The classical techniques of yoga date
back more than 5,000 years. The practice of yoga
encourages effort, intelligence, accuracy, thoroughness,
commitment and dedication.
The word yoga means ‘to join or yoke together’. It
brings the body and mind together and is built on three
main structures – exercise, breathing and meditation.
The exercises of yoga are designed to put pressure on
the glandular systems of the body, thereby increasing
its efficiency and total health. Breathing techniques
performed during yoga increase breath control to improve
the health and function of body and mind. The two
systems of exercise and breathing prepare the body and
mind for meditation, with an approach to a quiet mind
that allows silence and healing from everyday stress.
When practiced regularly, yoga can become a powerful and
sophisticated discipline for achieving physical, mental
and emotional wellbeing.
There are many various forms of yoga, each with its own
emphasis. The most popular forms of yoga are Ananda (Hatha),
Bikram, Iyengar and Sivananda.
Classes usually have 10–20 participants, allowing
individual attention.
Yoga health benefits
The practice of yoga asanas (postures) develops strength
and flexibility, while soothing the nerves and calming
the mind. The asanas affect the muscles, joints and
skin, and the whole human body – glands, nerves,
internal organs, bones, respiration and the brain. The
benefits of yoga include:
• Improved muscular and postural strength
• Increased flexibility of the muscles and joints
• Reduced fatigue
• Reduced pain and muscle stiffness
• Enhanced ability to concentrate
• Improved energy levels and ability to cope with
stress.
Things to remember
• See your doctor for a check-up to assess your fitness
level.
• Pilates is a safe and effective method of
rehabilitation and focuses on muscular balance.
• Breathing techniques performed during yoga increase
breath control to improve the health and function of
both body and mind.
• Both yoga and Pilates improve muscular and postural
strength.
Fees:
$20 per mat session.
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