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.
