Why you should start doing yoga

If you’re reading this, you’ve probably been contemplating whether to embark on this journey or not. Well, if you’re still unsure, I’ve shared some compelling reasons you should start, along with a guide to some of the more popular yoga styles to broaden your perspective. If this doesn’t persuade you, I don’t know what will!

Yoga is an ancient practice that originated in India over 5,000 years ago, and has become a global phenomenon, for good reason! This approach to well-being offers a multitude of physical, mental, and spiritual benefits.

So, why should you embark of this journey?

Strength and Flexibility: Yoga poses, known as asanas, help in strengthening and toning muscles. Over time, you will notice your overall flexibility has increased

Mental Clarity: The meditative aspects of yoga can help clear your mind, improve concentration, and reduce mental clutter.

Stress Reduction: Through deep breathing exercises and mindfulness, yoga can significantly reduce stress and promote a sense of calm.

Posture: Regular practice helps align your spine, which in turn leads to better posture and even reduces back pain.

Presence: yoga’s emphasis on mindfulness offers a counterbalance to the fast-paced, often distracted world we live in. By grounding us in the present, yoga provides a

multitude of mental, emotional, and relational benefits that enhance overall well-being

Respiratory Function: Pranayama, or breath control, is a fundamental part of yoga that can improve lung capacity.

Emotional Balance: Yoga fosters emotional resilience, helping practitioners navigate life’s ups and downs with equanimity.

Diving deeper, what types of yoga are there?

While there are many yoga styles out there to try, let’s delve into some of the more well known types:

Vinyasa Yoga: Often referred to as “flow yoga”, Vinyasa is characterised by a series of fluid movements that are synchronised with the breath. The sequences can vary, but they always involve a smooth transition from one pose to the next. It can be quite dynamic, making it a firm favourite for those looking for a powerful practice.

Yin Yoga: Yin is a slow-paced style where poses are held for longer durations, typically from 3 to 5 minutes. This practice targets the connective tissues, such as ligaments and tendons, promoting flexibility and relaxation. It’s an excellent choice if you’re looking for a meditative and restorative session.

Nidra Yoga: Often termed as “yogic sleep”, Nidra is a guided meditation that induces deep relaxation while the practitioner remains conscious.

It’s not about physical movement but about sinking into a state of conscious relaxation. It’s amazing for stress relief, insomnia, and deepening self-awareness.

Ashtanga Yoga: Ashtanga is a rigorous style that follows a specific sequence of postures and is similar to Vinyasa in its synchronised breath and movement. It’s divided into six series, each more challenging than the last. Practitioners are expected to master one series before moving on to the next. It’s ideal for those who appreciate structure and are looking for a physically demanding practice.

Yoga is more than just a physical exercise

It’s a holistic approach to well-being. So whether you’re seeking physical strength, mental clarity, or spiritual growth, there’s a style of yoga that’s perfect for you. Embrace the journey, and you’ll soon discover the transformative power of this ancient practice.