Yoga and its Benefits

What is Yoga?

Yoga is the oldest holistic system of personal development. It is a practical method of self-unfoldment which balances the physical, mental and spiritual aspects of ourselves.

Yoga is comprised of postures, breathing exercises and meditation. The postures stretch, tone and strengthen muscles, joints and spine. They also stimulate internal organs, glands and nerves. By releasing physical and mental tensions, the postures liberate vast resources of energy.

The breathing exercises revitalize and cleanse, while the practice of meditation brings increased clarity and inner peace. As we practice yoga we become more and more aware of the interconnectedness of body, mind and spirit, and as body, mind and spirit are more deeply integrated, our lives begin to flow with optimal ease, energy and intelligence.

Benefits Include:

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  • Increased flexibility
  • Increased lubrication of the joints, ligaments and tendons
  • Massaging all the organs of the body
  • Release of toxins
  • Excellent toning of the muscles
  • Improved posture
  • Increased muscular strength and tone
  • Release of stress and increased ability to relax
  • Reduced tension and increased self esteem
  • Improved circulation, immunity and vitality
  • Learning to breathe more fully and freely
  • Increased feeling of well being
  • Feeling a sense of connection with the Universe
  • Finding your inner peace

More Benefits

Relaxation

With gentle stretching and simple breathing techniques the physical tensions in the body start to release. The mind is kept focused on the body and the breath. This concentration brings about a feeling of peace and balance.
This helps to bring the mind and body under control, so that it can let go and relax.
As the body and mind rest deeply, an experience of deep awareness can be felt. This is Yoga.

Meditation

Meditation is keeping the mind focused on one point or object.
This calms and quietens the mind and we feel deeply rested.
Often when we try to sit for meditation we find our mind and bodies are too unsettled. After the poses and deep relaxation, you will find meditation so much easier and effortless, because we have cleared away all those internal agitations and discomforts.

The importance of breathing well

Incorrect breathing affects us not only physiologically but also emotionally and mentally.
In classes students learn abdominal breathing, kapalabhati and deep 3 part breathing.
The benefits of correct breathing are enormous.

  • It promotes muscular relaxation
  • It dispels fatigue and restlessness
  • It flushes out waste toxins
  • It’s a natural tranquiliser
  • It relieves mental tension and anxiety
  • It is a natural detoxifier
  • It promotes lymphatic drainage and venous return
  • It improves concentration
  • It enhances intuition
  • It promotes compete oxygenation of the lungs