A yoga pose

My first yoga class was probably over ten years ago when I was living in Boston and went to an "women only" gym. The gym offered so many great classes I found myself exercising outside of my normal treadmill and weights routine. I was immediately smitten with the practice and from that point on have enjoyed various types of yoga including hatha, iyengar, bikram and vinyasa. I never thought I'd discover something that not only strengthened my body but nourished my soul and mind at the same time.  

There are several benefits of yoga which include getting toned, feeling more mentally focused and spiritually and emotionally balanced. Yoga will challenge you with different poses, breathing exercises and will bring you strength, flexibility and confidence off the mat. The best part is that all you need to start yoga practice is the desire to try something new. 

A yoga pose

Example of Different Styles of Yoga

Ashtanga: a set series of poses that is quite vigorous and cathartic, often done in a warm room

Bikram: a set series of 26 poses in a 100 degree room. If you love to sweat and appreciate sequence in your practice, this is for you. 

Iyengar: focuses on precise muscular and skeletal alignment and offers the use of several props. 

Vinyasa: focuses on the link of flowing poses with breath. 

There are several other styles of yoga so make sure you experience and/or make an educated decision on what practice will best suit you.  

Create a Peaceful Yoga Space

*Put on on your comfy, fitted yoga clothes

*Pull back your hair and remove any jewelry

*Find enough space for your mat

*Put on tunes that work with the energy of the practice you've chosen

*Dim the lights

*Turn off your cell phone

*Light a candle or incense

As you progress in your yoga practice, you will be able to slow down off the mat, gain energy and replenish your inner strength. You may become more aware and able to connect more deeply to who you really are. If nothing else, you'll at least accomplish a really good workout. 

 

Photo credit 1: Darren Green, Dreamstime

Photo credit 2: Darren Green, Dreamstime