What is yoga?

Yoga is difficult to define because it is a vast, complex system that examines every aspect of human behaviour. It includes physical exercises, contemplation, ethics, relaxation, meditation, and philosophy, which are all interconnected. Yet, there are various types of yoga, each specializing in a specific area. Some are:

Jhana Yoga
The philosophical branch of yoga, which seeks wisdom through contemplation and meditation. The goal of Jhana Yoga is to be liberated from illusion.

Karma Yoga
The yoga of action. The ideal of Karma Yoga is to act without self-interest, but to act for the good of humankind, for example, as did Mother Teresa, to act without regard for a fixed goal.

Hatha Yoga
This is my area of interest, and it is the system most familiar to Westerners. Hatha Yoga uses physical poses to explore the inner structures of the body and the mind. This is a step-by-step method that can lead to greater self-knowledge. Yoga can help to heal many of the physical difficulties we experience, and also deal with the stresses and strains fo everyday life, by relaxing the body and the mind.

The style of Hatha Yoga we do is called Iyengar Style, with variations This style of yoga incorporates the use of various props as an aid to practice. Props can be anything from a wall, chair, blanket, sandbag or a belt. Not everyone needs a prop but for those who do, it helps to keep the body in proper alignment, which helps to prevent injuries. The props also help to modify the poses, so for those who are tight or sticky in certain parts of the body, they will still be able to practice the pose and gain the benefits.

Will I have to buy props and what do I wear to a class?

You do not need to buy and props; they are all supplied. The classes are very informal, wear something loose and comfortable; shorts, track pants,
t-shirts - anything you like!

You can pay as we begin each terms; it you join part way through, I will pro rate your fees, as I will with shift workers. The first class for newcomers is always free. There is no obligation.

A level 1 class is for those who are beginners or those who prefer a somewhat gentler physical class. A level 2 class has a greater variety of poses and explores the practice on a deeper level. In a level 2 class we will use props, so even if a person is not really able to move freely, they would still gain many benefits from this type of class. It is useful to remember that an advanced practice means a subtler practice both on a physical and mental level. My interest is to help people find a level where they are comfortable.

I find I am quite exhausted and stressed. How can yoga help me?

There are poses, which are known as restorative poses. We explore these in our classes, but, if the situation is difficult, you may need this as your primary practice, and I would be able to suggest a routine for you.

I have developed short practice routines which will take less than 15 minutes and will deal with areas of the body that need constant attention in order to function properly. We all have different issues, and we can adapt the practice in a way that will meet your needs.

I would think someone should not be amy younger than 14 or 15; as we have adult classes an older person should be able to get up and down off the floor. It is not a good idea to eat a heavy meal before coming. I you are late and we are lying down in a beginning relaxation or breathing exercise, just wait till we are done; take a mat and get settled.

Yoga will help to make the body stronger as there are many poses, which focus on strengthening the core muscles of the body, as well as various joints. Stretching is also an important aspect of this practice. This will help to relieve stiffness. Yoga also works on the digestive, nervous and glandular systems.