Yoga & Meditation

Did you know that yoga is a great practice of self-care and wellness?

Yoga is a physical, mental and spiritual practice that originated in ancient India. The word yoga is The word yoga is derived from the Sanskrit root yuj, meaning “to yoke,” or “to unite”. The practice aims to create union between body, mind and spirit, as well as between the individual self and universal consciousness. Such a union tends to neutralize ego-driven thoughts and behaviours, creating a sense of spiritual awakening.

Modern yoga is most commonly associated with the physical practice of asana, a series of postures often weaved together in styles such as active styles like Vinyasa Flow or Ashtanga and more relaxed styles such as yin or restorative. CLICK HERE to try a FREE yin yoga for self-care class.

However, this provides only one small aspect of the tradition of yoga as a whole. 

Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras provide the traditional foundation of yoga, in which he outlines an eightfold path of the practice. Known as the ‘Eight Limbs of Yoga,’ this path offers a guide to individuals who are dedicated to creating a union between body, mind and spirit.

Each of the Eight Limbs offers a means of living with more integrity, self-discipline, respect for nature and connection with the spiritual aspects of life. These eight practices are intended to be carried out in a holistic and integrative manner:

1. Yamas – Five universal, ethical and moral observances to live by (nonviolence, truthfulness, non-stealing, continence and non-covetousness)
2. Niyamas – Five spiritual and self-discipline observances (cleanliness, contentment, spiritual austerities, study of scriptures and surrender to God)
3. Asana – physical posture, originally intended only for seated meditation, but more recently adapted to encompass all physical yoga practices
4. Pranayama – breathing exercises to control the flow of prana (vital life force)
5. Pratyahara – Withdrawal of the senses
6. Dharana – Single pointed concentration
7. Dhyana – Meditation
8. Samadhi – Liberation or blissful union with the Divine

What is Essential Yin Yoga For Self-Care?

Essential Yin Yoga for Self-Care is a style of yoga that I love to teach and teach online live yoga classes each week! These classes combine the use of essential oils along with the relaxing practice of yin yoga for a powerful self-care experience.

What Is Yin Yoga?

Yin yoga is an active stretch style class designed to penetrate deep into connective tissue expanding flexibility while invigorating the energy centres of the body to release blockages and increase your energy flow. Focusing on static movement, breath work (Pranayama) and meditation to create a profoundly deep and rewarding practice. The primary differences between Yin Yoga and many other forms of yoga is that you are encouraged to NOT use your muscles and passive poses are held for several minutes.

What is Restorative Yoga?

Restorative yoga is a passive stretch style class that focuses on finding stillness and comfort in long-held postures encouraging the  muscles and the mind to relax deeply. Props, such as blocks and bolsters, are used to support your body so purchasing a bolster is highly recommended but not required. Restorative classes are very mellow, making them a good complement to more active practices (as well as our busy lives) and an excellent antidote to stress.

Why Essential Oils?

Much like yoga, the use of essential oils aims to support the well-being of the body, mind, and spirit. Research has shown that essential oils not only provide emotional benefits but physical benefits as well. There are several studies that speak to the abilities of essential oils to help reduce anxious feelings and provide an overall sense of well-being. Other research studies have shown that they can help maintain concentration. Lastly, research has suggested that essential oils help promote feelings of clear breathing and open airways.

Why Meditation? 

Meditation is a habitual process of training your mind to focus and redirect your thoughts. You can use it to increase awareness of yourself and your surroundings. Many people think of it as a way to reduce stress and develop concentration.

Why Self-Care? 

Self-care is one of the most important things you can do for the health of your body, mind and soul. When you care for yourself you increase your self-esteem, confidence and happiness, which allows you to better care for and serve others.

Are you ready to start your practice?

If so, CLICK HERE to register for the weekly online LIVE essential yin yoga classes and membership program.