Yoga means union, and comes from the sanskrit root yuj, which means “to yoke” or, “to join”. With yoga, the union we pursue is the balance and connection with body, mind, and spirit. Because in our every day life, our minds are normally so focused outside ourselves, a path inward is essential for living a healthy, and vibrant life. Yoga is our vehicle for going inward, connecting us to ourself, and creating that union for better living. When we practice yoga, we are able to experience the feeling of being fully alive.
The word yoga is ancient and is found in the Vedas, the most ancient scriptures known to man. Historians believe yoga to have been practiced for thousands of years, being passed on from master to student, from generation to generation. The science of yoga was known and practiced, but not clearly documented until over 2,000 years ago when the physician-sage, Patanjali, systematized and organized the science of yoga, formulating 196 aphorisms, know known as the Yoga-sutras. To this day, The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali are believed by many to be the best text on yoga ever written.
Hatha Yoga, the physical practice of yoga, is therapeutic in nature, and is vastly adaptable to every person’s particular need. We are not required to be in great physical shape, be flexible, or to have any particular belief to benefit. Yoga is not a religion.
Hatha Yoga is a moving meditation that cultivates mindfulness and total awareness through the practice of asanas (yoga postures), and pranayama (complete or controlled yogic breathing). It strengthens and tones the physical body, including the bones, muscles, organs, glands and oxygenates the cells and nervous system. Practicing Hatha Yoga is about becoming healthier. Consistent practitioners gain strength, flexibility, balance, energy, clarity of mind, stress relief, and an overall sense of well being and calm. Yoga is not just a series of physical exercises, but is a holistic prescription for mind, body, and soul. With yoga we find health while rejuvenating our spirit! Practiced regularly, yoga has the ability to lead us to our greatest potential.
If you have injuries, and you need low back exercises talk to the teacher before class to learn the modifications. If your injuries are new, get permission from your doctor and begin with a Gentle Yoga class.
Guidelines for Practicing Hatha Yoga
Yoga classes vary in style and structure from very gentle to vigorous and challenging. As our personal needs shift from day to day it is important to tune in – be intuitive – trust and listen to what your body is telling you.
If you are new to yoga or would like a gentler class, our Basics Class will introduce you to the asanas (yoga postures), proper alignment and breathing. If you are looking to practice a stronger, more challenging class we recommend our All Levels or Vinyasa Flow classes. (See class descriptions for more information)
Wherevever you are, be there, let the breath move you, do your Yoga back exercise, completely aware of each movement, each posture, and every transition between postures, relishing in the present. When you practice yoga you will learn to quiet your mind, and discover how to “listen” internally. Practice a constant give and take – ebb and flow….
