The system of Yoga originated in India 5,000 years ago. The Sanskrit word 'Yoga' translates as 'Union' .
My classes combine physical postures with breath awareness, relaxation and meditation.
Asanas
Yoga Asanas (postures) have an all-pervading effect on the physical, mental and subtle functioning of the body. In yoga asana, we experience the effect moment by moment. As the body unfolds organically we cultivate a strengthening, stretching and relaxing the of skeletal, muscular, digestive, cardio-vascular, glandular and nervous systems.
Pranayama
Although breathing is a natural function, tension tends to interfere the breath. So first we can learn to listen to the breath without trying to change anything.
Then using pranayama (yogic breath techniques) we learn to direct the breath, feel it in different parts of the body and in the global sensation, in this way we calm the brain, stimulate and direct the body's energy and prepare it for meditation.
Meditation
As the postures, breathing and meditation become experienced and understood, there is a gradual unfolding of a quite and a peaceful mind, and with it a new alertness, balance and awareness. Meditation shifts your focus from thinking to just being, becoming more aware of yourself and everything around you.