What is Yoga?

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Developed in India, yoga is a spiritual practice that has been evolving for the last 5,000 years or so. 

Yoga means "union" in Sanskrit, the classical language of India. 

Hatha yoga is a traditional form of yoga which combines static postures and steady movement with a focus on alignment and the breath to release tension and build strength and flexibility in the body.

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Hatha is translated as ‘ha’ meaning sun and ‘tha’ meaning moon, referring to the balance of masculine and feminine, and the uniting of opposites. This applies to the physical practice where a balance of strength and flexibility and of effort and surrender are developed in each posture. Bringing awareness to the breath allows the mind to settle and the body to release. With that there comes a greater connection with the present moment.

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Is it for me?

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It doesn’t matter how old you are, how big or small your body is or whether you’re male or female.  You don’t need to be flexible, fit or strong to start. 

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Why do yoga?

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The short answer is that yoga makes you feel better. Practising the postures, breathing exercises and meditation makes you healthier in body, mind and spirit. Yoga lets you tune in, chill out and shape up  all at the same time.

In everyday life, there is a tendency to compare your body and its capabilities with that of others, but yoga isn’t about the ego.  I encourage you to remain focused on your own practice and to let go of any self-judgement or frustration. Just accept where you are in that moment. Your strength, flexibility and balance will grow week by week, at your own pace, without you even realising it.

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