Yoga

A form of gentle exercise to harmonise body and mind.

Yoga is an ancient form of exercise that focuses on strength, flexibility and breathing to boost physical and mental wellbeing. The main components of yoga are postures (a series of movements designed to increase strength and flexibility) and breathing. You do not have to be supple or fit to practise yoga and the benefits to mind and body are well documented. Yoga classes are designed to suit all abilities and levels with emphasis on helping each person develop, explore and feel comfortable moving their own body.

There are many different styles of Yoga – contact the teacher of the class to find out what type they teach and if it would be suitable for you.

Before joining a group class, clients are asked to inform their teacher of any injuries, aches and pains or health issues which may affect them before commencing a session so that classes can be tailored to suit the needs of those attending. If you have an injury or have doubts about your physical fitness, please consult your doctor or physiotherapist and speak to us before enrolling. An initial one-to-one session may be appropriate.

For more information on Yoga classes, Mindfulness & Meditation and Health & Well-being workshops available at our studio, please contact Julie Pedrick at Bodysong Wellness Pilates.

Main Uses for Yoga

  • Problems with mobility
  • Stress
  • Chronic fatigue syndrome
  • Headaches
  • Migraines
  • Depression
  • Circulatory disorders
  • Asthma, Bronchitis
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Digestive disorders
  • Back pain
  • Menstrual problems

History

Yoga (the word is Sanskrit for ‘union’) originated more than 5,000 years ago in India, where it was traditionally practised by Hindu ascetics, or yogis, as preparation for spiritual development. It was introduced into the West in the 19th century, when scholars translated ancient Hindu religious texts. Yoga has grown rapidly in popularity since the 1960s. In the West it is valued more for its physical than spiritual benefits, such as its ability to increase suppleness and vitality, and relieve stress.

Key Principles

In the purest form, yoga is a complete system of physical and mental training – a series of spiritual stages on the path to enlightenment. These begin with ethical guidelines including healthy eating habits, and progress through the practice of as, (physical postures) and pranayama (breathing techniques) to meditation and eventually to the supreme level of pure consciousness.

Asanas are performed slowly and deliberately and are co-ordinated with breathing. Practitioners say they improve mobility and stimulate tone and circulation. It is claimed that various postures can also stimulate the nerve centres that govern internal functions, including heart digestion and hormone production. Breath is seen as the outward form of prana, or life energy. Controlled breathing regulates prana in the body, bringing spiritual benefits.

Today there are many types of yoga, please speak to your teacher for more information on the style of the class you are attending.

Does it work?

Reputable studies have confirmed that yoga can benefit a wide range of conditions. Yoga meditation has been found to affect the heart and circulation, while yoga breathing has been shown to reduce the frequency of asthma attacks and restore energy. A 1994 study indicated the therapy could help with rheumatoid arthritis.

Precautions

Don’t eat just before a class – allow two hours after a meal before exercising. Take care if you are practicing yoga during pregnancy or menstruation: some asanas should be avoided. Headstands and some inverted postures should be avoided if you have a neck or back injury, high blood pressure or circulatory problems, disorders of the heart, brain, ears or eyes.

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