Yoga began in northern India at least two thousand of years ago. It was originally a teaching with the aim of leading the dedicated practitioner closer to enlightenment.
The physical postures (called “asana” in Sanskrit) commonly associated with yoga in the West were originally only a small part of the teachings of yoga. Depending on the schools of yoga, breath control, meditation, acts of devotion, building “good” karma and cleansing were some of the practices that were taught in order to reach a physical and mental state where enlightenment was possible.
In the West, however, classes tend to be more straightforward! Most yoga classes in the west teach hatha yoga, the yoga of action. They tend to focus on the physical postures, but generally also contain breathing exercises and a relaxation. Some classes may also include chanting or meditation.
There are many types of yoga that have been developed by different schools or teachers into their own interpretation of yoga. Different styles of yoga will suit different people, depending on what you want to get out your yoga class.
In general the classes I teach will cover:
- A few minutes grounding: either lying, sitting or standing with awareness on the breath, body and mind to prepare for the practice
- Warm up: either gentle stretches or a simple sequence
- Posture work:
- Combination of standing, sitting and lying postures
- Forward bend, backward bend, side bends, twists
- Inverted posture (i.e. one where you head is lower than your heart, but these are not appropriate for everyone)
- Balancing posture (good for concentration!)
- Back strengthening work
- Sequences: where postures are linked together, usually also working with breath control
- Breathing exercise
- Relaxation: 10 - 15 minutes at the end of the class
Private pregnancy yoga classes will cover a simlar format but will be tailored to suit pregnancy with more emphasis on gentle movement, breathing and relaxation and some preparation for birth.
All practices can and will be modified to suit the class and individuals to ensure everyone is safe and working to a level to match their experience.
