Lots of people have heard of Yoga and often they think it has something do to with ‘putting ones legs behind ones ear’ or doing other strange contortions with your body! Of course there are people who can do this; however for most of us nothing could be further from the truth.  I have been practicing Yoga for nearly 15 years now and teaching for the last 3 years and I can assure you that I still cannot get either of my legs behind my ears.

Nonetheless, Yoga is the perfect exercise for anybody regardless of age and ability. It is thousands of years old and has evolved over centuries into the traditional Hatha Yoga. It is much more than simple exercising your body - it combines physical practice with breathing and relaxation. The guiding and basic principle is to enjoy the Yoga practice, getting yourself to let go of the daily stuff we have to do, whatever that is and having some time for yourself. Yoga brings you into the moment – allowing you to be in the ‘here and now’ – even for a short while. This brings me to crucial difference between Yoga and any other form of exercise. With Yoga the emphasis is on good breathing. We all take breathing for granted. However, correct and good breathing is quite a different from our everyday shallow breathing. Working with a breath in combination with simple and gentle yoga postures will improve your flexibility and stamina, and makes you feels calmer and more relaxed.  It also creates a positive approach to life, instils a sense of rejuvenation and empowerment.

Like with any kind of exercise, it is the same when embarking on Yoga and you know you have a medical condition, it is always advisable to check with your doctor first.

Apart from the obvious health benefits, it also provides a lovely way to getting to know like minded people in your neighbourhood.