All Things Yoga

There’s been a real buzz about yoga these past couple of months in our wee clinic, in fact I’m not even sure where it came from.

My initial thought was to presume the blackboard elves have yoga elf-friends who planted magic yoga vibes in the clinic during the night.

When yoga made it onto the blackboard (hence the elves/yoga connection)…

That’s one theory.

Or maybe there’s no reason why yoga has become such a big part of our working lives. Maybe it just happened. But I must say it’s been rather lovely watching everyone discovering new challenges and having fun in their practice.

For me, yoga inspiration has come from a lot of different angles. I work with many clients who are extremely passionate about their yoga practice and it’s been really encouraging to see them come in and talk about workshops, upcoming retreats and the physical and mental wellbeing they’ve gained from their practices.

And between us therapists at The Glasgow Treatment Rooms there’s no shortage of a Downward Dog, a wall stretch or a gentle spinal twist throughout the day. On lunchbreaks we’re discussing yoga teachers, class experiences and what challenges we’re working on (or failing miserably at!)

Hence my topic for this week’s blog: the wonderful world of YOGA.

Despite doing yoga on-off for almost 10 years, I’ve only been practicing yoga seriously for about 4 months now. For those who know my background I’m a massive fan of movement and love to celebrate the holistic benefits that moving the body can bring.

Yoga is a real discovery of the self with a HUGE philosophical aspect added into the mix.

And today I wanted to share with you some of my top tips that may offer some guidance for anyone reading this blog wanting to try yoga for the first time, or perhaps for those who want to deepen your practice.

1. Find an amazing teacher and be inspired!

A good teacher is important to keep you safe, maximise the benefits of a posture (or asana) and keep things interesting. A good teacher will provide guidance and gently ease a newcomer into a class most suited to their current abilities. The Kali Collective in Glasgow city centre is my go-to yoga studio – I absolutely LOVE the community that’s been created here and there’s plenty of opportunities to explore a variety of classes and workshops. With so many incredible teachers too, you’re spoiled for choice!

Getting set-up before class at The Kali Collective

2. Listen to your body

A biggie and a theme you’ll come to experience in every class. Don’t push a pose because the person next to you can do it with ease. Yoga is a discovery process. As with any new activity, take it slowly and pencil in plenty of recovery time if you’re sore.

While there are many who make yoga appear graceful and effortless, it can be hard work! Massage can supercharge your recovery after a particularly tiring session too (so says the massage therapist).

3. Have fun and don’t take yourself too seriously

Yoga isn’t a regimental discipline and although challenging at times shouldn’t be viewed with the attainment of perfection. If you lose your balance in an Eagle pose or require blocks to make something more achievable then that’s absolutely OK. It doesn’t make your yoga practice any less beneficial to your body.

And if you can’t quite balance in a Crow pose, don’t beat yourself up. Equally, if you do surprise yourself with an extroardinary feat of strength, high 5s are definitely encouraged!

4. Be YOU!

Your yoga practice is truly unique to you. Your body has its own history and weaves its own individual story. Flow with YOUR breathe, explore challenges with a sense of kindness and really enjoy your practice.

I think it’s also important to address the ‘I’m not flexible enough/too old/too young/too large to do yoga’ thoughts that can be quite common in newcomers. Yoga requires a human body and the will to participate. A good teacher will be on hand to guide you through any fears or hesitancies and provide you with the optimum environment for you.

If you’ve been inspired to take up a class then go out there, give it a go and have FUN! I can’t wait to hear how you get on!