what is yoga?
Yoga is not about tying yourself up in knots, it’s about working the body effectively without unnecessary strain – creating strength where there is weakness and releasing where there is tightness, and encouraging the breath to flow deeply and evenly through the body. These actions soften deep inner tensions and clear blockages, giving a sense of body-mind equilibrium and leading to a calmer, stress-free state.
Yoga begins by working with the body on a structural level, helping to align the vertebrae, increase flexibility and strengthen muscles and connective tissue. At the same time, internal organs are toned and rejuvenated; the epidermal, digestive, lymphatic, cardiovascular and pulmonary systems are purified of toxins and waste matter; the nervous and endocrine systems are balanced and toned, and brain cells are nourished and stimulated. The end result is increased mental clarity, emotional stability and a greater sense of overall wellbeing.
As a ‘whole-body’ practice, it complements exercise such as tennis or running, which tend to target certain areas of the body. And if, like me, you’re often sat at a desk, tapping away on a computer, you could probably do with paying some attention to your shoulders, wrists, hamstrings, knees… the list goes on!
which style?
Over the years, I tried many types of yoga – Iyengar, Bikram, Kundalini and Ashtanga, among others – and have found that each has its merits. I deliberately chose to learn through the BWY as its focus is broad, giving a good grounding in the basic principles of asanas, breath work and meditation. For my own personal practice and my classes, I like to draw on different styles depending on the students’ needs and the focus and time of the class.
class structure – with geeks in mind!
The class will begin with gentle movements to warm up the body and focus the breath. This will be followed by a variety of standing postures, balances and seated postures, incorporating backbends, forward bends and twists. The class will always end with a short relaxation, allowing the body and mind to absorb the practice. Within each class, there will be moments of vinyasa flow (linking three or more postures) to encourage linking the breath to movement. We will also hold postures for several breaths, allowing time to focus on alignment. Options will be given in the postures, making them suitable for both beginners and experienced yogis.
I am registered and insured with the British Wheel of Yoga.
