Yoga is by now pretty well established in the Western world. We all have an image of what a yoga class is – a group of people following one instructor in practising stretches. However, actually starting a class may contain a few surprises for those of us more used to gym-style classes. Exercise is an important part of yoga, but it is by no means the only part.
Western yoga classes will often contain breathing exercises (pranayama), which may take place before or after physical exercise. Your instructor may choose energising practices for the beginning of the class, or deep, relaxing breathing for the final relaxation. In fact, some styles of yoga have a strong focus on breathing throughout the physical practice. Regardless of the specific exercises your instructor chooses to teach you, rest assured that they will provide balance to your nervous system and an increased sense of wellbeing.
Yoga differs from conventional exercise classes in a further area: its focus on relaxation. The theory behind yogic exercise states that a state of full relaxation is required in order for your body to soak up the changes made. As you may already know, the frequent rest periods are where your body and mind really comes together in a yoga class; united in a sense of calm.
Yoga contains a whole system of philosophy and ethics. However, all you need to know for starters is that physical and breathing exercises create a wonderful sense of wellness throughout your whole system. This sense of calm is supposed to enable you to meditate – the real aim behind the philosophy of Yoga. The benefits of this complementary health practice are endless – it is up to you how deep you want to go!
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