Mind, body & breath
I teach Hatha Yoga which incorporates the breath, body and mind and is a slower class than a Vinyasa or Ashtanga class. The focus on static postures aligned to breathing has many health benefits. You will, of course, get some of these from other types of yoga but I find the associated calmness that comes from a Hatha Yoga class is something that I don’t want to live without again. By focusing on connecting my breath with my mind and body the benefits of yoga are multiplied and seen in every area of my life.
The many health benefits of Hatha Yoga include
Improved mood
After a class you will generally feel lighter. When the body is cleansed and our nervous systems calmed, our mind is able to feel more spacious and care-free. Relaxation at the end of a class allows the mind to relax and, over time, become more focused.
Reduce cravings
This is a big one for me! When are bodies are full of tension and out of balance, we find we have more cravings. As we balance our internal systems and calm our minds, the desire to overeat, smoke or whatever our cravings are, eases. Overtime this helps us to feel more positive about our bodies and our sense of self.
Improves immunity
Moving through the yoga poses, contracting and stretching muscles and moving internal organs around, increases lymphatic drainage which helps the lymphatic system fight infections, disperse toxic waste and fight cancerous cells.
Strengthens & tones the body
As you work through the various yoga poses (asanas) they each help certain muscle groups in the body so those muscles can can work optimally. After a few months you will be noticeably more mobile and stronger.
Tones muscles around the spine
Living life can mean forgetting to take care of muscles around the spine which can lead to weaker internal organs. Yoga flows allow your nervous system to work more efficiently, allowing you to feel calmer and healthier.
Releases tension
When we focus on breathing the mind relaxes and breathing exercises can help to release toxins from the body whilst energising you.
Improves flexibility
Doing yoga regularly and focusing on deep breathing as you work through poses enables muscles to lengthen and you will find yourself becoming more flexible and with more mobility in your joints.
You will, of course, get some of these from other types of yoga but I find the associated calmness that comes from a Hatha Yoga class is something that I don’t want to live without again.
