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 GENERAL YOGA CLASSES
Fun-flowing movement based yoga set to the rhythms of
funky grooves, world music and mantra. Spontaneous Hatha Yoga,
which is the most practised form of yoga in the west as it is a
superb science of the body. The classes are an eclectic mix of
styles influenced by Iyengar yoga through to Astanga Vinyasa, as
well as the teaching of David Sye. They are both energising and
relaxing. They are comprised of a blend of physical yoga
(asana), yoga breathing, (pranayama) meditation (dhyana) and
relaxation (yoga nidra).
The classes are for all levels of ability and all ages.
No previous experience is required.
Gill's method of teaching is differentiated, therefore
practices are modified for pregnant women, and for those
with physical injuries, medical problems or limitations. More
advanced practices can also be included for those who require
them.
The physical yoga postures (asanas) bring the physical
and physiological function into harmony by the release of physical
tension. The practice of asana helps bring people back into their
body, as the age that we live in is 'a time of great bodily
disassociation', Donna Farhi. When we are not in our
bodies we become disassociated from our instincts, feelings
and insights. Many people may come to yoga to heal a bad back or
gain more flexibility, but they can soon realise that what has
changed is their whole way of dealing with life.
Yoga breathing (pranayama) brings the circulatory
system into a harmonious state. Physical and emotional tensions
can be released so that the body and mind can heal themselves. A
wide variety of yoga breathing practices are taught. Yogic
breathing is the key to relaxation, the bridge between the body
and the mind. The out breath relaxes the nervous system and the in
breath is energising. The yoga breathing practices bring the body
and mind to a state of calm. Students are encouraged to establish
their own practice
'Man and woman, beast and bird live by the breath.
Breath therefore is called the true sign of life.'
The Taittirya Upanishad
 Simple Meditation (Dyhana) is taught in order to shift
the mind out of judgement to witnessing. Once we can begin to
surrender we can begin to experience that sense of oneness with
everything.
'Once we open to the flow of energy within our own body
we also open to the flow of energy in the universe'
Swami Buddhananda, Moola Bandha
Deep relaxation (Yoga Nidra) is practiced as created
by Swami Satyananda Saraswati, who states in Yoga Nidra,
'The practice of yoga nidra enables one to receive
intuitions from the unconscious mind...the intuitions received
during yoga nidra enable one to find within one's self the
answers to all problems.'
Muscular, emotional and mental tensions can be
released and addressed during its practice. It is the equivalent
to five hours sleep and can provide the perfect way to relax and
heal old patterns.
'Grace, beauty, strength, energy and firmness adorn the
body through yoga.'
Yoga Sutra lll, 47 |
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