Many of us will have heard that exercise helps increase the endorphin flow through the body that in turn can help lift our mood. But what 'extra' does yoga bring?
By Vicki Baumann, founder of YogaWithVickiB (Abridged version of article in Menopause Life magazine, Winter 2021, Issue 4 - click here to read the full article)
Today, with the increasing popularity of yoga, it can sometimes be seen 'just' as an exercise. It is indeed fantastic for helping keep us strong and flexible - but it is so much more. It also helps us change the way we view ourselves; providing a calm, quite meditational time on our mats.
Whilst you are in your 'flow' you are not thinking of anything else. Your mind is simply focusing on your breath and movement - allowing ourselves to slow down our thoughts and start to stop the 'chitter chatter' of all those things 'we really should be getting around to doing'.
So often after a class I will have a student message or say to me how it has helped them feel more calm.
"Yoga doesn't change the body, it changes the way the person sees itself",
B.K.S. Iyengar - revered yoga teacher
Do have a read of the full article in Menopause Life
Learn to leave our ego off the mat
Once we learn to leave our ego off the mat and not to worry about what we can or can't do today - we can start to feel more positive and in tune with our mind and body. Enjoying the process of exploring ourselves in a more positive way.
Through practice and repetition, we learn to let go and feel our yoga flow.
If you are looking for a mood lifter. Take a look at yoga. It really is so much more than just a physical exercise. It can help you become happier, more positive, calmer and more in acceptance of ourselves.
Want to find out more about my online courses and classes and in-person ladies Yoga & Relaxation Holidays in Kalkan? Take a look under 'Yoga With Me' on my website or get in touch – I’d love to hear from you.
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