Perhaps you would like some basic information about yoga, it's history, the different styles currently taught, and why it is such an amazing and totally appropriate method for the twenty-first century. Read on.
Firstly, we might ask what yoga is not. Yoga is not simply about exercise although by working with asana practice (postures) you will become fitter, more flexible and stronger. It would be easy to come to this conclusion by looking at what is offered under yoga's name. Many teachers (especially in health & fitness clubs) just offer a glorified exercise class. Nothing wrong with an exercise class, of course, but taught correctly a yoga class offers so much more. A good class develops awareness, sensitivity, honesty as well as concentration, balance and much more.
Next, yoga in not a religion, although yoga practice can, indeed, have a spritual dimension. Also, yoga teachings can include codes for living such as non-violence (to others as well as yourself!), self-development, contentment and devotion to a power greater than oneself.
is yoga for me? (the benefits of a regular yoga practice)
Have you thought about coming to a yoga class but are not sure if it’s for you? Let’s get some of the reasons why you may think it’s not for you out of the way first!
“I’m not very flexible.” Well, it really doesn’t matter if you aren’t very flexible at the moment – if you keep on practicing you soon will be a lot more flexible than you are now! Yoga also develops flexibility of the mind as well as of the body. Thinking you aren’t very flexible is a good example of rigid thinking!
“I’m not very fit at the moment.” Yoga can be a strong or as gentle as you like. A good teacher will encourage you to work at your own pace. Over time you will get fitter & fitter, and there is no time to start than now!
“Yoga is for women.” NO! Lots of men practice yoga and benefit enormously from their practice. Men often prefer “stronger” forms of yoga and there are many, many different styles being taught out there so go and find one that will suit you.
“Yoga is too gentle and not for me.” Again, yoga can be as gentle or as strenuous as you like. Different forms can be more aerobic and physically more demanding but anyone can work as gently or as strongly as they wish in any form of yoga. It can be good, however, to slow down and lose that competitive mind set and try a so called “gentle” style – you may be surprised that, for example, holding postures for a while can be just as demanding as moving quickly from one pose to another.
OK. So having hopefully dispelled some “yoga myths” lets look at some of the benefits.
Practiced regularly, yoga will
Improve your flexibility, strength, stamina, balance and concentration, leaving you feeling more relaxed with an improved sense of perspective.
Benefit a range of conditions from “bad backs” to relieving and managing stress. Over time it will help to normalise your weight and improve your general well-being.
Yoga is
For anyone – you don’t have to be “flexible” or “bendy” to benefit. Quite the reverse as, over time, it will promote these qualities even if you are currently somewhat stiff and tight.
It is about breathing, postures, meditation as well as diet and lifestyle. Yoga can become a way of life!
Yoga is also for blokes! Lots of men find yoga both challenging and hugely beneficial to their physical and mental well being. Yoga can help you get both strong and flexible and help recover from (& avoid in the future) sports injuries, tightness, stress and pain.
Yoga is not
A quick fix! You need to practice regularly to gain real benefits. Although “no pain, no gain” is definitely NOT applicable to yoga, as in life, you do get out what you put in!
Yoga is not competitive! This is surprisingly one of the most challenging aspects of yoga practice – learning to let go and accept that you are where you need to be right now. By being honest and sensitive you can begin to develop increased body awareness about what you really need and what is good for you.
For everyone! If you have a specific medical condition you should talk it through with someone (your GP or your instructor) before coming to a class.
If you are interested in a class go to our classes page
