I often get asked what it is that I love about yoga. The best way I can describe it is that yoga nourishes the body, heart, and mind. Every moment that we practice mindfulness and yoga, we bring a deeper sense of compassion to ourselves and the world.
Yoga nourishes the mind, body & soul. Yoga is for everyone, regardless of age, race, gender, body type, or fitness level. This practice meets you where you are, as you are, without any expectations. Yoga is an ongoing journey and a discovery of oneself. The mental, emotional, and physical benefits of yoga are worth exploring.
Yoga is a deeply personal practice. It is all about honoring where you are in this moment. It is a practice without judgment of any kind. It doesn’t matter what someone else is able to do, nor does it matter what you were able to do ten years ago. Yoga brings you to the present moment—a beautiful opportunity to pay full attention to everything you are experiencing in that moment.
Yoga is a very accessible practice. A common misconception is that one must be flexible and thin in order to practice yoga. Many miss out on this beneficial practice because of such preconceived ideas. There are many different styles of yoga, such as Vinyasa, Hatha Yoga, Gentle Yoga, Yin Yoga, and Restorative Yoga, to name a few. It is possible for anyone to try it with the guidance of a certified yoga instructor. Private yoga classes can be modified to fit a person’s specific goals, abilities, and needs.
Even a short, daily practice will make a positive difference in your life. You can add whatever amount of time that your schedule allows. You can start your day with 10 minutes of yoga, or 30 minutes on your lunch break, or even 20 minutes in the evening before going to sleep. This is exactly how I started (see Marcela’s Story). Research shows that a daily practice, even if it is only for 10-15 minutes, is much more beneficial than a long yoga practice just one day a week. Consistency is the key.
The benefits of yoga extend far beyond improving flexibility. Yoga is a mind-body practice that offers a wide-range of health benefits. It builds awareness, mindfulness, and presence which are important in providing balance and harmony in the body and mind. The practice of yoga begins with the breath. In fact, mindful breathing is one of the most important aspects of yoga. I’ve seen transformation happen in people’s lives simply by incorporating mindfulness into their daily practice. I started this practice in my 40’s, and I’ve had clients that started in their mid 60’s. So, it is never too late to start.
Everyone is on their own journey. Start where you are. What is truly important is to value the process. Commit to a consistent, regular yoga practice to cultivate balance and happiness in your life. With practice and perseverance, yoga poses that once seemed impossible will be within your reach. This will be true in other areas of your life as well. Mastering a pose is not the end goal—each lesson learned along the way is the real gift. Trust the process.
Benefits of Yoga:
Increases flexibility
Strengthens muscles
Improves endurance
Improves balance and posture
Reduces stress and tension
Improves circulation
Increases joint range of motion
Lowers blood pressure
Increases respiratory efficiency
Enhances mental focus and concentration
Improves confidence
Improves quality of sleep
Provides a sense of calm, peace, and balance
Improves overall health
Guidelines for Yoga:
Listen to your body
Allow the quality of your breath to be your guide
Modify the poses for your body and how you feel in the moment
Let go of judgment and expectations
Avoid comparing yourself with others
Be patient; don't expect immediate results
Focus on the present moment, one breath at a time
Include gratitude in your practice
I have learned so much on this journey of self-discovery through yoga, and I hope you will too! I have discovered that there is a beautiful balance between:
✨ effort and surrender
✨ strength and softness
✨ growth and acceptance
✨ holding on and letting go
Yoga can be a life-changing practice if you are open to receiving the lessons. Enjoy the journey!
Namaste,
Marcela