Yoga Myths: 3 Things About Yoga That Aren’t True

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Yoga has been growing in popularity for the last few decades but there are still a few things that hold people back from giving it a go. We love life and live yoga as it has so many benefits for your physical and mental wellbeing. 

1. Yoga is only for people who are flexible and fit

Yoga is something that you do for yourself, to help your mental and physical fitness, you’re not comparing yourself to anyone else, you just have to concentrate on your own abilities and needs. Start slowly, with a beginners class or workshop and try to build up your abilities through regular practice. Whatever your aim, whether you’re hoping to get fitter through yoga or use it to practice mindfulness and find some mental space, you can work within your abilities. 

You don’t have to be super bendy right now, your regular practice will help you improve your flexibility. Neither do you need to be young to start practising yoga. Whatever age you are, you can work at your own pace. The practice of yoga needs you to combine, flexibility, balance and power and even if you need to work on one or two of these areas you can take the time to do so. Perfection isn’t necessary and you’re not comparing yourself to anyone else, you are on your own journey. 

 

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2. Yoga is just for women

Believe it or not, but Yoga was originally taught and practised by men only but its popularity in the western world was driven by women and the yoga studio has felt dominated by the girls. These days men can still feel a little apprehensive about taking part in a yoga class but they needn’t worry, these days a class will almost always have several men taking part.

Yoga can be really effective in building strength and muscle, it can be a complementary part of a workout regimen or a stand-alone way to gain a little focus. In the Flow 60 yoga class, we practice of flowing from one posture from another, concentrating on your breathing as you go. Unwind 60 is popular with beginners as it is gentle and focuses on the alignments in the asanas (poses), it is beneficial as it concentrates on the mental as well as the physical fundamentals of yoga. 

You can start with one style and move on to something more challenging as you progress in knowledge and fitness.

3. Yoga is a religion

Yoga isn’t related to any formal religion, it’s more of a philosophy of keeping your mind and body healthy by giving you some space to breathe. 

The practice of yoga is for everyone. Whether your lifestyle is green smoothies and long walks, or chaotic and full of kids, taking a moment to recharge and nurture yourself is good for everybody. Old, young, male, or female there is a place for you in a yoga class. You will enjoy connecting with other yogis and appreciate the positive energy of a group yoga class.

The spiritual aspect of yoga centres around the idea of the joining of body and spirit in fostering a wholesome relationship with yourself, your environment and others. 

 

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4 Mistakes Beginners Make When Starting Yoga

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Attending a yoga class when you have never done yoga before can be a little daunting. Most people are afraid of making mistakes or even looking silly when getting started and we totally get it. However, keep in mind that every yogi had to start somewhere. In fact, we’ve all been there. So, to help you feel a little more at ease, here are four mistakes most beginners make when first getting started with yoga and how you can avoid making them.

1. Comparing Yourself To Other Yogis

Let’s address the elephant in the room. When you start going to a yoga studio it can be tempting to spend a considerable amount of time checking out what other people are doing and start comparing. Are your asanas better or worse your neighbour’s? are you as flexible as the person next to you?

If you compare yourself to others in the class you end up losing focus on what you are doing and why you are there. Whether you look better or worse than other people in the class doesn’t matter, yoga should be a time to carve out some space just for you to relax and breathe.

Spend your time focusing on your asanas and letting go of your outsides stresses. As a beginner you won’t be perfect, your body may not be able to do everything straight away but you will improve with practice. Yoga is a personal journey, not a competition. Focus on your body and on your breath and you’ll leave class feeling fulfilled. Make sure to scan the yoga timetable for classes suitable for beginners.

2. Rushing Asanas

Give yourself time for each pose that you do and pay attention to your whole body. If you rush around in your day to day life it is tempting to treat your yoga class the same way. 

Remember that yoga is not a race to the finish line. Take time to find space, to settle on your mat and prepare your body for the asana. Ensure your body is in alignment before you start and most of all: Don’t forget to breathe! Slowly get into the different poses, checking your movements then allow time for several rounds of deep breathing as you remain in each pose. Remember to also come out of the pose in a gentle way with an awareness of your movements. 

3. Getting Frustrated 

Yoga looks deceptively simple, especially if you already do lots of sports or exercise. Often people new to practising yoga think they will be able to join a class and pick it up perfectly immediately. It is worth remembering that even if you are used to physical activity, that your body will be working in a new way. If you don’t do much in the way of exercise you will need to work the stiffness out of your body with gentle practice.

The asanas in yoga need you to begin to stretch and move your body in a way that’s new. Be kind to yourself, don’t get cross and frustrated, you will need time and practice to get into those perfect poses. Yoga is a gentle exercise and each time you come to class you’ll notice something get a little easier as your muscles learn the movements. 

 

4. Leaving Too Soon 

The final relaxation (also called Shavasana) is a great way to end a class, this is a process where you relax your body as the teacher guides you through a wind-down relaxation. This process can last from 5 minutes upwards and is important in giving yourself a moment to absorb what you have practised in class and get ready to go back to real life. 

Some new students can feel that this part of the class isn’t essential so they gather up their stuff and leave to get on with the rest of their day. This is a mistake as relaxation is one of the most important parts of the session. It gives your muscles a chance to stretch and relax but even more importantly it gives you the mental space to breathe and calm. 

 

Yoga For Back Pain: 10 Yoga Poses To Strengthen Your Back & Ease Your Pain

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If you’re dealing with back pain, yoga may be just what the doctor ordered. Yoga is a mind-body therapy that’s often recommended to treat not only back pain but the stress that accompanies it. The appropriate poses can relax and strengthen your body.

You may have heard that yoga can be beneficial when it comes to back pain. Here are 10 poses to try, why it works & more.

Practicing yoga for even a few minutes a day can help you gain more awareness of your body. This will help you notice where you’re holding tension and where you have imbalances. You can use this awareness to bring yourself into balance and alignment.

Keep reading to learn more about how these poses may be useful in treating back pain. Be sure to follow Carmen on her website for more helpful tips on yoga and how to integrate it into your life.

1. Cat-Cow

This gentle, accessible backbend stretches and mobilises the spine. Practicing this pose also stretches your torso, shoulders, and neck.

Muscles worked:

  • erector spinae
  • rectus abdominis
  • triceps
  • serratus anterior
  • gluteus maximus

To do this:

  1. Get on all fours.
  2. Place your wrists underneath your shoulders and your knees underneath your hips.
  3. Balance your weight evenly between all four points.
  4. Inhale as you look up and let your stomach drop down toward the mat.
  5. Exhale as you tuck your chin into your chest, draw your navel toward your spine, and arch your spine toward the ceiling.
  6. Maintain awareness of your body as you do this movement.
  7. Focus on noting and releasing tension in your body.
  8. Continue this fluid movement for at least 1 minute.

2. Downward-Facing Dog

This traditional forward bend can be restful and rejuvenating. Practicing this pose can help relieve back pain and sciatica. It helps to work out imbalances in the body and improves strength.

Muscles worked:

  • hamstrings
  • deltoids
  • gluteus maximus
  • triceps
  • quadriceps

To do this:

  1. Get on all fours.
  2. Place your hands in alignment under your wrists and your knees under your hips.
  3. Press into your hands, tuck your toes under, and lift up your knees.
  4. Bring your sitting bones up toward the ceiling.
  5. Keep a slight bend in your knees and lengthen your spine and tailbone.
  6. Keep your heels slightly off the ground.
  7. Press firmly into your hands.
  8. Distribute your weight evenly between both sides of your body, paying attention to the position of your hips and shoulders.
  9. Keep your head in line with your upper arms or with your chin tucked in slightly.
  10. Hold this pose for up to 1 minute.

3. Extended Triangle

This classic standing posture may help alleviate backache, sciatica, and neck pain. It stretches your spine, hips, and groin, and strengthens your shoulders, chest, and legs. It may also help relieve stress and anxiety.

Muscles worked:

  • latissimus dorsi
  • internal oblique
  • gluteus maximus and medius
  • hamstrings
  • quadriceps

To do this:

  1. From standing, walk your feet about 4 feet apart.
  2. Turn your right toes to face forward, and your left toes out at an angle.
  3. Lift your arms parallel to the floor with your palms facing down.
  4. Tilt forward and hinge at your right hip to come forward with your arm and torso.
  5. Bring your hand to your leg, a yoga block, or onto the floor.
  6. Extend your left arm up toward the ceiling.
  7. Look up, forward, or down.
  8. Hold this pose for up to 1 minute.
  9. Repeat on the opposite side.

4. Sphinx Pose

sphinx pose - back pain yoga poses

This gentle backbend strengthens your spine and buttocks. It stretches your chest, shoulders, and abdomen. It may also help relieve stress.

Muscles worked:

  • erector spinae
  • gluteal muscles
  • pectoralis major
  • trapezius
  • latissimus dorsi

To do this:

  1. Lie on your stomach with your legs extended behind you.
  2. Engage the muscles of your lower back, buttocks, and thighs.
  3. Bring your elbows under your shoulders with your forearms on the floor and your palms facing down.
  4. Slowly lift up your upper torso and head.
  5. Gently lift and engage your lower abdominals to support your back.
  6. Ensure that you’re lifting up through your spine and out through the crown of your head, instead of collapsing into your lower back.
  7. Keep your gaze straight ahead as you fully relax in this pose, while at the same time remaining active and engaged.
  8. Stay in this pose for up to 5 minutes.

5. Cobra Pose

This gentle backbend stretches your abdomen, chest, and shoulders. Practicing this pose strengthens your spine and may soothe sciatica. It may also help to relieve stress and fatigue that can accompany back pain.

Muscles worked:

  • hamstrings
  • gluteus maximus
  • deltoids
  • triceps
  • serratus anterior

To do this:

  1. Lie on your stomach with your hands under your shoulders and your fingers facing forward.
  2. Draw your arms in tightly to your chest. Don’t allow your elbows to go out to the side.
  3. Press into your hands to slowly lift your head, chest, and shoulders.
  4. You can lift partway, halfway, or all the way up.
  5. Maintain a slight bend in your elbows.
  6. You can let your head drop back to deepen the pose.
  7. Release back down to your mat on an exhale.
  8. Bring your arms by your side and rest your head.
  9. Slowly move your hips from side to side to release tension from your lower back.

6. Locust Pose

This gentle backbend may help relieve lower back pain and fatigue. It strengthens the back torso, arms, and legs.

Muscles worked:

  • trapezius
  • erector spinae
  • gluteus maximus
  • triceps

To do this:

  1. Lie on your stomach with your arms next to your torso and your palms facing up.
  2. Touch your big toes together and turn out your heels to the side.
  3. Place your forehead lightly on the floor.
  4. Slowly lift your head, chest, and arms partway, halfway, or all the way up.
  5. You may bring your hands together and interlace your fingers behind your back.
  6. To deepen the pose, lift your legs.
  7. Look straight ahead or slightly upward as you lengthen the back of your neck.
  8. Remain in this pose for up to 1 minute.
  9. Rest before repeating the pose.

7. Bridge Pose

This is a backbend and inversion that can be stimulating or restorative. It stretches the spine and it may relieve backaches and headaches.

Muscles worked:

  • rectus and transverse abdominis
  • gluteus muscles
  • erector spinae
  • hamstrings

To do this:

  1. Lie on your back with your knees bent and heels drawn into your sitting bones.
  2. Rest your arms alongside your body.
  3. Press your feet and arms into the floor as you lift your tailbone up.
  4. Continue lifting until your thighs are parallel to the floor.
  5. Leave your arms as they are, bringing your palms together with interlaced fingers under your hips, or placing your hands under your hips for support.
  6. Hold this pose for up to 1 minute.
  7. Release by slowly rolling your spine back down to the floor, vertebra by vertebra.
  8. Drop your knees in together.
  9. Relax and breathe deeply in this position.

8. Half Lord of the Fishes

This twisting pose energizes your spine and helps to relieve backache. It stretches your hips, shoulders, and neck. This pose can help alleviate fatigue and stimulate your internal organs.

Muscles worked:

  • rhomboids
  • serratus anterior
  • erector spinae
  • pectoralis major
  • psoas

To do this:

  1. From a seated position, draw your right foot in close to your body.
  2. Bring your left foot to the outside of your leg.
  3. Lengthen your spine as you twist your body to the left.
  4. Take your left hand to the floor behind you for support.
  5. Move your right upper arm to the outside of your left thigh, or wrap your elbow around your left knee.
  6. Try to keep your hips square to deepen the twist in your spine.
  7. Turn your gaze to look over either shoulder.
  8. Hold this pose for up to 1 minute.
  9. Repeat on the other side.

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9. Two-Knee Spinal Twist

This restorative twist promotes movement and mobility in the spine and back. It stretches your spine, back, and shoulders. Practicing this pose can help relieve pain and stiffness in your back and hips.

Muscles worked:

  • erector spinae
  • rectus abdominis
  • trapezius
  • pectoralis major

To do this:

  1. Lie on your back with your knees drawn into your chest and your arms extended to the side.
  2. Slowly lower your legs to the left side while keeping your knees as close together as possible.
  3. You may place a pillow under both knees or in between your knees.
  4. You can use your left hand to gently press down on your knees.
  5. Keep your neck straight, or turn it to either side.
  6. Focus on breathing deeply in this position.
  7. Hold this pose for at least 30 seconds.
  8. Repeat on the opposite side.

10. Child’s Pose

This gentle forward fold is the perfect way to relax and release tension in your neck and back. Your spine is lengthened and stretched. Child’s Pose also stretches your hips, thighs, and ankles. Practicing this pose can help relieve stress and fatigue.

Muscles worked:

  • gluteus maximus
  • rotator cuff muscles
  • hamstrings
  • spinal extensors

To do this:

  1. Sit back on your heels with your knees together.
  2. You can use a bolster or blanket under your thighs, torso, or forehead for support.
  3. Bend forward and walk your hands in front of you.
  4. Rest your forehead gently on the floor.
  5. Keep your arms extended in front of you or bring your arms alongside your body with your palms facing up.
  6. Focus on releasing tension in your back as your upper body falls heavy into your knees.
  7. Remain in this pose for up to 5 minutes.

Does it really work?

One small study from 2017 assessed the effects of either yoga practice or physical therapy over the course of one year. The participants had chronic back pain and showed similar improvement in pain and activity limitation. Both groups were less likely to use pain medications after three months.

Separate research from 2017 found that people who practiced yoga showed small to moderate decreases in pain intensity in the short term. Practice was also found to slightly increase participants’ short- and long-term function.

Apart from back pain, yoga is known to help with countless other conditions, such as depression, anxiety and difficulty with concentration, just to name a few.

The bottom line

Although recent research supports yoga practice as a way to treat back pain, it may not be appropriate for everyone. Be sure to talk with your doctor before starting any new yoga or exercise program. They can help you identify any possible risks and help monitor your progress.

You can start a home practice with as little as 10 minutes per day. You can use books, articles, and yoga classes to guide your practice.

If you prefer more hands-on learning, you may wish to take classes at a Bundaberg yoga studio. It’s important to seek out classes and teachers who can cater to your specific needs.

 

Source:https://www.healthline.com/health/fitness-exercise/yoga-for-back-pain

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11 Embarrassing Yoga Questions Nobody Dares to Ask Out Loud

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Some questions about yoga might seem a little too embarrassing to ask out loud. So here goes a list of the most embarrassing yoga questions that people rarely dare to ask in public (but we know you might be asking yourself). Let’s delve right into it!

Your Most Embarassing Yoga Questions Answered

1. Will I pass gas? (In other words, does yoga make you fart more?)

Ok, this one had to be first. Yoga involves a lot of bending, twisting and stretching and farts will more often than not happen because it is difficult to hold them in such positions. It happens and it’s totally natural. When you do fart in class, simply ignore it and don’t make a big deal of it. A good tip is to watch the foods you eat a couple of hours prior to class. Try to eat light and avoid gassy food, like beans etc.

2. What if I fall asleep in savasana? (Yep, it happens)

The savasana, which is the corpse position, is a resting pose and not time for a nap. When you are tired, you might end up falling asleep but as you continue practicing yoga, you’ll realise that napping is different from relaxation. Try to stay awake and increase your awareness  by being mindful of what’s going on in your body, how you feel and the thoughts that cross your mind.

3. What if I fall over?

Some yoga poses can be a little harder to perform, especially when you’re at the beginning of your yoga journey. When learning a new exercise, there’s always a chance of failing a few times before we get it right. But there’s really nothing to worry about. When it happens and you are not injured, laugh about it and simply pick up where you left off. No-one is going to judge you. As teachers, we always do our best to reduce the risk of injury and guide you through all the different poses and variations. It’s important that you listen to your body though and don’t overstretch or push yourself too hard.

4. What about going to the bathroom?

Don’t hold the call of nature till after class if you are unable to. If you can hold it then that’s fine as well. You’re allowed to go to the bathroom whenever you need. Just do it quietly, respecting your fellow yogis.

5. Is sweating too much normal?

Yoga is an exercise, so expect to sweat. When you sweat, don’t be embarrassed about it. It’s good for you and helps to flush out all the toxins in your body. The fact that you’re sweating is also a sign that you are working out properly and strengthening your body in the process. So, keep going! 

 

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6. I don’t know the chanting words. What should I do?

You are not obligated to chime in during class, neither do you need to remember the sanskrit names of all the different poses (unless, of course, you are planning on attending yoga teacher training). When you don’t know the words, just listen to the rest of the class and join in. Or leave it. It’s completely up to you and there’s absolutely no judgement. Once you start attending classes more often, you’ll get to know the different yoga poses, and before you know it, remember their names, too.

7. What if I am not flexible enough?

There is nothing to be embarrassed about if you can’t reach your toes (yet). Flexibility is something you gain over time. And that’s exactly the purpose of doing yoga. Not to show how flexible you are, but to gradually increase your flexibility. Plus all the other benefits that come with practicing yoga regularly.

8. What about my stinky feet?

Are you afraid of removing your socks during a yoga class because they’re a little smelly sometimes? Nobody likes having smelly feet in front of them when practicing yoga, so we’re glad you thought about it. It’s always better to practice yoga barefoot, as socks might make you slip on your mat. But you can simply wash your feet before you step into the studio or arrive a little early and quickly do it there before the class begins.  Easy.

9. What about stinky armpits?

Sweating is completely natural and can be a little smelly sometimes. Yoga is no different. And even though we like to embrace our natural being, your fellow yogis will probably appreciate you having a quick shower before class and maybe using deodorant if you know you’re going to sweat a lot.

10. Why does the teacher have to adjust my yoga pose?

As teachers, it’s our job to ensure you do the poses properly, so you can reap the full benefits, but also to avoid unnecessary injury. So, pose adjustments during class are very common. When they happen keep breathing and continue to keep your focus on the pose. If you prefer not to be touched during class, that’s totally fine, too. Just kindly let your teacher know before class. No judgement here.

11. Do I have to breathe loudly if my neighbor is?

Your focus should not be on the volume of your breathing but on the actual act of breathing in and out. Don’t worry too much about what others are doing. Try to turn inward and focus on your own practice. This time is all about letting go and focusing on getting your breath, mind and body in sync.

Got more embarrassing yoga questions that aren’t on the list?

Let us know in the comments below. We’d love to add them!

We hope this answered some of your embarrassing yoga questions and helps you feel a little more comfortable about coming to class. If you’re new to yoga, don’t forget to claim your FREE $25 Yoga Gift Card to use for any of our yoga classes, workshop or retreats.

See you on the mat!

Namaste,

Carmen

6 Things You Should Know Before Your First Yoga Class

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If you’re a newbie to yoga, chances are you have lots of questions about what you’re getting yourself into your first yoga class. What am I supposed to bring? What can I expect? What should I wear for Bundaberg yoga classes? The truth is, if you come unprepared, your first few sessions can be a little intimidating.

Nonetheless, here are 8 crucial tips you should keep in mind before you enter our top-rated Bundaberg yoga studio for your first yoga class. They’ll help you feel more comfy, confident, and ready for your first few yoga classes. 

#1. It Pays to Arrive Early

The last thing you want for your first yoga class is to arrive late. The rule of thumb is to get to our yoga studio at least 10 minutes before the mats get humming. For one, there might be some paperwork to get out of your way before starting your class. Even better, you’ll be able to get a one-on-one with the instructors, and perhaps have some of your questions answered personally. More importantly, arriving early gives you an opportunity to snag a prime location in the studio.

#2. It’s Never a Good Idea to Take Yoga Classes with a Full Stomach

Sure, yoga can be intensive, but doing it on a full stomach is a big no-no. It’ll hinder your practice, making it harder to twist, turn, and whatnot. If you must, munch on a banana no less than 20 min before the yoga class starts. Generally, you should wait at least 2 hours to do yoga after a meal.

#3. Do a Bit of Research before your First Yoga Class

You cannot budge into a yoga studio without knowing a little about the instructors and how things are done. Give a call to your instructor. Have a read through our yoga blog. Chat with a friend who has advanced in yoga classes. Whatever you do, learn something before your first class. There’s so much to learn about yoga!

#4. What to Bring?

Bring a water bottle. Remember yoga is a physically-demanding activity, which implies it’s crucial to stay hydrated. Don’t forget to shop for a high-quality yoga mat and props. The goods news is that our Bundaberg yoga studio has fabulous mats and props available at no additional charge.

#5. Bare Feet, Bare Feet

You probably know this, but it’s worth mentioning that no socks or shoes are permitted at our Bundaberg yoga studio. Practising with bare feet will give you a better grip on your mat and allow you to feel into the poses better.

#6. Yoga’s All about Breathing

If you thought yoga is all about poses and bending, think again. Breathing is a huge component — and with good reason. It helps calm your mind and decongest your thoughts. By synchronising your breath with your movement, you will find more balance throughout your body and your life. 

 

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5 Ways On How Yoga Improves Life

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If you are here, you might have attended one or more of our yoga classes in Bundaberg, or maybe you’re on the search for ways on how yoga improves life. Perhaps you have just got out of a long-term relationship or work is usurping all your energy. Whatever it might be, I will tell you this: yoga will transform your life, and change it for the better.

How so, you ask? Here are some ways taking our yoga classes in Bundaberg can truly improve your life.

1. Taking Yoga Classes in Bundaberg will Help you Lose Weight and Keep it Off

If you have been packing weight in all the wrong places, your health can deteriorate and your self-esteem will take a hit. Are you finding it hard to stick to your weight loss program or a healthy diet? If yes, taking yoga can do the trick.

Yoga classes in Bundaberg allow you to connect with your inner self and be in harmony with your emotions. Thanks to yoga, you will be able to kick your food cravings, stick to your exercising, and eventually shed a few pounds. It is incredible how much easier it is to stay focused and not lose track of your life’s purpose when you embrace yoga.

2. Yoga Helps Relief Pains and Aches

Perhaps you’ve taken a brunt of a beating from persistent back pains, migraines or even headaches. You see, pain can greatly affect the quality of your life. And today’s over-the-counter and prescription pain medication can do more harm than good. If you’re sailing in this boat, taking yoga classes at our Bundaberg yoga studio can help you make the shift to a healthier, happier you.

3. Yoga Improves Life by Way of Helping You Stay Stress-Free

Before taking yoga classes, it’ll probably be hard for you to admit that you are stressed out or depressed. The truth is stress from life’s ups and downs can take a toll on your work performance, happiness, and overall well-being. Thankfully, yoga can help calm your mind, reduce stress hormones, and keep anxiety at bay.

4. Yoga can do Wonders for your Self-Esteem and Confidence

Our beloved yoga classes in Bundaberg allow you to work on your 3rd chakra. This is the core area that can help you gain lots of willpower, confidence, and resolve. If you have not had the guts to switch careers or face life challenges, yoga will help give you enough confidence to finally do so. This way, you can live a happier and a healthier life and be more true to yourself.

5. Yoga Improves Life by Helping you Meet New People and Make Friends

The primary reason most yogis find yoga so alluring is that it gives you an opportunity to connect with an entirely new class of friends. Although you will still be in touch with most of your old friends, you will find fellow yogis to make interesting new friendships with. Most of the people you’ll meet in our top-rated yoga classes in Bundaberg are charming, friendly, understanding and down to earth.

When combined, all these benefits of yoga can truly change your life — for the better!

Get started today with our 30-Day Intro Offer

 

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6 Mental Benefits of Yoga

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It’s no big secret that there are several different mental benefits of yoga that can do wonders for every aspect of your being. It can rejuvenate your mind, reinvigorate your body, and recharge your spirit. As such, the benefits of yoga cut across the physical, mental, and spiritual spectrum.

In this post, however, we shall only cover the top mental benefits of yoga

#1. Yoga Sharpens your Concentration and Memory Focus

With each yoga pose, yogis can spruce up their brain function and health. In fact, certain yoga poses and techniques have been found to stimulate the nervous system and brain. The result is improved mental focus and sharpened concentration. Moreover, yoga helps your brain become pliable so it can process information more efficiently and quickly.

#2. Yoga Helps Relieve Anxiety and Stress

Stress and anxiety relief is one of the most important mental yoga benefits. You see, your body and mind can take a beating from anxiety attacks and stress. In fact, recent studies have shown that increased levels of stress hormones (called cortisol) can lead to pain, loss of sleep, and other lifestyle ailments. The relaxation, calmness and fluidity that come with regular yoga practice has been found to reduce not only these stress hormones, but also anxiety.

#3. Yoga Uplifts your Mood as one of the Mental Benefits

Just like other forms of exercise, vinyasa yoga can help induce the secretion of more “feel good” neurotransmitters, including endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine. These are hormones that regulate happiness and rewarding behaviour. At the same time, yoga reduces stress and the mood-depressing hormone called cortisol. That’s why it comes as no big surprise that yoga can work wonders for cancer and dementia patients. However, anyone can benefit from an uplifted mood.

#4. Yoga Improves Mindfulness

Mindfulness is crucial when it comes to collecting your thoughts and living in the present moment. When combined with other practices like meditation, yoga can help you become mindful of yourself, of your thoughts, and of others. More importantly, getting started with mindfulness allows you to be in sync with your emotions and be in a better position to take on life’s ups and downs. What’s more, mindfulness has been found to help boost the immune system and improve relationships.

#5. Yoga and Sleep Disorders

One of the biggest mental yoga benefits is that it can help treat insomnia and other sleep disorders. By improving your mindfulness and relaxing your mind, yoga can indeed help you sleep better and aid your body to recover faster.

#6. Yoga can Slow Down Cognitive Decline

A recent 12-week-long study has shown that yoga can effectively combat cognitive degeneration. It not only improves memory but also boost regeneration of brain cells.

There you have it — 6 mental benefits of yoga for your brain and mental health. Yoga is also recommended to help fight depression as well as treat PTSD and schizophrenia.

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Angela:

“I am an IT Business Analyst for a local financial institution in Bundaberg. I am 46 years old. And I love Yoga challenge.

I love Yoga challenge

I started practicing Yoga about 18 months ago. I love Yoga challenge – there are still so many poses I am yet to master!! I also love the feeling of serenity when I am on the mat, and not having to worry about anything else for that 60 minutes – that sense of calmness you feel after the Savasana relaxation – you can’t help but smile when you have completed your practice.

I try to attend at least 4 classes each week, but love how my mind and body feels when I achieve 6. ;-)

I was hesitant to try Yoga, as I was never one to ‘relax or switch off’, and I wasn’t sure whether I would get enough of a workout with Yoga, as I had always done aerobics. However, I had started experiencing some muscle injuries so decided I needed to increase my flexibility and tone/strengthen my muscles without weights – and Yoga has definitely helped me achieve this.

Every Yoga practice is an opportunity for me to develop my stances and this is what inspires me to keep practicing – that and our lovely instructors.

Yoga to me is fulfillment – finding that balance between exercising your body and calming your mind – and this has positive flow on benefits in my everyday life.

Love Life. Live Yoga studio is fresh, beautiful, and inviting, and Carmen and the girls are continually adding these special little ‘touches’ that enhance your Yoga experience.

For anyone new to Yoga, I encourage you to keep at it – it is a practice for ‘life’.

 

Meet Our members: Rebecca Spencer

How yoga helped her recover a long-lasting shoulder injury in less than a year.

What is Vinyasa Yoga? A Short Introduction For Beginners

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Vinyasa yoga is a Sanskrit term. It’s one of many types of yoga and can be translated as “to arrange something in a special way”. In Vinyasa, different yoga poses are combined into a continuous flow – also called asana. It’s a dynamic form of yoga, almost like a kind of dance. According to Wikipedia, the term “Vinyāsa” can also be used to reference a style of yoga practiced as one breath, tied to one movement.

Eventually, the goal is to synchronise your movement with your breath, creating a balance between your body and your mind. Because of its dynamic nature, Vinyasa Yoga is also often called Vinyasa Flow, or simply Flow Yoga.

Vinyasa Yoga is one of the most popular types of yoga and comes in many forms. Depending on your yoga teacher, classes might be taught at a faster or slower pace, depending on the particular style and preference of the instructor. That’s why it is important for you to find a yoga instructor that you can connect and feel comfortable with.

The Benefits of Vinyasa Yoga

There are countless health benefits that come with practicing Vinyasa Flow. With a regular practice, you will not only feel your muscles strength increase and your body becoming more flexible, but it will help you cleanse your body by sweating out toxins. On a mental level, you will experience an increased ability to focus, a clearer mind and a significant decrease in stress levels. Vinyasa Yoga has proven to reduce anxiety levels and even heal depression in many people who practice regularly.

Vinyasa yoga is excellent for beginners, but offers many pathways for advanced yogis as well. It might take a number of classes to get used to synchronising your breath and your movement; but don’t let that discourage you from continuing. Eventually, you will manage to take your mind off the breathing, as your body starts to take care of it for you, and focus more on getting deeper into the yoga poses to amplify the benefits.

 

Vinyasa Yoga Sequence

An example of a Vinyasa Yoga Sequence (Asana).

 

Get Started with Vinyasa Yoga

You don’t have to be overly flexible to get started with yoga either, as you might think. The entire reason we do yoga is to become more flexible and to strengthen our bodies. In time, you will be able to practice more complex sequences that focus on different parts of your body. If your ever feel like you can’t keep up with certain poses, a good yoga instructor will guide you and provide you with variations that are suitable for your particular level, age and body size.

If you don’t have your own yoga mat when you first start out, don’t worry. Most yoga studios, like here at Love Life. Love Yoga. we always have spare mats that you are welcome to borrow at any time.

Curious? Come practice with us!

Our Bundaberg yoga studio is located at Level 1, 161 Bourbong Street, right in the heart of Bundaberg CBD.

 

Are you experiencing pain in your neck, shoulders or back?

Try these 11 Yoga Poses for Neck, Shoulder and Back Pain Relief

 

Watch how yoga has helped these Bundaberg locals improve their lives