Yoga with Linda 2.56

The word yoga means "union" in Sanskrit, the language of ancient India where yoga originated. We can think of the union occurring between the mind, body and spirit.
What is commonly referred to as "yoga" can be more accurately described by the Sanskrit word asana, which refers to the practice of physical postures or poses.

Asana is only one of the eight "limbs" of yoga, the majority of which are more concerned with mental and spiritual well-being than physical activity. In the West, however, the words asana and yoga are often used interchangeably.

Yoga Poses

Many people think that yoga is just stretching. But while stretching is certainly involved, yoga is really about creating balance in the body through developing both strength and flexibility. This is done through the performance of poses or postures, each of which has specific physical benefits. The poses can be done quickly in succession, creating heat in the body through movement (vinyasa-style yoga) or more slowly to increase stamina and perfect the alignment of the pose. The poses are a constant, but the approach to them varies depending on the tradition in which the teacher has trained.

Vinyasa Yoga - Flow Yoga

Vinyasa is a term that covers a broad range of yoga classes. The word Vinyasa means “breath-synchronized movement.” In other words, the teacher will instruct you to move from one pose to the next on an inhale or an exhale. This technique is sometimes also called Vinyasa Flow, or just Flow because of the smooth way that the poses run together and become like a dance.

A Cat-Cow Stretch is an example of a very simple Vinyasa, because the spine is arched on an inhale and rounded on an exhale. A Sun Salutation sequence is an example of a more complex Vinyasa. Each movement in the series is done on an inhalation or an exhalation.

What To Expect From a Vinyasa Class

This style allows for a lot of variety, but will almost certainly include Sun Salutations. If your yoga class schedule lists a Vinyasa class, expect movement, not just stretching. Whether the class is fast or slow, includes chanting, or is very alignment-oriented will depend on the individual teacher.

PREGNANCY YOGA

The ancient self-help system of yoga promotes mental and physical well-being and balance, which is vital during times of transition or uncertainty. Your experience of being pregnant and giving birth will involve great physical and emotional changes, and knowing how to use and adapt yoga techniques to breathe, move and relax during this time will help you to lay deep foundations for decades of mothering. Becoming a mother is a very personal adventure. Although doctors and midwives carefully monitor your health and your baby’s growth through pregnancy, yoga brings a calm strength and inner balance that enables you to overcome whatever challenges lie ahead.

During class the following areas are explored:
· Adapted Asana’s/Postures including posture alignment
· Stretches including Pelvic Floor work & for birth
· Breathing Techniques
· Meditation including birthing visualisations
· Deep Relaxation
· Yoga Dances
· Yoga for better sleep
· Yoga for labour
· Special applications for individual ailments

Practice Yoga for Pregnancy, Birth & Beyond to achieve the following benefits:
· Healthy Body
· Balanced Energies
· Less Fatigue
· Better Breathing
· Improved Sleep
· Relief of Physical, Mental & Emotional Tension
· Bonding with Baby
· Increased Strength, Stamina & Confidence
· Stress Control

And remember…..a happy & relaxed Mommy = a happy & relaxed Baby!