(Perfect for beginners and those curious about yoga)
Namaste! Welcome to Eling Academy.
Have you ever seen a beautiful yoga pose on social media and thought, “Wow, my body could never do that”? Or perhaps you’ve heard friends talk about how yoga makes them feel calmer, and it sparked your curiosity? If so, you’ve come to the right place.
Many people think yoga is all about flexibility or complicated poses. In reality, that’s just a small part of the vast world of yoga. Let’s dive into what yoga truly is.
What is Yoga, Really?
Yoga is an ancient practice that originated in India thousands of years ago. The word “yoga” comes from the Sanskrit root “Yuj,” which means “to unite” or “to join.” Its primary goal is to unite the body, mind, and spirit to achieve a state of balance and peace.
At Eling Academy, we believe that yoga is a personal journey, not a competition. It’s about how you feel, not how you look in a pose. The three main pillars of modern yoga practice that you will encounter are:
- Asana (Physical Poses): This is the most well-known part of yoga. These movements and postures are designed to build strength, improve flexibility, and release tension from the body.
- Pranayama (Breathing Techniques): The breath is the bridge between the body and the mind. Through conscious breathing techniques, we can calm the nervous system, increase energy, and clear the mind.
- Dhyana (Meditation): Meditation is the practice of focusing the mind and observing what is happening within, without judgment. It helps us become more aware and present in every moment.
Who is Yoga For?
The short answer: For everyone!
No matter your age, body shape, or how flexible (or inflexible) you are, there is a style of yoga for you. Forget the image of a super-flexible yogi on a mountaintop. Yoga is for the stay-at-home mom who needs time for herself, the office worker who is sore from sitting all day, the athlete looking to prevent injuries, and anyone who simply wants to feel better, physically and mentally.
The yoga mat is your safe space to explore without any need to compare yourself to others.
Starting Your Yoga Journey
Feeling inspired to give it a try? Here are a few simple tips to get started:
- Set an Intention: Begin with a simple intention, like “Today, I will take 15 minutes to stretch my body.”
- Wear Comfortable Clothes: Choose clothing that allows you to move freely.
- Listen to Your Body: This is the most important rule. If something hurts, ease back. Yoga is about honoring your body’s limits.
- Find a Guide: Joining a beginner’s class at Eling Academy is the best way to start. Our teachers will guide you safely and provide a strong foundation.
Yoga is not about touching your toes; it’s about what you learn on the way down. We at Eling Academy are here to support you every step of your journey