What is Yoga?

Yoga is an ancient discipline that focuses upon the main holistic principles of balance and unification of the body, mind and spirit. Yoga means ‘to yoke’, to ‘unite’ or ‘to be whole’. Yoga practises have proven to have a positive effect on people both mentally and physically, potentially leading to a deeper level of self-awareness and liberation – ‘moksha’.

The origins of Yoga

Yoga asanas (postures) were developed via meditation and the study of the movement of animals. These principles were passed on by word of mouth from yogi (male) or yogini (female) to their pupils or disciples. The philosophy of Yoga is written in Sanskrit. The first collection of scriptures is called ‘Vedas’ (which means knowledge or wisdom) consisting of ‘shruti’ or divinely heard’ mantras.

Types of Yoga

Sarah teaches safe, effective and inclusive Yoga classes that adhere to the needs of 21st century participants whilst respecting traditional practices.

Hatha Yoga

Hatha Yoga is about finding balance by working with physical postures (Asanas) to strengthen and stretch, releasing tension and trauma stored within the body, assisted through breath (Pranayama) to focus the mind and body whilst meditation (Dhyana) allows you to relax and feel connected to your inner self.

Vinyasa Yoga

Vinyasa Yoga is characterized by linking postures together (dynamically) so that you move from one to another, seamlessly, using breath to attain balance in the body and mind.

Freestyle Fitness Yoga

Freestyle Fitness Yoga incorporates both deep stretch Yoga postures and Pilates exercises often sequenced to music. There is no chanting or philosophy attached to this form of Yoga and postures that exceed optimal range of movement are mostly avoided. It does mimic the Yogic breath but is not a spiritual experience.

Physical & physiological benefits of Yoga:

  • Improved core strength.
  • Increased muscle definition throughout the body.
  • Improved flexibility.
  • Improved bone density and joint strength.
  • Supports the function of the circulatory, respiratory & digestive systems.
  • Balances both the sympathetic (fight/flight) & parasympathetic (inhibits relaxation) nervous systems.
  • Enhanced quality of sleep.

Mental & Emotional Benefits:

  • Reduced levels of cortisol (stress hormone) to alleviate feelings of stress and anxiety.
  • Helps build awareness and coping mechanisms to deal with stress and anxiety.
  • Enhanced cognitive function, memory and concentration.
  • Increased neurotransmitter dopamine to lift mood and encourage happiness.
  • Improved self-esteem and confidence.