Is Yoga right for me?
Yoga can be beneficial for everyone, regardless of their age, lifestyle or flexibility. My students have ranged from late teens to mid seventies. We all bring something individual to the practice and in return, we all receive the benefits of the practice. Yoga is a moving meditation that strengthens our bodies and calms our minds, allowing for a shift in perspective and an increased sense of well-being.
Here are some ways that yoga may benefit you!
Stress Relief and Improved Mental Health
The practice of combining movement and breath has a calming and centering affect on the mind. As we drop into this flow, we begin to move though our mental stress and bring focus to the present moment. Yoga teaches us to observe ourselves without judgment or criticism and accept ourselves as we are. Instead of searching for perfection, we cultivate acceptance and acknowledge small victories. We move and we breathe and that’s all. It sounds simple because in a way, it is. Move, breathe, observe, smile.
Increased Strength and Flexibility
Who doesn’t want to be stronger and more flexible? Strength and flexibility are important at all stages of our lives. Do you need to be strong or flexible to begin a yoga practice? No, you don’t. Everybody can do yoga because there are always variations of poses that are appropriate for every level of experience. Yoga poses, or asanas, build on themselves, allowing you to start with the fundamentals and work toward more challenging and intricate variations. This progression can help to build strength and increase flexibility, both physically and mentally. Yoga may also enhance mobility, help to maintain joint health and build a stronger core.
Better Posture and Healthy Aging through Increased Body Awareness
We live in an age where we sit - a lot. How often do you catch yourself slouching in the car or sitting with your head jutting forward to look at a computer screen? I’m definitely guilty of it myself. Yoga can help to reverse that tendency by bringing greater awareness to the way we stand and move, from the crown of our heads down to our heels. Additionally, we begin to increase our sense of proprioception, or the ability to perceive where our body is in space. This helps with balance and balance keeps us from falling on our butts. By improving our posture and body awareness, we’re able to move with more grace, confidence and stability.
Whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience, my online classes are both highly instructional and convenient. I also teach in person and offer private, one-on-one instruction. If you’re curious about any of my offerings, please feel free to contact me with any questions. I’d love to meet you!