The word yoga, from the Sanskrit word yuj means to yoke or bind and is often interpreted to mean ‘union’. It is an ancient practice which is thought to have originated in India over 5,000 years ago. It combines practices for the mind (mediation), energy (pranayama breath work) and the body (physical postures known as asana). Originally the postures (asana) were designed to prepare the body and mind for long periods of meditation.

You don’t need to be flexible to practice yoga!

Anyone can practice yoga and there will be a class to suit you, no matter your body type or experience level. You don’t need to be flexible, fit or strong. That comes as a consequence of practicing yoga; it’s not a prerequisite. You wouldn’t think that you’d need to know how to play the piano to take piano lessons; it’s the same principle. Just give yourself the opportunity to step onto the mat and allow the rest to unfold. By just practicing once a week you’ll notice the difference.

Find your yoga

There are many different types of yoga. It’s just a question of finding the style that suits to you. Hatha Yoga is an excellent starting point for beginners due to its steady pace and the beauty of it is that it continues to challenge you as your practice evolves as there are multiple ways to progress. Clubbell Yoga is a fusion of Hatha Yoga and Clubbell® training and is a more dynamic and energetic style of practice. And of course, there’s Pregnancy Yoga for mummies to be!

Yoga for the body and the mind

People start practicing yoga for many reasons. No matter what first draws you to it, you will notice the holistic effect that it has on your body and your mind. Yoga is awesome because it:

• Increases strength, muscle tone and flexibility
• Improves range of motion, balance and posture
• Releases tension in the body and offer pain relief
• Lowers blood pressure
• Increases bone density
• Improves digestion, circulation and flush toxins from the body
• Improves breathing capacity
• Reduces stress and anxiety
• Brings clarity to the mind
• Changes your outlook through promoting a focus on the present rather than the past or future
• Increases self-acceptance and confidence
• Increases bodily awareness through creating a greater connection between body and mind
• Creates a sense of being present in your body and being open to physical and emotional feeling
• Improves concentration and brain function

Learn more about my Hatha Yoga, Clubbell Yoga and Pregnancy Yoga classes or find a class near you