Yoga, which comes from the Sanskrit yuj word meaning "union," originated in India more than 5,000 years ago. There are many forms of yoga, but in general, yoga focuses on breathing techniques (pranayama), postures (asanas), flexibility, and meditation (dhyana). It can be very spiritual, linking the mind, body, and spirit. Yoga is a complete practice benefiting all aspects of emotional, mental and spiritual wellness. By connecting movement to breath, yoga renews, invigorates and heals the body's maladies - stretching and strengthening the muscles, joints and spine and directing blood and oxygen to the internal organs.

Utilizing breath as our most powerful tool to calm and relax our bodies, our minds become more clear and focused and our emotions stabilize.  Using specific postures, we take charge of our well-being, tapping into our body's wisdom to heal what ails us. Yoga also builds strength, flexibility and balance without the risk of injury common to high-impact sports and fitness activities. Yoga offers all practitioners-whether you do it once a week or twice a day-an increased mind-body connection, greater flexibility and strength, improved balance and coordination, and stress relief.

 

Styles of Yoga
If you're new to yoga, you might not be sure which class to start with. Here are the two forms of yoga which TF offers to their clients:

 

Hatha yoga is a general term. These workouts usually include basic introductory yoga poses, and move at a gentle and slow pace while focuses on the body, mind, breathing and posture to improve circulation, flexibility and stamina.  This type of yoga is enjoyable and beneficial for all fitness levels.  The Hatha Yoga program is offered on Thursday mornings at 9:00 (9:30 during the school year)  or in the evenings at 8:00.

 

Vinyasa yoga includes more aggressive stretches. These workouts focus on sun salutations and the connection of breath and movement.  This flowing sequence of postures strengthens the body, calms the mind and soothes the spirit.  Prior yoga experience is recommended. The Vinyasa yoga program will be  offered this fall on Saturday mornings at 8:00.

 

Yoga Props
Even if you don't practice yoga regularly, you can really benefit from using yoga props-especially if you are new to the practice of yoga. Here's an introduction to common props that are available to our clients in class and how they are used:

 

Yoga mats (or "sticky" mats) provide a thinly-cushioned, non-slip surface for yoga practices and work best when used on a smooth floor. Their sticky surface can be easily cleaned, and they roll up for easy storage and toting. Yoga mats are now available in extra-thick varieties as well. A basic yoga mat will run around $20. Extra-thick, as well as "designer" prints and colors will cost more. You can also find eco-friendly yoga mats (made from recycled materials, biodegradable materials, and/or natural and sustainable plant fibers such as hemp and jute) starting around $40.

Yoga blocks (or bricks) allow you to stay in proper form, even if your strength and flexibility levels don't. Blocks are rectangular-shaped, allowing you to use them at three different heights, depending on your needs. One use for a block, for example, would be during a forward bend. If you can't touch the floor, you can place the block accordingly so that you can remain in proper form, resting your hands on the block itself. Since each pair of sides is a different height, you can slowly progress in your poses until you don't need a block at all.

Yoga itself cannot provide you with the same benefits as cardio and strength training. However, I consider yoga to be a great addition to a well-rounded fitness program. Yoga is great for flexibility (especially if you tend to skip stretching altogether).  Consider yoga to be a restorative practice, offering diverse benefits that enhance your overall fitness level and mind-body connection.  Be sure to register for one of the yoga classes we offer in the next session.