Most people’s idea of a yoga class is a room full of women lying on the floor relaxing, doing nice slow movements with thier body. Whilst this is true of some types of yoga, not all classes are like this and there are styles to suit most people’s neeeds. Whilst some forms of Yoga can offer more of a spiritual journey, and others help bring awareness to each muscle in the body in a gentle, rejuvenating manner. Yoga can also provide an invigorating, very challenging workout which not only improves flexbility but also increases stamina, improves muscle strength, balance, co-ordination, helps with weightloss, strengthens abnominal and core muscles. It can also improve cardiovasular conditioning. A common theme with all forms of yoga is the importance of breathing throughout postures.
More people are becoming aware of the need to keep fit but thier efforts and motivations are often dashed when they try gyms and quickly lose interest. This is why it is as important to find a type of physical activity that will be fun and stimulating, to avoid boredom. Ensuring constant health and wellbeing should be a fun, stimulating process.
Yoga provides the student with a constantly stimulating and varied workout which is enjoyable and fun.
As we age the importance of stretching becomes greater and regular stretching should be practised at least three times a week, and if possible everyday. Regular stretching ensures that we continue to enjoy a good range of mobility throughout our lives and our functional fitness (the body’s ability to carry out everyday tasks) remains intact.
