WHAT IS YOGA ?
The word YOGA is derived from the Sanskrit root ‘yuj’, meaning “to join”, “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.
Yoga is thought to be the oldest known science of physical and mental self-development. Yoga has numerous benefits for the body and the mind. The practice of Yoga is also and foremost based on its philosophy and ancient texts (before our era) such as the Yoga Sutras, describing the path or the steps to reach pure consciousness, or if we could say more simply to free ourselves from the mind.
IN A YOGA CLASS
The yoga practice is generally composed of 3 elements: the physical practice (asana), breathing exercises (pranayama) and meditation.
During the physical practice, we work on 3 aspects or concepts also present in our lives :
strength - balance - flexibility
Reminder:
There is no prerequisite to practice Yoga. You can start Yoga at any time in your life with your own capabilities and fitness level. You don’t need to touch your toes to do Yoga; that’s what the asana practice is here for!
MY VISION OF YOGA
My philosophy is that yoga is for absolutely everyone and that everyone can benefit from yoga practice. Yoga can’t be reduced to fitness exercise. It is both on and off the mat, a transformational practice and a way of life. It helps us to be more present and aware of our thoughts, feelings, actions and of our relationship with ourselves and others.
From personal experience, the yoga path isn’t linear or static, it evolves and adapts to the circumstances of life, and that’s the beauty of its practice.
« When the mind is calm, harmonious, and concentrated, you gain right understanding of yourself and others. »