How Yoga Helps You Handle Trying Times in the New Year

{"slug":"how-yoga-helps-in-trying-times","recentPosts":[{"id":"cl8kb5f23jq1w0ciscs2h2bxw","slug":"benefits-of-yoga-for-pregnancy","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"What are the Benefits of Yoga for Pregnancy?","subTitle":null,"seoTitle":null,"seoDescription":"Yoga for Pregnancy is excellent for stress relief, pain relief, and preparation for labor. Read more to understand the benefits of Yoga for Pregnancy","readTime":null,"excerpt":null,"tags":[],"createdAt":"2022-09-27T14:42:36.767798+00:00","coverUrl":"kvvlqndsbow5dsckhw7i.jpg","content":{"text":"When you get pregnant, people come out of the woodworks with advice, remedies and old wives tales. Everyone’s got an opinion on how you should spend your pregnancy. But the one thing we know for sure is, yoga is great for mom and baby alike. If you’re curious about prenatal yoga, you’re in the right place. Let’s break down why this type of yoga is excellent for moms (and babies).\\nWhat is prenatal yoga?\\nPrenatal yoga was designed for women who are expecting. Rather than taking a regular class and having to worry about modifications or safety, this class is specifically designed for pregnancy. The practice can help women with common pregnancy aches and pains, ease hormonal and emotional stress and help women’s bodies prepare for birth and their postpartum journey. A regular yoga practice when pregnant has tons of amazing benefits!\\nBenefits of Prenatal yoga: \\nWe asked women who’ve done prenatal yoga while pregnant for their reviews, one said “ It’s excellent for stress relief, pain relief, and preparation for labor.” And they all said they’d recommend it to friends! \\nSo let's break down the benefits: \\nRelaxation : \\nPregnancy can be very stressful! But yoga will help you to relax physically, mentally and emotionally and create a safe, relaxing environment for birth. Prenatal helps you with coping and breath techniques for all stages of your pregnancy.\n\\nPreparation for birth : \\nFor first time moms, and even sometimes vets, labor can be scary. This practice will help you to learn birth techniques so you’re relaxed and ready to go!\n⁠\\nYoga can Help with Labor : \\nIn a 2015 study\\n, It was found that a regular yoga practice in the last 10-12 weeks of pregnancy can improve the mother's comfort during labor and help facilitate the labor process. The “yoga group” in this study on average was in labor two hours less than those who didn’t practice. Past your due date? Prenatal Yoga is also known to help induce labor\n⁠\\nCommunity : \\nYoga classes have always been known to help us build community but during pregnancy, it's so important to have a group of women who understand what you’re going through. Taking part in a prenatal class puts you in a group of women who get it. You’ll have a built in support system and maybe even first friends for your baby!\\nFrequently Asked Questions about Prenatal Yoga:\\nIs Yoga for Pregnancy safe?\\nYes. Yoga is generally considered safe during pregnancy. However, you should always consult your doctor & make sure you’re practicing with a teacher who understands the prenatal experience and can keep you safe. Our teachers are experts in yoga and are ready to help you on your journey. If you’d like to check out our offerings, you can get started today with a two week free trial! \\nWhen during pregnancy can you practice yoga?\\nDuring your first trimester, you can stick to your regular practice with some modifications. \\nYour second trimester is a GREAT time to start prenatal yoga! At this point, you’ll be starting to officially come into your “pregnancy body” and you’ll need to be practicing poses more specific to prenatal. The second and third trimester are considered the “prep period” for your body to prepare for labor. So it's a great time to keep moving and stretching in your new skin as you make room for the baby to grow! \\nWhat yoga poses should you avoid doing? \\nFor the most part, yoga is considered safe during pregnancy. You really only need to focus on any poses that put pressure on your abdomen. You should avoid any and all twisting poses, backbends and inversions.. \\nYoga for Pregnancy Poses you can perform at Home :\\nIt’s important to stay active during your pregnancy for both mom and baby! You should try to get in some sort of movement daily for at least 30 minutes. You can stick to low impact workouts or walks but if you want to do some yoga at home, it’s a great way to end your day. Yoga while pregnant can help with pain, help you sleep better and fight tiredness and fatigue. \\nHere are some poses you can practice at home to keep you moving! And as a bonus, most of these poses will also help your body prepare for giving birth!\\n1. Bound angle pose (Baddha Konasana) :\\n\\nBaddha Konasana pose will help you open your hips, releasing any pain in your back. It can also help to reduce swelling\\nHow it helps with labor: Opening the hips will help you to stretch the muscles needed to open the birth canal.\\n2. Cat-cow pose (Marjaryasana Bitilasana) :\\n\\nMarjaryasana Bitilasana pose release back and shoulder pain and also reduce pressure from the belly\\nHow it helps with labor: Back pain is a common occurrence during the birth process. This pose will help to keep your muscles limber and help to avoid muscle spasms and pain in your back during labor. \\n3. Yogi squat (Malasana) :\\n\\nBeen sitting too long? This is a great hip opener and will also release lower back pain. \\nHow it helps with labor: This pose will widen the pelvic floor making the birth easier,which may help to reduce injury during birth.\\nRemember, if you’re practicing at home, it’s always best to consult your doctor and make sure yoga is safe for your pregnancy.\\n\\nOther ways to practice self-care during pregnancy\\nBeing a mom is the hardest job in the world. And there are no days off. Starting with pregnancy, we feel out of control of our body, its growth and the way we feel. Remember to take time during this beautiful process to practice self-care so you can be present, happy and relaxed. \\nBook a prenatal massage :\n\n⁠⁠A prenatal massage is GREAT for mom and baby. It can help reduce stress and swelling without meds, help you to sleep and get your body ready for labor and delivery.  \\nTake a bath :\n⁠\n⁠Taking a warm bath while pregnant can also help to reduce stress and lower your blood pressure. It’s a great way to relax and rest your growing body. If you’re feeling pain or swelling, it can be very beneficial to relax in a warm bath. \\n\\nAyurveda for Pregnancy :\\n\n⁠\n⁠This week, MyYogaTeacher has a special Ayurveda event running where you’ll learn how to align with your best self through nutrition and health changes. This specific class is designed to help you have your most healthy pregnancy with nutrition guidelines for a mom and foods to help with baby's development! \\n\nYou can also choose to work 1 on 1 with an instructor of your choice through your MyYogaTeacher membership! Let us help you have your healthiest pregnancy possible! \\n\\nGet started today!\\n"},"category":[]},{"id":"cl8ka13l4ionz0ck2fe0pme7l","slug":"chronic-neck-pain-relief-yoga-poses","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"Are you suffering with Chronic Neck Pain? 10 yoga poses to find relief!","subTitle":null,"seoTitle":null,"seoDescription":null,"readTime":null,"excerpt":null,"tags":[],"createdAt":"2022-09-27T14:11:15.683866+00:00","coverUrl":"rbh6duxy7hy3y207sg1c.jpg","content":{"text":"Do you suffer from chronic neck pain? Nearly 30-50% of adults suffer from recurring neck pain. \\nNeck pain can be a common occurrence for people who:\\nhave long commutes or sit at a desk all day\\nwho have issues with posture \\nwho have chronic sleep issues\\nOur neck and shoulders can also be a place where we may carry tension or pain due to stress. In any case, the good news is yoga can help you to relieve your neck pain and move on symptom free! \\nDaily changes you can make to avoid neck pain\\nStay in alignment. Keep good posture and try not to carry heavy bags on one side of your body. Also, if you sit at a desk and work on a computer, move your monitor to eye-sight so you’re not looking up or down. Need help finding your center? \\nWe can help here at MyYogaTeacher! \\n\\nStay active! It’s important to stay mobilized.  If you sit all day, take breaks to move around and give your body a break from being stuck in one position. Can’t take breaks at work? Try to go for a walk on lunch or maybe before or after your workday. \\nCheck your sleep environment. Make sure your mattress and pillows are still in good shape. Look into the best pillows for your sleep type or body. Getting quality sleep will help you avoid tossing and turning and can be your remedy to wake pain free. \\nIf you’re feeling like you need to move, starting with any slower yoga practice will help! Yin, hatha and restorative classes will all leave your body feeling relaxed, renewed and free of pain. Want to flow on your own? Here are our top ten poses to try! \\n10 Yoga Poses to relieve Chronic Neck Pain :\\n1. Easy seat with ear to shoulder stretch\\nThis pose releases your neck and shoulders and helps relieve tension and stress.\\nStart by sitting with your legs crossed and a straight back. Shoulders down. Bring your ear down to your shoulder. To deepen the stretch, bring your opposite arm overhead. \\n\\n\\n\\n2. Child’s Pose\\nReleases tension in the upper body including the neck and chest.\\nBring your knees as wide as the mat and sit into your heels. You can bring your chest to the mat and extend your arms forward or come to rest on a pillow or bolster. Try to hold this pose for up to 5 breaths. \\n\\n\\n\\n3. Downward facing dog\\nHelps to relieve neck pain by strengthening the upper body and releasing the spine. \\nStart by coming onto all fours. Check your alignment- make sure your shoulders are over your wrist, and your hips over your knees. Without changing the position of your hands and feet, push up and back to bring your heels into the ground. Relax your head, neck and shoulders down. \\n\\n\\n\\n4. Bridge Pose\\nReleases chest, neck, spine and hips.\\nLay down on your mat, bring your feet as close to your glutes as possible. Bring your hands to the sides of your body palms down. Push into the feet and hands while you lift your core and back to the ceiling. Try to relax and breathe here. \\n\\n\\n\\n5. Wide Leg forward fold\\nReleases spine, neck and back. If you’re in pain perform this stretch slowly, and come up one vertebrae at a time. \\nBring your feet as wide as you can, feet facing forward. Hinge at the hips and slowly bend forward and down towards your feet. You can hang here or grab yogi toe lock around your big toe. \\n\\n\\n\\n6. Cow face pose\\nStrengthens core and spine.\\nSit up tall and stack your knees directly over one another. Reach one arm back around your waist and one arm over your shoulder with your palms reaching towards one another. If you can, clasp your hands. If not, rest them on your back, you will still benefit from the pose. \\n\\n\\n\\n7. Sphinx pose\\nThis pose will help to physically open up the shoulders and neck. Looking side to side slowly is a great addition to the pose. \\nLie on your stomach and bring your hands next to your chest facing down. On your inhale press into the ground and lift your upper body. \\n\\n\\n\\n8. Thread the Needle \\nIncreases mobility and releases tension in the upper body. \\nCome on to all fours. Check your alignment, make sure your hips are over your knees, shoulders over your wrist. Reach one arm out to the side and thread it through the opposite side under your ribs. You can stay here or open up the opposite side by reaching the hand to the back or straight up and over. Make sure to do both sides. \\n\\n\\n\\n9. Legs up the wall\\nReleases tension and stress from the upper body by reversing blood flow. \\nFind a wall near your practice space and sit next to the wall as close as possible. Lower your head, neck and shoulders onto your mat, then roll onto your back and stretch your legs up the wall. You can stay in this restorative pose for up to 10 minutes. \\n\\n\\n\\n10. Savasana\\nSavasana releases any stress, lowers heart rate and calms the body. \\nCome onto your back on your mat, and release your body down. This is known as corpse pose because it is a full and final rest at the end of our practice. Release and let go of any and all tension. \\n\\n\\n\\nClasses to help relieve neck pain \\n\\nYoga fusion for joints \\n- This class will help you roll out your joint pain and stretch your tight limbs and joints. \\n\\nYoga for Back Pain\\n - Sometimes, neck pain can be caused by tightness in the spine. Experts say yoga helps soothe muscle pains. Try this class to strengthen and lengthen your neck and back for pain relief! \\n\\nYoga for Neck and Shoulder Pain\\n - Do you sit all day at work? Struggle with your posture? This class will help relieve upper body tension. \\n\nSo if you’re ready to make your neck pain a thing of the past, join us today. Our trial includes two free weeks of group fitness classes, one on one classes and so much more! \\nGet started on your yoga journey now!\\n"},"category":["yoga_poses"]},{"id":"cl8cuq5nnh5860biyek2vhu2w","slug":"reproductive-rights-for-women-yoga-workshop","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"Reproductive Rights for Women Yoga Workshop - Supporting Women Through Yoga","subTitle":null,"seoTitle":null,"seoDescription":null,"readTime":null,"excerpt":null,"tags":[],"createdAt":"2022-09-22T09:28:27.679552+00:00","coverUrl":"dkjwcigamkavxe0yziwq.jpg","content":{"text":"Announcing MyYogaTeacher’s first ever Reproductive Rights for Women Yoga Workshop!\\nHere at MyYogaTeacher, we believe in the wisdom of women to make their own choices about their health. \\n\\nThat’s why we’re excited to offer the\\n Reproductive Rights for Women Yoga Workshop on October 2 from 9 AM - 11 AM PST (12 PM - 2 PM EST) for only $10!\\nIn the past, our community events have been free. So why are we charging a nominal fee for this one?\\nBecause ALL proceeds from the Reproductive Rights for Women Yoga Workshop go to support the \\nCenter for Reproductive Rights\\n charity, a nonprofit organization, the \\nonly\\n global legal advocacy organization dedicated to advancing reproductive rights.\\nIn the wake of the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe vs Wade and on the day before the new term of the Supreme Court begins, we think this workshop is a perfect way to silently protest this new ruling through self-care and donations to an organization like the Center for Reproductive Rights.\\nThis will also be a time of healing and processing with a couple of awesome expert yoga instructors!\\nHow to join the Reproductive Rights for Women Yoga Workshop\\nWhether you’re a member or not, \\nJust click this link and register \\nas you would any other group class! Simple as that.\\nIntroducing a very special guest yoga instructor coming just for this event!\n\\nMeet Harpinder Mann, RYT-500!\\n\\n\n\\nHarpinder is a yoga, meditation, mindfulness teacher, and decolonizing activist based in Los Angeles. She works with women of color who want to reclaim their power and intuition through the lens of a spiritual, joyful, and sustainable path. Her studies have spanned from reading the Japji Sahib since she was 3, to over 700 hours of yogic training within the traditions of Raja, Vinyasa, Kundalini, and Prenatal Yoga. \\nWe’re super excited to have her lead the beginning of the workshop. Afterwards, MyYogaTeacher yoga instructor, \\nTrupti Parikh\\n, will lead us in asanas, and a discussion session will follow.\\nAre you ready to experience a workshop where we solely focus on supporting and advocating for women’s health \\nwhile\\n improving our mental, emotional, and physical health?\\n\\nJoin us for the Reproductive Rights for Women Yoga Workshop!\\n\\nTogether, we make a difference."},"category":["workshops"]},{"id":"cl8a9804vy5de0biznpg4ai2t","slug":"yoga-benefits-for-runners","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"Yoga For Runners : Why Runners Should Incorporate Yoga Into Their Training?","subTitle":null,"seoTitle":null,"seoDescription":"Adopting an active yoga practice to complement your running routine can have tons of benefits! Read now to learn more","readTime":null,"excerpt":null,"tags":[],"createdAt":"2022-09-20T13:50:56.406936+00:00","coverUrl":"tbdacuzob0fuqml8dyjd.jpg","content":{"text":"Training for a big race? Setting some goals you want to crush before the year ends? No matter what your reasons, yoga can be a great way to cross train for running from a 5k to a marathon! Running is great for your heart and body but can also be a huge strain on the muscles. Having an active yoga practice to complement your running routine can have tons of benefits! Let’s dive into how yoga can help!\\n1. Breathing\\nProper breathing and breath stabilization are both incredibly important principles in Yoga and Running. If you can practice proper breathing while running, you can maintain speed longer because you will take long deeper breaths to match your long strides, instead of short breaths which cause instability and speed decline.\\nPracticing Pranayama for runners - \\nAdding a pranayama breath practice before a run can help you to maintain focus as well as speed. Even if running is a release for you, and feels relaxing, Using breathwork to relax and focus can help you clearly see the physical and mental road ahead. Pranayama can also help if things are going off course on your run. If you need to regain control, you can come back to your breath and refocus. With these practices together, your run really can be a religious experience, or a way to relieve stress! \\nTo start a pranayama practice, all you need to do is focus on controlling your inhale and exhale. Start by standing tall and relaxed, or sitting tall and calm if you prefer. Close your eyes and focus inward. Start by breathing in for two and out for two. As you continue to grow your practice, you can  build up to breathing in for six and out for six. You can even play with pausing for two to four breaths in between your inhale and exhale. When you finally build a practice you’re confident with, you can start to set intentions and visualize your success. With this practice, you’ll begin to see your running dreams come true!\\n\\n2. Flexibility/Strength\\nIt would be great if in life, we only ever needed to do one thing to get to our goals. But in reality,just like we can’t have cookies for every meal, cross training for runners is essential to maintaining a long term healthy routine. While you could easily just add weight training or stretching a la cart into your week, yoga gives you more by going deeper and getting into those smaller, harder to access ligaments and tendons you might otherwise miss with strength training . Adding yoga into your running routine can reduce the risk of injury and help to maintain your goals. The more flexible your muscles are, the less likely they are to tense up or be stressed during running so you can move with more confidence and ease. Not to mention, it’s always great to look forward to a nice long stretch after a run. \\n\n3. Conditioning \\nWe all know running is GREAT for your cardiovascular health, can add years on to your life and keep your heart pumping at its best! But it doesn’t matter if you’re a beginner or a veteran, running can make your body sore. Yoga is great for conditioning those tired and fatigued muscles without having to “take a day off” to rest. In between your runs or on conditioning days, you can take a class focused on your back or knee health, or even a class to open tight hips after a long run. There’s nothing the magic of yoga can’t do! \\n\n4. Balance/Posture\\nEven though running is a “walk in the park” compared to ballet where balance is concerned, you still need to do your best to focus on alignment while you move.\\nYoga can improve your running form by elongating the limbs so you cover more ground in less time. You'll be PR’ing in no time! Proper alignment is also important when running because as you increase your speed, the level of impact (and injury) becomes greater. Maintaining your body's alignment during movement assures you arrive at the finish line aliment free! Love a tree pose? Want to learn to fly into a warrior? Lots of yoga poses force you to balance on one leg, which helps you to build a unilateral movement practice much like the ebbs and flows you take while running. \\n5. Stress and Mental Clarity\\nFeeling stressed before a big run? Worried about your PR? Yoga can help! Focus your breathing and set an intention. You’ve got this!\\nFocus and clarity are so important when running so you can know where you’re headed and stay on track. Add your yoga practice in before training or race days and you’ll feel your worries melt away. According to scientists at \\nHarvard,\\n adding just minutes of yoga to your week can improve your outlook, slow down the body and decrease stress. You’ll find your body will be more relaxed, focused and ready to run for those goals when you release your tension with yoga. \\nGetting started:\\nSo what do you need to get started? Simple! Yourself, a mat, some water and a quiet space are all you need! Are you ready to add yoga into your running routine? \\nGet started with a two week free trial of our classes and one on one sessions!\\n\\nLet’s figure out where your yoga practice would serve you best! \\nDoing yoga BEFORE your run will help you to warm up your muscles and ligaments. By fully warming up your body before you hit the pavement, you decrease the chances of injury, help with an easier recovery and can improve your PR as you continue to train! \\nBest Yoga Poses to practice before a run :\\nHigh Lunge - This pose stretches the legs from top of the thighs down to the ankle\\n\\nWarrior II - Helps with focus and stamina. Great before heading out!\\n\\nSide angle bend - This stretch helps to stretch the side body and release any tension in the shoulders and spine. \\n\\n⁠Prefer to do yoga after your run? That’s a great option too! Yoga is great for recovery after a run! Finishing your running routine with a yoga stretch helps you to rebalance. You can stretch muscles or limbs that became tight during your run and strengthen anything  that may have become fatigued. You can also refocus and deepen your breath to reset for the next part of your day. \\nBest Yoga Poses to practice after a run :\\nButterfly Pose - a basic hip opener to ease into your stretch\\n\\nHalf Pigeon - A great pose for multiple alignments! Working through the psoas and hip flexors. Make sure to practice on both sides.\\n\\nHappy Baby - This pose is great for finishing up your hip opener extension while giving a nice massage to the back and stretching the soles of the feet.\\n\\nWant to take a class? Try some of our favorite classes for runners!\\n\\nYoga for Strength and flexibility \\n\\n\\nYoga for Knee Pain\\n\\n\\nYoga for Back health\\n\\nReady to join us for class? \\nGet started with a free trial now! \\n\\nRemember, with a great training plan for your runs, and an ongoing yoga practice you’ll be ready to run to your greatest finish line feeling and looking your best! Just like peanut butter and jelly, yoga and running are great together!"},"category":["fitness","yoga"]},{"id":"cl81n0o6wh1g80ajz2gpco553","slug":"yoga-at-home","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"How to Start Doing Yoga at Home","subTitle":"Everything you need to know for an at-home yoga routine","seoTitle":null,"seoDescription":"Get a beginner’s guide to starting yoga at home with tips and suggestions for setting up your own practice, including online yoga classes and private lessons.","readTime":null,"excerpt":"Learn how to perform yoga at home with this quick and easy guide","tags":[],"createdAt":"2022-09-14T13:07:13.39269+00:00","coverUrl":"cqivxw3vkrcihpumlny7.jpg","content":{"text":"There are lots of reasons for doing yoga at home instead of a yoga studio, some of which include distance, busy schedules, kids, financial concerns, and health issues. The good news is you can set up your own yoga practice at home, and still get all the benefits of a regular yoga routine — without the studio. It can also be a great way to integrate yoga into your life on a regular basis, and it’s easy to do in your own home.\\nCan Anyone do Yoga at Home?\\nAnyone can perform yoga at home, and you don’t have to be an advanced yogi to try. Even beginners can practice yoga in a home environment, all you need is adequate floor space, a few (optional) pieces of equipment, and guidelines for practicing the primary yoga poses. \\nIf you’re a beginner, it’s recommended to first learn from a certified yoga instructor, so you can progress with the proper technique and alignment to avoid injury. Thanks to online learning platforms like\\n MyYogaTeacher\\n, you can still practice yoga at home with the help of a qualified teacher.\\n11 Tips on How to Perform Yoga At Home\\nThe idea of starting a yoga practice in your very own living room can seem daunting or intimidating at first, especially if you’re accustomed to attending classes in a yoga studio. But with a little bit of preparation and creativity, you can set up your own yoga space and develop a mindful yoga routine that can benefit your life.\\nHere are some suggestions to help get you started:\\n1. Make Space in Your Home for Yoga\\nIt’s easy (and fun) to make your own yoga space, and you can design it as a temporary space or a dedicated one, depending on your needs. All you need is enough floor space to move around and stretch out the full length of your body — a little more than the length and width of your yoga mat. This can be your living or bedroom floor, your kitchen, or your backyard. Just make sure there isn’t any furniture or objects lying around that could get in your way or cause injury.\\n2. Decorate With Calming Accessories\\nYou can also create a comfortable and inviting space for yoga by hanging calming or inspiring artwork on the wall, lighting a candle or incense, and keeping a few house plants nearby for a pleasing atmosphere. The more you can tailor and dedicate your space for yoga, the easier it will be to motivate yourself to keep up a steady routine. Hanging a mirror in front of your practice space is also helpful in maintaining the correct alignment while performing postures.\\n3. Be Prepared With the Right Equipment\\n\\nYou’ll want to invest in a yoga mat, and it’s wise to also keep modifying props on hand — like blocks, bolsters, blankets, and a strap. If you’re just starting out and you’d like to improvise for props, you can use pillows, blankets, and other items around the house to suit your needs. Just make sure your props are sturdy, supportive, and nearby for when you need them.\\n4. Practice Regularly\\nThe best part about practicing yoga at home is it can be done any time you want. The challenge lies in your dedication and commitment to the practice even when your couch appears more inviting.\\n \\nAccording to this study\\n, it can take anywhere from 18 to 254 days to create a new habit. It’s important to be patient with yourself and identify guidelines for your practice that you can realistically follow through with. \\n5. Schedule Your Yoga Session\\nSet yourself up for success by committing to your yoga practice at a certain time of day, and for a specified number of days per week. It’s best to start out easy with goals that are achievable and progress as you gain momentum. For instance, if you’ve never been an early riser, don’t expect yourself to suddenly start practicing yoga at dawn. If that’s the case, try scheduling your yoga session for late morning, afternoon or evening, and keep your existing schedule in mind when planning a time that works for you.\\n6. Keep it Simple\\nRegardless of your experience or ability level, practicing yoga at home means watching out for your own safety. Make sure you have props handy for when you need them, and avoid overdoing it with strenuous poses. When it doubt, keep your routine simple. Even if you’re an advanced yogi, those basic, primary yoga poses are still an important part of a holistic yoga practice, and may be less likely to cause injury.\\n7. Listen to Your Body\\nThe best way to avoid getting hurt while practicing yoga at home is to listen to your body. If any posture causes you discomfort or pain, stop practicing it immediately — no matter how easy or difficult the pose. Don’t push yourself too hard, and remember to focus on your alignment. If you are unsure of how to execute a specific pose, try learning it from a certified instructor before performing it on your own at home.\\n8. Take an Online Yoga Class\\n\\nBy far the best way to practice yoga at home is with an online class. This way, you get all the benefits of doing yoga at home in your own time, with the added help of an instructor who can make sure you’re performing poses safely and effectively. You can find\\n \\nonline group classes\\n for every type of yoga at\\n \\nMyYogaTeacher\\n, with over 42 classes offered throughout the day. Private, 1-on-1 instructors are also available for at-home yoga, giving you plenty of options to get the right kind of training while still practicing in the comfort of your own home.\\n9. Squeeze in a Short Practice\\nThe beauty of an at-home yoga practice means you can squeeze in a quick session when you just have 20-30 minutes of time. Even short yoga routines are beneficial for your body and mind, and performing a few of the primary yoga poses on a daily basis will change your life for the better. Try incorporating the Sun Salutation flow series into your morning routine when you first get out of bed in the morning, or practicing some relaxing poses like Legs-Up-The-Wall or Savasana in the evening. \\n10. Switch it Up and Make it Fun\\nYoga doesn’t always have to be serious, and you can make your home yoga practice fun and spontaneous for you and your family. Practicing with your kids is a great way to help them learn mindfulness and self-awareness, while stretching and strengthening their growing bodies. You can also take your practice to the backyard to enjoy sunshine and good weather, or invite friends over to share in the experience. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box!\\n11. End Every Practice With Savasana\\nWhen practicing yoga at home, it can be tempting to skip important parts of the journey due to time constraints, distractions, or disinterest. If there is one element of yoga you should never skip, it’s Savasana, or otherwise known as Corpse pose. Always end your practice with 5 minutes of relaxation to help your body integrate the routine. Keep a blanket nearby to warm your body after it has cooled down, and consider an eye pillow to help you relax. Your body and mind will thank you as you move on to the rest of your day, having given yourself the gift of healthy movement to better your life."},"category":["yoga","therapy"]}],"randomPosts":[{"id":"ckqlbshd491ax0a89zan4z3c7","slug":"meditate-for-health","author":{"name":"Trupti","teacherMytSlug":null,"pictureUrl":null},"title":"Five Ways Meditation Can Start Improving Your Life Right Now","createdAt":"2021-07-01T19:53:37.651367+00:00","coverUrl":"uhdar3thpz9nzwzopvqv.jpg","content":{"text":"Whether you’re into yoga or not, I’m fairly certain you’ve at least heard of meditation. It’s one of the (oldest) new ways to improve your life. \\nAnd people are beginning to catch on.\\nThe truth is there are some really \\nmajor\\n \\nbenefits\\n to meditation (yoga is included, by the way). \\nAnd science agrees. \\nBefore I get to the scientific evidence that meditation can improve your life significantly, let’s just address the fact that, for the most part, I’m excited to offer a \\nBreathing and Meditation\\n class with myYoga Teacher!\\nIf you’re not yet a member, it’s definitely worth your time to \\ngrab a free 2-wee trial of MYT\\n. You’ll have access to my class and 35+ more!\\nAlso, more and more people are looking to alternative health\\n \\npractices, products, and practitioners to improve their lives. \\nWhy? Well, everyone has their own reasons I suppose. But mostly it’s because they’re tired of feeling crappy. And whether their traditional forms of medicine are helping or not, there are side effects to all of them that make them feel terrible in ways they maybe weren’t before. Also, most people can agree, natural remedies, when available and helpful (not harmful) are just better for us. \\nWith all that in mind, let’s get to the science behind it all.\\nANXIETY, DEPRESSION, AND INSOMNIA\\nAnxiety and depression is a big deal.  Lots of people are crippled by it on a day to day basis. Did you know that according to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, 40 \\nmillion\\n American adults suffer from an anxiety disorder? That’s about 18% of the population of the U.S. And it’s \\nnot \\nall in their heads. \\nIf you struggle with anxiety or depression, you are most certainly not alone, and you are definitely not the only one looking to alternative health practices to help alleviate your symptoms. Actually, congratulations! If you’re reading this, you’re taking an active, healthy step in overcoming your anxiety and/or depression! \\nAccording to PubMed (a highly regarded medical database of the National Institute for Health), regular practice of meditation over a period of 8 weeks or more will improve your anxiety and depression. Score one for alternative (or complementary) health! In case you aren’t aware, complementary health is a term used to describe alternative therapies that are used in conjunction with traditional ones.\\nSo give meditation a chance to work if you try it at all. Don’t give up on it after a couple of times! \\nAlso, I am in \\nno way\\n saying you should stop whatever your traditional doctor has prescribed for you and replace it with meditation. I’m simply telling you meditation is an excellent addition to help alleviate symptoms. If you love it and it works, then maybe you can talk with your doctor about your medication management.\\nThere are many different types of meditation that are good for anxiety, depression, and insomnia.  Here are a few popular ones:\\nBody scan or progressive relaxation\\n:  This type of meditation is a practice in mindfully releasing tension in various parts of the body.  Normally starting at the head and moving to the toes.\\nMetta Meditation\\n:  Metta Meditation is also known as loving-kindness meditation.  The goal is to create an attitude of love and kindness towards everything, including stressors.  It generally includes repeating affirmations.\\nMindfulness Meditation\\n:  This form of meditation assists practitioners in focusing heavily on the present and existing surroundings.  Not past or future.  It’s the most widely used form of meditation currently, primarily because it can be done almost anywhere at any time.\\nFor beginners, a guided version of any of these three would be the most beneficial.  But even regular, long-term practitioners often still use guidance in their meditation practices.\\nAnother way meditation and breathwork helps people?\\nPAIN MANAGEMENT\\nBefore you say anything, I completely understand some types of pain are not “cured” by meditation. There \\nARE\\n other possible alternative therapies to assist with pain that are not traditional medicine or pharmaceutical related though, but that’s a different topic. \\nI’ll stay on track by saying the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) has conducted several studies that reveal that mindfulness meditation, mindfulness-based stress reduction training (MBSR), and Cognitive Behavioral Training (CBT) all help reduce pain, particularly back and neck pain, but also many other types of pain. \\nIn some studies, “...scientists suggest that meditation activates certain areas of the brain in response to pain.” (NCCIH) \\nMost people who have chronic pain are willing to try almost anything. Trying something not harmful with zero side effects equals \\nZERO \\nrisk.\\nYoga is also particularly great for pain management of some conditions such as fibromyalgia, migraines, arthritis, and low back pain.  \\nAshtanga\\n, \\nBikram\\n, \\nKundalini\\n, and hot yoga are all various types of yoga that assist with pain management.  If you have questions or concerns about chronic pain, you should \\nfirst speak with your physician.\\nAlso, lots of people suffer with more than one problem. I’d go so far as to say \\nmost\\n people do. Meditate on it. Boom. Killing two birds with one stone! \\nOr check out my Breathing and Meditation class for a simple, restorative practice for beginners.\\nTHE POWER OF POSITIVE THINKING\\nVery, cliche, I know. But emotional health DOES matter! \\nSome other benefits people notice are:\\nMore calm throughout the day, less stressed..\\nMore patience, compassion, and kindness.\\nReduced emotional eating. \\nMoney savings from reduced emotional eating.\\nAccording to studies done by the National Institute for Health, various different forms of meditation have been proven to improve one’s emotional well-being and overall mental health. I encourage you to do some research on what types of meditation would be most helpful for you, but some suggestions are Kindness-Based Meditation and guided mindfulness meditation. Which leads me to my next point.\\nKINDNESS\\nResearch published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology suggests that mindful meditation practices inspire people to be more empathetic and nicer to strangers.\\nHave you ever heard that f you’re looking for the negative, you’ll find it? If you’re looking for the bad in your life or just waiting for something bad to happen, you are finding it. Negativity attracts negativity. You may not even want to be kind because you’re so cynical right now. \\nThe news is mostly negative. \\nFacebook is a lot of negative. \\nRoad rage. \\nWaiting-in-line rage. I read once you are a culmination of the 5 people you surround yourself with the most. And what comes out of all of that is your contribution to unkindly behavior, words, and attitudes. \\nYou \\ncan\\n escape this pattern. I know because I did. Meditation makes me a nicer person. It’s improved my relationship with my husband and kids. I have less (almost none, actually) road rage and waiting-in-line rage. And I encourage myself and others daily to focus on the positive parts of their day or life. And honestly, that is almost solely due to guided mindfulness meditation practices. I am more peaceful, calm, content. And those feelings and attitudes produce more compassion, kindness, and empathy. \\nEVERYONE\\n can use more of those things. \\nThis one \\ndoes\\n take work and practice. It’s not an overnight sort of “fix.” But if you dare to “open” your mind to it, it’s really not hogwash. And it can apply to everyone, from \\nall\\n walks of life.\\n BLOOD PRESSURE — IT’S IMPORTANT!\\nThis one is last primarily because addressing all of the above concerns is scientifically proven to help lower your blood pressure. But people completely underestimate the importance of having good blood pressure! \\nAccording to the NIH, hypertension affects nearly \\n1 billion\\n people worldwide and results in 7.1 million deaths. The studies suggest that interventions such as meditation used either alone or with lifestyle changes has been shown to help decrease blood pressure.\\nMeditation is \\nnot a\\n “cure-all” for high blood pressure, so don’t do it in lieu of seeing your doctor. But it’s scientifically proven to help lower it. According to the NCCIH, “A literature review and scientific statement from the American Heart Association suggest that evidence supports the use of Transcendental Meditation (TM) to lower blood pressure.” The American Heart Association website also has many other helpful (and practical) tips about lowering your blood pressure, in case you’re in need of another free resource that gives free advice on how to get (or stay) healthy without breaking the bank.\\nNot sure how to begin your practice of meditation and breathwork? Join us in my \\nBreathing and Meditation class\\n! All are welcome, and we’ll journey to better health through meditation together.\\nIt’s also a perfect reason to go ahead and \\nscoop up your free 2-week trial of myYogaTeacher\\n! You’ll find all the support you need there from experts in yoga and meditation who are happy to help you navigate your path to better health, less stress, and more harmony!\\nLove, light, and peace!"}},{"id":"ckkss4i6g11qk0a81swms978n","slug":"clear-your-chakras","author":{"name":"Abhishek Sharma","teacherMytSlug":null,"pictureUrl":null},"title":"The Importance of Clearing Your Chakras and Why We Chant","createdAt":"2021-02-05T21:07:01.067503+00:00","coverUrl":"clear-your-chakras_72106447.png","content":{"text":"Maybe you don’t expect to see a chakra clearing session mixed in with yoga classes. The western part of the world tends to be more focused on outward results, and you do yoga because that’s what you want. Results.\\n\\nStrength. Flexibility. Toning. Gentle exercise for an injured or unconditioned body.\\n\\nAnd you know nothing of chakras or chanting or all that other “woo woo” stuff.\\n\\nThe truth is, yoga, chakra clearing, and chanting work together to create harmony with your inner and outer world. They are all forms of meditation!\\n\\nIf you’re new to the woo, then this post will be helpful in understanding why I offer a \\nChakras and Sound Healing class \\nthrough myYogaTeacher.\\n\\n[CTA-DEFAULT]\\nWhat are chakras anyway?\\n\\nChakras are energy points in your body that correspond to organs, nerves, and areas of our body that affect our mental, physical, and emotional well-being. We are all made up of energy! Everything is made of energy.\\n\\nSo it is no surprise that energy flows through and around us.\\n\\nWhen your chakras or energy centers are off balance or blocked, you may experience negative emotional or physical symptoms related to a particular chakra.\\n\\nThe seven main chakras are:\\n\\n1. Root chakra (Muladhara): \\n Responsible for your sense of security, stability, and safety.\\n2. Sacral chakra (Svadhisthana):\\n Responsible for sexual and creative energy and linked to how you relate to and connect with others.\\n3. Solar plexus chakra (Manipura):\\n Corresponds to confidence, self-esteem, and helps you feel in control of your life.\\n4. Heart chakra (Anahata):\\n All about our ability to love and show compassion.\\n5. Throat chakra (Vishuddha):\\n Has to do with how we communicate verbally.\\n6. Third eye chakra (Ajna):\\n Linked to intuition and imagination.\\n7. Crown chakra (Sahasrara):\\n Represents your spiritual connection to self, others, and the Universe/God. Also linked to your life’s purpose.\\n\\nHow do you know if you have one or many – or any – blocked chakras? And what does clearing them even mean? Or do?\\n\\n\\n\\n\\nClear your chakras and improve your life.\\n\\nHaving balanced chakras (or imbalanced ones) impacts all areas of your life. Chakras are receptors and emitters. They receive and give back energy. You will receive the same frequency of energy back from the world that you emit.\\n\\nAn easily relatable example of this is when you constantly see the negative attributes in someone’s character. The more you talk, think, and explore those negative things, the more you will find. This also works in reverse. When we love someone, we choose to see all the good things in them, which leads us to find more good things. \\n\\nWhen you feel poor, you often act poor. So you receive more of the same. When you are unkind, you are often met with unkindness.\\n\\nThis is energy. Chakra energy.\\n\\nHere are some physical signs you can use to determine if you have blocked or imbalanced chakras:\\n\\n1. Root chakra:\\n Stress about money, digestive issues, arthritis, problems in the legs, feet, tailbone or rectum, prostate issues.\\n2. Sacral chakra:\\n Constant fear of betrayal, sexual or reproductive health issues, hip or lower back pain, urinary or kidney dysfunction.\\n3. Solar plexus chakra:\\n Fear of rejection, digestive issues, chronic fatigue, pancreas or gallbladder problems.\\n4. Heart chakra: \\nFear of being alone, asthma, arm and wrist pain, jealousy or bitterness, upper back or shoulder problems.\\n5. Throat chakra: \\nFear being out of control, thyroid issues, sore throats, ear infections, trouble expressing yourself, neck and shoulder pain.\\n6. Third eye chakra:\\n Moodiness or stubbornness, blurry vision or eye problems, sinus issues, headaches.\\n7. Crown chakra: \\nFear of alienation, rigid thoughts, analysis paralysis.\\n\\nRegularly clearing your chakras through a guided chakra clearing session or by visiting an energy healer will help alleviate many of these symptoms.\\n\\nAnd don’t rule it out as a part of your regular yoga routine!\\n\\n\\n\\nWhy we chant and other “weird” meditation practices\\n\\nYou may not feel comfortable chanting at the end of your yoga practice. Might want to check on your throat chakra about that (jk)!\\n\\nOr maybe it’s just unfamiliar to you. Why do we do it? What’s the point? \\n\\nSound healing is real. \\nThe practice of using vibrations in order to relax and heal the body has been scientifically proven to be effective.\\n\\nTraditionally, the chanting of “Om” (pronounced “AUM”) happens at the beginning and end of a yoga or meditation session. The letters AUM symbolize the divine energy of Shakti. Shakti is referred to as the “Great Divine Mother” in Hinduism. \\n\\nThe three main characteristics of Shakti are creation, preservation, and liberation.\\n\\nThe sound Om, when done correctly, vibrates at a frequency of 432 Hz, the same frequency as everything throughout nature. It’s a universal sound that helps us connect with ourselves and everything around us.\\n\\nChanting not only helps us open and close our practice, separating it from the rest of our day. It also helps slow down the nervous system and calm the mind.\\n\\nJust as chanting helps calm the mind and connect and ground us to the present, “Namaste” shows respect and reverence for the experience, the Universe, and the other people around you.\\n\\nIt may seem weird to you, but think of it as a handshake of gratitude to your body, your instructor, and the planet that supports you both.\\n\\n\\n\\n\\n\\nI encourage you to challenge yourself to a\\n Chakra and Sound Healing session\\n. Feel the difference in your heart, mind, and body afterwards. Pay attention to how it makes you feel. Do any parts of your body ache or hurt less? Is your mind more calm and focused? Do you feel more connected to yourself and nature?\\n\\nThese are some of the benefits you may experience!\\n\\nNot sure about it just yet? \\nmyYogaTeacher offers a 2-week free trial\\n where you have access to my class and many more! Group yoga, meditation, sound healing, and chakra clearing classes from the comfort of your own home. \\n\\nAll are welcome here!\\n\\n\\n\\n\\n\\n"}},{"id":"ckrxx06ug3syy0c74s8mg8lu2","slug":"yoga-for-peace","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":null,"pictureUrl":null},"title":"Bringing Peace to Your Chaos: How Yoga Heals the World","createdAt":"2021-08-04T20:00:25.747903+00:00","coverUrl":"unizcdwt8dtqxz1k4xpm.jpg","content":{"text":"Here at myYogaTeacher, we understand the effects of all the world’s problems on people. We feel them too. And we want to help.\\nClimate change. Wildfires. A pandemic. Political unrest. Social unrest.\\nMix in work and family and all the other aspects of our lives, and you’ve got the set up for inner and outer chaos. \\nIt doesn’t have to be that way. We’re not saying yoga cures every problem, but it certainly will help bring more peace and harmony to your busy, bustling, crazy life. The more peace you bring into your life, the healthier you will become. Physically, mentally, and emotionally.\\nWe believe that yoga is a path to wellness. That’s why myYogaTeacher offers a \\nfree-2-week trial where you can explore over 35 different yoga classes\\n and many different types of yoga, all taught by expert yoga teachers from the birthplace of yoga, India.\\nYoga brings harmony to your chaos and really can heal you in ways you’d never guess possible.\\nYoga promotes physical healing\\nThere is no doubt that yoga helps people feel better physically. But do you know how or in what ways yoga can benefit you besides helping you become more flexible?\\nYoga can cure lower back pain as well as other types of joint pain.\\n The stretching of the muscles around those areas relieves tension while simultaneously strengthening them, which provides added support to sensitive joints.\\nA regular yoga practice creates a healthy spine.\\n Besides providing stretches that help lengthen and strengthen the tiny muscles around the spine, yoga also works your abdominal muscles, which are imperative for spinal support and health.\\nYoga reduces blood pressure.\\n The combination of breathwork and yoga poses releases endorphins while also helping you effectively work through stressful situations easier. Consistently lower stress levels reduce blood pressure and cortisol levels.\\nPracticing yoga can relieve symptoms of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).\\n Studies have shown that practicing yoga 2-3 times a week actually reduces testosterone levels in women, providing relief from anxiety and depression, as well as from PCOS.\\nThe therapeutic benefits of yoga help cure and prevent Type II Diabetes\\n. Science has proven that a regular yoga practice lowers fasting blood sugar, and it promotes mindful eating. It also helps with glycemic control, making diabetes medications less necessary.\\nThis is just a small list of ways yoga provides physical benefits. There are so many other ways yoga helps people feel better physically. Like helping with arthritis, depression, liver problems, obesity, and even eating disorders.\\nSpeaking of depression…\\nYoga promotes mental healing\\nDepression affects approximately 40 million Americans every year. And that number has steadily increased in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. \\nUnfortunately, many people don’t have access to affordable or reliable mental health care. Or they do not understand the severity of their mental health problems enough to seek out the help they need.\\nA multitude of studies back the idea that a regular yoga practice helps heal many types of mental health problems, anxiety and depression being two.\\nHere are some other ways yoga helps heal mental health issues:\\nYoga helps strengthen social attachments.\\n Humans are created for interaction. Whether you’re an introvert, extrovert, or a bit of both, having solid social connections to others is proven to reduce anxiety and depression.\\nA regular yoga practice helps alleviate insomnia\\n. Insomnia itself is physical, but the effects of it are mental. Lack of sleep causes brain fog, poor decision making, irritability, anxiety, and depression.\\nYoga affects mood with the release of GABA.\\n GABA is a primary mood boosting chemical in your body and helps alleviate the effects of stress, anxiety, PTSD, and many other mental health disorders.\\nThe breathwork aspect of yoga reduces stress.\\n Stressful situations surround us every day. But how we respond to stress affects our mental health. Yoga is also a practice of breathwork and developing various breathing techniques that help us manage our stress.\\nMany people underestimate the power of stress and trauma in their lives. Stress increases blood pressure, cortisol levels, suicide rates,  the likelihood of eating disorders, and sleeplessness. \\nTrauma goes unrecognized by people suffering from it and mental health practitioners every single day.\\nYoga brings healing to the world through better mental health. It’s actually an important tool used in psychotherapy. It’s also much more affordable and accessible than psychotherapy or prescription drugs. When mental health is better, emotional health follows easily behind.\\nYoga promotes emotional well-being\\nYoga is a journey. It helps us unravel who we are on a heart and soul level. Who we are underneath all the roles of husband, wife, parent, child, friend. \\nYoga brings us to a place of self-awareness, a place where we can be present in every moment. A place where we are better able to control our inner and outer responses to outside stimuli. We can’t always control the world around us, and we certainly can’t control other people’s actions. \\nA regular yoga practice helps us control and regulate our emotions.\\nOn top of that, when we practice yoga consistently, our bodies release tension in areas where we may have pain. We begin to strengthen muscles that support our frame and joints, which also alleviates pain. Since pain can cause serious emotional distress, the idea that yoga provides relief from pain and promotes emotional well-being is \\nhuge\\n.\\nYoga is an ancient practice with modern benefits. MyYogaTeacher has made it easy for you to find the perfect class for you with an instructor you feel comfortable with. On top of that, as a member, you have the opportunity to try many different classes from anywhere in the world you may be and at almost any time of day!\\nWe truly care about your health and well-being and the power of yoga to heal the world. And it’s important to us that high quality, personalized, expert yoga instruction is affordable and easily accessible to anyone who wants it or needs it.\\n\\nIf you’re not a member yet, click here to grab your 2-week free trial!\\n \\nSee you on the mat! \\nNamaste."}}],"relatedPosts":[],"blogContent":{"id":"ckja323oo99s50965h541d4n4","slug":"how-yoga-helps-in-trying-times","author":{"name":"My Yoga Teacher","teacherMytSlug":null,"pictureUrl":null},"title":"How Yoga Helps You Handle Trying Times in the New Year","createdAt":"2020-12-29T14:25:45.875724+00:00","updatedAt":"2022-08-01T06:32:37.933656+00:00","coverUrl":"omid-armin-a5EbQpl-IHw-unsplash.jpg","seoDescription":null,"content":{"text":"It’s inevitable. Whether it’s a global pandemic or a flat tire on your way to an important meeting, tough times happen.\\n\\nAnxiety is real.\\n\\nAnd with stress and anxiety come bad decisions, terrible focus, high blood pressure, and increased cortisol levels. None of which are good. That’s why we wanted to talk to you about how yoga can help when times are just plain tough.\\n\\nSince the chaos of COVID erupted, many yoga studios across America have closed and been replaced with yoga classes online. Some are free yoga classes. Some are not.\\n\\nWith \\nmyYogaTeacher\\n, you can try our classes and awesome yoga instructors for two weeks free! We give you the opportunity to learn yoga live. None of that pre-recorded nonsense.\\n\\nAnd we can’t stress enough the benefits of yoga during all of life’s trials and tribulations.\\n\\nDitch the flight or fight response to stress this New Year\n\\nYou’ve felt it before. That gut reaction to a quick onset of stress. \\n\\nSomething crazy happened in your life and you’re either ready for battle or running for the hills. A regular yoga practice encourages a reduction in the naturally exaggerated responses to stress. \\n\\nIn this day and age, just the thought of being around a group of people at the grocery store is enough to make your heart race and your palms sweat. That’s exactly why so many yoga studios are offering online yoga classes like myYogaTeacher.\\n\\nBecause we want you to experience the benefits of yoga in a space that you feel safe. A space where we can focus on you. Not the rest of the world.\\n\\n Less stress and anxiety means:\\nLower blood pressure\\nMore and better mental focus and clarity\\nBetter immunity\\nReduced cortisol levels\\nLess sensitive to physical pain\\n\\nThe pandemic isn’t the only crisis in America. There are many. But one of the most important is mental health. \\n\\nDepression, anxiety, and stress contribute to extremely poor mental health. And with all the current pandemic restrictions, depression and anxiety are at an all time high, country-wide.\\n\\nFor many people with mental health issues and high levels of stress, learning yoga live from their home may be an appealing way to manage their symptoms. \\n\\nThere is growing evidence that a regular yoga practice is a low-risk, high reward approach to overall health. And isn’t that what everyone strives for in the New Year? Better health?\\n\\nWe think so.\\n\\nSpeaking of better health…\\n\\nHard times call for healthier bodies\\n\\n\\n\\n\\nMany gyms are still closed. Or if they’re not, they have limited capacity and many restrictions. Equipment that people relied on for gentle, yet effective exercise is either inaccessible or germy. Classes that people flocked to are no longer allowed.\\n\\nThere are plenty of free online yoga classes available nowadays. Heck, YouTube is chock full of all kinds of different types of exercise routines. Virtual yoga classes allow you to continue or start a yoga practice in the comfort of your own home or safe space and are an excellent outlet for stress relief during challenging times.\\n\\nIt’s always important to keep the endorphins going and your immune system boosted, especially when times are tough. \\n\\nYoga is one of the best ways to do just that. A gentle way to safely strengthen, tone, and stretch your body. \\n\\nIf trying times are getting the best of you, you might want to hit the mat and give yoga a try, if you haven’t already. MyYogaTeacher offers free online yoga classes for all levels of yogis with a \\ntwo week trial\\n! Novice to advanced.\\n\\nWhether weight loss is your goal in the New Year or you’ve just got to land that super hard asana that you were working on pre-pandemic, we’ve got a live yoga class for that.\\n\\nEnjoy the physical benefits of yoga such as:\\n\\nIncreased muscle strength\\nReduced back, knee, and joint pain\\nBetter balance and coordination\\nIncreased flexibility\\nMore energy and focus\\nBetter digestion\\nIncreased circulation\\n\\nAnd yoga \\njust feels good\\n. You’ll notice a difference in your mind and body after just one class! We promise!\\n\\nBut we can’t talk about the benefits of yoga without at least mentioning ...ahem, spirituality.\\n\\nGet in touch with your spiritual side during times of trial\\n\\n\\n\\nNow we’re not here to get all woo woo with you. \\nYoga is for everyone, spiritual or religious or not.\\n\\nBut one of the primary goals of yoga is to maintain harmony between your inner and outer self! \\n\\nBreathing through hard asanas (poses) can help you breathe your way through difficult times. Pushing yourself to do stretches without comparing yourself to someone else can help you let go of situations that you can’t control. Becoming more physically flexible and strong helps you to be more flexible and strong mentally.\\n\\nWorking on yourself by yourself through yoga classes online is empowering.\\n\\nYoga helps you live more in the moment and become self aware. A better connection with yourself will help you respond better to stressful situations.\\n\\nA crazy, chaotic mind becomes calmer.\\n\\nInner peace shines outward.\\n\\nSelf-compassion turns into empathy and compassion for others. And that’s always a good thing.\\n\\n\\n\\nAre you starting your New Year out in a struggle?\\n It’s understandable. Just because the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve doesn’t mean all your problems and worries disappear. \\n\\nBut you can handle tough situations with more ease, grace, and better health than you did last year.\\n MyYogaTeacher offers free yoga online as well as a paid membership with perks like 1:1 and unlimited group class all taught by highly experienced and expert yoga instructors from the birthplace of yoga, India. We even have specialized workshops that address unique health issues! Go ahead and scoop up your FREE two-week trial and try out our multitude of live yoga classes!\\n\\nWhat do you have to lose (besides stress and anxiety)?\\n","html":"<p>It’s inevitable. Whether it’s a global pandemic or a flat tire on your way to an important meeting, tough times happen.</p><p></p><p>Anxiety is real.</p><p></p><p>And with stress and anxiety come bad decisions, terrible focus, high blood pressure, and increased cortisol levels. None of which are good. That’s why we wanted to talk to you about how yoga can help when times are just plain tough.</p><p></p><p>Since the chaos of COVID erupted, many yoga studios across America have closed and been replaced with yoga classes online. Some are free yoga classes. Some are not.</p><p></p><p>With <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/\">myYogaTeacher</a>, you can try our classes and awesome yoga instructors for two weeks free! We give you the opportunity to learn yoga live. None of that pre-recorded nonsense.</p><p></p><p>And we can’t stress enough the benefits of yoga during all of life’s trials and tribulations.</p><p></p><h2>Ditch the flight or fight response to stress this New Year<br></h2><p>You’ve felt it before. That gut reaction to a quick onset of stress. </p><p></p><p>Something crazy happened in your life and you’re either ready for battle or running for the hills. A regular yoga practice encourages a reduction in the naturally exaggerated responses to stress. </p><p></p><p>In this day and age, just the thought of being around a group of people at the grocery store is enough to make your heart race and your palms sweat. That’s exactly why so many yoga studios are offering online yoga classes like myYogaTeacher.</p><p></p><p>Because we want you to experience the benefits of yoga in a space that you feel safe. A space where we can focus on you. Not the rest of the world.</p><p></p><p><strong> Less stress and anxiety means:</strong></p><ul><li><div>Lower blood pressure</div></li></ul><ul><li><div>More and better mental focus and clarity</div></li></ul><ul><li><div>Better immunity</div></li></ul><ul><li><div>Reduced cortisol levels</div></li></ul><ul><li><div>Less sensitive to physical pain</div></li></ul><p></p><p>The pandemic isn’t the only crisis in America. There are many. But one of the most important is mental health. </p><p></p><p><strong>Depression, anxiety, and stress contribute to extremely poor mental health. And with all the current pandemic restrictions, depression and anxiety are at an all time high, country-wide.</strong></p><p></p><p>For many people with mental health issues and high levels of stress, learning yoga live from their home may be an appealing way to manage their symptoms. </p><p></p><p>There is growing evidence that a regular yoga practice is a low-risk, high reward approach to overall health. And isn’t that what everyone strives for in the New Year? Better health?</p><p></p><p>We think so.</p><p></p><p>Speaking of better health…</p><p></p><h2>Hard times call for healthier bodies</h2><p></p><p></p><img src=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=width:6240,height:4160/NOGEeioQuG6X7kn65PLZ\" alt=\"Plank Pose\" title=\"luis-quintero-EPrjIYQrpkU-unsplash.jpg\" width=\"6240\" height=\"4160\" /><p></p><p>Many gyms are still closed. Or if they’re not, they have limited capacity and many restrictions. Equipment that people relied on for gentle, yet effective exercise is either inaccessible or germy. Classes that people flocked to are no longer allowed.</p><p></p><p>There are plenty of free online yoga classes available nowadays. Heck, YouTube is chock full of all kinds of different types of exercise routines. Virtual yoga classes allow you to continue or start a yoga practice in the comfort of your own home or safe space and are an excellent outlet for stress relief during challenging times.</p><p></p><p>It’s always important to keep the endorphins going and your immune system boosted, especially when times are tough. </p><p></p><p>Yoga is one of the best ways to do just that. A gentle way to safely strengthen, tone, and stretch your body. </p><p></p><p>If trying times are getting the best of you, you might want to hit the mat and give yoga a try, if you haven’t already. MyYogaTeacher offers free online yoga classes for all levels of yogis with a <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/\">two week trial</a>! Novice to advanced.</p><p></p><p>Whether weight loss is your goal in the New Year or you’ve just got to land that super hard asana that you were working on pre-pandemic, we’ve got a live yoga class for that.</p><p></p><p><strong>Enjoy the physical benefits of yoga such as:</strong></p><p></p><ul><li><div>Increased muscle strength</div></li></ul><ul><li><div>Reduced back, knee, and joint pain</div></li></ul><ul><li><div>Better balance and coordination</div></li></ul><ul><li><div>Increased flexibility</div></li></ul><ul><li><div>More energy and focus</div></li></ul><ul><li><div>Better digestion</div></li></ul><ul><li><div>Increased circulation</div></li></ul><p></p><p>And yoga <em>just feels good</em>. You’ll notice a difference in your mind and body after just one class! We promise!</p><p></p><p>But we can’t talk about the benefits of yoga without at least mentioning ...ahem, spirituality.</p><p></p><h2>Get in touch with your spiritual side during times of trial</h2><h2></h2><img src=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=width:5932,height:3955/fx7ZDWdMRQS9PK8Fv2dk\" alt=\"Meditative Pose\" title=\"katerina-jerabkova-6CLBoiWuzSU-unsplash.jpg\" width=\"5932\" height=\"3955\" /><p></p><p>Now we’re not here to get all woo woo with you. <strong>Yoga is for everyone, spiritual or religious or not.</strong></p><p></p><p>But one of the primary goals of yoga is to maintain harmony between your inner and outer self! </p><p></p><p>Breathing through hard asanas (poses) can help you breathe your way through difficult times. Pushing yourself to do stretches without comparing yourself to someone else can help you let go of situations that you can’t control. Becoming more physically flexible and strong helps you to be more flexible and strong mentally.</p><p></p><p>Working on yourself by yourself through yoga classes online is empowering.</p><p></p><p>Yoga helps you live more in the moment and become self aware. A better connection with yourself will help you respond better to stressful situations.</p><p></p><p>A crazy, chaotic mind becomes calmer.</p><p></p><p>Inner peace shines outward.</p><p></p><p>Self-compassion turns into empathy and compassion for others. And that’s always a good thing.</p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Are you starting your New Year out in a struggle?</strong> It’s understandable. Just because the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve doesn’t mean all your problems and worries disappear. </p><p></p><p><strong>But you can handle tough situations with more ease, grace, and better health than you did last year.</strong> MyYogaTeacher offers free yoga online as well as a paid membership with perks like 1:1 and unlimited group class all taught by highly experienced and expert yoga instructors from the birthplace of yoga, India. We even have specialized workshops that address unique health issues! Go ahead and scoop up your FREE two-week trial and try out our multitude of live yoga classes!</p><p></p><p>What do you have to lose (besides stress and anxiety)?</p><p></p>"},"category":["fitness","mental_health"],"utmCampaign":null,"utmMedium":null,"utmContent":null,"utmSource":null,"utmTerm":null,"utmSearchString":null,"imageHyperlink":[]},"loading":false,"blog_content":[{"type":"HTML","value":"<p>It’s inevitable. Whether it’s a global pandemic or a flat tire on your way to an important meeting, tough times happen.</p><p></p><p>Anxiety is real.</p><p></p><p>And with stress and anxiety come bad decisions, terrible focus, high blood pressure, and increased cortisol levels. None of which are good. That’s why we wanted to talk to you about how yoga can help when times are just plain tough.</p><p></p><p>Since the chaos of COVID erupted, many yoga studios across America have closed and been replaced with yoga classes online. Some are free yoga classes. Some are not.</p><p></p><p>With <a\n            class=\"inline-cta\"\n            id=85733f6f-4eae-4df8-9af1-fdc63ebfd538\n            href=\"/free-trial-o?utm_source=MYT__article&utm_medium=ckja323oo99s50965h541d4n4&utm_campaign=inline_cta&utm_content=CTA-INLINE&entity_name=How Yoga Helps You Handle Trying Times in the New Year&entity_slug=how-yoga-helps-in-trying-times&page_or_popup=/articles/how-yoga-helps-in-trying-times&entity_location=hyperlink_midst_of_article&article_cta=CTA-INLINE&from_article_page=true\"\n            onclick=trigger_mixpanel_sign_up_cta(\"85733f6f-4eae-4df8-9af1-fdc63ebfd538\")\n            title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/\" \n            data-title=\"How Yoga Helps You Handle Trying Times in the New Year\"\n            data-slug=\"how-yoga-helps-in-trying-times\"\n            <u>myYogaTeacher</a></u>        \n            </a>, you can try our classes and awesome yoga instructors for two weeks free! We give you the opportunity to learn yoga live. None of that pre-recorded nonsense.</p><p></p><p>And we can’t stress enough the benefits of yoga during all of life’s trials and tribulations.</p><p></p><h2>Ditch the flight or fight response to stress this New Year<br></h2><p>You’ve felt it before. That gut reaction to a quick onset of stress. </p><p></p><p>Something crazy happened in your life and you’re either ready for battle or running for the hills. A regular yoga practice encourages a reduction in the naturally exaggerated responses to stress. </p><p></p><p>In this day and age, just the thought of being around a group of people at the grocery store is enough to make your heart race and your palms sweat. That’s exactly why so many yoga studios are offering online yoga classes like myYogaTeacher.</p><p></p><p>Because we want you to experience the benefits of yoga in a space that you feel safe. A space where we can focus on you. Not the rest of the world.</p><p></p><p><strong> Less stress and anxiety means:</strong></p><ul><li><div>Lower blood pressure</div></li></ul><ul><li><div>More and better mental focus and clarity</div></li></ul><ul><li><div>Better immunity</div></li></ul><ul><li><div>Reduced cortisol levels</div></li></ul><ul><li><div>Less sensitive to physical pain</div></li></ul><p></p><p>The pandemic isn’t the only crisis in America. There are many. But one of the most important is mental health. </p><p></p><p><strong>Depression, anxiety, and stress contribute to extremely poor mental health. And with all the current pandemic restrictions, depression and anxiety are at an all time high, country-wide.</strong></p><p></p><p>For many people with mental health issues and high levels of stress, learning yoga live from their home may be an appealing way to manage their symptoms. </p><p></p><p>There is growing evidence that a regular yoga practice is a low-risk, high reward approach to overall health. And isn’t that what everyone strives for in the New Year? Better health?</p><p></p><p>We think so.</p><p></p><p>Speaking of better health…</p><p></p><h2>Hard times call for healthier bodies</h2><p></p><p></p>\n            <picture>\n              <source \n                type=\"image/webp\"\n                data-srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:webp/compress/resize=width:6240,height:4160/NOGEeioQuG6X7kn65PLZ\" \n                alt=\"Plank Pose\"\n                title=\"Plank Pose\"\n                \n                \n                class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n              />\n              <source \n                type=\"image/jpg\"\n                data-srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:jpg/resize=width:6240,height:4160/NOGEeioQuG6X7kn65PLZ\"\n                alt=\"Plank Pose\"\n                title=\"Plank Pose\"\n                \n                \n                class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n              />\n              <img \n                data-srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:jpg/resize=width:6240,height:4160/NOGEeioQuG6X7kn65PLZ\"\n                alt=\"Plank Pose\"\n                title=\"Plank Pose\"\n                \n                \n                class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n              />\n          </picture>\n        <p></p><p>Many gyms are still closed. Or if they’re not, they have limited capacity and many restrictions. Equipment that people relied on for gentle, yet effective exercise is either inaccessible or germy. Classes that people flocked to are no longer allowed.</p><p></p><p>There are plenty of free online yoga classes available nowadays. Heck, YouTube is chock full of all kinds of different types of exercise routines. Virtual yoga classes allow you to continue or start a yoga practice in the comfort of your own home or safe space and are an excellent outlet for stress relief during challenging times.</p><p></p><p>It’s always important to keep the endorphins going and your immune system boosted, especially when times are tough. </p><p></p><p>Yoga is one of the best ways to do just that. A gentle way to safely strengthen, tone, and stretch your body. </p><p></p><p>If trying times are getting the best of you, you might want to hit the mat and give yoga a try, if you haven’t already. MyYogaTeacher offers free online yoga classes for all levels of yogis with a <a\n            class=\"inline-cta\"\n            id=38f9a6da-182b-4481-bd3f-6e2f3efdfc3b\n            href=\"/free-trial-o?utm_source=MYT__article&utm_medium=ckja323oo99s50965h541d4n4&utm_campaign=inline_cta&utm_content=CTA-INLINE&entity_name=How Yoga Helps You Handle Trying Times in the New Year&entity_slug=how-yoga-helps-in-trying-times&page_or_popup=/articles/how-yoga-helps-in-trying-times&entity_location=hyperlink_midst_of_article&article_cta=CTA-INLINE&from_article_page=true\"\n            onclick=trigger_mixpanel_sign_up_cta(\"38f9a6da-182b-4481-bd3f-6e2f3efdfc3b\")\n            title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/\" \n            data-title=\"How Yoga Helps You Handle Trying Times in the New Year\"\n            data-slug=\"how-yoga-helps-in-trying-times\"\n            <u>two week trial</a></u>        \n            </a>! Novice to advanced.</p><p></p><p>Whether weight loss is your goal in the New Year or you’ve just got to land that super hard asana that you were working on pre-pandemic, we’ve got a live yoga class for that.</p><p></p><p><strong>Enjoy the physical benefits of yoga such as:</strong></p><p></p><ul><li><div>Increased muscle strength</div></li></ul><ul><li><div>Reduced back, knee, and joint pain</div></li></ul><ul><li><div>Better balance and coordination</div></li></ul><ul><li><div>Increased flexibility</div></li></ul><ul><li><div>More energy and focus</div></li></ul><ul><li><div>Better digestion</div></li></ul><ul><li><div>Increased circulation</div></li></ul><p></p><p>And yoga <em>just feels good</em>. You’ll notice a difference in your mind and body after just one class! We promise!</p><p></p><p>But we can’t talk about the benefits of yoga without at least mentioning ...ahem, spirituality.</p><p></p><h2>Get in touch with your spiritual side during times of trial</h2><h2></h2>\n            <picture>\n              <source \n                type=\"image/webp\"\n                data-srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:webp/compress/resize=width:5932,height:3955/fx7ZDWdMRQS9PK8Fv2dk\" \n                alt=\"Meditative Pose\"\n                title=\"Meditative Pose\"\n                \n                \n                class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n              />\n              <source \n                type=\"image/jpg\"\n                data-srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:jpg/resize=width:5932,height:3955/fx7ZDWdMRQS9PK8Fv2dk\"\n                alt=\"Meditative Pose\"\n                title=\"Meditative Pose\"\n                \n                \n                class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n              />\n              <img \n                data-srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:jpg/resize=width:5932,height:3955/fx7ZDWdMRQS9PK8Fv2dk\"\n                alt=\"Meditative Pose\"\n                title=\"Meditative Pose\"\n                \n                \n                class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n              />\n          </picture>\n        <p></p><p>Now we’re not here to get all woo woo with you. <strong>Yoga is for everyone, spiritual or religious or not.</strong></p><p></p><p>But one of the primary goals of yoga is to maintain harmony between your inner and outer self! </p><p></p><p>Breathing through hard asanas (poses) can help you breathe your way through difficult times. Pushing yourself to do stretches without comparing yourself to someone else can help you let go of situations that you can’t control. Becoming more physically flexible and strong helps you to be more flexible and strong mentally.</p><p></p><p>Working on yourself by yourself through yoga classes online is empowering.</p><p></p><p>Yoga helps you live more in the moment and become self aware. A better connection with yourself will help you respond better to stressful situations.</p><p></p><p>A crazy, chaotic mind becomes calmer.</p><p></p><p>Inner peace shines outward.</p><p></p><p>Self-compassion turns into empathy and compassion for others. And that’s always a good thing.</p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Are you starting your New Year out in a struggle?</strong> It’s understandable. Just because the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve doesn’t mean all your problems and worries disappear. </p><p></p><p><strong>But you can handle tough situations with more ease, grace, and better health than you did last year.</strong> MyYogaTeacher offers free yoga online as well as a paid membership with perks like 1:1 and unlimited group class all taught by highly experienced and expert yoga instructors from the birthplace of yoga, India. We even have specialized workshops that address unique health issues! Go ahead and scoop up your FREE two-week trial and try out our multitude of live yoga classes!</p><p></p><p>What do you have to lose (besides stress and anxiety)?</p><p></p>"},{"type":"CTA","value":"[CTA-DEFAULT]"}],"isSlugACategory":false,"searchCategory":"how-yoga-helps-in-trying-times","showPopUp":false,"popUpType":null,"showedPopup":false,"windowWidth":null,"ctaPath":"free-trial-o","redirectURL":"#","ctaContent":[{"id":"ckxrz2i14tov40c25g1dpicsg","name":"[CTA-DEFAULT]","description":{"html":"<p><strong>Get 2 free private yoga sessions and 2 weeks of unlimited group classes</strong> with authentic yoga teachers. 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No credit card required when you sign up today!</p>"},"title":{"html":"<p><strong>Online Yoga Sessions – </strong><u><strong>Live &amp; Interactive</strong></u></p><p><strong>Practice with Authentic Indian Yoga Teachers</strong></p><p></p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"},{"id":"ckxrz6nq0tqdr0c258titvagg","name":"[CTA-REVIEWS]","description":{"html":"<p>Find out what all the hype is about! <strong>Get 2 free private yoga sessions and 2 weeks of unlimited group classes</strong> with authentic yoga teachers. No credit card required when you sign up today!</p>"},"title":{"html":"<p><strong>Online Yoga Sessions – </strong><u><strong>Live &amp; Interactive</strong></u></p><p><strong>103,478 Happy Students &amp; 12,086 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reviews</strong></p><p></p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"},{"id":"ckxrz7nzktu400b752fym6wpw","name":"[CTA-HATHA]","description":{"html":"<p><strong>Get 2 free private hatha yoga sessions and 2 weeks of unlimited group classes </strong>(including tons of daily Hatha yoga classes). No credit card required when you sign up today!</p>"},"title":{"html":"<p><strong>Online Hatha Yoga Sessions – </strong><u><strong>Live &amp; Interactive</strong></u></p><p><strong>with Authentic Indian Teachers</strong></p><p></p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"},{"id":"cky90p88g3zgc0d23yz6taont","name":"[CTA-NASAL]","description":{"html":"<p><strong>Get 2 free private sessions </strong>to relieve post nasal drip and clear out your sinus. </p><p><strong>PLUS, 2 weeks of unlimited group classes </strong>with authentic Indian yoga teachers. No credit card required when you sign up today!</p>"},"title":{"html":"<p><strong>Online Yoga Sessions – </strong><u><strong>Live &amp; Interactive</strong></u></p><p><strong>Relieve Post Nasal Drip &amp; Clear Your Sinus Today!</strong></p><p></p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"},{"id":"ckyirvl8g25ce0c70cldmca2g","name":"[CTA-TRATAKA]","description":{"html":"<p><strong>Get 2 free private sessions </strong>with experienced Trataka teachers. </p><p><strong>PLUS, 2 weeks of unlimited group classes </strong>(like ‘Candle Gazing Meditation) with authentic yoga teachers. No credit card required when you sign up today!</p>"},"title":{"html":"<p><strong>Online Yoga Sessions – </strong><u><strong>Live &amp; Interactive</strong></u></p><p><strong>Learn Trataka (Candle Gazing) Meditation Today!</strong></p><p></p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"},{"id":"ckyisqh482ck60b79rp1r1jcg","name":"[CTA-YIN]","description":{"html":"<p><strong>Get 2 free private yoga sessions</strong>, work with an experienced yoga therapist to reduce (and even eliminate) your back pain. <strong>PLUS 2 weeks of unlimited group classes </strong>(like ‘Yoga for Back Pain’) with authentic yoga teachers. No credit card required when you sign up today!</p>"},"title":{"html":"<p><strong>Online Yoga Therapy – </strong><u><strong>Live &amp; Interactive</strong></u></p><p><strong>Relieve Back Pain Safely &amp; Effectively Today!</strong></p><p></p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"},{"id":"ckyitki4w2liz0b30tqpzhy4i","name":"[CTA-KRIYA]","description":{"html":"<p><strong>Get 2 free private yoga sessions </strong>for Kriya Yoga, Pranayama, and Meditation <strong>and 2 weeks of unlimited group classes </strong>with authentic yoga teachers. 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No credit card required when you sign up today!</p>"},"title":{"html":"<p><strong>Online Yoga Sessions – </strong><u><strong>Live &amp; Interactive</strong></u></p><p><strong> Learn Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced Pranayama!</strong></p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"},{"id":"ckykb6i2o1o7f0b368s1m7qow","name":"[CTA-LYMPHATIC]","description":{"html":"<p><strong>Get 2 free private yoga sessions</strong> for lymphatic drainage &amp; immunity enhancement. <strong>PLUS 2 weeks of unlimited group yoga classes</strong> (including daily yin-yoga) when you sign up today! No credit card required to sign up.</p><p></p>"},"title":{"html":"<p><strong>Online Yoga Sessions –  </strong><u><strong>Live &amp; Interactive</strong></u></p><p><strong>for Lymphatic Drainage &amp; Boosting Your Immune System!</strong></p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"},{"id":"cl2vqlpyfe3yh0biohgxyx2hg","name":"[CTA-LEAD]","description":{"html":"<p>Lead Form</p>"},"title":{"html":"<p>Lead Form</p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"},{"id":"cl4gnwnrlga640ck37gutx7sn","name":"[CTA-GC]","description":{"html":"<p>CTA-GC</p>"},"title":{"html":"<p>CTA-GC</p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"}],"post":{"id":"ckja323oo99s50965h541d4n4","slug":"how-yoga-helps-in-trying-times","author":{"name":"My Yoga Teacher","teacherMytSlug":null,"pictureUrl":null},"title":"How Yoga Helps You Handle Trying Times in the New Year","createdAt":"2020-12-29T14:25:45.875724+00:00","updatedAt":"2022-08-01T06:32:37.933656+00:00","coverUrl":"omid-armin-a5EbQpl-IHw-unsplash.jpg","seoDescription":null,"content":{"text":"It’s inevitable. Whether it’s a global pandemic or a flat tire on your way to an important meeting, tough times happen.\\n\\nAnxiety is real.\\n\\nAnd with stress and anxiety come bad decisions, terrible focus, high blood pressure, and increased cortisol levels. None of which are good. That’s why we wanted to talk to you about how yoga can help when times are just plain tough.\\n\\nSince the chaos of COVID erupted, many yoga studios across America have closed and been replaced with yoga classes online. Some are free yoga classes. Some are not.\\n\\nWith \\nmyYogaTeacher\\n, you can try our classes and awesome yoga instructors for two weeks free! We give you the opportunity to learn yoga live. None of that pre-recorded nonsense.\\n\\nAnd we can’t stress enough the benefits of yoga during all of life’s trials and tribulations.\\n\\nDitch the flight or fight response to stress this New Year\n\\nYou’ve felt it before. That gut reaction to a quick onset of stress. \\n\\nSomething crazy happened in your life and you’re either ready for battle or running for the hills. A regular yoga practice encourages a reduction in the naturally exaggerated responses to stress. \\n\\nIn this day and age, just the thought of being around a group of people at the grocery store is enough to make your heart race and your palms sweat. That’s exactly why so many yoga studios are offering online yoga classes like myYogaTeacher.\\n\\nBecause we want you to experience the benefits of yoga in a space that you feel safe. A space where we can focus on you. Not the rest of the world.\\n\\n Less stress and anxiety means:\\nLower blood pressure\\nMore and better mental focus and clarity\\nBetter immunity\\nReduced cortisol levels\\nLess sensitive to physical pain\\n\\nThe pandemic isn’t the only crisis in America. There are many. But one of the most important is mental health. \\n\\nDepression, anxiety, and stress contribute to extremely poor mental health. And with all the current pandemic restrictions, depression and anxiety are at an all time high, country-wide.\\n\\nFor many people with mental health issues and high levels of stress, learning yoga live from their home may be an appealing way to manage their symptoms. \\n\\nThere is growing evidence that a regular yoga practice is a low-risk, high reward approach to overall health. And isn’t that what everyone strives for in the New Year? Better health?\\n\\nWe think so.\\n\\nSpeaking of better health…\\n\\nHard times call for healthier bodies\\n\\n\\n\\n\\nMany gyms are still closed. Or if they’re not, they have limited capacity and many restrictions. Equipment that people relied on for gentle, yet effective exercise is either inaccessible or germy. Classes that people flocked to are no longer allowed.\\n\\nThere are plenty of free online yoga classes available nowadays. Heck, YouTube is chock full of all kinds of different types of exercise routines. Virtual yoga classes allow you to continue or start a yoga practice in the comfort of your own home or safe space and are an excellent outlet for stress relief during challenging times.\\n\\nIt’s always important to keep the endorphins going and your immune system boosted, especially when times are tough. \\n\\nYoga is one of the best ways to do just that. A gentle way to safely strengthen, tone, and stretch your body. \\n\\nIf trying times are getting the best of you, you might want to hit the mat and give yoga a try, if you haven’t already. MyYogaTeacher offers free online yoga classes for all levels of yogis with a \\ntwo week trial\\n! Novice to advanced.\\n\\nWhether weight loss is your goal in the New Year or you’ve just got to land that super hard asana that you were working on pre-pandemic, we’ve got a live yoga class for that.\\n\\nEnjoy the physical benefits of yoga such as:\\n\\nIncreased muscle strength\\nReduced back, knee, and joint pain\\nBetter balance and coordination\\nIncreased flexibility\\nMore energy and focus\\nBetter digestion\\nIncreased circulation\\n\\nAnd yoga \\njust feels good\\n. You’ll notice a difference in your mind and body after just one class! We promise!\\n\\nBut we can’t talk about the benefits of yoga without at least mentioning ...ahem, spirituality.\\n\\nGet in touch with your spiritual side during times of trial\\n\\n\\n\\nNow we’re not here to get all woo woo with you. \\nYoga is for everyone, spiritual or religious or not.\\n\\nBut one of the primary goals of yoga is to maintain harmony between your inner and outer self! \\n\\nBreathing through hard asanas (poses) can help you breathe your way through difficult times. Pushing yourself to do stretches without comparing yourself to someone else can help you let go of situations that you can’t control. Becoming more physically flexible and strong helps you to be more flexible and strong mentally.\\n\\nWorking on yourself by yourself through yoga classes online is empowering.\\n\\nYoga helps you live more in the moment and become self aware. A better connection with yourself will help you respond better to stressful situations.\\n\\nA crazy, chaotic mind becomes calmer.\\n\\nInner peace shines outward.\\n\\nSelf-compassion turns into empathy and compassion for others. And that’s always a good thing.\\n\\n\\n\\nAre you starting your New Year out in a struggle?\\n It’s understandable. Just because the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve doesn’t mean all your problems and worries disappear. \\n\\nBut you can handle tough situations with more ease, grace, and better health than you did last year.\\n MyYogaTeacher offers free yoga online as well as a paid membership with perks like 1:1 and unlimited group class all taught by highly experienced and expert yoga instructors from the birthplace of yoga, India. We even have specialized workshops that address unique health issues! Go ahead and scoop up your FREE two-week trial and try out our multitude of live yoga classes!\\n\\nWhat do you have to lose (besides stress and anxiety)?\\n","html":"<p>It’s inevitable. Whether it’s a global pandemic or a flat tire on your way to an important meeting, tough times happen.</p><p></p><p>Anxiety is real.</p><p></p><p>And with stress and anxiety come bad decisions, terrible focus, high blood pressure, and increased cortisol levels. None of which are good. That’s why we wanted to talk to you about how yoga can help when times are just plain tough.</p><p></p><p>Since the chaos of COVID erupted, many yoga studios across America have closed and been replaced with yoga classes online. Some are free yoga classes. Some are not.</p><p></p><p>With <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/\">myYogaTeacher</a>, you can try our classes and awesome yoga instructors for two weeks free! We give you the opportunity to learn yoga live. None of that pre-recorded nonsense.</p><p></p><p>And we can’t stress enough the benefits of yoga during all of life’s trials and tribulations.</p><p></p><h2>Ditch the flight or fight response to stress this New Year<br></h2><p>You’ve felt it before. That gut reaction to a quick onset of stress. </p><p></p><p>Something crazy happened in your life and you’re either ready for battle or running for the hills. A regular yoga practice encourages a reduction in the naturally exaggerated responses to stress. </p><p></p><p>In this day and age, just the thought of being around a group of people at the grocery store is enough to make your heart race and your palms sweat. That’s exactly why so many yoga studios are offering online yoga classes like myYogaTeacher.</p><p></p><p>Because we want you to experience the benefits of yoga in a space that you feel safe. A space where we can focus on you. Not the rest of the world.</p><p></p><p><strong> Less stress and anxiety means:</strong></p><ul><li><div>Lower blood pressure</div></li></ul><ul><li><div>More and better mental focus and clarity</div></li></ul><ul><li><div>Better immunity</div></li></ul><ul><li><div>Reduced cortisol levels</div></li></ul><ul><li><div>Less sensitive to physical pain</div></li></ul><p></p><p>The pandemic isn’t the only crisis in America. There are many. But one of the most important is mental health. </p><p></p><p><strong>Depression, anxiety, and stress contribute to extremely poor mental health. And with all the current pandemic restrictions, depression and anxiety are at an all time high, country-wide.</strong></p><p></p><p>For many people with mental health issues and high levels of stress, learning yoga live from their home may be an appealing way to manage their symptoms. </p><p></p><p>There is growing evidence that a regular yoga practice is a low-risk, high reward approach to overall health. And isn’t that what everyone strives for in the New Year? Better health?</p><p></p><p>We think so.</p><p></p><p>Speaking of better health…</p><p></p><h2>Hard times call for healthier bodies</h2><p></p><p></p><img src=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=width:6240,height:4160/NOGEeioQuG6X7kn65PLZ\" alt=\"Plank Pose\" title=\"luis-quintero-EPrjIYQrpkU-unsplash.jpg\" width=\"6240\" height=\"4160\" /><p></p><p>Many gyms are still closed. Or if they’re not, they have limited capacity and many restrictions. Equipment that people relied on for gentle, yet effective exercise is either inaccessible or germy. Classes that people flocked to are no longer allowed.</p><p></p><p>There are plenty of free online yoga classes available nowadays. Heck, YouTube is chock full of all kinds of different types of exercise routines. Virtual yoga classes allow you to continue or start a yoga practice in the comfort of your own home or safe space and are an excellent outlet for stress relief during challenging times.</p><p></p><p>It’s always important to keep the endorphins going and your immune system boosted, especially when times are tough. </p><p></p><p>Yoga is one of the best ways to do just that. A gentle way to safely strengthen, tone, and stretch your body. </p><p></p><p>If trying times are getting the best of you, you might want to hit the mat and give yoga a try, if you haven’t already. MyYogaTeacher offers free online yoga classes for all levels of yogis with a <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/\">two week trial</a>! Novice to advanced.</p><p></p><p>Whether weight loss is your goal in the New Year or you’ve just got to land that super hard asana that you were working on pre-pandemic, we’ve got a live yoga class for that.</p><p></p><p><strong>Enjoy the physical benefits of yoga such as:</strong></p><p></p><ul><li><div>Increased muscle strength</div></li></ul><ul><li><div>Reduced back, knee, and joint pain</div></li></ul><ul><li><div>Better balance and coordination</div></li></ul><ul><li><div>Increased flexibility</div></li></ul><ul><li><div>More energy and focus</div></li></ul><ul><li><div>Better digestion</div></li></ul><ul><li><div>Increased circulation</div></li></ul><p></p><p>And yoga <em>just feels good</em>. You’ll notice a difference in your mind and body after just one class! We promise!</p><p></p><p>But we can’t talk about the benefits of yoga without at least mentioning ...ahem, spirituality.</p><p></p><h2>Get in touch with your spiritual side during times of trial</h2><h2></h2><img src=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=width:5932,height:3955/fx7ZDWdMRQS9PK8Fv2dk\" alt=\"Meditative Pose\" title=\"katerina-jerabkova-6CLBoiWuzSU-unsplash.jpg\" width=\"5932\" height=\"3955\" /><p></p><p>Now we’re not here to get all woo woo with you. <strong>Yoga is for everyone, spiritual or religious or not.</strong></p><p></p><p>But one of the primary goals of yoga is to maintain harmony between your inner and outer self! </p><p></p><p>Breathing through hard asanas (poses) can help you breathe your way through difficult times. Pushing yourself to do stretches without comparing yourself to someone else can help you let go of situations that you can’t control. Becoming more physically flexible and strong helps you to be more flexible and strong mentally.</p><p></p><p>Working on yourself by yourself through yoga classes online is empowering.</p><p></p><p>Yoga helps you live more in the moment and become self aware. A better connection with yourself will help you respond better to stressful situations.</p><p></p><p>A crazy, chaotic mind becomes calmer.</p><p></p><p>Inner peace shines outward.</p><p></p><p>Self-compassion turns into empathy and compassion for others. And that’s always a good thing.</p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Are you starting your New Year out in a struggle?</strong> It’s understandable. Just because the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve doesn’t mean all your problems and worries disappear. </p><p></p><p><strong>But you can handle tough situations with more ease, grace, and better health than you did last year.</strong> MyYogaTeacher offers free yoga online as well as a paid membership with perks like 1:1 and unlimited group class all taught by highly experienced and expert yoga instructors from the birthplace of yoga, India. We even have specialized workshops that address unique health issues! Go ahead and scoop up your FREE two-week trial and try out our multitude of live yoga classes!</p><p></p><p>What do you have to lose (besides stress and anxiety)?</p><p></p>"},"category":["fitness","mental_health"],"utmCampaign":null,"utmMedium":null,"utmContent":null,"utmSource":null,"utmTerm":null,"utmSearchString":null,"imageHyperlink":[]},"recommendations_group_class":null}