MORE INFORMATION ABOUT YOGA

THE BENEFITS OF YOGA

"Yoga is the science of right living" .The word means union - it is a bringing together of the whole person. A unity and balance of all aspects of ourselves. Yoga is an internal journey to find release and serenity. Yoga aims at balancing the nervous and endocrine systems. It massages the internal organs and sends fresh oxygenated blood into the tissues and cells of the body. It improves the circulation. It strengthens the deep muscles of the body. It improves the skeletal structure and keeps the joints mobile. It supports the respiratory system and releases the mind from stress and strain. If practiced correctly it should enhance our concentration and our awareness. It is a holistic approach to health and healing. Advanced yoga does not mean the ability to twist into a pretzel but rather the ability to steady and focus the mind.

TYPES OF YOGA

There are various paths of yoga to suite the different personalities and needs of people and the different seasons of our lives. No one way is the only way. The path must be adaptable and flexible to be able to meet specific needs and requirements of your present condition and situations in life. The asana must be a living exploration of body and mind. We must not get lost in how the posture looks but rather in how the posture makes us feel.

THE YOGA PRACTICED AT THE YOGA CONNECTION

We welcome EVERYONE from 12 years onwards, you are never too old to start with us. We try to cater to all. We specialise in gentle yoga, basic beginners classes which are useful to open all major joints and relax tense muscles and improve the flow of energy through the body. We offer more energizing general classes for the physically stronger students. Keeping the mindful approach in whatever we do. Remembering the meaning of the word asana (yoga position), which is a calm and steady pose. Developing awareness so as not to injure the body. We believe that yoga provides a way for the individual to connect with their true selves. Establishing harmony and balance in all aspects of their lives.

We focus on releasing energy blocks that prevent disease in the physical body. It renders the whole body more flexible and free. We also teach pranayamas (breathing techniques) which help to detoxify the body and release stress. Helping to unclog the emotions. We offer a complete physical, mental and emotional relaxation technique. This is a very powerful practice in letting go of tension and stress. It is also a healing practice for people who are not well. We can teach this technique on an individual basis if needed. Practicing with the principle of Ahimsa (which means non-violence,) with gentleness and care, thus developing our patience and balance in all aspects of our lives. Resulting in an easeful body and a peaceful mind.

We have been influenced by a wide variety of yogic schools and various teachers. We have travelled to India and practised yoga in many locations there. Some of us have enjoyed training in America and Thailand. Our instructors are full members of The Yoga Teachers Fellowship of SA. We live up to our name Yoga Connection by integrating all that we have learnt into one great whole with deep gratitude and thanks to our wonderful teachers throughout the world.

YOGA GUIDELINES

1. To keep the studio carpet clean PLEASE REMOVE YOUR SHOES BEFORE ENTERING THE FRONT DOOR.
2. Please check that your feet are clean before stepping into the yoga room.
3. PLEASE SWITCH OFF CELL PHONES
4. Write your name in the attendance register upon arrival
5. If you make any payment also record the AMOUNT next to your name in the register
6. Please be quiet when entering the Yoga Room
7. Find a space in the yoga area, place your mat / towel / blanket down and lie in shavasana (on your back), eyes closed.
8. RELAX
9. DO NOT STRAIN WHILE DOING THE ASANAS - Postures, exercises & stretching. There should be no pain.
10. Exercise with relaxed awareness
11. Wear comfortable clothes.
12. No asanas or pranayamas (breathing) should be attempted on a full stomach. Allow two to three hours after a meal.
13. All breathing should be long, calm, deep and comfortable. Never Strain. Do not hold the breath if you are suffering from high blood pressure or heart disease.
14. If you have any illnesses or injury check with your doctor first.
15. Regular practice makes for speedy progress.

All asanas are non-competitive and done with the eyes closed. According to medical science these asanas should relax the mind and create balance in the nervous and endocrine systems. They are of great preventative and curative value. Mentally they induce peace and balance. Emotionally they should harmonise and revitalise. Yoga has been tried, tested and proven over 5,000 years!!