or the other. Certain classes of people believe that it cleanses the body totally by flushing out all the toxins. This cleansing reduces pain and gives relief too many disorders. Many believe that it is an excellent way to exercise.
Constant practice of the various postures makes the joints, tendons and ligaments extremely flexible. Researchers believe that performing the various poses brings about a sense of harmony in our body and it is because of this that flexibility is achieved. They also believe that all the different postures of yoga which helps to massage the internal organs in the body and this makes us feel and experience excellent health.
When we perform the various poses or asana we find that the blood circulation improves vastly with blood reaching every nook and corner of the body. This causes the blood to be completely detoxified and it becomes cleansed of impurities. The more we practice the more the blood gets cleansed and rid of toxins. The tremendous extra energy which is released not only makes the person refreshed but it also slows down ageing. Many people who have been practicing yoga for along time hardly look their age though they must be well past 50 or 60. The muscles get exercised well and grow strong. Doing yoga helps a weakened muscle to get back into shape. Those engaged in yoga find that constant stimulation causes drooping muscles to get toned and healed.
Another important factor is yoga practice helps improve our nervous system keeping them in constant action. Many people who have been practicing yoga find that their general heath has improved considerably because of meditation and the various yoga postures. Yoga is a form of exercise that is done slowly with grace. These slow movements performed with deep breathing which is controlled help the body to relax and that's why Yoga is considered as a stress buster. Many people feel extremely relaxed after a session of yoga.
All the yoga poses or positions are known to increase the body's vigor, strengthen the spine and make the stomach muscles firmer. All the various poses include body movements which are efficient inducing greater stamina and endurance power.
Asanas are the Sanskrit names of the common yoga positions and poses. An Asana helps a person to meditate effectively and efficiently.
Yoga helps a person to coordinate his mind with that of the body's movement. Because of this harmonious coordination of mind and body the person begins to lead a healthy life.
Most of the yoga postures include standing, twisting, balancing, back bending of the various limbs. This helps to align the body giving a sense of balance to it. The body and mind thus become stronger. People of varying age, flexibility and strength can do the various postures accordingly. The corpse pose, mountain pose and four limb staff pose are the more common basic yoga postures.
Abhishek is a Yoga teacher and he has got some great Yoga Secrets up his sleeve! Download his FREE 106 Page Ebook, "How To Maximize The Power Of Yoga!" from his website http://www.Health-Whiz.com/82/index.htm. Only limited Free Copies available.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Yoga Inversions - Seeing Your World Turned Upside Down
Headstands...the mention of this pose in a Yoga class can at once strike both excitement and fear among students. Inversions are dynamic, challenging poses and while some view them as an exciting challenge, others may feel a knot develop in their stomach at the mere mention of it. Why? Well, that's what I'd like to address in this article. By discovering the true essence of inversion asanas, we can better understand our reactions to them as well as how they can affect and benefit our daily life.
Inversion yoga asanas are poses that place the feet above the head during the practice.
When attempting these poses it is important to be properly prepared; these are not postures that you should just jump right into. By preparing properly and being extremely mindful of proper body alignment, you can significantly reduce your risk of injury. Other things to keep in mind when trying inversions are the strength of the neck, pre-existing injuries or conditions such as high blood pressure, glaucoma or detached retina. Women who are pregnant or menstruating should not practice these poses. If you're new to inversions, I'd recommend practicing them under the guidance of an experienced yoga teacher.
The physical benefits of inversion asanas include improved circulation and increased strength and balance, improved concentration and increased vitality. These poses can be very demanding, it's important to be able to breathe fully and rhythmically while holding the pose. Yoga is after all, a meditation in motion. Proper breathing is key when it comes to maintaining the pose. These poses require significant core and shoulder strength - moment to moment awareness is the secret to balance.
On the emotional side, inversion asanas are about releasing/overcoming fear. For many people, the idea of being upside down is frightening. This a common and normal reaction to having your world turned upside down. When we move through this fear, we feel a sense of accomplishment and our confidence is boosted; we discover our own inner strength. This has a trickle down effect into our daily life, allowing us a more confident, relaxed approach when we encounter other obstacles.
Namaste
Texas, Certified Personal Trainer & Yoga Instructor at The Fitness Underground- Los Angeles http://www.thefitnessunderground.com
Inversion yoga asanas are poses that place the feet above the head during the practice.
When attempting these poses it is important to be properly prepared; these are not postures that you should just jump right into. By preparing properly and being extremely mindful of proper body alignment, you can significantly reduce your risk of injury. Other things to keep in mind when trying inversions are the strength of the neck, pre-existing injuries or conditions such as high blood pressure, glaucoma or detached retina. Women who are pregnant or menstruating should not practice these poses. If you're new to inversions, I'd recommend practicing them under the guidance of an experienced yoga teacher.
The physical benefits of inversion asanas include improved circulation and increased strength and balance, improved concentration and increased vitality. These poses can be very demanding, it's important to be able to breathe fully and rhythmically while holding the pose. Yoga is after all, a meditation in motion. Proper breathing is key when it comes to maintaining the pose. These poses require significant core and shoulder strength - moment to moment awareness is the secret to balance.
On the emotional side, inversion asanas are about releasing/overcoming fear. For many people, the idea of being upside down is frightening. This a common and normal reaction to having your world turned upside down. When we move through this fear, we feel a sense of accomplishment and our confidence is boosted; we discover our own inner strength. This has a trickle down effect into our daily life, allowing us a more confident, relaxed approach when we encounter other obstacles.
Namaste
Texas, Certified Personal Trainer & Yoga Instructor at The Fitness Underground- Los Angeles http://www.thefitnessunderground.com
Sunday, November 9, 2008
Vinyasa Yoga - Going With the Flow
Vinyasa yoga has become one of the most commonly practiced styles of Yoga in the West today. This dynamic style of Yoga is invigorating for the both the body and mind.
Vinyasa yoga often includes components stemming from Ashtanga yoga such as sun salutations, yet there are no predetermined asana sequences and many instructors have developed their own sequences using different asanas and transitions. You may find vinyasa classes also alled "flow yoga" or "power yoga." Classes are sequenced not only to develop internal awareness, but to also build heat and have an energizing effect. Most teachers include music to enhance the flow and rhythm of the class.
Vinyasa is a flowing sequence of poses that connect movement with breath - linking the two together. It is important to remember, vinyasa is not just a sequence of movements; Vinyasa, like all forms of Yoga, connects a meditative practice, a practice with intent to awaken our consciousness, with our movements. Without that intent and meditative approach, it's just calisthenics.
As you flow from one pose to the next, allowing your breath to carry you through, you realize the fluid nature of our bodies. As your body and your movements become more fluid, so do your thoughts and your adaptability.
Vinyasa yoga helps us to develop an awareness of the present moment that links each action to the next - one breath at a time. An approach that is helpful not only on the yoga mat, but in our day to day life as well.
Texas, Certified Personal Trainer & Yoga Instructor (E-RYT) at The Fitness Underground- Los Angeles
http://www.thefitnessunderground.com
Vinyasa yoga often includes components stemming from Ashtanga yoga such as sun salutations, yet there are no predetermined asana sequences and many instructors have developed their own sequences using different asanas and transitions. You may find vinyasa classes also alled "flow yoga" or "power yoga." Classes are sequenced not only to develop internal awareness, but to also build heat and have an energizing effect. Most teachers include music to enhance the flow and rhythm of the class.
Vinyasa is a flowing sequence of poses that connect movement with breath - linking the two together. It is important to remember, vinyasa is not just a sequence of movements; Vinyasa, like all forms of Yoga, connects a meditative practice, a practice with intent to awaken our consciousness, with our movements. Without that intent and meditative approach, it's just calisthenics.
As you flow from one pose to the next, allowing your breath to carry you through, you realize the fluid nature of our bodies. As your body and your movements become more fluid, so do your thoughts and your adaptability.
Vinyasa yoga helps us to develop an awareness of the present moment that links each action to the next - one breath at a time. An approach that is helpful not only on the yoga mat, but in our day to day life as well.
Texas, Certified Personal Trainer & Yoga Instructor (E-RYT) at The Fitness Underground- Los Angeles
http://www.thefitnessunderground.com
Five Easy Seated Yoga Exercises You Must Do to Release Lower Back Pain at Work
Do you spend the majority of your day sitting down in front of a computer or answering the phone?
Perhaps, like me, you are a self-employed entrepreneur and depend on the internet to market your business.
Sitting in the same position for lengthy periods of time, typing and looking at a computer screen, places a lot of strain on your body, particularly your lower back muscles. Weak abdominal muscles, tight hamstrings, being overweight and lack of regular exercise all contribute to lower back pain.
If you sit at your desk and do not stretch your body, when you stand up have you noticed your back muscles are sore, stiff and achy?
Back pain is the third most common reason for consulting a doctor in Britain and is closely related to poor posture, stress and tension.
If you have ever suffered from back pain you will know how painful and deliberating it can be. As a child, I remember my father spending days flat on his back, unable to move or go to work due to lower back pain. Given today's economic climate and rising food and fuel prices you can not afford to be in the same position.
Five Easy Seated Yoga Exercises To Release Lower Back Pain At Work
Yoga is great exercise for bad-back sufferers.
The following five seated exercises can be done at your desk, without any equipment or changing your clothes. They will give your body an overall stretch and help to release stiffness and tension in your lower back.
Aim to do these simple yoga stretches at least three times during your working day. Please consult your GP before you start these exercises and take care to listen and work within the limits of your body.
1. Seated Trunk Twist
Sit comfortably on a chair, feet flat on the floor, raise both elbows up to shoulder height, clasp the hands together.
Inhale and as you exhale slowly twist to one side. Make sure you twist from the base of your spine and keep the back straight throughout the stretch.
Inhale and slowly come back to centre. Repeat in the opposite direction.
Repeat the sequence 3 - 5 times each direction.
2. Seated Cobra
Sit near the edge of your chair. Feet flat on the floor. Hands resting on your lap. Lengthen your spine, slowly arch your back and lilt your head back. Relax and take three deep breathes. Slowly return body back to centre.
3. Seated Cat Stretch
Make sure you have space in front of you. Sitting on chair, bend forward and hold your ankles or shins. Arch your back, relax and repeat 3 - 5 times
4. Upward Arm Stretch
Raise both arms above your head. Place your left hand on your right wrist. Gently stretch to the right. Keep your body strong and straight. Breathe into the stretch. Switch sides and repeat.
5. Seated Spinal Twist
Still sitting, cross your left leg over your right knee. Place your right hand on the crossed knee. Gently turn your body to the left and look behind you. Allow your shoulders to be relaxed as you relax and breathe into the pose. Inhale. Release your arms and legs; return to centre. Exhale. Switch legs and repeat on the opposite side.
Regular practice of these five simple yoga exercises throughout your day. They will help to release tension and soreness in your lower back plus, you will feel more comfortable, fitter and at ease in your body.
Ntathu Allen, Hatha Yoga Teacher designs personal yoga exercise programmes for beginners. She helps you learn easy yoga postures which improve your flexibility, breathing practices to release stress and meditation techniques to soothe and calm your mind. To find out more go to: http://www.yogainspires.co.uk and sign up for your free monthly yoga and health newsletter, "Healing for the Soul," full of wellbeing and holistic healing tips and; yoga exercises to energize and nurture your soul.
Email: ntathu@yogainspires.co.uk
http://www.yogainspires.co.uk
Perhaps, like me, you are a self-employed entrepreneur and depend on the internet to market your business.
Sitting in the same position for lengthy periods of time, typing and looking at a computer screen, places a lot of strain on your body, particularly your lower back muscles. Weak abdominal muscles, tight hamstrings, being overweight and lack of regular exercise all contribute to lower back pain.
If you sit at your desk and do not stretch your body, when you stand up have you noticed your back muscles are sore, stiff and achy?
Back pain is the third most common reason for consulting a doctor in Britain and is closely related to poor posture, stress and tension.
If you have ever suffered from back pain you will know how painful and deliberating it can be. As a child, I remember my father spending days flat on his back, unable to move or go to work due to lower back pain. Given today's economic climate and rising food and fuel prices you can not afford to be in the same position.
Five Easy Seated Yoga Exercises To Release Lower Back Pain At Work
Yoga is great exercise for bad-back sufferers.
The following five seated exercises can be done at your desk, without any equipment or changing your clothes. They will give your body an overall stretch and help to release stiffness and tension in your lower back.
Aim to do these simple yoga stretches at least three times during your working day. Please consult your GP before you start these exercises and take care to listen and work within the limits of your body.
1. Seated Trunk Twist
Sit comfortably on a chair, feet flat on the floor, raise both elbows up to shoulder height, clasp the hands together.
Inhale and as you exhale slowly twist to one side. Make sure you twist from the base of your spine and keep the back straight throughout the stretch.
Inhale and slowly come back to centre. Repeat in the opposite direction.
Repeat the sequence 3 - 5 times each direction.
2. Seated Cobra
Sit near the edge of your chair. Feet flat on the floor. Hands resting on your lap. Lengthen your spine, slowly arch your back and lilt your head back. Relax and take three deep breathes. Slowly return body back to centre.
3. Seated Cat Stretch
Make sure you have space in front of you. Sitting on chair, bend forward and hold your ankles or shins. Arch your back, relax and repeat 3 - 5 times
4. Upward Arm Stretch
Raise both arms above your head. Place your left hand on your right wrist. Gently stretch to the right. Keep your body strong and straight. Breathe into the stretch. Switch sides and repeat.
5. Seated Spinal Twist
Still sitting, cross your left leg over your right knee. Place your right hand on the crossed knee. Gently turn your body to the left and look behind you. Allow your shoulders to be relaxed as you relax and breathe into the pose. Inhale. Release your arms and legs; return to centre. Exhale. Switch legs and repeat on the opposite side.
Regular practice of these five simple yoga exercises throughout your day. They will help to release tension and soreness in your lower back plus, you will feel more comfortable, fitter and at ease in your body.
Ntathu Allen, Hatha Yoga Teacher designs personal yoga exercise programmes for beginners. She helps you learn easy yoga postures which improve your flexibility, breathing practices to release stress and meditation techniques to soothe and calm your mind. To find out more go to: http://www.yogainspires.co.uk and sign up for your free monthly yoga and health newsletter, "Healing for the Soul," full of wellbeing and holistic healing tips and; yoga exercises to energize and nurture your soul.
Email: ntathu@yogainspires.co.uk
http://www.yogainspires.co.uk
Yoga is For Every Body
Yoga is becoming increasingly more common and widely available in the West. It is not uncommon to find a yoga studio in nearly every neighborhood even in smaller, Midwestern towns far from the bustling fast-paced coastal cities like NYC, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. Not only are yoga studios becoming increasingly more common, but the yoga modalities available in many of these studios are incredible. It seems that today, there is a yoga class to fit just about anyone from any walk of life at any fitness level.
I am an avid studio hopper, never wanting to commit to just one studio. I would rather learn from as many talented instructors as possible, assimilating bits and pieces from the many branches of yoga taught in the West today. I sought yoga as a technique to integrate mind, body, and soul. My path to yoga was a very spiritual one, so I tend to gravitate toward modalities such as traditional hatha yoga, and kundalini which focus not only on the body, but calming the mind and nurturing the spirit.
But for those who are simply interested in the physical and health benefits that yoga can bring to one's life, there are many options available as well.
Vinyasa is a style of yoga that was originally developed for children, who typically have more energy and would want a more fast-paced practice than older, more seasoned yogis. In a vinyasa practice, asanas, or postures, are linked rhythmically through the breath and are typically held for about five breaths. Vinyasa classes are great for those looking for something energizing and uplifiting and aren't afraid to sweat. Look for classes titled "vinyasa," "soft vinyasa," "power vinyasa," and "hatha flow" if this is a style of yoga that interests you.
Bikram yoga is quite the craze these days, at least that seems to be the case in my hometown. Bikram is a series of twenty-six postures done in a heated room, usually 95° to 105° F. Bikram classes are a cardio workout, and require strength, flexibility and focus on the part of the practitioner. Think practicing yoga in a sauna. Birkam is great for building strength and toning muscles, and is excellent for rehabilitation. In fact, the series was designed by Bikram Choudhury after a debilitating knee injury, which he was told he would never recover from and would likely never walk again. By practicing this series of asanas, he fully recovered from his injury in only six months. If you are interested in this style of yoga, look for a studio that offers "Bikram yoga" or "hot yoga." The series can be practiced at home, but not every yoga studio will offer this style as the studio room must be heated.
Pre-natal and post-natal yoga are commonly offered as well. While some prenatal classes are merely "gentle" pregnancy yoga, other prenatal classes are focused on preparing a mother's body for the stress and strain that giving birth will place on her. These classes focus on strengthening and helping the mother-to-be learn to calm and control the mind, as she will need to do during the birthing process. Postnatal and "Mommy and Baby" classes help a mother rebuild her body after giving birth, regain flexibility and muscle tone and can help alleviate the aches, pains, and stresses of new motherhood. Many classes integrate bonding time for mother and baby, and even stretching and massage for the little one. Such classes can serve as great support groups for the incredible life changes bringing a child into the world can have on one's life.
Yin yoga is an offshoot of Taoist yoga as developed by Master Paulie Zink. Yin yoga focuses on stretching and building flexibility of the connective tissue and fascia found throughout our bodies, and surrounding the joints. Most hatha yoga practiced, especially in the West, in considered yang in nature - its focus lies in stretching and strengthening the muscles only. In a Yin yoga practice, asanas are held for extended periods of time, usually three to five minutes and up to fifteen minutes, and are centered primarily on opening the hips and releasing tension in the lower back (the very areas which most people suffer from tightness and soreness). Yin classes, although much slower paced, can leave the practitioner feeling invigorated and renewed. Attending a yin class is a great way to balance one's yoga practice, and develop one's meditation practice.
Gentle and restorative yoga classes are both excellent choices for anyone requiring a slower-paced class or recovering from illness or injury. These classes are great for those who would like to practice yoga but have limited strength, flexibility or range or motion. Such classes often use props such as blocks, bolsters, and blankets for support to facilitate practitioners in their ability to do different postures. Most classes will keep to beginner level poses.
I love yoga and encourage everyone I come in contact with to at least try it. I know it can be intimidating to look at a list of classes and not know where you fit in to the equation. Almost every studio offers beginner level classes, at the very least mixed-levels. A good yoga instructor will make you feel comfortable and welcome. Do not be afraid to ask questions, and be sure to tell your instructor of any injuries or physical limitations you may have. Don't ever feel embarrassed about your abilities or level of knowledge. We are all on a personal journey, and go down our path at a different pace. Yoga is not about competition with yourself or your neighbor. It is about personal growth and development whether physical, mental, or spiritual.
For private yoga instruction, email: info@livingblissfoods.com
Erin Brennan is a Raw Foods Chef and the owner of Living Bliss, a company based out of Louisville, KY providing fresh and delicious raw and living whole foods, event catering, uncooking classes and workshops, nutritional consultations, wellness coaching, and yoga instruction.
I am an avid studio hopper, never wanting to commit to just one studio. I would rather learn from as many talented instructors as possible, assimilating bits and pieces from the many branches of yoga taught in the West today. I sought yoga as a technique to integrate mind, body, and soul. My path to yoga was a very spiritual one, so I tend to gravitate toward modalities such as traditional hatha yoga, and kundalini which focus not only on the body, but calming the mind and nurturing the spirit.
But for those who are simply interested in the physical and health benefits that yoga can bring to one's life, there are many options available as well.
Vinyasa is a style of yoga that was originally developed for children, who typically have more energy and would want a more fast-paced practice than older, more seasoned yogis. In a vinyasa practice, asanas, or postures, are linked rhythmically through the breath and are typically held for about five breaths. Vinyasa classes are great for those looking for something energizing and uplifiting and aren't afraid to sweat. Look for classes titled "vinyasa," "soft vinyasa," "power vinyasa," and "hatha flow" if this is a style of yoga that interests you.
Bikram yoga is quite the craze these days, at least that seems to be the case in my hometown. Bikram is a series of twenty-six postures done in a heated room, usually 95° to 105° F. Bikram classes are a cardio workout, and require strength, flexibility and focus on the part of the practitioner. Think practicing yoga in a sauna. Birkam is great for building strength and toning muscles, and is excellent for rehabilitation. In fact, the series was designed by Bikram Choudhury after a debilitating knee injury, which he was told he would never recover from and would likely never walk again. By practicing this series of asanas, he fully recovered from his injury in only six months. If you are interested in this style of yoga, look for a studio that offers "Bikram yoga" or "hot yoga." The series can be practiced at home, but not every yoga studio will offer this style as the studio room must be heated.
Pre-natal and post-natal yoga are commonly offered as well. While some prenatal classes are merely "gentle" pregnancy yoga, other prenatal classes are focused on preparing a mother's body for the stress and strain that giving birth will place on her. These classes focus on strengthening and helping the mother-to-be learn to calm and control the mind, as she will need to do during the birthing process. Postnatal and "Mommy and Baby" classes help a mother rebuild her body after giving birth, regain flexibility and muscle tone and can help alleviate the aches, pains, and stresses of new motherhood. Many classes integrate bonding time for mother and baby, and even stretching and massage for the little one. Such classes can serve as great support groups for the incredible life changes bringing a child into the world can have on one's life.
Yin yoga is an offshoot of Taoist yoga as developed by Master Paulie Zink. Yin yoga focuses on stretching and building flexibility of the connective tissue and fascia found throughout our bodies, and surrounding the joints. Most hatha yoga practiced, especially in the West, in considered yang in nature - its focus lies in stretching and strengthening the muscles only. In a Yin yoga practice, asanas are held for extended periods of time, usually three to five minutes and up to fifteen minutes, and are centered primarily on opening the hips and releasing tension in the lower back (the very areas which most people suffer from tightness and soreness). Yin classes, although much slower paced, can leave the practitioner feeling invigorated and renewed. Attending a yin class is a great way to balance one's yoga practice, and develop one's meditation practice.
Gentle and restorative yoga classes are both excellent choices for anyone requiring a slower-paced class or recovering from illness or injury. These classes are great for those who would like to practice yoga but have limited strength, flexibility or range or motion. Such classes often use props such as blocks, bolsters, and blankets for support to facilitate practitioners in their ability to do different postures. Most classes will keep to beginner level poses.
I love yoga and encourage everyone I come in contact with to at least try it. I know it can be intimidating to look at a list of classes and not know where you fit in to the equation. Almost every studio offers beginner level classes, at the very least mixed-levels. A good yoga instructor will make you feel comfortable and welcome. Do not be afraid to ask questions, and be sure to tell your instructor of any injuries or physical limitations you may have. Don't ever feel embarrassed about your abilities or level of knowledge. We are all on a personal journey, and go down our path at a different pace. Yoga is not about competition with yourself or your neighbor. It is about personal growth and development whether physical, mental, or spiritual.
For private yoga instruction, email: info@livingblissfoods.com
Erin Brennan is a Raw Foods Chef and the owner of Living Bliss, a company based out of Louisville, KY providing fresh and delicious raw and living whole foods, event catering, uncooking classes and workshops, nutritional consultations, wellness coaching, and yoga instruction.
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