Yoga journal issue 4 digital by The Yoga Journal

THE ULTIMATE DIRECTORY FOR YOGA IN SOUTH AFRICA | ISSUE 4

BENEFITS OF HERBAL TEA + TRENDING TEA

THE

Mindful Movement ANASTASSIA DELLIS ON YOGA AND GIVING BACK

READER EXCLUSIVE DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE YOGA PASS

KIDS YOGA

101

THE DIRECTORY FIND YOGA TEACHERS, STUDIOS, EVENTS, AND MORE

E E R

ON THE COVER

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INFORMATION

KIDS YOGA 101 WITH CAMI BARAUSSE & LEANNE GLANVILLE

FACEBOOK: @TheyogajournalSA INSTAGRAM: @theyogajournalsa EMAIL: hello@theyogajournal.co.za WEBSITE: www.theyogajournal.co.za

THE MINDFUL MOVEMENT: ANASTASIA DELLIS BENEFITS OF HERBAL TEA

ENQUIRIES & EDITORIAL Nicole Jowett hello@theyogajournal.co.za

ADVERTISING

Nicole Jowett 079 312 3862 advertising@theyogajournal.co.za Danielle Lopes 074 147 4825 danielle@eject.co.za

COVER

Photography: Drew Wright 060 527 2141 dreww032@gmail.com Model: Anastasia Dellis @themindful_movement

No part of this publication may be reproduced, copied, or stored without prior written permission from the publisher. All content belongs to The Yoga Journal unless otherwise stated.

FEATURES MATCHA GREEN TEA: HEALTH BENEFITS + RECIPES MEN & HOT YOGA 5 REASONS TO CONSIDER AN INFRARED SAUNA THIS WINTER

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REGULARS YOGA JOURNAL LOVES YOGA LIFE THE DIRECTORY

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PRINTING

Northern Keoagile Printing www.nkprinters.co.za info@northernprinters.co.za 011 477 7027/8 011 477 6273

CONTRIBUTORS CHIEF EDITOR NICOLE JOWETT Nicole Jowett is a yoga enthusiast and the Editor and Founder of Yoga Journal. IG: @NikkiJowett

CONTRUBUTORS ZISSY LEWIN

Zissy is the co-founder of Nutreats. She is a writer, fitness enthusiast and recipe developer with a love for fashion. IG: @nutreats | FB: @Nutreats.co.za

HAYLEY ALEXANDER Pre and Post Natal exercise specialist, Yoga and Pilates teacher, and life coach. She also worked as a journalist at Living and Loving magazine, and as a features writer at Complete Yoga magazine.

LARISSA GOVENDER Larissa embraces the holistic concept of yoga-teaching. Always drawn towards the arts and movement, she danced classical ballet for 10 years. She's also a keen enthusiast of travel, food and fishing. IG: @yogawithlari

ELIZA ROZA Eliza Roza is a Hot-26 Yoga teacher with a Psychology degree, a trained Demartini Facilitator, and has maintained her own yoga practice for over 10 years. Her approach is holistic, dynamic, and layered. Her career background is in professional broadcast media, so you can expect a lot of creativity in her programs, workshops and classes. IG: yogaplus.co.za | FB: YogaPlusZA | Twitter: yogaplus_za

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EDITOR’S NOTE YOGA JOURNAL LAUNCH On 6 May I hosted the Official Launch of Yoga Journal magazine at The Urban Yard Rooftop Venue in Bryanston. Guests included members of the media and some of my favourite Yogi’s. The morning started with a rooftop Yoga class led by Izelle Nair from Earth Yoga Studio. After the Yoga class we enjoyed a vegan brunch and giveaways. Thank you to everyone who joined me on the day, and I hope that you will stay with me on the Yoga Journal journey! I really loved planning this launch, and I will be planning many more events so if you missed the launch, don't worry, there's plenty more to come!

WINTER YOGA CHALLENGE This winter, I want to encourage experienced Yogi’s and newbie Yogi’s to do more Yoga! So I’ve teamed up with three studios in Joburg and Pretoria to bring you the Yoga Journal Yoga Pass, which entitles you to one FREE class at one of the participating studios; Earth Yoga in Kyalami, Yogi Bali in Bedfordview, and Yoga Harmony in Pretoria. You can download your free Yoga pass on the website www.theyogajournal.co.za - just click on ‘YOGA PASS’. Show us where you use your Yoga Pass by snapping a pic of yourself and sharing on social media using the tags @theyogajournalsa and #YJYogaPass. If it wasn't for the generous studio owner’s I wouldn't be able to make this happen so thank you to Chloe, Izelle, and Helen!

Nicole www.theyogajournal.co.za

WINTER YOGA CHALLENGE KICKSTART YOUR WINTER YOGA PRACTICE WITH A FREE CLASS AT ANY OF OUR PARTICIPATING STUDIOS USING YOUR YOGA JOURNAL YOGA PASS! SCAN THE CODE BELOW TO DOWNLAOD YOUR YOGA PASS, OR VISIT WWW.THEYOGAJOURNAL.CO.ZA AND CLICK ‘YOGA PASS’.

DOWNLOAD YOUR YOGA PASS FOR 1 FREE CLASS AT PARTICIPATING STUDIOS

DOWNLOAD NOW

YOGI BALI, BEDFORDVIEW | EARTH YOGA, KYALAMI | YOGA HARMONY, PRETORIA

ROASTED TOMATO AND GARLIC SOUP INGREDIENTS: 4 tomatoes 1 Full garlic head (bulb) 4 cups (1L) vegetable stock 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 pinch salt and pepper ¼ tablespoon red chili flakes 1 red onion 1 red pepper 1 yellow pepper 30g fresh basil METHOD: 1) Preheat the oven to 210 degrees Celsius. 2) Rough chop the tomatoes, onions and peppers and place onto a baking tray. Season the vegetables with, salt, pepper and garlic flakes. Drizzle with olive oil. 3) Slice the top of the garlic head off, just enough to expose the cloves. Drizzle with olive oil and

cover in tinfoil. 4) Place both the baking tray of vegetables and the covered garlic head into the oven (side by side) and bake for 45 minutes. 5) Remove both items from the oven and allow the garlic to cool while placing the vegetables into a large pot. 6) Add the stock and basil to the pot and bring the boil. Allow them to simmer for 10 minutes. 7) Squeeze the roasted garlic into the pot and stir. Allow to simmer for another 10 minutes. 8) Remove the pot from the heat and, in sections, blend the mixture until smooth. 9) Place the blended mixture back into the pot and heat. Season if needed. 10) Enjoy this soup with your favourite bread or sandwich!

Matcha Smoothie Bowl 1 Frozen Banana 1/2 Mango 1 - 2 T Get-Matcha green tea powder Almond, coconut, or soy milk Co m b i n e a l l i n g re d i e n t s i n a NutriBullet or smoothie maker until smooth. Top with your favourite fruits and nuts, cocoa nibs, chia seeds, goji berries, or muesli.

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MATCHA GREEN TEA HEALTH BENEFITS + BEST RECIPES TO TRY

by Nicole Jowett Matcha Tea is a concentrated powder made from green tea leaves, the word Matcha in Mandarin directly translates to â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Fine Powdered Green Teaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. Because of its potency, it has far more health benefits than ordinary green tea, in fact one serving of Matcha tea has as many vitamins, minerals, anti oxidants, and amino acids as several cups of green tea. Benefits of Matcha tea include increasing metabolism, improving concentration, and its potent antioxidant contents help prevent cancer and improve the overall appearance of skin.

Warming Matcha Latte 1 t Get-Matcha green tea powder 1/3 cup hot water Almond or soy milk Honey, maple syrup or a sweetener of choice Stir the Get-Matcha green tea powder into 1/3 cup hot water, add in heated dairy-free milk and your sweetener of choice.

Matcha Cheesecake 250g plain Cream Cheese 250g plain Marscapone Cream Cheese 3 - 4 T Get-Matcha green tea powder 1 - 2 T Almond milk 1/2 cup Maple syrup 1/2 t Vanilla bean paste or vanilla essence 1 packet digestive biscuits 1/2 cup melted butter In a food processor, crush the digestive biscuits until they are a fine crumb. Add in the melted butter and stir till combined. Press firmly into a lined square tin and refrigerate. Combine the Fat free cottage cheese, Marcapone cheese, Maple syrup, Vanilla, and Almond milk in a bowl and mix with an electric mixer until well combined and fluffy. Add the Matcha powder to the cheesecake and mix well. Layer on top of the biscuit base and refrigerate overnight. www.theyogajournal.co.za

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KIDS YOGA 101 WE TALKED TO KIDS YOGA EXPERTS, CAMI BARAUSSE OF YOGIBEARSZA (BASED in kwa-zulu natal) AND LEANNE glanville of yoga bears (based in johannesburg) ON THE BENEFITS OF KIDS YOGA. by Nicole Jowett and Hayley Alexander

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AN INTRODUCTION TO CAMI Barausse OF YOGIBEARSZA In 2010, my matric year, I walked into my first yoga class at my local gym and something clicked that day. Quite frankly, since that class I've never stopped. Yoga just made sense. The class was led by a lady by the name of Jen Chapman, whom after that class, I tracked down and found out where her studio was and enrolled myself. I couldn't get enough. I'd practice 4-5 times a week. 7 years later now and I still work with Jen who is a very dear friend of mine. It's just something that had to happen, I guess. At first, I didn't really know much about yoga other than it seemed that my body and mind harmonised after each class. In 2014 I had finished my BSc Honours in Biological Sciences. I allowed myself some time to explore yoga in more depth by living in India for two months to practice Ashtanga yoga with Sharath Jois at Shri K. Pattabhi Jois Ashtanga Yoga Institute (KPJAYI). Perhaps the best way to explain the beginning of my deeper relationship with yoga is to give you an extract from my journal after my last practice at KPJAYI in India in February of 2015. Initially, I think we are all intrigued by the beauty and elegance of the asanas. More so by how gracefully the advanced practitioners execute them. But for me, yoga is not always this elegant, beautiful practice. On the mat, old wounds are opened, dark corners confronted and sometimes you find yourself in a glimmer of light. For me, these are the gifts of yoga. To me yoga is about digging deep, confronting, acknowledging,

accepting and ultimately surrendering to one’s self. My favourite piece of advice I received on this trip was from a friend who told me ‘’ Nothing else matters, as long as you show up’’. I showed up then and I hope to continue to show up’’. So after India I returned home and started studying towards my Masters in Biological Science. My bond to yoga was burning strong, and I was afforded the opportunity to apprentice under my teacher Jen Chapman. It was during this time that I realised I wanted to share yoga with everyone who wasn’t already doing it, especially children. Adults are so much more stressed in today’s fast-paced world, with hardly a moment to just be still and breathe. Children imitate this. I do not believe the general school system adequately teaches children how to cope with and manage stress and this is a part of life that they are destined to encounter! My passion ignited when I realised that I wanted to give children the gift that keeps on giving, no matter at what age, background, culture or

“Yoga aids in establishing and growing confidence in children through the realisation of both their current abilities as well as their current limitations,” - cami barausse, yogibearsza

COMMON MISCONCEPTIONS AROUND YOGA FOR CHILDREN ‘’Kids yoga is only for those kids who don’t excel in other sports’’

‘’Will it conflict with my child’s religion?’’

It is true that you will find yoga contained within many religions, however, religion is not contained within yoga. The word yoga means union. It is the practice of unifying the natural aspects of ourselves body, mind and breath. Yoga does not subscribe to any particular religion but rather remains a neutral discipline.

This is not true. More and more professional athletes now incorporate yoga into their training programmes due to the fact that yoga helps them recover quicker, prevents injury and remain supple. So just because a child does yoga does not mean he/she is impaired in other sports. It compliments any sport. www.theyogajournal.co.za

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religion, I wanted to teach children consciousness and how to connect movement to breath. I became excited at the idea of helping children learn how to understand and control their emotions, instead of allowing their emotions to control them and how to become present by simply focussing on their breathing. Teaching a child how to breathe may sound silly at first, but breathing and being conscious of your breath is not the same thing. In times of stress, trauma, excitement or any emotional state, your breath is the one tool you always have to bring you back to the present moment and by becoming mindful of this, you’re able to calm the mind and approach any given situation with a greater sense of rationality and clarity. With the support of those nearest and dearest to me, and after completing a Kids Yoga Teacher Training, YogiBearsZA was born in 2016. I currently run kids yoga classes once a week for two age groups whilst I complete my Masters in Genetics and Evolutionary Biology. Although the sciences are an interest of mine, YogiBearsZA is my passion.

What are some of the physical benefits children can take from Yoga? There are many, but to name a few: flexibility, strength, coordination and body awareness.

How does Yoga impact issues like confidence, and attention disorders in children? Yoga aids in establishing and growing confidence in children through the realisation of both their current abilities as well as their current limitations. By learning to accept and appreciate both their mind and body and through a consistent, conscious and mindful approach, we are able to improve at absolutely anything we set our minds to. This improvement breeds confidence. The human mind is still largely a mystery and is undoubtedly our most powerful tool, so we need to learn to use it with care. Selfconfidence grows when we break through barriers we might previously have not thought

possible. Yoga is the practice of connecting the mind with the body whereby we don’t only overcome our physical constraints but our mental ones too. Being still, learning to mediate and being truly both present and conscious at the same time, helps to focus a child’s attention on what is important and what is just noise. By learning how to exercise breath and meditation, children learn to overcome any fear of limitations, understand the idea of patient acceptance and that by approaching a task diligently and deliberately, that with time, anything can be mastered.

Which pose do your students enjoy the most and why? That is a tough one as I teach so many different characters and personalities. It really is age dependent. My older YogiBears (ages 8-12) enjoy any inversion or partner pose. They cannot get enough of double downward dog or handstands. My BabyBears (ages 4-7) love supta kurmasana (tortoise pose) and although it is not a pose, they absolutely love lion breath.

“Benefits of Kids Yoga include; flexibility, strength, coordination and body awareness,” - Cami Barausse, YogiBearsZA

For more information contact YogiBearsZA on yogibearsza@gmail.com and follow @yogibearsZA on Instagram and Facebook

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LEANNE GLANVILLE OF YOGA BEARS ON YOGA FOR KIDS Kids benefit from a regular yoga practice in the following ways: Increased body awareness Enhances fine and gross motor skills Improves muscle tone Encourages a healthy and active lifestyle Enhances flexibility and strength in the body as well as in the mind Allows children to express their feelings and “off-load” their worries in a safe space Lifts anxiety and depression and aids in reducing stress Enhances concentration and attention span by teaching the child how to use his/her energy effectively Teaches children how to use their breath to balance and calm themselves Allows children who feel pressurised to “achieve”, to have fun whilst learning valuable life skills in a nurturing and non-competitive environment.

Can you name some their favourite poses and what do they like/ dislike doing in a class? From teaching experience, I would say that firm favourites are: Butterfly pose (and we sing our special song) Doggy pose (they love to "woof woof") Mouse pose (child's pose) They love working with crystals, Tibetan bowls, creature cards and mandalas. They also love our fun yoga games as well as meditation time at the end of class. As for dislikes, each child has their own limitations so for some colouring in a mandala might be a challenge (which means they don't enjoy this activity as much) or perhaps sitting still whilst we count to 10 is hard at first. I have yet to come across one aspect that children in general dislike about yoga. They are so open, they seem to soak it all in.

Do you have any challenges teaching kids yoga? For the most part kids are a dream to teach so long as you have patience and a lot of energy to engage them in the lesson. If you are interesting and fun, you will capture their attention with ease. Maintaining a firm yet gentle stance on discipline within the class is also important. I have noticed two challenges throughout my years of teaching. Recently, I have found that I've had to deal with the competitiveness not only amongst the children but their competitiveness within themselves to push and "win" or be the best. This is a tough one because the world we live in values competitiveness. I try to explain to the kids and to teach them that our Yoga Bears classes are a space to just have fun and enjoy each other's energy as well as our own. When we play games, we never have a clear winner and I don't single anyone out. Low self esteem even in kiddies as young as 5/6 years old is more common than we think it may be. Positive reinforcement is also an important one to aid children to feel good about themselves and safe in their world. I try to keep words like "No", "Don't", “Naughty" etc. out of my vocabulary. Encouragement and kindness always prevails at the end of the day. I always try to make each child feel special and loved for who they are, just as they are.

For more information contact Leanne Glanville on 0829729843 or visit www.yogabears.co.za

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TEACHEROFTHEMONTH

THE

Mindful Movement www.theyogajournal.co.za

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TEACHEROFTHEMONTH

ANASTASIA (TASH) DELLIS is a Yoga teacher based in Ballito, she teaches private and small group classes, kiddies Yoga, teens Yoga, and Hot Vinyasa Yoga. You can find her teaching at Tree Natural Concept and Yoga Center Ballito. “I believe and encourage a mindful practice, the mind-body connection teaches us how to live a full, healthy, and happy life on AND off the yoga mat. I would like to encourage students to play with their edge while providing a safe, encouraging, and non-judgmental environment where each individual can find their bliss.” Anastasia started her Yoga journey in Cape Town in 2011, where she experienced the emotional and physical benefits of Yoga and was inspired to share these with others. She completed her 200-hour Teacher Training Course at Devahiti Yoga with Cheryl Lancellas (Accredited with Yoga Alliance UK) in Ballito. With a Greek heritage she divides her time between living on the beautiful Dolphin coast, and Zakynthos, Greece where she hosts Beach Yoga Retreats during the European summer.

Anastasia is also the owner Mindful Movement, a lifestyle and mindfulness brand that encompasses healthy living, from emotional to physical wellbeing. Whether it’s a Mindful Movement retreat in Greece or South Africa, or Mindful Movement active wear (launching July 2017), the brand caters for every part of your healthy lifestyle. Mindful Movement private and audio classes ensure you never miss a Yoga practice. Anastasia is committed to giving back, with Mindful Movement community projects dedicated to teaching in townships and rural areas across South Africa. These projects are at the heart of her business. “I am just using my passions for travel & yoga to ultimately do good & cool work, collaborating with various NGOs and Non profits that want to share my intention of creating a global mindful movement. Literally,” says Anastasia. Follow The Mindful Movement on Instagram @themindful_movement or email tasia.dellis@gmail.com for more information or collaborations.

“I would like to encourage students to play with their edge while providing a safe, encouraging, and non-judgmental environment where each individual can find their bliss.” www.theyogajournal.co.za

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YOGAJOURNALLOVES

Winter Skin

Rescue

A few changes to your skincare routine during the winter months will ensure your skin stays hydrated, plump, and radiant even in the driest weather. With the Oh-lief range of 100% organic beauty, body, and baby products made from natural, raw, and locally-sourced ingredients, you can have your best skin this winter. Harnessing the power of Olive Oil, the main ingredient in most of their products, Oh-lief products are naturally packed with anti-oxidants, moisturising, and anti-ageing benefits. Visit www.ohlief.com to shop Oh-lief products online.

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YOGAJOURNALLOVES

Harsh winter weather can strip the skin of itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s natural oils, using an oil-based product like Oh-lief for face and body replaces these oils and creates a natural barrier against the elements and environmental stressors.

Body Oh-lief Natural Olive Oil Body Wax used immediately after showering protects and moisturises, the luxurious formula melts instantly on the skin making it easy to apply. It is available in two scents, a calming Chamomile scent which is perfect for just before bed, and invigorating Grapefruit for the morning. Oh-lief Natural Body Oil infuses the highest quality organic oils with green tea

extract, resulting in an antioxidant powerhouse for face and body. Use directly on the face and body or spray into a warm bath and absorb all the goodness! If you still arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t convinced body oils are for you, opt for Oh-lief Intensive Moisturiser Body Lotion, enriched with natural clay to moisturise skin without feeling heavy. The body lotion is also available in Oh-lief signature Chamomile and Grapefruit scents.

Feet

Treat your feet to the rich Oh-lief Natural Olive Oil Heel Balm, made with Olive and Avocado oils. Added Lime oil refreshes and revives tired feet, while Tea Tree oil is a known anti-bacterial.

Face Oh-lief Natural Lip Balm, made with a rich blend natural oils, Lavender and Chamomile are ideal for soothing extra-dry lips during winter. Makes a perfect bedtime lip treatment.

Hands Protect against illness causing germs that can cause colds and flu in winter with Oh-lief Natural Hand Wash, which contains Tea Tree oil, a natural anti-bacterial. The oil-based hand wash moisturises while it cleanses leaving hands feeling soft and nourished. Pair with Oh-lief Hand Lotion, we especially love Lavender and Roman Chamomile right before bed. By Nicole Jowett

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YOGAJOURNALLOVES

Matcha Green Tea Matcha is a concentrated green tea powder, not only does it taste great but it is also a potent health drink. Matcha contains vitamins, minerals, anti-oxidants, and amino acids. Get-Matcha is a premium stockist of AAA Grade, 100% organic Matcha, harvested in the tranquil Tea Gardens of Uji Japan. Versatile Matcha powder can be used to make a deliciously warming dairy-free Latte, in smoothies, and in baking! Shop the highest quality Matcha online at get-matcha.co.za

RENDING EA by Nicole Jowett

We love the new â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Black Magicâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Activated Charcoal infusion!

Kombucha

Kombucha is a fermented tea functional drink that has vast health benefits including improved immunity and digestion. Theonista artisanal Kombucha is hand brewed and bottled in Woodstock, Cape Town and made using only natural and raw ingredients. You can get Theonista at Yoga Republic in Randburg. Visit www.theonistaproducts.com for more info. www.theyogajournal.co.za

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Hot Yoga transformed my life on a whole other quantum level! From the inside out as they

say, bones to skin. I started my yoga journey in 2006 and with each year of practice, my muscles got stronger, my mind clearer and my heart more open. I have been practicing Hot26 Yoga for ten years and teaching it for just under a year now. To be honest, I am a huge fan of the male physique: toned arms, ripped abs, a strong core, well defined calves… shall I go on? There is nothing sexier than a man holding a strong yoga pose… well okay, there is, but this isn’t an article about that, this is an article about why I think men should come to yoga, and more specifically, Hot26 Yoga. There are three types of men who come to my classes: men who already have a good build but want to learn how to work their muscles in a gentle-strength kind of way; men who want to get into shape; and men who have given up on their bodies altogether and are now trying to rectify the damage they’ve already done before they end up in hospital from a stroke or dreaded disease. There are also the men whose significant others force them too go, and it’s sad to watch them on a leash, but this article isn’t for them. But whatever the reason, the benefits they experience at a Hot 26 Yoga class are undeniable. Here are some of them:

INCREASED STRENGTH.

MEN &

HOT YOGA by Eliza Roza

Holding a Yoga posture for thirty seconds to a minute, in perfect stillness, while breathing steadily in and out through your nose, in a hot room with sweat dripping out from every pore, is no easy feat. This is not take-it-easy-honey-Yoga; it is hardcore, intense, Hatha yoga, developed by Bikram Chourdary. He is like the Donald Trump of the Yoga world – arrogant, lavish, outspoken, disliked by many. He made billions from selling his brand of Yoga to the West, and his famous 26 posture Yoga sequence yields incredible results.

IMPROVED STRENGTH AND STAMINA.

I know what you’re thinking: by stamina does she mean endurance, and by endurance does she mean in the bedroom? Well, the short answer is: Yes! The longer answer is: if you can stay in a hot room for www.theyogajournal.co.za

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ninety minutes and do a hard core style of yoga, you can endure anything. And I mean anything. Even when the Universe throws you down the toilet, through the drain and into the sea, you will never be defeated – because last night your Hot26 Yoga teacher made you stay in Awkward posture for the whole thirty seconds and that felt like fighting in a war, with a gun, and a victory! Here’s the trick to stamina: It is all in how you breathe, honey. The breath is the most important part of the practice. The breath is what keeps you still, keeps you calm under pressure, keeps you from going over the edge. If you can breathe properly, deeply, longer, you can get through a ninetyminute class, I promise you (and yes, it will help with your love making skills too, because patience, brother, patience.)

A HEALTHIER HEART.

If you can get the whole breathing and stamina thing right, your heart is going to be 50 shades of happy! A strong, healthy heart that is getting adequate oxygen, pumping blood optimally and circulating that blood throughout your entire body sufficiency, is a goooooood heart. The kind of heart that women want to be closer to, the kind of heart that wins wars. You’ll live longer, you’ll love longer and your vitality levels will be high. Here are the facts: your heart needs oxygen, your blood needs oxygen, your muscles need blood and oxygen – so again, we are back to the breath. If your heart doesn’t get enough oxygen from your lungs, well, you die. So, yeah. Science.

PLAYFULNESS.

If there’s one major lesson that practicing yoga regularly can teach you, it’s to not take yourself so seriously. When you fall on your bum a few times, or lose your balance, you have to laugh and take it lightly. It is just Yoga after all. Not Ironman. There is enough life-admin to be serious about already, practicing Yoga doesn’t have to be one of them. Enjoy yourself while you learn how to do something new and different with your body. This yoga builds strength of character, not just strength of body. You’ll have something a bit more

substantial to talk about at dinner parties and after work drinks, even. And laughing is good for the sparkle in your eyes.

BETTER SLEEP.

When you get your heart rate up and have a good, old fashioned cardiovascular workout, tension in your muscles and then a powerful release of that tension, you sleep better. So, Hot Yoga is basically like having sex, only better. You’ll never know until you try it.

Real Facts: When you activate your parasympathetic nervous system (again with correct breathing), this trigges the part of your body that helps you sleep, rest, and recover. PSYCHOLOGICAL HEALTH.

Hot26 Yoga makes you strong, mentally and emotionally. You become bullet proof to emotional manipulation from other humans because you know who you are. And I don’t say that lightly. You learn to get comfortable at looking at yourself in the mirror - all your perceived flaws - deep into your soul. It is one thing to look at yourself in the mirror for five minutes in the morning and not judge yourself. Try looking at yourself in the mirror for ninety minutes, while doing Yoga and try not judge yourself. You need some serious self-love to hold a yoga posture in stillness. So, if you are looking for a practice that will improve the quality of your life and make you a better, stronger and healthier person, consider attending a class. Sign up to a reputable studio, pay your fees and do the Yoga. Even if at first you only come to perve at the girls in Yoga pants you won’t get away with it for long. By the time we start the first breathing exercise, you’ll be focusing on nothing but your own body and breathing. And then the magic begins. See you in class! (previously published in Blaque Life Quarterly)

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BENEFITS OF HERBAL TEA By Larissa Govender Herbal tea, less commonly known as tisanes or herbal infusions, are beverages made from the infusion of herbs, spices, fruit or other plant material, in hot water. Tea is the most consumed beverage in the world behind water, and drinking herbal tea is the new trend. People are busy sipping their favourite blend to stay healthy. With winter creeping in, here are herbal tea picks that are virtually fat-free, calorie-free and sure to keep you warm this chilly season.

BREWING THE PERFECT CUP

Here are 3 simple steps for brewing the perfect cup of herbal tea:

BOIL Bring fresh water to a rolling boil.

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STEEP Pour 1 cup of water over a teabag/loose leaf tea in a cup. Allow 4-6 minutes to infuse.

ENJOY Flavour and sweeten if desired; then enjoy.

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ROOIBOS

CHAMOMILE

Found growing in South Africa, Rooibos is a natural product with no additives or preservatives. Because of its great taste and unique red color, Rooibos tea (or red bush) has gained popularity around the world. A rich source of antioxidants, naturally caffeine-free and containing low levels of tannin, the health benefits of rooibos tea are abundant. It assists in conditions such as eczema, infant colic/ stomach pain, kidney stones, diabetes, heart conditions, insomnia, and hypertension, to name a few. You can enjoy this refreshing beverage all day long with no side effects. Try Freshpak Rooibos Tea

If you ever shop for herbal teas, chamomile tea is probably one of the first varieties that you will find. Chamomile tea, a derivative of an aromatic European plant (of the daisy family), is golden in color and has a delicate aroma and sweet floral taste. A cup of chamomile tea is popularly used to treat stress and anxiety. After a long day at work, the calming nature of this beverage can ease stress and even aid sleep. It’s a soothing antidote to life’s little complications. Try Crabtree & Evelyn Pure Camomile Tea

GREEN TEA Native to China, green tea has been hailed for its health benefits globally. It is loaded with antioxidants and nutrients which have positive effects on the body such as improved brain function, fat loss and improved physical performance. It may even lower the risk of some cancers, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. In Japanese populations, green tea consumption has been linked to longer life, especially in subjects drinking five cups or more daily, as compared to Western populations, who consume relatively little green tea. There are many different types of green tea available. Matcha, a Japanese green tea, is one that has gained popularity recently. Try Woolworths Organic Green Tea

PEPPERMINT Simply put, peppermint tea is an infusion made from peppermint leaves and hot water. A delicious and refreshing way to boost your health, peppermint tea has the ability to improve digestion, reduce pain, eliminate inflammation, relax the body and mind, cure bad breath, aid in weight loss and boost the immune system. The reason why many enjoy brewing peppermint tea is that mint is such an easy herb to grow. Once grown, it should be harvested, allowed to dry completely and then stored in an airtight jar, until ready to brew. Try The Tea Merchant Peppermint Loose Leaf Tea

HONEY BUSH Honey bush is a sibling of Rooibos. The flowers smell of honey, earning this plant its sweet name. The taste of honey bush tea is similar to that of Rooibos, though arguably sweeter. There are several profound health benefits associated with drinking this tea. Some of these include the abundant array of vitamins and the plentiful amount of antioxidants. Add a little honey to honey bush tea to really bring out the natural sweetness. Try Lady Bonin’s Honey Bush Tea

HOW TO ENHANCE FLAVOUR To flavour teas naturally try adding the following: lemon slices, cinnamon sticks, mint leaves, lemon verbena leaves and ginger slices. Herbal teas are best enjoyed unsweetened. If you feel the need to sweeten your tea slightly, honey, xylitol and stevia are healthier alternatives that contain less calories than granulated sugar. *Two cups of Rooibos tea were leisurely sipped while penning this article.

Making a social event of tea? Why not indulge in a tea ritual at one of the following places: Lady Bonin’s Tea Bar – Cape Town O’Ways Tea Café – Cape Town Yswara Tea Room – Johannesburg

www.theyogajournal.co.za

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5 REASONS TO CONSIDER AN INFRARED bySAUNA THIS WINTER Zissy Lewin by Zissy Lewin

Infrared saunas are dry saunas which use infrared heaters to warm your body in the same way the sun would warm you on a summerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s day. Infrared heat gives many of the same benefits as the sun does, but without exposing you to harmful solar radiation.

With

the colder months ahead, being bathed in heat and warmth that is actually good for you seems like the ideal way to spend an hour.

Here

are some of the benefits of infrared saunas . (Image: The infrared sauna at Skin Sense Day Spa Sandton)

Not just a winter specific benefit, but spending time in an infrared sauna can add to your yoga practice. A session before yoga can help warm up your muscles to prevent injuries. www.theyogajournal.co.za

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1. INCREASES YOUR HAPPY HORMONES

2. IMPROVES YOUR SKIN

Depression, specifically Seasonal Affective

If you suffer from dry skin during the cold

Disorder increases during winter when daylight

months, an infrared sauna can help. Infrared

hours are fewer and you spend less time outside.

saunas can help reduce wrinkles, make your skin

Infrared lights release dopamine, oxytocin,

look radiant and improve skin tone and elasticity.

serotonin, and endorphins – your feel good

Infrared light can also help treat scars and make

hormones.

them appear less visible; as well as treat burns.

3. HELPS YOU DETOX

4. DECREASES MUSCLE PAIN

Don’t wait for summer for a detox. Infrared heat

Infrared saunas can help treat muscle aches and

stimulates the detoxification process by raising

joint pain. Infrared heat penetrates tissue, joints,

your core temperature and penetrating you skin

and muscles to relieve minor aches to chronic

tissue. All this helps improve your natural

pain conditions like arthritis. If you’re the type of

metabolic processes. Something we all need a bit

person who is more sensitive to the cold and feel

more of in winter when we tend to move less and

like your body aches more in the cold, an

indulge in warming comfort foods more.

infrared sauna can help. It’s also a great thing to do if you get a cold or flu.

5. IT COMPLIMENTS YOUR YOGA PRACTICE Not just a winter specific benefit, but spending time in an infrared sauna can add to your yoga practice. A session before yoga can help warm up your muscles to prevent injuries. Whilst a session after yoga can be a way of sealing your practice by spending time pampering your body. It also raises your core temperature and helps muscles recover

Infrared heat gives many of the same benefits as the sun does, but without exposing you to harmful solar radiation.

faster.

www.theyogajournal.co.za

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YOGALIFE

YOGA + PRESENTS: A JOURNEY INWARDS WELLNESS RETREAT| 8 - 9 JULY Zebra’s Crossing Luxury Lodge, Waterberg Mountain R4000 per person sharing, shared transport and/or single room supplements are available at an additional cost, please enquire. Join Eliza Roza for a weekend away to dedicate two full days to: Gentle morning yoga, Afternoon meditation A dream board workshop, A nature hike and self reflection time to journal, The YOGA+ signature ‘Move.Feel.Transform.’ workshop, Breakfast, lunch and dinner included, 5-star luxury accommodation provided For bookings email eliza@yogaplus.co.za

BUDOKON YOGA WOKRSHOPS | JUNE - SEPTEMBER Yoga Harmony Yoga Studio, Cape Connection, Garsfontein Road, Pretoria Join Dave Gardner at Yoga Harmony for an introductory Budokon Yoga Workshop on 10 June from 12:30 - 15:30 for R350 p/p. The workshop will explore Budokon and the integration of Yogic and martial arts, animal locomotion, and calisthenics. Budokon - A beautiful synergy between yoga, animal locomotion and martial arts. Experience fusion of these energies and get to explore more about yourself as well as your yoga practice. Allow yourself to feel the mindful fluidity of Budokon. You will be amazed as to what your body is capable of doing in this moving meditative practice - Yoga Harmony. For bookings email dfg606@gmail.com Earth Yoga Studio, 3 Frossman Close, Kyalami Join Dave Gardner at Earth Yoga for a Budokon Workshop Series every first Friday of the month from 18:00 to 21:00 starting in June and ending in September. Workshops will include: Floating & Bending, Yogis & Warriors, Locomotion & Mobility, Yin Samurai. Open to anyone and everyone. R1 200 for all four workshops, or R350 per workshop For bookings email izelle@earthyogastudio.co.za 25 of 32

YOGALIFE

AERIAL YOGA FOUNDATIONS TEACHER TRAINING COURSE| 9 - 11 & 16 - 18 JUNE Aerial Yoga Studio (Vertical Vixen) Lower Level, Northriding Square Cnr Bellairs Drive and Blandford Road Northriding Johannesburg Aerial Yoga is a fun, challenging class combining aspects of Yoga, Pilates, Aerial Arts and strength training. It is designed to increase strength, mobility and flexibility, a total mind and body workout for those who want to combine fitness with FUN! The Aerial Yoga Foundations course will give you over 100 poses to create new and challenging classes for your students. Email aerial@aerialyoga.co.za to book your spot.

YOGA OF THINKING | 13 JUNE The Body & Mind Space, Saint Patrick Road, Houghton Reset after a long day and take in the sprawling views of Joburg by night at the intimate Body & Mind Space studio overlooking Joburg, and brought to life by Yoga and exercise specialists, SuYen and Warren. The monthly Yoga of Thinking workshop will take you through two hours of Yoga, breath work, and guided meditation. The duo add their special touch with a takeaway dinner prepared by Su-Yen, who is also a chef. R280/pp For bookings email suyent@me.com

LADIES RESTORATIVE RETREAT | 17 - 20 AUGUST Kommetjie, Cape Town Mark your diary, for a weekend of delicious pescatarian meals, yoga, mountain and beach walks, and the legendary coffee scrub. Yoga master, Natalie Botha will offer Yin Yoga classes and Thai massage. R4 500/pp sharing, massages booked seperately. For bookings email suyent@me.com or call 074 361 9079 26 of 32

DIRECTORY OF YOGA STUDIOS, TEACHERS, AND MORE

Kaya Bryce offers classes MyUtopia Cape Town on Mon 9am, Tue 7:30pm, Thu 9:45am, and Sat 9am Follow her on instagram @kayayogact.

www.theyogajournal.co.za

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YOGA STUDIOS - JOHANNESBURG EARTH YOGA

BALANCE YOGA

Friendly and intimate studio located in the heart of Kyalami; close to Sunninghill, Waterfall, Morningside, Sandton, Woodmead and Pretoria.

Balance yoga is a small, intimate and beautiful yoga studio offering Yin, Hatha, Vinyasa, and Yoga 101 Back to Basics workshop aimed at absolute beginners and those recovering from injury.

The Suite Life Center, 3 Forssman Close, Kyalami 1684 earthyogastudio.co.za | izelle@earthyogastudio.co.za

73 Linksfield Road, Edenvale Johannesburg yogabalance01@gmail.com | 082 318 4251

INDIE YOGA

YOGI BALI

A tranquil retreat offering Hatha, Budokon, Vinyasa, Forrest, Jivamukti, Indie, Iyengar, Synergy, and more. Indie Yoga offers a 1 week “taster” special to try out a few yoga styles and help find the one that fits you.

Yogi Bali offers private/group yoga classes in the comfort of your home or our yoga shala situated in the suburbs, Bedfordview. Yoga Bali offers Ashtanga Vinyasa yoga, gentle flow yoga, Hatha yoga, Parental yoga, Pranayama, meditation, and barre.

3 Quartz Road, Witkoppen X3, Fourways, Johannesburg www.indieyoga.co.za | info@indieyoga.co.za

76 Kloof Road, Bedfordview, Johannesburg www.yogibali.co.za | shala@yogibali.co.za

ZEN HOT YOGA WORLD

FITNESS FUSION STUDIO

A beautiful studio with talented instructors. Offering a variety of styles including Bikram, Vinyasa, Ashtanga, Yin, Forrest, hot flow and even kiddies yoga!

Hobart Grove Shopping Centre, Hobart Road and Grosvenor Road, Bryanston zenhotyogaworld.co.za | info@zenhotyogaworld.co.za

76 Kloof Road, Bedfordview, Johannesburg www.yogibali.co.za | shala@yogibali.co.za

LUNULA YOGA

AERIAL YOGA STUDIO

Lunula Yoga Studio covers all generations and skill levels with beginners to intermediate yoga classes, as well as senior and children's yoga. “We do yoga, have fun, drink tea, and discuss philosophy and life; it's about yoga, our bodies, our spirits, our journeys”.

Aerial Yoga® is a fun, challenging workout routine combining aspects of Yoga, Pilates, Aerial Arts and Strength Training designed to increase strength, mobility, balance and flexibility.

Suite #1 Retire @ Midstream, 1 Madeleine Street, Midstream Estates, Midrand info@lunula-yoga.com

Vertical Vixen Studio, Lower Level, Northriding Square Cnr Bellairs Drive & Blandford Road, Northriding www.aerialyoga.co.za | aerial@aerialyoga.co.za

YOGA STUDIOS - PRETORIA YOGA HARMONY

LORNA JANE ACTIVE LIVING ROOM The Lorna Jane Active Living Room in Cape Town offers free yoga classes. The unique and intimate space brings the daily practice of Move Nourish Believe to life. Get your sweat on in the Move studio and refuel post workout at the Nourish bar.

Set in the beautiful surroundings of Cape Connection, in the heart of Menlyn. The little Cape style business and shopping village lends itself to the harmony of Yoga, offering classes from beginners to advanced and wellness therapies.

Lorna Jane Active Living Room, Menlyn Maine, Pretoria

59 Garsfontein Road, Ashley Gardens, Pretoria East www.yogaharmony.co.za | helen@yogaharmony.co.za

www.theyogajournal.co.za

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YOGA STUDIOS - CAPE TOWN INMOTIONAIR YOGA YOGA STUDIO One on one and small yoga classes, yoga for athletes, and yoga for rehabilitation and back pain. Yoga and Hiking events for outdoor enthusiasts to take in the beauty of Cape Town. 16 Riverside Terrace, Hout Bay, Cape Town, 7806 www.inmotion-sd.com | stephanie@inmotion-sd.com

YOGA TEACHERS - JOHANNESBURG STEVEN HEYMAN

IZELLE NAIR I love practicing with props such as the yoga wheel and silk hammocks. I believe that yoga is for everybody and every body and the only limitation is our mind. I teach a wide variety of different styles and custom make each class according to the individual that I am working with. izelleyogi@gmail.com | izelleyoga.co.za

Steven loves the Vinyasa flow style of yoga with a good amount of action and intensity, Steven specialises in Vinyasa flow, corporate yoga, SUP yoga, Park yoga, and yoga events. www.yogaworks.co.za | info@yogaworks.co.za

TEGAN BURGER

DAVE GARDNER

Tegan teaches Yoga privately and group classes at Living Yoga in Johannesburg. Private classes can be held in the comfort of your own home or at her home studio in Morningside. She also hosts ladies day retreats and yoga teacher training.

Dave Gardner is a Budokon instructor who through Muay Thai discovered Budokon Yoga, a synthesis of Martial Arts, Yoga, Calisthenics and Animal Locomotion. Dave specialises in small group classes, one on one Budokon classes, Budokon workshops and teacher training.

tegan.burger@gmail.com | www.teganbyoga.com

dfg606@gmail.com | davegardneryoga.com

ELIZA ROZA

CASEY CHIANG

Eliza is a Hot-Yoga Teacher with a Psychology degree and over ten years’ experience in practicing Hot-yoga. Her approach is holistic, dynamic and layered. Her background is in professional broadcast media so you can expect a lot of creativity in her programs, workshops and classes.

My mission for teaching is to facilitate and create an environment where people can enter at any level and progress on their own personal journey of growth and improvement.

www.yogaplus.co.za | eliza@yogaplus.co.za

chiangcasey@yahoo.com | www.zenhotyogaworld.co.za

YOGA TEACHERS - KWA-ZULU NATAL HELEN GARNER

SU-YEN THORNHILL Su-yen is a Life Coach, Yoga teacher, and Chef. She offers Vinyasa flow classes as well as a fusion class of Tai chi breathing followed by strong flow yoga, which she has coined as Tai-Ga, a powerful yet graceful practice. She also hosts retreats in Joburg and Cape Town.

Helen Garner trained and studied Ashtanga yoga in India, and specialises in private yoga classes and Saturday morning workshops in her farmhouse garden. She also teaches group classes at various studios and centres in Ballito.

suyent@me.com www.thebodyandmindspace.co.za

www.helengarner.com | info@helengarner.com

www.theyogajournal.co.za

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YOGA TEACHERS - KWA-ZULU NATAL LARISSA GOVENDER

ANASTASIA DELLIS

Yoga with Lari aims to teach yoga that stays true to the yoga discipline/ practice which originated in India. It's about executing simple yet attainable asanas / postures for the benefit of mind, body and soul. More than physical exercise, it has a meditative and spiritual core.

I believe and encourage a mindful practice, the mindbody connection teaches us how to live a full, healthy, and happy life. I would like to encourage students to play with their edge while providing a safe, encouraging, and nonjudgmental environment.

www.yogawithlari.co.za | info@yogawithlari.co.za

tasia.dellis@gmail.com | @tash_yoga on Instagram

YOGA TEACHERS - CAPE TOWN LAUREN MENSIKOVAS

LIN MORRIS

Yoga Instructor in Cape Town, providing group classes, private tuition & workshops, mainly in and around the Milnerton, Tableview, and Blouberg areas. Lauren also offers yoga & meditation in the workplace. @yogini.lauren on Instagram lauren@flowingnomads.com

Lin Morris is an experienced Ashtanga Yoga teacher and Cape Town's first Budokon Yoga teacher, she also specialises in yoga for sports conditioning. She specialises in Yoga for athletes, nutrition, wellbeing, Ashtanga yoga, and Budokon Yoga. www.linmorris.com | lynette@yogaforsports.co.za

STEFANIE DORHMANN

ANDRE KUNKEL

Stefanie has been teaching group classes for more than 20 years. Next to her power classes, she is specialised in Yoga and Pilates. Her classes are tailor-made, playful and allow the students to develop strength and flexibility.

With many years of experience in practice and teaching, their classes are influenced by a myriad of styles such as Vinyasa, Vinyasa flow, Ashtanga, Sivananda, Intensive, and Synergy Yoga.

stefanie@inmotion-sd.com | www.inmotion-sd.com

andre@inmotion-sd.com| www.inmotion-sd.com

KAYA BRYCE

LEILA BHOOLA

Kaya Bryce teaches yoga at myUTOPIA and also offers private and group tuition. She specialises in dynamic vinyasa flow paired with music that will inspire, energise and invigorate your practice.

Leila is a qualified Yoga teacher, Somatologist (health & beauty therapist) & does Reiki healing. She teaches traditional Hatha yoga, healthy breathing, alignment, and balanced energy flow.

ruqayyabryce@gmail.com

leila.bhoola@vodamail.co.za

YOGA APPAREL & ACCESORIES YOGA EVERYWEAR YOGA TANKS

MOVEPRETTY

Quirky inspirational slogan yoga tank tops created by Helen Garner, a free diving Champion, Yogi, and mother. Yoga Everywhere tanks are made from superior quality fabric with a feminine silhouette.

MOVEPRETTY is a proudly South Africa, Stellenboschbased athleisure brand, founded by two friends, Olympic South Africa Triathlete Mari Rabie and fashion designer Annelize Kotze.

www.helengarner.com | info@helengarner.com

www.movepretty.com | info@movepretty.co.za

BEND BALANCE WHEEL

INSPIRED BALLITO

The Bend Balance wheel is lightweight & heavy duty, ready to travel with you on your adventures through your active lifestyle. Ideal for Pilates or Yoga Methods alike. Delivery throughout South Africa.

We have a unique retail store that provides an incredible array of Athleisure wear. Athleisure wear is gym apparel that blurs the lines between your training gear and your everyday wardrobe.

www.bendbalancewheel.co.za bendbalancewheel@gmail.com

www.inspireballito.co.za | sene.wilson@gmail.com

www.theyogajournal.co.za

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