Yoga at New Body Barn, Devizes

Yoga in our modern world - What is Yoga?

The word yoga is the Sanskrit word yuj, meaning to yoke or to bind and is often referred to as a union or a method of discipline. Yoga is the union of the body with the mind and of mind with the body.
- B.K.B Iyengar, The Tree of Yoga

Yoga has an ancient history practised in various forms across India as far back as 5000 years ago. The most famous text on yoga was the yoga sutras written 2000-2300 years ago by Patanjali. The yoga Sutras are a philosophical guidebook of statements that outlines the eight limbs of yoga: Yamas (restraints), Niyamas (observances), Asana (postures), Pranayama (breathing), Pratyahara (withdrawal of senses),Dharana (concentration), Dhyani (meditation) and Samadhi (absorption).

Movement through postures

Today, most practitioners focus on the third yogic limb, the asanas or physical postures. Movement through these postures is what typically gives you that after-class-feeling of being physically stretched out, less tense, mentally calmer and generally more relaxed. This is the deeper level of the practice coming into effect, the “union” of the mind and body that B.K.S Iyengar refers to. In this state the mind can associate the practice as a positive experience for the body.

While yoga has an ancient history of spiritual practice it is the physical benefits that draw most of it practitioners in our modern world. Yoga is often branded as another form of exercise in which to achieve a desired level of fitness. While there is more to the practice of yoga than its physical effects, they are no less important. The physicality of the asanas encourages the body to create new patterns and movement and often results in many lasting physical benefits such as:

• Mobility and Flexibility – Yoga stretches tight muscles and increases range of motion in related joints. A more flexible body will decrease stiffness and small aches and pains and increase range of motion.
• Strength and Stability – The body develops strong muscles from daily routines and other activities. Yoga aims to balance and strengthen the underused weaker muscles. When muscles are weak they tire quickly and often cause imbalances. Strengthening the body will improve posture, increase stability and aid in overall mobility. The asana practice targets all major muscles groups in the upper body, core and lower body.

Feeling energised

Along with its overall physical benefits, yoga is a practice that, unlike other forms of exercise, leaves you feeling energized. The connection of physical practice and breath works oxygenates the blood and leaves the body worked but in a state in which it can actively recover from other daily strains or training.

A safe, non-judgemental space

Whether you are new to yoga or a seasoned yogi; be assured that everyone can grow and develop, regardless of age, physical condition or level of flexibility. The yoga space is a safe, non-judgemental space in which students have the opportunity to become more aware of their body, improve strength and flexibility at their own pace. In yoga there is no end goal as we are constantly changing and learning as individuals. Begin your yoga journey today.

Viniyoga

Viniyoga is a term which describes the traditional yoga form created by TKV Desikachar which has its roots in the Yoga Sūtra of Patañjali and ancient Indian medical practice known as Ayurveda.

'The viniyoga of yoga' simply means 'the intelligent application of yoga' and in this tradition each person is seen as an individual. Sessions offer a meditative approach to yoga through which various yoga techniques are applied to each individual's circumstances and requirements.

This is a form of yoga which utilises the relationship between breath and movement and recognises the influence one has on the other with the aim of creating strength, flexibility and ease in the body, and peace in the mind.

Movement is adapted to each individual and so the Viniyoga approach is suitable for both complete beginners and experienced yogis wishing to work in a more mindful and applied manner.

Mindful Somatic Yoga

Mindful Somatic yoga differs from other forms of yoga because it is focused on how movements feel to you from the inside, rather than on how they look to anyone else. The focus is on sensing your way in and out of poses rather than pushing yourself towards a certain position. This can help you develop a more self-compassionate relationship towards yourself and your body.

Using a blend of Hanna Somatics and traditional yoga postures the aim is to re-map movement patterns to create a greater sense of ease and fluidity in the body and to alleviate (and in many cases eliminate) pain and discomfort. The gentle focus required throughout the class calms the mind and emotions and brings about a deep state of peace.

This is a slow paced deeply absorbing practice where time flies and is suitable for people with some Yoga experience who would like to work in a more mindful way.

New Body Barn is pleased to offer the services of Amelia Grace and of the team at White Horse Yoga

Read more about Amelia here. Read more about White Horse Yoga here