What is Yoga?
All people wish to be happy. This simple desire can often be quite difficult to reach. Yet almost everyone has had brief moments of deep peace when they felt connected to themselves, to others, and to nature. This state of feeling good usually happens spontaneously rather than ordering up on demand. In such moments we see, feel, sense, hear or touch an experience that no longer feels separate from us. When our hearts merge, when we become the same beautiful sunrise, these moments of lucidity are so blissful we wish they could become our lives base state. These moments have always been there. The beloved’s heartbeat and the sunrise. These moments are simply awaiting our arrival.
Yoga is a practice for arriving in this present moment, so that we can remember all that we already know. It is a way of remembering our true nature, which is essentially joyful and peaceful.
The word yoga is derived from the Sanskrit word for ‘union’ – between mind, body and spirit. It is a means of staying in communication with your core self and those forces that serve to bind all living beings together. A recognition and discovery, that all of life is a continual process of refinement which allows us to see more clearly. Yoga, is a process of breaking down barriers we may have built that prevent us from having an authentic connection with ourselves and with the world. A way of living and being that makes real happiness possible, a science that incorporates a broad range of practices and techniques that can be tailored to best suit your unique needs. In the very moment you focus your attention by coming back into your body, your breath, and your immediate reality, you will experience a deep sense of vibrant stillness. This feeling is so joyful and revitalizing that you will be drawn to practice more and more, leading toward lifestyle choices that nourish your well-being.
Today there are a variety of yoga therapies tailored to suit people of all ages and abilities. A typical session begins by observing the breath, becoming aware of it’s movement and texture. This leads to warm-up stretches and/or a series of various energy movements. Finishing with complete physical and mental relaxation. Each individual is encouraged to work to their own level and to stop if discomfort is experienced. Initial assessments will be carried out and any medical conditions will be discussed, adapting therapy if needed.
Yoga can reduce stress and encourage relaxation, increase feelings of vitality and wellbeing, improve digestion, develop better posture and increase general muscle tone and strength. Let your practice begin.