Yoga
What is yoga? Yoga is a mind and body practice that’s been used for over 5,000 years in India. There are several types of yoga but most incorporate different movements and poses along with the breath work to stretch, relax and strengthen the body. Doing yoga is called a yoga practice. Why? Because there is no end point (are you noticing that trend here?) We practice to help our bodies. There are times we improve in areas and times regress. That's okay and normal. We continue to practice the movements not only physically but mentally. There are times in our life when one pose is easier then another. Then something shifts and it may become more difficult. That’s okay, its part for the practice and journey. One of the truest statements I’ve heard is, “Yoga is not about touching your toes, it is what you learn on the way down.”
As with meditating, there are several type of yoga practices. Let’s explore them:
Ashtanga Yoga: Ashtanga is the practice of 6 set vinyasa sequences that move at a quicker speed and move with the breath. Ashtanga is structured with the same sequences each time. A full ashtanga practice is 90 minutes long but you can find shortened versions for beginners. This is a more intense form of yoga but working up to the full 90 minute series can be a fun goal.
Hatha Yoga: The word Hatha refers to the practice of physical yoga postures. So in essence all types of yoga, are Hatha yoga. Generally Hatha classes are a good introduction to basic yoga postures and flows.
Iyengar Yoga: Iyengar yoga focuses on alignment of the body for each pose. Iyengar uses props such as blocks, straps and chairs to ensure the body is in alignment with each yoga pose.
Kundalini Yoga: The meaning of Kundalini is latent female energy believed to be coiled at the base of the spine. The goal of a Kundalini yoga practice is to release this energy. Classes generally start with chanting and end with singing with asana (yoga poses) and pranayama (breath work) in between.
Yin Yoga: Yin or restorative yoga is a slow paced class where each posture is held for long periods of time. It’s great for releasing tension and stretching muscles.
While its highly recommended you find a studio to join and develop a yoga practice with, it isn’t completely necessary. Developing a home practice can have the same benefits if not more when working towards the goal of learning yourself and developing your Dharma. Use caution if you do not have an athletic or yoga background and always listen to your body.
Here are a few tips for developing a home practice:
- Find a practitioner on youtube you like and do their videos. Yoga with Adrienne is great for beginners: https://www.youtube.com/user/yogawithadriene
- Don’t rush in to poses your body doesn’t feel ready for. Listen to your muscles and take your time on poses that are challenging. An injury will set you back longer then taking the time to feel comfortable in a pose
- Skipping yoga can be tempting when you’re at home with no set class time. Leave your mat out so you can jump on it whenever you have a few minutes.
- Don’t have the expectation that all yoga sessions need be an hour to an hour and a half. Regular 20 minute home sessions can be just as beneficial.
- Take a 30 day challenge to jump start your practice. Doing it with your friends is even better to keep you accountable!
- If you aren’t in to youtube find a book to help you learn a home practice. Rebecca SomeWhatRad has written a great book about yoga self practice that will be available in the US Spring 2021.
- Once you are comfortable with some basic poses trying putting a sequence together yourself without a video. Listen to your body and flow and move how it feels good.
Creating a yoga practice that allows you to move how your body needs to move becomes a form of moving meditation. You feel each stretch, ache, pop that you may not have noticed otherwise. You can get deep in to your inner workings. Some may feel compelled to write during or after as inspiration flows. Allow thoughts to enter your mind then leave as you feel each pose and movement. And don’t forget Savasana! (Corpse pose) The most important part of a practice as it settles your body and all the good stretching and energy work done.
