Contrary to current popular belief, yoga IS NOT about stretching, yoga is a way of life.

An ancient wisdom tradition passed down over the ages, perhaps 5,000 years old, yoga is based in working towards enlightenment and inner peace, as opposed to what is often used as it’s ‘aim’ to become fit and limber. When studying the ‘Vedas’, we can see that our physical ‘asana’ practice (meaning seat in sanscrit - the ancient yogic language), is far far removed from its origins, and it is suggested that this physical aspect of yoga perhaps first arose as a way to enable the mediator to sit more comfortably.

The word “yoga” itself comes from the root “yuj,” which means “to yoke.” Now this is no longer a word that is commonplace in the English language, so you might not catch its meaning at first glance. Yoking was a practice used to connect and harness two animals. They would be “yoked” together (typically at their necks) to then be able to perform tasks (such as ploughing a field). So, essentially, to yoke is to create a union, and this is typically how we hear yoga defined today. A union of mind, body, and soul; of breath and body; of our lower egos with our higher selves. A union with the universe or source or god. All of these have been used to describe the “union” that yoga creates.

In fact, for advanced practitioners, the word “yoga” in and of itself is already a paradox. This is because the true essence of yoga is uniting two things that were never actually separate to begin within. It is just the illusion of separation that we need to remove.

Of course, your personal definition of yoga and its unifying essence is up to interpretation. You have to practice to know the answer.

To learn more register your interest in my ‘Philosophy of yoga’ course starting in December.

What are the benefits of modern yoga? 

• relieves stress

• gives clarity

• calms the mind

• helps you discover your life’s purpose

• increase your flexibility

• increase muscle tone and strength

• improve your circulatory and cardio health

• helps you sleep better

• increase your energy levels

• improve athletic performance

• reduce injuries

• detoxify  your organs

• improve your posture

• improves anxiety and depression

• helps with chronic pain

• release endorphins that improve your mood

• and so much more…

Some types of yoga 

Hatha 

This is used to describe a lot of forms of yoga but is the more traditional style of yoga where we move through each pose and hold for a little longer than in a vinyasa (flow). We use breath to move between poses and go deeper into them, and can explore alignment more easily.

Vinyasa (flow) 

Like hatha this can be used to generally describe many types of class but typically we move through poses sequenced together for maximum effect, using our breath to aid the flow.

Yin yoga 

We hold supported poses normally down on the mat for much longer (3 minutes upwards) in a softer and more nurturing way to allow all the connective tissues and fascia to also be stretched. It’s slow-paced style but even though it is passive, yin yoga can be quite challenging due to the long holds, particularly if your body is not used to it. The purpose is to apply moderate stress to the connective tissue - the tendons, fascia and ligaments - with the aim of increasing circulation in the joints and improving flexibility. 

Restorative yoga

Restorative is a gentle, relaxing, passive style that allows students to relax and release the body into a gentle stretch that is held for as long as 10 minutes. This style makes use of a wide range of props, including bolsters, blocks, straps and blankets. The intention is to provide support within each pose, making it easier to completely leg go.