Meditation is used to focus the mind, bringing about a sense of calmness.  While meditating we are not engaged in thinking.  We are not trying to empty our minds, thoughts will still appear, but we do not follow the thought.  We are training the mind to no longer chase every thought we like and to no longer resist every thought that we don’t like.

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During your practice, while using the breath as an anchor,  it is worth keeping in mind ahimsa ‘non violence to yourself or others’ and Karuna ‘compassion towards yourself and others’.

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Setting an intention, a promise to yourself,  a ‘Sankalpa’ at the beginning of your practice can help connect with your heartfelt desired outcome.

 

Recommendations before and during practice

• Wear comfortable clothing and bare feet

• Use a clean non-slip mat

• Modify for your body and needs

• Begin where you are

• Avoid making comparisons

• Take your time

• Take responsibility for yourself and be aware of your current limitations on any given day

• Do not take any painkillers, alcohol or other influential substances before practice as can potentially numb awareness.

• Not to practice yoga immediately after meals as your digestive system will be working. Wait until 2 to 3 hours after a large meal. 

• Try not to shower or drink water or eat food for 30 minutes after doing yoga, let the mind, body and spirit digest everything that the practice has to offer you. 

 

When you are ill, have had surgery, or have any sprains or fractures, this is the time to meditate and not practice asana (yoga poses).

 

Often the beginning of class is a sacred gathering space for like-minded souls but keep the chatting for before the start of class or after class. Once you sit on your mat, in your own space, it's time to turn inward.

 

How do you breathe in yoga?

Yoga breathing is more deliberate and controlled than your normal daily breathing. You will breathe in through the nose for a few-second count and then out through the nose for a few-second count, keeping the mouth closed. A light closing at the back of the throat will create gentle sound so you can hear your own breath and light vibration.  This is to gather your prana, or energy, and make it more focused.  The term is known as Ujjayi meaning ‘victorious breath’.

 

You will hear the term Drishti. What is Drishti?

Drishti is your gaze, focus point of concentration whilst practicing asana.

 

You will hear the term Bhanda. What is Bhanda?

Bhandas are internal invisible energy locks located in various points in the body.

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How often should I practice?

Traditionally yoga is practiced everyday apart from Moon days and during times of illness.  That being said, it is entirely your choice.  As a beginner, perhaps once or twice a week may be suitable.
 

Is yoga accessible for all?

Oh my goodness yes, working within your own limits, taking care of yourself and definitely not worrying about others around you and whether you are capable or not of what you can and can’t do. Research has shown that yoga has numerous physical and psychological benefits, including: Improving cardiovascular health. Reducing anxiety and depression; and improving functional fitness.

 

It's never too late to start your yoga practice and modified asana makes yoga accessible for all.

 

Guidance note 

I am not trained in medicine; I cannot diagnose, give you a prognosis or offer any medical treatment.  I will encourage you to seek professional medical advice for your health and well-being.