What is Yoga?

“No pose is worth straining your face for!” — Frea Miles

Yoga derives from an ancient Indian system of wisdom that dates back more than 5000 years. It is not a religion.

The word “Yoga” comes from the Sanskrit word “yuj” which means “to unite or yoke.” Ancient Yogis had a belief that in order for us to be in harmony with ourselves and the environment, we have to integrate the body, the mind, and the spirit, hence the three main yoga structures: movement, breath and meditation.

• Asana – posture
• Pranayama – breath
• dhyana – meditation

Yoga is both an art and a science and at the heart of all its styles is the realisation that we are more than just a body and a mind beset by thoughts. The practice of yoga helps us to go beyond the physical and mental confines and awaken the blissful state of being the true Self.

“Yoga is like music: the rhythm of the body, the melody of the mind, and the harmony of the soul create the symphony of life.” — B.K.S. Iyengar

Why do yoga?

Here is your A to Z of its benefits

• Awakens inner strength
• Boosts immune system
• Creates space to maximise the breath
• Develops flexibility
• Enhances perfect posture
• Flushes out toxins
• Grounds you
• Harmonises the nervous system
• Improves your balance
• Joins body and mind awareness
• Keeps you grounded
• Lowers your blood pressure
• Maintains healthy bones
• Nurtures spine mobility
• Optimises energy levels
• Promotes better sleep patterns
• Quietens the mind
• Reduces stress levels
• Strengthen your muscles
• Teaches self care
• Ups your heart rate
• Vitalises blood flow
• Warms the heart
• Xxxx just because I love it!!
• Yields awareness for transformation
• Zips up the midline

“Yoga is like music: the rhythm of the body, the melody of the mind, and the harmony of the soul create the symphony of life.” — B.K.S. Iyengar