Related Posts

• The Difference Between Yin Yoga & Restorative Yoga

  

  Restorative and Yin Yoga are often confused and assumed to be the same style of yoga. Some yoga studios even use the class names interchangeably. They are, in fact, different styles of yoga that employ distinct techniques and philosophical approaches. While some of the benefits of these practices are the same, the aim and methods not only differ, they are complete opposites. Why do they get confused? At first glance, they appear to be similar practices because they explore mostly poses that rest close to the ground and often use props to support the body. Like most yoga practices, both Yin and Restorative Yoga can promote relaxation and stress relief.

• 8 Common Yoga Myths Debunked

  

  While yoga originated from India with suggested regions, including the Indus Valley Civilization around the 3300-1900 BCE, it has expanded and grown all over the world. Today, you will find yoga practitioners worldwide, and as a group of mental, physical, and spiritual disciplines, yoga has incredible diversity to offer to all those interested in having a healthy lifestyle. For some, yoga goes even deeper, and avid practitioners would tell you that yoga is not just exercise but also a way of life. According to a recent study, over 55 million people around the world started practicing yoga for the first time in 2020. Furthermore, around 44% of all yoga practitioners spend time doing yoga at least 2-3 times per week and spend an average of $90 per month on yoga. Moreover, 37% of yoga enthusiasts have children that also enjoy practicing yoga with their caretakers.

• Slow and Steady Wins the Race

  

  This week, we’re here to remind you that sometimes slowing down helps you feel more present. Yoga is all about learning to live in the now––not in the past and not in the future. Sometimes, we need to slow down to cultivate a greater sense of being present. While all styles of yoga help you cultivate flexibility, strength, and balance, sometimes slowing down allows you to sink deeper into the physical, emotional, and spiritual benefits of practice. Yoga Sutra 2.46 Sthira Sukham Asanam means the asana or posture should be steady and comfortable. Steadiness is a quality of strength and grounded energy. Working on developing a mindful steady approach in your yoga practice will aid you in staying centered and stable. If you usually prefer a faster paced Vinyasa or Power Yoga class, that’s great!

• The Power of Yoga for Weight Loss

  

  Yoga is not only a practice for relaxation and flexibility but can also be an effective tool for weight loss. While it may not provide the same intensity as high-impact cardio exercises, yoga offers a holistic approach to weight management. It combines physical movement, breath control, and mindfulness to promote overall well-being and support healthy weight loss. Through a combination of asanas (poses), pranayama (breathing techniques), and meditation, yoga helps create harmony between the body and mind. It cultivates self-awareness, reduces stress levels, and enhances mindfulness around eating habits. By addressing both physical and emotional factors that contribute to weight gain, yoga provides a sustainable approach to weight loss.

• 16 Benefits of Yoga Backed by Studies

  

  While modern media and advertising may have us think that yoga is all about physical poses, the entirety of yoga includes a wide range of contemplative and self-disciplinary practices, such as meditation, chanting, mantra, prayer, breath work, ritual, and even selfless action. The word “yoga” comes from the root word “yuj,” which means “to yoke” or “to bind.” The word itself has numerous meanings, with the underlying theme being connection. Yoga asana is the physical practice and postures. 1. Yoga improves flexibility In 2016, two of yoga’s leading organizations, Yoga Journal and Yoga Alliance, conducted a worldwide survey looking at a variety of statistics about yoga in an attempt to quantify its value amid ever-increasing popularity.

• Yoga for Strength & Grace

  

  How are you handling conflict and challenges these days? Is there adequate space in your reaction time or has the stress of the last year amplified to a point where you aren’t quite as patient and kind as you could be? If you’ve experienced more fear and edginess and anger, you aren’t alone. This week, we’re focusing on cultivating your own unique sense of grace and strength in your yoga practice. The word grace derives from Old French and means “pleasing quality” or simply a pleasing way of moving or behaving. A graceful person is one with poise, decency, honor, and elegance. Sometimes if you’re being pushed to your limits by the events of the world and personal circumstances, it can be difficult to react gracefully. Developing grace under pressure is one of the greatest gifts yoga can impart.