Yoga originated in India some five thousand years ago, and is a physical and mental discipline that aims to improve both body and mind. Yoga can increases physical strength, stamina and flexibility as well as enhancing mental clarity and calmness.
Yoga
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Yoga originated in India some five thousand years ago, and is a physical and mental discipline that aims to improve both body and mind. Yoga can increases physical strength, stamina and flexibility as well as enhancing mental clarity and calmness. |
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What is Yoga
The Sanskrit word yoga is translated as 'union' between mind, body and spirit. In the West, the most widely taught form of yoga is Hatha Yoga with classes offering students exercises to stretch and flex the body, develop breath awareness, relaxation and meditation. Asana Asanas (yoga postures) strengthen and tone the body and improve the flow of energy - regulating physical systems of the body and breath, and stilling the mind for meditation. The asanas used in a class will vary from teacher to teacher and depend on the abilities of the students. The objective in asana work is not how far you can stretch or contort your body, but to combine stability (stira) with ease/relaxation (sukha). BWY teachers are trained to modify asanas for individuals with medical conditions ranging from pregnancy to arthritis. There are also specialist teachers who hold pregnancy, MS, or ME classes
Breath work
Simple breathing techniques are taught to develop awareness and relaxation of the breath. These are then developed into 'pranayama' exercises - controlling and moving prana through the breath. Prana means the 'vital' or 'life force energy'. Not all exercises are suitable for those with respiratory or circulatory conditions, so be sure to advise your teacher if you have a condition before you start a class. www.bwy.org.uk
What is it good forYoga is beneficial for people of all ages, from children to people in their 80s and 90s, and all abilities, from athletes to people with illnesses such as arthritis and muscular sclerosis which affect their flexibility and mobility. Yoga is good for the respiratory system and blood oxygenation, aids relaxation, helps to strengthen the spine, increases suppleness and flexibility, and aids mobility.
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What are the benefitsYoga can be used to reduce and control anxiety, depression and other stress related conditions. Studies have shown that it can also help with a number of ailments including high blood pressure, chronic fatigue, headaches and migraine, arthritis, hay fever and asthma, sinusitis, digestive disorders and pain.
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You may be drawn to yoga simply for health and fitness, or be seeking relief for a specific physical condition. You might want help with managing stress, oryou may be drawn to the spiritual aspects of yoga. Whatever your objectives, there are yoga classes that can meet them. By making yoga a part of your daily routine, you may become aware of subtle changes in your approach to life. In your yoga class you may well begin to glimpse a state of inner peace...your true Nature. |
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