Yoga

What is Yoga?

The word Yoga comes from the Sanskrit (the language of ancient India where Yoga originated) word “Yuj" meaning to yoke, join or unite. In Yoga this uniting implies integrating all aspects of the individual – mind, body and spirit to bring about a happy and balanced life. Yoga is the scientific art of remembering our true nature, however, along the path of Yoga one gains health, happiness, tranquility and knowledge. What is commonly referred to as “Yoga" here in the West can be described by the Sanskrit word “asana" which refers to the practice of physical postures and poses. However, “asana" is only one of the eight “Limbs" of Yoga according to Patanjalis “Yoga Sutras" written some 2, 200 years ago. The other “Limbs" of Yoga are more concerned with mental and spiritual well being than physical activity. The practice of yoga brings about a state of balance and harmony of the mind, body and spirit and allows us to become human beings rather than humans do-ing, as well as helping to remove dis-ease from the mind and body.

Benefits of Yoga

Many of us come to yoga for lots of different reasons, from gaining greater strength and flexibility, physical healing from injury, reducing stress or just to gain a deeper understanding of life. The beauty about Yoga is that anyone can benefit from it. As B.K.S. Iyengar quoted “If you can breathe, you can practice Yoga". There can be many benefits from practising yoga and to mention a few;- increased strength, stamina and flexibility, reducing stress and anxiety, increased concentration, increasing energy and vitality, increased self-esteem and posture is greatly improved. Overall most students describe a feeling of well being and balance with a regular practice of yoga in their lives.

Yoga Levels

With the exception of Advanced Yoga and Intermediate Yoga our classes are open to all levels. From those who have never practiced yoga through to yoga teachers our they offer lots of options to cater for everyone. See Our Classes for descriptions and more information on each style of class.

If you are a complete beginner, although you are welcome to join in most classes, you may prefer to start with a Gentle Yoga class or to join a Beginners Course. See Our Courses for more information, or contact us for any questions.