Navasana (Boat Pose) nava = boat About the pose Navasana is a seated balance posture which concentrates on building internal focus and strength. The point of balance is on the tripod between the sitting bones and tailbone. If the abdominal muscles are weak, the back will round. This needs to be avoided to prevent injury; […]
We can’t help it: it’s difficult to leave the ego, competitive nature or expectations at the door when coming to Yoga. And although our brain tells us that it doesn’t matter what the person next to us is doing in class, we can’t help compare ourselves to that person or even the physical abilities of […]
There is no doubt that foam blocks, non-slip sticky mats, bolsters, straps and yoga chairs were not part of the asana (postures) repertoire of the ancient yogis. While most yoga practioners have happily accepted the advantage of good quality yoga mats, the opinions on whether to use other accessories (‘props’) during yoga practice vary. Some […]
Salamba Sarvangasana (Shoulderstand) Salamba =with support; Sarvanga = all limbs About the pose: Salamba Sarvangasana (supported shoulderstand) is an inversion posture: The feet are the highest point, carried and lifted by the legs, pelvis and spine. The weight rests primarily on the upper back and shoulders but when first learning the pose, also place weight […]
As with all physical and mental conditions, you have to rely on the medical advice of your doctor. If he/she suggests that yoga would be beneficial in to the recovery of your condition, there shouldn’t be a reason not to practice. However, it is critically important that you let the teacher know about your condition […]
There are no prerequisites or restrictions with regard to who can or cannot do yoga. It is a common misconception that you have to ‘twist like a pretzel’ to do yoga. In fact, yoga is suitable for everybody, regardless of age, gender or physical ability. If truth be told, one of the big lessons in […]
Yoga postures (asana) are more than stretching exercises – at the most basic level, they do not only stretch your muscles, but open locked up joints and improve core strength. On a deeper level, Yoga requires your undivided focus as the aim is to coordinate movement with breath. Through the combination of postures that allow […]
Yoga is a philosophy not a religion, its historical origins are deeply rooted in the ancient Indian cultural traditions associated with Hinduism, Jainism and Buddhism. As such, while yoga does have rituals and spiritual texts associated with its heritage, it does not have exclusive doctrines that preclude any religion. The aim of yoga is to […]