Practicing Yoga helps with my mental well being, I find the time I spend on ME invaluable. It is an exercise renowned for helping with balance, strength, breathing, posture and flexibility... areas that are constantly improving. Just before leaving for a class, or getting ready for a Zoom class, I often procrastinate, convincing myself that I can miss a week, what with the mountain of chores that threaten to take much of my day. But I am glad that I listen to the voice inside reminding me that I love it and need it. I meet like minded people and come away full of much needed energy– which is great for tackling the laundry at home!
Yoga is a great form of gentle exercise that is suitable for any age. You don’t have to be especially fit or flexible. I try not to be competitive as it is about how my body works and what it is capable of doing that day, and how I feel.
The beginnings of Yoga were developed by the Indus-Sarasvati civilization in Northern India over 5,000 years ago with some researchers believing it goes back 10,000 years. In the early 1900’s it came over to the West. When I speak to people about Yoga, usually raving about the benefits, I have experienced a few whom seem fixated on the religious aspects of the practice. This is especially so if their religion doesn’t permit them to practise Yoga or to ‘have a flexible mind’ due to Yoga being founded by a religion other than theirs. This is despite the fact Yoga in the West has developed beyond that. I personally see Yoga as purely a form of exercise and a way to calm my mind, I don’t see it as religious as there’s no intention from me there, and the classes I attend doesn’t chant nor refer to religion. I like this quote I read on the internet recently “Yoga is in Religion, Religion is not in Yoga” But if you are concerned about this, I would advise you read more about it and ask advice from your religious group before making your decision.
Have you participated in a Yoga class? How has this helped you? Please comment below
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