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About YogaThere are many misconceptions about yoga. Many think of it as a practice for young, bendy females sporting toned, lithe bodies. Luckily, this common perception is untrue, and with 30 million Americans and five million Europeans practising regularly, yoga has becoming mainstream.So what is yoga and why do it? In short, yoga (meaning 'union') is an inclusive, all-round practice that works on strength, flexibility and balancing body and mind. Origins: ancient and modern The practice originated thousands of years ago in India – many Hindu texts discuss aspects of yoga, and its origins are thought to stem from holy sages living in the Himalayas. One interpretation is that the yoga postures, or asanas, were invented to help the sages sit in seated meditation for a long time. A series of postures known as 'asanas' – each with different English and Sanskrit names taken from nature – vary hugely according to the style of yoga and the practitioners ability. In addition to the physical benefits, all work to promote relaxation through proper breathing. Many Westerners first come to yoga for physical reasons: to become fitter and leaner, perhaps, or to help a nagging back problem. Benefits include: increased strength, healthier lungs and heart, lower blood pressure, improved digestion, sounder sleep, and a stronger immune system. For students in the East, however - as well as for growing number of Western practitioners - yoga's emphasis on bringing body and mind together through the breath is at least as important as the pursuit of a toned torso. Psychologically and emotionally, the rewards can be equally far-reaching. They include: lower levels of anxiety and depression; a more stable mood; a better memory; and increased levels of self-acceptance, awareness and tolerance. One of the key aspects of yoga is focusing on the present moment without distraction. Many of us spend our lives worrying, or thinking, about the past or the future, with llittle awareness of what is happening in the present time. Yoga encourages us to cut through our mental chatter and re-gain a sense of the present. For more information on all aspects of yoga, see www.yoga-abode.com Yoga at Hummingbird Piilates and Holistic CentreWe offer a range of yoga classes. Please check out our schedule or contact us to find out more.
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