What is Yoga?

The practice of yoga is a blend of art and science that creates union between body, mind and spirit. Its objective is to generate awareness of our thoughts, movements, and behaviors to live as fully realized beings intimately connected to the unified whole of creation. Living a healthier life brings about a sense of peace when we suffer less injury and degeneration and we are better able to take care of ourselves and our family. Yoga is compassion in action.

Yoga has numerous benefits to the body, makes you feel very good, and has much less incidence of injury than most forms of exercise. In each class, you will get instruction in breathing, stretches and movements, called asana (AH-san-a), and meditation.  You will likely feel calm and peaceful, and with regular practice you will feel more inner peace in your day-to-day life.  Many people report great improvement of degenerative conditions for which they once needed pain medication! Yoga also emphasizes the principle of non-harming which includes kindness to oneself with patience and respect for your own body’s capabilities. Although yoga can be challenging at times, it is not a competition, and it is best done with an open mind.

Although anyone of any background or worldview can practice yoga, the primary philosophies behind the teaching comes from two ancient Indian sages named Patanjali (Pa-TAN-ja-lee), who wrote The Yoga Sutras, and\the Buddha who both came from India more than 2,000 years ago.  It was originally taught as a physical discipline to purify and prepare the body for long periods of meditation and stillness. It is during this stillness that transformation takes place. While most people experience a peacefulness similar to spirituality, yoga is not intended to create or replace any religious beliefs.

Yoga will compliment any fitness routine you currently engage in or it can be your main form of exercise. One thing is for certain: the more you do it, the better you’ll feel. You can enhance your understanding by taking classes and viewing many useful articles and books you can borrow or buy. We encourage you to take a look at our favorites on our website’s Resources page. We also offer private sessions, enrichment courses, and yoga teacher training.

The level of transformation that takes place is directly related to how involved you become with the practice. Yoga is completely natural, and nature takes its time. Don’t give up. We are here to teach you and guide you toward your personal goals and transformation.  Lastly, remember that the ultimate authority on you, is you. To paraphrase the Buddha:  “Don't blindly believe what is said or believe because others convince you. Find out for yourself.”  In other words, if what we teach resonates with you, put it into practice, but always be true to yourself.  

Spring into love with yoga

I am more in love today with my yoga practice than I ever have been.  As for one who is prone to human failings and lack of discipline, I have deep gratitude for things (can we call yoga a "thing"?) that can gently and firmly keep me aligned with truth. 

Is there not something in the corner of your mind that strays you from your truth?  And do you not absolutely love who, or what, can hold you truthfully to your moral compass, your priorities, and your goals with authenticity?  I do.  It holds me accountable.  It holds me to my truth.  It holds me to my higher purpose which is essential for my soul's growth.

This is my yoga practice. Although the rough times and the easier times come at me equally, the practice of coming to the mat (or the cushion, for meditators) during the easier times makes the harder times a little easier to get through.  Over time, the perception of "difficult" and "easy" starts to blur.  And when that happens, it is much easier to find joy in even the most mundane of activities!  (Imagine feeling joy much of the day, even as you go about your daily chores!!)

In the beginning, the hardest thing to do was developing the discipline to roll out the mat.  Once I got on it, however, my body just knew what to do.  I had to schedule yoga time-- whether I thought I needed it or not-- because I knew the routine would benefit my scattered mind.  Later on, my body would tell me to do yoga and I created a special space in my home to do it. 

Over the years, I have developed a relationship with yoga like a good marriage.  It takes work.  It takes discipline.  But it always feels like love.   Sometimes, tough love, and I need that.