YOGA. Originating in India over 5,000 years ago, the actual Sanskrit word when broken down literally translates to mean “to control”, “to yoke”, or “to unite”. It has also been translated to mean “joining” or “union”. Really, the word Yoga can signify many forms of connection. Often in the Yoga world we find ourselves saying that Yoga is the union of the Mind/Body/Spirit connection, but I find that yoga is simply a state of connection that allows us to connect to many different things, on many different levels.
At it’s most practical definition, Yoga allows us to connect to who we truly are. It is a process of discovery, an awakening of self. Anything we do can become Yoga if it is done with mindful awareness. Even something as simple as eating a meal!
Yoga is a science, a body of techniques that leads us to consciously connect with ourselves and with life.Yoga as a science simply tells us to do a certain practice and then to feel the effect of that practice. For example, if we breathe slowly in a relaxed manner we can slow our heart rate; if we focus the mind we will develop mental peace and deepen our insight.
In a Yoga class you will learn breathing techniques to calm the mind, as well as techniques to bring conscious awareness to the mind and it’s many fluctuations. Thus improving ones ability to stay calm and centered, allowing you to more effectively navigate the many difficulties encountered in day to day life! Not to mention the practice of learning the physical Asanas (yoga postures), gives one a true awareness of the physical self. Learning when to push and when to let go; finding your edge and limitations, all while respecting both yourself and the process of your personal practice.