Benefits of Yoga

Article written by: Jemma Black - Hatha Yoga Teacher

Yoga, there is so much to say about this ancient practice.

For me it is a sanctuary, it's a safe space. It is energising, strong and precise, but also slow, gentle, and graceful. It's helped me through the worst of times, and has been the creation of some of the best of times. Every time I roll out my mat something new happens, no two classes are the same.

Yoga is so much more than just a physical workout. The asana, or postures, that we work into are just one part of the beautiful tapestry that weaves into the practice we call Yoga. We work into breath and balance the emotions, we work into mobility, strength and flexibility. We listen to our bodies and honour our ability.

We relax deeper than we have ever relaxed. We meditate, we observe the mind without any judgement. The focus is on us as an individual, there's no end goal, no competition, we don’t compare ourselves to anyone in the room, it is an individual experience and yet it can also become a community.

So what are the benefits of Yoga?

• can improve strength, balance and flexibility

• can help with pain relief

• can ease arthritis symptoms

• can benefit heart and respiratory health

• relaxes you, to help you sleep better

• can mean more energy and brighter moods

• can help you manage stress and anxiety

• can help stabilise blood pressure

The list is actually endless but the only way to experience any of this is to take that first step through the door of a yoga class. But which one? There’s Hatha, Vinyasa, Ashtanga, Yin, Iyengar, Restorative….My best advice would be to find a yoga teacher and speak to them, ask questions, tell them what your fears and worries are and what your expectations are. Tell them what you can’t do and see how they can accommodate you. If you like what you hear give it a go, you won’t regret it.

If you are interested in trying out an inclusive Hatha Yoga class for free, please reach out to me, Jemma, at The Yoga Hut Fife. You can find me on Instagram and Facebook or go to my website at www.theyogahutfife.co.uk for more information.

I look forward to hearing from you.