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About Yoga
About Yoga
Yoga is often thought of as exercises or poses for stretching and strengthening, and it is! However it is also so much more!
The word yoga means union, which on the surface relates to the union between our body and our mind. We create this union or connection through the breath.
Yoga is Breath, Breath is Yoga.
It is through focussing on the breath that we can deepen stretches and even relax in the stretch. The yoga asanas (poses) help to improve flexibility, strength and balance. They can also bring about a sense of peace, calm and connection to a deeper part of you - the true essence of who you are.
Some of the benefits of yoga you might experience:
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Brings about a sense of calm
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Improved sleep quality
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Increased strength and flexibility
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Improved balance
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Reduced stress and anxiety
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Improved decision making skills
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Lower levels of cortisol (stress hormone)
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Higher levels of 'feel good' hormones: endorphins, oxytocin, serotonin and dopamine
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Improved bodily systems: digestive system, endocrine system, respiratory system
As well the union between body and mind, yoga can also be a way to connect with other things of your choosing: music, people, community, nature, faith, inner wisdom and creativity.
What to expect in a yoga class with Helen
We usually start the class with calming breathing exercises before moving into the physical practice, where we focus on traditional yoga poses and some flowing sequences that link the poses together. You will go into the poses only as far as is comfortable for you and you will not have to do anything that doesn't feel good for you. Helen will encourage you to come to each class with an open mind about what your body can do - you might be surprised, some days the body can do much more than we expect and then other days we need to be more gentle and patient with our body. Helen will offer you guidance and feedback on your alignment and technique, but your body is your greatest teacher! Listen to it and see what it says.
Yoga Classes are:
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Time to relax and have some enjoyable time for yourself
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An opportunity to look after the body and mind
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Time to connect to your deeper self
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A journey!
About Meditation
About Meditation
Meditation is the process through which we can allow the mind to become more peaceful and less busy so we can connect to our inner awareness.
Meditation is not about clearing the mind or getting rid of thoughts completely, it is allowing yourself to be in the present moment and find some peace there by connecting to your inner self. Our 'busy thoughts' usually relate to the 'stuff' we have going on in our lives - our life situation. Meditation and mindfulness allow you to acknowledge your life situation whilst connecting to a deeper place of peace and wisdom. This peace and wisdom is always there - the meditation gives you the time and space to connect to it.
To begin with this is usually done by focussing on the breath, the body or a positive phrase (mantra.) As we become more used to this peaceful concentration we might then enjoy simply sitting in the moment and connecting to our deeper selves.
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