Trainer Spotlight “Yoga, what is it all about?”

TRAINERSPOTLIGHT Rachel Woo OCOTILLO YOGA INSTRUCTOR

Yoga, what is it all about?

Today I’d like to share a little bit about Yoga, specifically the healing and restorative aspects, and invite you to explore one of our many Village yoga classes for yourself. The word “Yoga” has many translations, most commonly “union” or “connection,” but it can also mean “change” or “transformation.” Oftentimes, I use the words “be present,” and “create balance.” This concept is what makes yoga so much more than physical exercise! It begins with a conscious desire to change something (a thought or intention), which motivates our actions, and helps us to move in a different direction. This can be relevant to transforming the body, our health, behavior and relationships, and all aspects of life. Many people seek yoga for healing. Whether the intention is to improve strength/flexibility, heal an injury, sore muscles, or chronic pain, or perhaps release/manage stress and process emotions. The list of restorative benefits is limitless when it comes to developing a mindbody connection. Yoga teaches us to connect mind and body with the breath. Simply observe each inhale/exhale, and practice controlling the rhythm with awareness (this is called pranayama). Learning how to breathe, so to speak, and how the body responds to the way we breathe - shape/ rhythm/depth/sound - is extremely empowering! Yoga practice is self-examination with the growth potential - through simple observation of breath and sensations in the physical body, along with thoughts and emotions that arise. With enhanced awareness, we begin to evolve and create new patterns in our way of thinking and experiencing life. Yoga breathing is helpful even outside of the yoga studio. High and/or constant low levels of stress can wreak havoc on our overall health. Embracing healthy habits, such as scheduled time for rest and relaxation (whether it’s a home practice or a gentle yoga class), is a great way to restore balance. Taking time to relax the thinking brain can be like a “reset” for the nervous system. Some of the many benefits include improved digestion and quality of sleep, better stress management, enhanced immune system function, cellular regeneration, and balanced endocrine (hormone) response. Yoga is/can be so much more than beneficial for the body (muscles/joints, etc.). Through the practice of awareness, we learn to unite our thoughts, words, and actions. What I believe to be the most healing aspect, is to ultimately be more kind and loving toward self and others.

Taking the time to slow down and practice mindfulness, in classes like Yin (deep stretch) and Restorative (gentle healing) Yoga, develops patience and discipline, and helps us to connect to a sense of inner calm. It’s a safe place to come together to rest, relax, and rejuvenate - body, mind, heart, and spirit. I hope you feel inspired to come try one of our many wonderful Village Yoga classes! See you soon in the Mind/Body Studio.