Yoga

What is Yoga?

Yoga is an art and science of living. Defined by Patanjali as 'the neutralisation of the alternating waves of the mind', the practice of Yoga aims to silence the mind in order to live a more conscious life. Teaching us how to understand the realities of our outer world by taking us inward, Yoga exists for self-knowledge.

 

Despite the current Western understanding of Yoga as simply a sequence of postures as a means of exercise, the complete system of Yoga goes far beyond just Asana. In fact, classical Yoga gives an eightfold approach, each step necessary for the right functioning of the being. The 8 steps are the following:

• Yamas (life disciplines, e.g. non-violence, truthfulness and non-clinging)

• Niyamas (life restraints, e.g. contentment, self-study and self-discipline)

• Asana (poses aimed at bringing balance and harmony to the physical body)

• Pranayama (control of the breath, which develops and expands the energy of the life-source)

• Pratyahara (control of the senses, which helps us to withdraw from distractions)

• Dharana (control of the mind, which develops our focused attention)

• Dhyana (meditation, which develops our capacity to sustain our attention)

• Samadhi (true consciousness, a state of full absorption and union attained by only a few)

 

While many of us will never reach the final step of the Eightfold Path, we can still engage with the 'outer aids' by introducing the Yamas and Niyamas into our daily lives, and practicing Asana, Pranayama and Pratyahara. These steps already have the potential to noticeably improve our quality of life. With time and dedication, the 'inner aids' Dharana and Dhyana are also introduced, perhaps even leading some to the final enlightened stage of Samadhi.

​

While all of this may sound very foreign and mystical, modern society has a lot to learn from a philosophy of life that re-connects us with our inner selves: body, breath & mind. In my experience, learning to take a step back, slow down and view our beautiful world with kindness and compassion has been one of the most rewarding aspects of practising Yoga.

​

Who can practice Yoga?

Yoga can be practiced by anyone, regardless of their age or beliefs.

 

The young can benefit from the fun and non-competitive nature of Kids Yoga classes, which introduce physical poses (that maintain their flexibility, build their strength and work on their balance and coordination), as well as some breath-work (a useful tool for them to learn to employ in times of anxiety) and meditation ('quiet time'). These classes also promote team-work and being open to explore new things! 

​

Adults benefit from a complete physical practice that includes breathing and meditation. This kind of practice has a wide range of physical and mental benefits, and sets the foundation for a more conscious life.

​

Yoga is also useful for the elderly as a means of maintaining and prolonging strength and mobility. Classes are tailored to the clients physical capabilities (e.g. yoga with props, chair yoga), and breathing and meditation techniques can be used to enhance relaxation and vitality. 

​

How do sessions work?

Sessions are always tailored to the desires and needs of the client. Classes can be private or in group settings, and can be more or less traditional (e.g. including Sanskrit chanting). The Asana style can vary from being more powerful to softer-paced, or from being focused on a particular condition to a well-rounded full-body sequence. 

​

I have formal training in the following:

- Ashtanga and Vinyasa Yoga 

- Pre- and Post-Natal Yoga

- Mummy and Baby Yoga

- Kids Yoga

​

Check out my instagram page for lots of yummy yoga content!