Why try Yoga?
There are so many benefits to trying it out! Read on to find out more about them and what you can do.
When you think about exercise, you often think of people digging out their lycra shorts, polishing up their best running shoes and heading off for a brisk 5K run! But, exercise isn’t just about a physical activity, it is also about exercising your mind too. That’s where Yoga comes in!
What is Yoga?
Yoga originated about 5,000 years ago in India. It is a form of exercise that focuses on physical and mental wellbeing, strength, breathing and flexibility through a series of postures.
Due to the increasing popularity of Yoga, there are classes held around the world often in leisure centres, health facilities, hospitals and schools. Yoga is the ideal exercise to do in the comfort of your own home, with various options to choose from, including chair yoga.
How can I do this from home?
With plenty of YouTube videos available online, you can get started straight away. You just need a workout space and some comfy clothing.
Here are a couple of videos to get you started:
Yoga isn’t just about twisting and turning your body into unusual shapes and you don’t have to be extremely fit, it's suitable for all ages. There are many calming poses to keep you grounded and find your inner peace.
Start with an Easy Pose – Sit on the floor and bring one heel to your groin with the other in front of it, ground yourself into the floor and create strength in your spine. Relax your shoulders and place your hands on your knees.
If it is too hard to bring your feet this far, try the Butterfly Pose – placing the soles of your feet together instead.
It is amazing how beneficial it can be to sit in a quiet place, breathe deeply and use our senses to calm us.
Tips to relax
Sit outside, close your eyes and let your senses take control…
Breathe deeply, in and out, counting to three between each breath. Feel the warmth of the sun on your face, and the breeze swirling around your body. Listen to the sounds of birds and the rustling of trees, taking in the familiar smell of freshly cut grass.
Your imagination can take you anywhere. Taking just five minutes to yourself to sit and enjoy the world around you can really help your mental health and it's a great way to start your Yoga journey.
