What is Yoga?

Physical movement (known as Hatha) is what many of us imagine when we think of yoga.

But for me, yoga is something far more than
a form of physical exercise. It is mindfulness, peace, inner balance, wisdom, acceptance… It trains far more than just your body!

Even the way you breathe is improved with yoga – the techniques of pranayama help you to become not only calmer and more focused, but also more mindful of your own body. In a nut shell, this concentration on breathing leads to prana (energy) yama (extension), helping your body and mind to feel peace!

With so many pressures and expectations crowding the modern world, mental health often suffers – allowing yourself time to simply focus on your own body and mind is so beneficial! Yoga is a way of making yourself strong, physically and mentally. Yoga is not about being perfect. It is about finding and acknowledging your own strength to become really conscious and find inner calm.

Personally, yoga reminds me very much of my experience of living in Africa. There’s something so special about Africa that it’s hard to explain the unique feelings it brings – it’s easier to go and experience the magic than for it to be studied or taught! The same can be said for Yoga. Yoga is about your individual journey to finding inner harmony, whatever that may mean to you. 

If Yoga has caught your eye and you’re looking to give it a try, then no matter who you are… give it a go ~ make that STEP! What will YOGA bring to you and your life?