STYTLIST YOGA ARTICLE
Yoga is a spiritual practice; in the 21st century, we have a range of different styles adapted to form a variety of vinyasa practices, which has made it more inclusive as it accommodates all body types and abilities with the aid of props such as blocks and modifications.
One of the main reasons I fell in love with the practice was the magic I felt whilst using my breath with each pose; it was a gateway for me to connect with my emotional and physical body.
The Ujjayi breath is a breathing technique that connects the body to the mind; it produces heat in the body from the inside out, calms the nervous system and helps you move through the postures.
Engaging your bandhas is another benefit of practising Yoga. Bandhas are energy locks within the body that control the Prana (lifeforce). When bandhas are engaged, it helps you to focus your mind, bring awareness to the posture and helps to strengthen the physical body.
As a confidence coach and Yoga teacher, I use Yoga to help my clients feel safe and connected to their bodies. I also use it as a tool to help my clients release trauma, fear and shame as these emotions are stored in the body.
Yoga teaches you to be present; it is a practice of mindfulness, peace and love. Yoga isn't restricted to a Yoga class or your mat; Yoga is a way of life.
The physical movement is one element of Yoga, and the mindset/spirit is another; I am practising Yoga when I am compassionate to myself and others; yoga today can look like a 75 min Vinyassa flow on my mat and tomorrow it could be me sitting quietly for an hr in meditation.
Yoga is an individual experience, and our relationship with the practice differs.
With such beautiful variations of style, explore each with an open mind and find a style that feels good for you and your body.
I’d encourage you not to be intimidated by the advanced students, you don’t need to be able to do a headstand or the splits to enjoy Yoga, nor do you need any fancy equipment or even a mat!
All you need is space! Here are a couple of poses to get you started
Seated cat, cow - 3 breaths
Table top
Downward Facing Dog - 3 breaths
High Plank/ or knees down for half plank
Baby Chaturanga
Cobra
Downward Facing Dog- 3 breaths
Bend your knees to prepare, exhale step to the top of the mat
In hale is your halfway lift
Exhale is your forward fold
Inhale sweep hands the sky
Exhale hands by your side, Tadasana
Written by Yoga Teacher & Confidence Coach
Miss Erica Storm
YouTube @Askmisserica