By Shelly Piplani
Practicing yoga is a tool that sharpens the mind so that you can see the reality clearly. It is not just a stretching routine that helps you get limber. In essence the yoga practice seeks to answer the question of what defines the present moment and help root your consciousness directly in it.
Here is my journey to Yoga. I was always a person who was involved in different forms of workout. I loved to do any kind of workout. BE it dance , aerobics or CrossFit, there was always a feel good factor post workout.
Yoga was part of my workout. I used to love holding the asanas for longer. Till that time I was not aware how incredible an art and science Yoga is.
Then started the urge to learn more in Yoga. Initially it was about mastering the Asanas and as I learnt the philosophy behind the practice there was no looking back. Then it was a mix of intense personal Sadhana and study of Yoga Philosophy. Then started the journey of teaching. Teaching Yoga is what started bringing happiness to me. Understanding the goals of the student's in one to one sessions and helping them reach there is what I started loving.
I strongly believe "We as humans have unlimited potential. All we need is to look inward and move forward". Yoga is the journey which really helps you to understand your inner self. Yoga is the holistic approach of movement, breath, mindfulness and introspection.
Yoga can be addictive. That’s both good and bad. It’s good when yoga takes over your life and replaces old destructive habits with new helpful ones instead. When you crave a deep long yoga session instead of a drink after a stressful day, then yoga has successfully rewired your brain, at least to some level. But, when yoga becomes an obsession with asana for asana sake, the addictive mind is still present and, unfortunately, can still be quite damaging.
When asana is your addiction instead of yoga, the danger is that you aren’t actually participating in a change of paradigm. We practice asana not to get better at asana. We practice asana as a tool to delve into the deepest reaches of the body and mind. The unique combination of breath and movement allows one to enter the operating system of the mind and make some updates. We get a chance to practice a radical new way of being—that is being at peace with yourself.
For me a practice session is something that can flow with ease, from posture to posture with breath. The structure of each session is based on every student’s requirements and goals.
“Lets set the intention to live yoga as a lifestyle. Lets be open to receive the inner guidance and let it steer the course of our life towards peace and happiness.”
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{"slug":"yoga-a-journey-to-your-own-inner-self","recentPosts":[{"id":"clgc1nu7j1uwk0birznqai3x1","slug":"10-yoga-poses-for-multiple-sclerosis","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"10 Yoga Poses to Enhance Wellness for Multiple Sclerosis Patients","subTitle":null,"seoTitle":null,"seoDescription":"Learn about Yoga for Multiple Sclerosis and how it can help manage symptoms. Improve your quality of life with these yoga poses.","readTime":null,"excerpt":"Discover yoga for multiple sclerosis - improve your quality of life with these poses.","tags":[],"createdAt":"2023-04-11T09:12:29.35505+00:00","coverUrl":"aydrjq4doquwuaot8kt7.jpg","content":{"text":"Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system. It can cause a range of symptoms, including fatigue, muscle weakness, and difficulty with balance and coordination. While there is no cure for MS, practicing yoga can help manage symptoms and improve overall health and well-being. Before starting a yoga practice, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure safety and effectiveness.\\n\\nBenefits of Yoga for Multiple Sclerosis\\nStress and Fatigue Reduction: Yoga provides a calming and relaxing effect on the body and mind, which can help ease the mental and physical stresses of MS. It can lead to a reduction in fatigue levels and promote a more peaceful state of mind.\\nImproved Balance and Coordination: MS can cause issues with balance and coordination, but yoga can help improve these areas. The practice of yoga involves movements that require balance and coordination, which can improve the function of the nervous system.\\nIncreased Flexibility and Strength: Yoga poses require the use of muscles that may not be utilized in everyday activities. Practicing yoga regularly can lead to increased flexibility and strength, which can improve overall fitness levels.\\nRespiratory Function Improvement: MS can affect respiratory function, but yoga can help improve breathing patterns. Certain yoga practices involve deep breathing exercises that can help increase lung capacity and oxygenation of the body.\\nPain Management: MS can cause pain and discomfort, but yoga can be an effective tool for managing these symptoms. The gentle movements of yoga can help relieve tension and tightness in the muscles, which can reduce pain and improve overall comfort.\\nImproved Overall Health and Well-Being: By providing a range of physical and mental benefits, yoga can improve overall health and well-being for individuals with MS. Regular practice can promote a sense of inner calm and peacefulness, which can positively impact all areas of life.\\n\\nYoga Poses for Multiple Sclerosis Symptom Management\\nSeated or chair yoga poses are ideal for individuals with limited mobility, while standing poses are suitable for those with greater mobility. Focus on poses that improve balance, coordination, and flexibility, such as:\\n\\n1.Child's Pose (Balasana): \\n\\nSit on your heels with your knees apart, and fold your torso forward, resting your forehead on the floor. Stretch your arms forward, palms facing down. Hold for 5-10 deep breaths.\\n\\n2.Cat-Cow (Marjaryasana-Bitilasana): \\n\\nStart on your hands and knees, with your wrists under your shoulders and knees under your hips. Inhale and lift your chest and tailbone towards the ceiling (Cow pose), and exhale, rounding your spine towards the ceiling (Cat pose). Repeat for 5-10 breaths.\\n\\n3.Warrior II (Virabhadrasana II): \\n\\nFrom a standing position, step your left foot back and turn it out 90 degrees. Bend your right knee, keeping it directly over your ankle. Extend your arms out to the sides, and gaze over your right hand. Hold for 5-10 breaths and repeat on the other side.\\n\\n4.Tree Pose (Vrksasana): \\n\\nStand with your feet hip-distance apart, and shift your weight onto your left foot. Place your right foot on your left thigh, and balance here. Place your hands in prayer position at your heart or extend your arms overhead. Hold for 5-10 breaths and repeat on the other side.\\n\\n5.Downward-Facing Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana): \\n\\nFrom a tabletop position, walk your hands forward and lift your hips up and back, forming an inverted V-shape with your body. Press your hands and feet into the ground and hold for 5-10 breaths.\\n\\n6.Warrior I (Virabhadrasana I): \\n\\nFrom a standing position, step your left foot back and turn it out 45 degrees. Bend your right knee, keeping it directly over your ankle. Extend your arms overhead and gaze forward. Hold for 5-10 breaths and repeat on the other side.\n\\n7.Sphinx Pose (Salamba Bhujangasana): \\n\\nLie on your stomach with your elbows under your shoulders and forearms on the ground. Press into your forearms and lift your chest up, keeping your shoulders relaxed. Hold for 5-10 breaths.\n\\n8.Bridge Pose (Setu Bandha Sarvangasana): \\n\\nLie on your back with your knees bent and feet hip-distance apart. Press into your feet and lift your hips up, keeping your arms and shoulders on the ground. Hold for 5-10 breaths.\\n\\n9.Triangle Pose (Trikonasana): \\n\\nFrom a standing position, step your left foot back and turn it out 90 degrees. Extend your arms out to the sides and reach forward with your right hand, placing it on your shin or a block. Gaze up at your left hand. Hold for 5-10 breaths and repeat on the other side.\\n\\n10.Corpse Pose (Savasana): \\n\\nLie on your back with your arms and legs extended. Close your eyes and focus on your breath, allowing your body to fully relax. Stay here for at least 5-10 minutes.\\n\\nBreathing and Meditation Practices for Yoga for Multiple Sclerosis\\nHere are some breathing and meditation practices that can be incorporated into a yoga practice for multiple sclerosis symptom management:\\n\nDeep Breathing: Sit comfortably and take deep, slow breaths through the nose, filling the lungs completely. Exhale slowly through the nose, releasing all the air. Repeat for several minutes.\\nAlternate Nostril Breathing: Sit comfortably and use the thumb to close one nostril while inhaling through the other. Then, use the ring finger to close the opposite nostril while exhaling through the first. Repeat for several minutes.\\nMindful Breathing: Focus on the sensation of the breath as it enters and leaves the body. If the mind wanders, gently bring the focus back to the breath.\\nBody Scan Meditation: Lie down or sit comfortably and bring attention to each part of the body, starting from the toes and moving up to the head. Notice any sensations or tensions and release them as you move through each part.\\n\\nConclusion\\nPracticing yoga can provide many benefits for individuals with multiple sclerosis, including reduced stress and fatigue, improved balance and coordination, and increased flexibility and strength. Incorporating yoga poses and practices into your routine can help manage symptoms and improve overall health and well-being. Remember to consult with a healthcare provider and find a qualified yoga teacher to begin a safe and effective practice."},"category":["fitness"]},{"id":"clg55sr3657wd0airoeszt66q","slug":"yoga-for-carpal-tunnel-syndrom","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"Yoga for Carpal Tunnel: Top 10 Yoga Poses, Benefits, FAQs","subTitle":null,"seoTitle":null,"seoDescription":"Alleviate carpal tunnel symptoms with yoga! Discover 10 poses to reduce pain and improve wrist and hand health. Learn best practices and protect yourself.","readTime":null,"excerpt":"Relieve carpal tunnel with yoga! 10 poses to manage symptoms and improve wrist and hand health.","tags":[],"createdAt":"2023-04-06T13:33:53.820514+00:00","coverUrl":"fyzezortjqar8ovbd4vf.jpg","content":{"text":"Do you ever experience pain or tingling in your hands and fingers? It could be carpal tunnel syndrome, a common condition that affects many people who use their hands and wrists frequently. Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by the compression of the median nerve in the wrist, which can lead to discomfort, numbness, and weakness in the hand and fingers.\\nFortunately, yoga can offer a natural and effective way to manage carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms. In this article, we'll explore some yoga poses and practices that can help relieve pain and improve flexibility in the wrists and hands.\n\n\\nBenefits of Yoga for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome\\nYoga has many benefits for overall health and wellness, and it can be particularly helpful for managing carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms. Here are just a few of the benefits:\\nReducing pain:\\n Certain yoga poses can help stretch and strengthen the muscles in the wrist and hand, which can reduce pain and discomfort.\\nImproving flexibility: \\nTight muscles and tendons in the wrist and hand can exacerbate carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms, but yoga can help improve flexibility and mobility.\\nReducing stress:\\n Stress and tension in the body can contribute to carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms, but yoga can help reduce stress levels and promote relaxation.\n\\n\\nYoga Poses for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Relief\\nYoga poses, or asanas, can be a powerful tool for managing carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms. Here are a few poses to try:\\n\n\\n1.Gomukhasana (Cow Face Pose): \\n\\nThis pose can help stretch the wrists and forearms, reducing pain and stiffness. To perform this pose, sit on the floor with your legs extended in front of you. Bend your right knee and place your right foot on the floor, outside your left thigh. Bring your left heel toward your right buttock. Cross your left arm over your right arm and bring your palms together. Hold for 5-10 breaths, then switch sides.\\n\n\\n2.Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward-Facing Dog Pose): \\n\\nThis pose can help stretch the muscles in the hands, wrists, and arms, improving flexibility and reducing pain. Start on your hands and knees, with your wrists directly under your shoulders and your knees directly under your hips. Lift your hips up and back, straightening your arms and legs. Press your hands into the floor and lengthen through your spine. Hold for 5-10 breaths.\\n\n\\n3.Garudasana (Eagle Pose): \\n\\nThis pose can help strengthen the muscles in the hands and wrists, which can improve grip strength and reduce pain. To perform this pose, stand with your feet hip-width apart and your arms at your sides. Bring your right arm under your left arm, and bend both elbows to bring your palms together. Cross your right thigh over your left thigh. Balance on your left foot and hold for 5-10 breaths, then switch sides.\\n\n\\n4.Utthita Trikonasana (Extended Triangle Pose): \\n\\nThis pose can help stretch the wrists and forearms, promoting flexibility and reducing pain. To perform this pose, stand with your feet about 3-4 feet apart. Turn your right foot out 90 degrees and your left foot in slightly. Reach your right arm forward and hinge at your hip to reach your right hand toward your right shin or the floor. Extend your left arm straight up toward the ceiling. Hold for 5-10 breaths, then switch sides.\\n\n\\n5.Padangusthasana (Big Toe Pose): \\n\\nThis pose can help stretch the muscles in the hands, wrists, and arms, improving flexibility and reducing pain. To perform this pose, stand with your feet hip-width apart. Inhale and lift your arms up overhead. Exhale and fold forward, reaching for your big toes with your hands. Hold for 5-10 breaths.\\n\\n6.Marjariasana (Cat Pose): \\n\\nThis pose can help stretch and mobilize the wrists, reducing stiffness and promoting flexibility. To perform this pose, start on your hands and knees, with your wrists directly under your shoulders and your knees directly under your hips. Inhale and arch your back, lifting your tailbone and dropping your belly. Exhale and round your spine, tucking your chin to your chest. Repeat for several breaths.\n\\n7.Bitilasana (Cow Pose): \\n\\nThis pose can help stretch and mobilize the wrists, reducing stiffness and promoting flexibility. To perform this pose, start on your hands and knees, with your wrists directly under your shoulders and your knees directly under your hips. Inhale and arch your back, lifting your tailbone and dropping your belly. Hold for a breath or two, then return to neutral spine.\n\\n8.Matsyasana (Fish Pose):\\n\\nThis pose can help stretch the chest and shoulders, relieving tension in the upper body and reducing carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms. To perform this pose, lie on your back with your knees bent and your feet flat on the floor. Lift your hips and slide your hands, palms down, under your buttocks. Press your forearms and elbows into the floor and lift your chest. Hold for 5-10 breaths.\\n\\n9.Baddha Konasana (Butterfly Pose):\\n \\n\\nThis pose can help stretch the inner thighs, hips, and groin, which can alleviate pressure on the wrists and hands. To perform this pose, sit on the floor with the soles of your feet together and your knees bent out to the sides. Hold your ankles or feet with your hands and gently press your knees down toward the floor. Hold for 5-10 breaths.\n\\n10\\n.\\nUttanasana (Standing Forward Bend)\\n: \\n\\nThis pose can help stretch the muscles in the hands, wrists, and arms, reducing stiffness and promoting flexibility. To perform this pose, stand with your feet hip-width apart. Inhale and lift your arms up overhead. Exhale and fold forward, reaching for the floor with your hands. Hold for 5-10 breaths. If you have difficulty reaching the floor, you can place your hands on blocks or a chair seat.\n\n\\nBreathing and Meditation Practices for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Relief\\nIn addition to yoga poses, breathing exercises and meditation can be helpful for managing carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms. Here are a few practices to try:\\nDeep Breathing:\\n Taking slow, deep breaths can help reduce stress and tension in the body, which can contribute to carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms.\\nGuided Meditation:\\n Guided meditations can help promote relaxation and reduce stress, which can in turn reduce carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms.\\nVisualization:\\n Visualizing the body healing and repairing itself can help reduce pain and promote healing in the wrists and hands.\n\\n\\nTips for Practicing Yoga with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome\\nWhen practicing yoga with carpal tunnel syndrome, it's important to listen to your body and modify your practice as needed. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:\\nUse Props\\n: Props like blocks or straps can help make poses more accessible and comfortable.\\nModify Poses\\n: If a pose is too painful or uncomfortable, modify it or skip it altogether.\\nBe Mindful\\n: Pay attention to your body and how it feels during your practice. If a certain pose or practice is causing pain or discomfort, stop and modify or skip it.\\n\\nConclusion:\\nManaging carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms can be a challenge, but incorporating yoga into your routine can be a natural and effective way to find relief. By practicing yoga poses, breathing exercises, and meditation regularly, you can improve flexibility, reduce pain, and promote relaxation in your wrists and hands. Give it a try and see how yoga can benefit your carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms today!\n\n\\nFrequently Asked Questions about Carpal Tunnel Syndrome\\n\\nQ1. How can yoga help people with carpal tunnel syndrome?\\nAns: \\nYoga is a great way to manage carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms! Certain yoga poses can help stretch and strengthen the muscles in the wrists, hands, and arms, which can relieve pressure on the median nerve and reduce symptoms like pain, numbness, and tingling. Plus, practicing yoga can help reduce inflammation, increase flexibility, and improve circulation in the affected area.\\n\\nQ2. What yoga poses should you avoid with carpal tunnel?\\nAns:\\n If you have carpal tunnel syndrome, it's important to avoid yoga poses that put too much pressure on the wrists or require excessive bending or flexing of the hands. Poses like Chaturanga Dandasana (Four-Limbed Staff Pose), Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward-Facing Dog Pose), and Plank Pose can worsen carpal tunnel symptoms and should be avoided. Instead, focus on poses that gently stretch and strengthen the wrists and hands.\n\\nQ3.What are the best practices for carpal tunnel?\\nAns:\\n In addition to practicing yoga, there are several other best practices for managing carpal tunnel syndrome. These include taking frequent breaks from repetitive tasks that strain the wrists and hands, using ergonomic tools and equipment to reduce strain, maintaining good posture, and engaging in regular exercise and stretching to promote overall health and flexibility. It's important to take care of yourself both on and off the mat!\n\\nQ4.How can you protect yourself from carpal tunnel?\\nAns:\\n There are several steps you can take to protect yourself from developing carpal tunnel syndrome. Using ergonomic tools and equipment, taking frequent breaks from repetitive tasks, and maintaining good posture can all help reduce your risk. Engaging in regular exercise and stretching can also help keep your hands and wrists healthy and flexible. Remember to listen to your body and take action if you notice any symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, such as pain, numbness, or tingling in the hands or wrists. A healthcare provider can help diagnose and treat any issues before they become more serious."},"category":["fitness"]},{"id":"clg3manw0c2300bk8q089x7gd","slug":"yoga-for-improved-mobility","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"Top 10 Yoga Poses for Improved Mobility: Unlock Your Body's Potential","subTitle":null,"seoTitle":null,"seoDescription":"Yoga is an incredibly efficient tool for improving your mobility for the better, regardless of your age, background, or ability.","readTime":null,"excerpt":"Learn about the best yoga poses for improving your mobility.\n","tags":[],"createdAt":"2023-04-05T11:40:10.955124+00:00","coverUrl":"mo0n5st8ek3dj2p0m8ib.jpg","content":{"text":"We know that yoga can help elevate your mental and emotional wellbeing, but it’s actually an incredibly efficient tool for improving your mobility for the better, regardless of your age, background, or ability.\\nWhat do we mean by mobility, and why is it important? Mobility refers to the level of ease with which you can move your body. This affects your ability to walk, run, lift, and engage in physical activities like sports, dancing, or just playing in the backyard with your kids or grandkids. Your level of mobility directly translates to your overall well-being, and it can greatly influence whether or not you experience chronic pain.\\n\\nHow Yoga Improves Mobility?\\nA typical yoga practice includes performing a holistic routine of stretches that work to improve your flexibility, balance, and strength — which all directly impact your mobility. Let’s break down how each of those factors work.\\nFlexibility refers to the range of motion between your joints and muscles, and an inflexible body is rigid, stiff, and achy, with a relatively small range of motion. A regular yoga routine can help lengthen and strengthen your muscles, improving your range of motion while preventing injury and reducing your risk for chronic pain. Along with increasing mobility, improving your flexibility also puts less strain on your body overall.\\nBuilding strength is crucial to achieve better mobility, since stronger muscles give you better stability, balance, and control over your movements. Yoga targets muscle groups and makes them stronger, more toned, and more capable of increased movement with more control. Increasing strength also helps prevent injury, improves your sense of balance, and reduces your risk for issues later in life – like osteoporosis.\\nIt may be surprising to learn that yogic breathing can also help improve your mobility. By calming your mind, improving your awareness, and relaxing your body, you can build a greater connection with your physical self and reduce tension. This can lead to an increase in your range of motion and a better understanding of your personal limitations.\\nThe best part about yoga is that it's low impact, and it's approachable for everyone. It doesn’t matter how old you are, or whether or not you’re a beginner. You can start out with slow, gentle movements that can greatly improve your mobility without the risk of injury. You can also practice yoga in the comfort of your own home, by following the sequence below or working with one of the many qualified yoga instructors available here at \\nMyYogaTeacher\\n.\\n\\nYoga Poses for Better Mobility\\nTo get started practicing yoga for improved physical mobility, try performing the poses below several times per week over an extended period of time. \\n1.Sun Salutations\\n\\nStart at the top of your mat in Mountain pose, with your hands in prayer position. With flowing, dynamic movement, progress through the following postures 3 or more times:\\nUpward Salute\\nStanding Half-Forward Bend\\nStanding Forward Fold\\nLow Lunge (left foot forward)\\nPlank\\nFour-Limbed Staff pose\\nUpward Facing Dog or Cobra\\nDownward Facing Dog\\nLow Lunge (right foot forward)\\nStanding Half-Forward Bend\\nStanding Forward Fold\\nUpward Salute\\nReturn to Mountain pose\\nRepeat\\n\\n2. Chair Pose\\n\\nStand in Mountain pose at the top of your mat, with your hands at your sides and feet hip distance apart. As you inhale, raise your hands over your head, with your arms parallel with your ears. As you exhale, hinge slightly at your waist, bend your knees and lower your torso forward as if you were about to sit down in a chair. Keep your core engaged and your spine straight while you hold this posture for several breaths.\\n\\n3. Downward Facing Dog\\n\\nStart in a tabletop position, with your hands and knees on your mat. Push up from your hands and knees, lifting your hips until you are balanced on your hands and feet, with your body resembling an inverted “v.” Keep your head in between your arms, ears balanced over your shoulders, and stay in this pose for several breaths.\\n\\n4. Low Lunge\\n\\nFrom your position in Downward Dog, you can easily transition to Low Lunge by bringing your left foot forward and bending your left leg at the knee. With your right leg behind you, gently kneel on your right knee. Inhale as you reach your arms up over your head, parallel with your ears. Expand your chest, lengthen your spine, keep your chin level and your gaze focused forward in front of you.\\n\\n5. Plank\\n\\nLie face down on your mat, and using your palms to push up from the floor, lift your body until you are balanced on your palms and the toes of your feet. In this pose, your body should be positioned in a straight line, with your gaze directed at the floor in front of you. Hold for a few breaths, or for 30-60 seconds if you are feeling strong in this pose.\\n\\n6. Cobra Pose\\n\\nStart by laying with your stomach facing down on the floor, with your legs straight and your arms folded under your head. Place your palms on the mat parallel to your chest. Slightly lift your head off the mat, keeping your head and back aligned, and press your thighs together. Now, steadily pull your elbows towards your rib cage keeping your hands underneath your shoulders. With a deep inhale, press your hands into the mat, curl your shoulders backward, and lift your upper body off the mat, arching your back. Hold this position for a few breaths and then rest.\\n\\n7. Cat-Cow Pose\\n\\nStart in a tabletop position with your hands and knees on the floor. Inhale and look up, lifting your chin and gently arching your spine. As you exhale, drop your chin and look down toward your naval as you curl your spine forward. Continue this movement 5-10 times.\\n\\n8. Bow Pose\\n\\nLie down on your stomach with your forehead against the mat and your hands resting at your sides. Inhale and engage your core, slightly lifting your torso up, bending your legs and grabbing your ankles with each hand. Open your chest and lift your chin, so that your gaze is facing forward. Maintain a steady breath while holding this pose, allowing your body to gently rock back and forth with each inhale and exhale. Release after 20-30 seconds.\\n\\n9. Bridge Pose\\n\\nStart by lying on your back with your knees bent. On your next exhale, tuck your chin and lift your hips, being careful not to allow your knees to splay outward. Interlace your fingers on the floor underneath you and lift your hips higher, while staying in the pose for 5-10 breaths.\\n\\n10. Corpse Pose\\n\\nSit on your yoga mat and lower your body to the floor, relaxing your legs and letting your arms rest on the floor at your sides, palms up. Keep your eyes closed and focus on your breathing. Relax the muscles in your face and neck, and visualize every part of your body letting go of all tension. Hold this pose for 5-7 minutes.\\n"},"category":[]},{"id":"clg0gw3o0ycc30ak0rlfm4ea9","slug":"yoga-for-endometriosis","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"Yoga for Endometriosis: 6 Easy Poses to Try at Home","subTitle":null,"seoTitle":null,"seoDescription":"Yoga can help ease symptoms of endometriosis, and it’s a great option for women who are looking for a low-risk, low impact way to cope with the condition.","readTime":null,"excerpt":"Learn the best yoga poses for endometriosis symptoms.\n","tags":[],"createdAt":"2023-04-03T06:45:34.990165+00:00","coverUrl":"htglzgglkwtr6is6mzmi.jpg","content":{"text":"Endometriosis is a disorder that affects about 190 million women worldwide, causing painful periods, infertility, and other severe symptoms that can significantly reduce the overall quality of their lives. While science is still working to fully understand endometriosis, right now there are a few ways in which women can manage the symptoms of this painful condition, including medication, surgery and various forms of therapy. Yoga can also help ease symptoms, and it’s a great option for women who are looking for a low-risk, low impact way to cope with endometriosis.\\nYoga helps reduce the troubling symptoms of endometriosis in a few different ways. The overall practice of yoga activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for operating the body's relaxation and digestive responses. These responses tell your body to slow down and rest, which are crucial when it comes to reducing the pain, anxiety, and stress that comes with endometriosis.\\nYoga also enhances blood flow to your reproductive organs, which can help reduce inflammation and promote healing. Yoga poses work to stretch the muscles and tissues around your uterus and ovaries, which can help reduce the intensity and duration of menstrual cramps. Endometriosis commonly causes intense chronic pain in the pelvis, lower back, and hips, which yoga can help alleviate through gentle stretches and movement that help open up and relax the muscles in these areas.\\nEndometriosis can also cause infertility due to scarring around the reproductive organs, but yoga can help offset this issue by increasing blood flow to the area and lowering inflammation. Yoga also works to balance your hormones by reducing cortisol and other stress hormones and regulating your menstrual cycle.\\nIn terms of mental health, yoga is one of the most effective tools in managing anxiety and depression, which are common symptoms of endometriosis. This condition can cause immense chronic pain, which typically results in emotional distress that yoga can help alleviate. Yoga sends signals to your mind and body that encourage both to relax, reducing tension, calming anxious thoughts, and improving your sense of well-being.\\n\\nWhat Types of Yoga are Best for Endometriosis?\\nThere are many different kinds of yoga, but if you’re experiencing symptoms of endometriosis you may want to stick with gentle postures like those you would perform in Hatha, Restorative, Gentle, or Yin yoga. These types of yoga focus on easy, low-impact movement, along with relaxation and stress reduction, and they typically involve some type of yogic breath work – which can also help reduce inflammation and chronic pain.\\nIf you’re considering yoga for managing your symptoms of endometriosis, there are certain precautions you should take in order to avoid making those symptoms worse. While you’re on your period, it’s important to avoid inverted postures that might interrupt or change your body’s natural flow. If a specific posture causes pain or discomfort, exit the pose immediately and take a break. It’s important to listen to your body and avoid any kind of position that doesn’t feel good. If you’re unsure about your alignment or you’d like some guidance on how to practice yoga for endometriosis, you can enroll in an online class or book a private session with one of the instructors here at \\nMyYogaTeacher\\n.\n\\n6 Easy Yoga Poses for Endometriosis\\nIf you’re experiencing the painful symptoms of endometriosis, try the gentle poses below for some relief.\\n1.Child’s Pose\\n\\nStart on your hands and knees and then lower yourself down so that your backside is resting on your heels, and your big toes are touching each other. Move your hands forward, palms down, so that your forehead is resting on the floor. Allow your spine to lengthen and your neck muscles to fully relax. Breathe deeply and mindfully while staying in this pose for 5-6 minutes.\n\\n2. Cat-Cow Pose\\n\\nStart in a tabletop position with your hands and knees on the floor. Inhale and look up, lifting your chin and gently arching your spine. As you exhale, drop your chin and look down toward your naval as you curl your spine forward. Continue this movement 5-10 times.\\n\\n3. Fixed Angle Pose\\n\\nSit on your yoga mat with your knees bent and the soles of your feet pressed against each other. With your spine straight, press your hands behind you and gently open up your chest and tuck in your abdomen. Hold the pose for 1-2 minutes.\\n\\n4. Seated Forward Fold Pose\\n\\nSit in the center of your mat with your legs stretched out in front of you. Take a deep inhale and raise your arms directly over your head. As you exhale, slowly lean forward and place your head and chest on top of your legs, and grab your big toes with both of your hands. Tuck your chin and curl abdomen, relaxing your lower back as you sink into this pose. Hold for one minute.\\n\\n5. Supine Twist Pose\\n\\nLie on the floor with your knees bent and bring them to your chest. Slowly and mindfully drop your left side while extending your arms outward in a “t” shape. Hold this pose for about 30 seconds while breathing mindfully. Bring your knees back to your chest, and then repeat on your right side.\\n\\n6. Legs Up The Wall Pose\\n\\nPlace a folded blanket parallel against a wall. Sit sideways in the middle of the blanket, and turn yourself toward the wall, lifting your legs up and propping them against the wall. Lay back comfortably, rest your head and neck on the floor, and fully straighten your legs. Spread your arms out to your sides with your palms facing up. Allow your chest, abdomen, and pelvis to completely relax. Breathe evenly and mindfully while holding this pose for 5-8 minutes.\\n\\nPranayama for Endometriosis\\nYogic breath work can help ease feelings of stress and anxiety, while giving you tools with which to manage pain. Try these breathing exercises to encourage a sense of calm and relaxation.\\n1.Nadi Sodhana or “Alternate Nostril Breathing”\\nExhale completely, and then place your right index finger onto your right nostril, and breathe deeply in through the left. Alternate and place your thumb over your left nostril, and exhale through your right. Continue alternating, repeating at least 10 times.\\n\\n2. Ujjayi or Ocean’s Breath\\nStart by breathing in through your mouth. As you exhale, pull in your chin in toward your body and so that your throat is partly constricted. Then, breathe in and out through your nose, making a slight sound that is similar to the ocean.\\n"},"category":["yoga_poses"]},{"id":"clg0fojrzxeqr0biq6yvfzdjk","slug":"yoga-for-acid-reflux","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"Yoga and Digestion: 8 Poses to Help Ease Acid Reflux Symptoms","subTitle":null,"seoTitle":null,"seoDescription":"Yoga helps alleviate symptoms of acid reflux and prevent onset by reducing stress and anxiety, activating your digestive system, and improving your posture.","readTime":null,"excerpt":"Learn the best poses for reducing acid reflux.\n","tags":[],"createdAt":"2023-04-03T06:11:42.97583+00:00","coverUrl":"ckauzlgegiwd249grkhg.jpg","content":{"text":"If you experience acid reflux on a regular basis, then you’re already familiar with how it typically unfolds. It often starts with a burning sensation in your chest and the repeated urge to burp and let go of accumulated gas. There are lots of reasons why acid reflux occurs, including a number of lifestyle factors like poor diet and emotional stress. Thankfully, yoga can help manage symptoms and reduce episodes if they are stress-related. \\n\\nHow Yoga Helps with Acid Reflux\\nOne of the ways that yoga helps reduce acid reflux is by reducing stress and anxiety. These are the common culprits for acid reflux, because they cause your body to engage in a cascade of fight/flight/freeze responses that includes increased production of stomach acid. By reducing your stress and anxiety, you can help your body avoid switching on that fight/flight/freeze response.\\nAnother way that yoga can reduce acid reflux is through improving your posture and alignment. Poor posture can contribute to chronic acid reflux by placing too much pressure on your stomach and esophagus. Yoga postures that correct your alignment — like Downward Facing Dog and Standing Forward Fold — help relieve this pressure and prevent the onset of acid reflux. It’s important to note that in order to truly improve your posture, you need to practice these poses regularly and for the long term – over time they can help reduce your risk of developing acid reflux in the first place.\\nYoga can also help regulate your digestive system, which is another factor that contributes to acidity. When food gets stuck in your digestive tract, it can cause gas and bloating, slowing your entire digestive system down, which eventually manifests in your stomach with an acidic reaction. By stimulating your digestive system, you can help your body move and process food smoothly through your digestive tract without gas, bloating, or acidity.\\nOne of the most important ways yoga can help prevent acid reflux is by strengthening your diaphragm, which is the muscle that prevents acid from moving up into your esophagus. When the diaphragm is weak or tense, it can actually allow acid reflux to rise up from your stomach and push its way into your esophagus, which is what causes that uncomfortable burning sensation in your chest. Yoga postures that promote diaphragmatic breathing, such as Seated Forward Fold and Corpse pose can help strengthen this muscle and prevent acid reflux.\n\\n\\n8 Effective Yoga Poses for Acid Reflux\\nIn order to get the most benefit from practicing yoga for acid reflux, it’s recommended that you develop a regular routine that involves performing yoga at least 3-4 times per week for 6-9 months. This isn’t a quick fix, but with a long term commitment you can reduce the onset of acid reflux and improve your overall quality of life.\\nThe poses below are basic, primary yoga poses you can practice in your very own home. If you’re unsure how to practice the postures, or you’d like some professional guidance, try working with one of our certified yoga instructors at \\nMyYogaTeacher\\n.\\n1.Mountain Pose\\n\\nStart by standing at the top of your mat with your feet hip distance apart. Balance your weight evenly on both feet. Keep your arms relaxed at your sides, with your spine straight and your chest lifted. Your gaze should be focused straight ahead of you while you breathe easily and gently. Hold the pose for 1-2 minutes.\n\\n2. Standing Forward Fold\\n\\nStand at the front of your mat, feet hip distance apart. Exhale and bend forward from the waist, with your knees slightly bent and touching your hands to the floor in front of your feet. Inhale and exhale, allowing your torso to extend without rounding your back. Lengthen and soften your neck, and let the muscles of your thighs and lower back open and release any built-up tension. Hold the pose for 1-2 minutes.\\n\\n3. Downward Facing Dog Pose\\n\\nWith your hands and knees on the floor, push your hips upward until you are balancing on your hands and feet, and your body resembles an inverted “v” shape. Reach your heels toward the floor, stretching your hamstrings and activating your thighs. Keep your head between your arms, lengthening your side-body as you stretch. Stay here for several breaths.\\n\\n4. Seated Spinal Twist Pose\\n\\nSitting with your knees bent and your feet tucked in next to your left butt cheek, inhale with your spine straight, lifting your chest. As you exhale, rotate your torso to your right. Position your right hand on the floor just slightly behind you, and rest your left hand on your right knee. On your next breath, rotate a little more as you exhale, turning your head to look over your right shoulder. Hold this pose for 20 to 30 seconds, then repeat on the other side.\\n\\n5. Cat-Cow Pose\\n\\nStart with your hands and knees on the floor. Inhale and look up, lifting your chin and gently arching your back. As you exhale, drop your chin and look down toward your naval as you curl your spine forward. Continue this movement 5-10 times.\\n\\n6. Child’s pose Pose\\n\\nStart on your hands and knees and then lower yourself down so that your backside is resting on your heels, and your big toes are touching each other. Move your hands forward, palms down, so that your forehead is resting on the floor. Allow your spine to lengthen and your neck muscles to fully relax. Breathe deeply and mindfully while staying in this pose for 5-6 minutes.\n\\n7. Seated Forward Fold Pose\\n\\nStart by sitting on your yoga mat with your legs stretched out in front of you. Come onto your sit bones and inhale with a straight spine. Raise your arms over your head and as you exhale, begin to bend forward by hinging at your waist. Slowly lower your torso toward the tops of your legs, allowing your spine to curve forward as you reach your legs. Hold this pose for 30-60 seconds.\\n\\n8. Corpse Pose\\n\\nSit on your yoga mat and lower your body to the floor, relaxing your legs and letting your arms rest on the floor at your sides, palms up. Keep your eyes closed and focus on your breathing. Relax the muscles in your face and neck, and visualize every part of your body letting go of all tension. Hold this pose for 5-7 minutes."},"category":["yoga_poses"]}],"randomPosts":[{"id":"cldsnnlhguo910ak0c46kn4d6","slug":"myofascial-release-yoga","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"Myofascial Release Yoga: Improving the Connections Within Your Body ","createdAt":"2023-02-06T10:13:21.404649+00:00","coverUrl":"wnehbrnvnqq7sad7vybp.jpg","content":{"text":"It’s easy to think that symptoms of soreness, stiffness, and lack of mobility in your body is simply an issue solely related to muscles. But there are other factors that can create aches and pains besides muscle tissue. \\nIssues like chronic muscle pain can actually be caused by stuck connective tissue called fascia, which attaches and protects the muscle fibers in your body. When it sticks, it can prevent your muscles from performing properly, leading to pain, rigidity, and decreased mobility.\n\\nFascia Tissue: Explained\\n\\nSo what is fascia, or myofascia tissue exactly? It plays an important function throughout your body, connecting muscle fibers and holding your organs and blood vessels in their proper place. You can think of your fascia tissue like a thin wrapper that’s made of collagen, surrounding your tissues and organs, keeping them safe and sound. There are multiple layers of fascia throughout your body, and there are some layers buried deeply to protect your bones and blood vessels. \\nBasically, fascia is like a second skin, and just like your epidermis, it can become tight, dried-out, and lose elasticity. Periods of inactivity and immobility can cause your fascia tissue to stick or become tight. Surgery, injury, and aging can also create issues with this connective tissue. And when it loses its elasticity, it can make you feel achy, sore, and stiff.\\n\n\\nHealing with Myofascial Release\\n\nIn order to restore the pliability of your fascia tissue, you must ease the tension to prevent this tissue from becoming even tighter and more painful. Doing so can be simple — by improving the flexibility of your body overall, you can also help improve the elasticity of your connective tissue. There are a handful of ways you can unstick or “release” fascia, like acupuncture, massage, or using foam rollers. Each of these methods offer a targeted approach and can help with specific areas.\\nHowever, if you want to make a difference in the fascia tissue throughout your body, yoga may be one of the best tools you can use. Through regular practice, you can not only improve the pliability of your fascia tissue, but you can help maintain this important protective layer so that it doesn’t become rigid or stuck in the future — preventing any further soreness or chronic pain.\\n\n\\nMyofascial Release Yoga\\n\nA myofascial release yoga session will typically include props like foam rollers, blocks, and therapy balls to help relieve tension in the connective tissue throughout your body. Like acupuncture or massage, these props help target specific pressure points in order to assist a myofascial release.\\nBy releasing this connective tissue, you can improve your mobility, encourage proper blood flow, and decrease symptoms of soreness, aching, and chronic pain. Regular practice of myofascial release yoga can also prevent this tissue from drying out, as well as any excess buildup of collagen.\\nMyofascial release yoga is approachable for everyone — from beginners to advanced yogis. And if you’re not feeling particularly flexible due to issues with your fascia tissue, that’s okay. The purpose of this style of yoga is to gently restore pliability and mobility to your connective tissue, joints, and muscles. So it’s important not to overdo it.\\nIf you’re not able to find a yoga class that is specifically geared toward myofascial release, look for yoga that involves deep, gentle stretching — like Yin Yoga. In a typical Yin Yoga class, you’ll hold simple poses for anywhere from three to five minutes, giving your body time to relax into the stretch and release any held tension. \\n\n\\n6 Myofascial Release Yoga Poses\\n\nOf course, you can also work with your fascia tissue at home with your own personal foam roller, yoga blocks, and therapy balls (if you have any on-hand). Along with these tools there are some beneficial yoga postures you can practice on a regular basis to keep your fascia tissue healthy, hydrated, and pliable. Try practicing the poses below several times a week to heal and maintain the elasticity of your connective tissue.\\n\n\\n1. Downward Facing Dog Pose\\n\\nIf you’re feeling soreness in your hamstrings, calves, or lower back, Downward Facing Dog can help relieve tight and restricted tissue in these areas.\n\\nStart in tabletop position, with your hands and knees on your yoga mat. Push your hips upward until you are balancing on your hands and feet, and your body resembles an inverted “v” shape. Reach your heels toward the floor, stretching your hamstrings and activating your thighs. Keep your head between your arms, lengthening your side-body as you stretch. Stay here for one minute.\\n\n\\n2. Supine Twist Pose\\n\\n\nFor aching throughout your upper and lower back, spinal twists can help unstick any connective tissue that might be causing problems. For the purpose of staying in the pose for several minutes and relaxing fully into the posture, try performing this Supine Twist on the floor. \\nLie on the floor with your knees bent and bring them to your chest. Slowly and mindfully drop your knees to your left side while extending your arms outward in a “t” shape. Hold this pose for 2-3 minutes while breathing mindfully. If the pose feels too strenuous to hold for a long period of time, try using a folded under your knees. When you’re ready to switch to the other side, bring your knees back to your chest, and then repeat on your right side.\\n\n\\n3. Thunderbolt Pose\\n\\n\nDo you feel pain or stiffness in your feet? Try practicing Thunderbolt pose with flexed feet to encourage an impactful release. Performing this pose in this way can also help with plantar fasciitis.\n\\nStart by sitting on your knees in Thunderbolt pose, with your hands resting comfortably on your thighs. Next, shift your weight forward for just a moment while you tuck all 10 of your toes under. Slowly lean back so that your buttocks are rested on your heels, gently applying pressure to the balls of your feet. If this feels uncomfortable or too painful, you can use a folded blanket positioned under your knees for added support. Hold the pose for several breaths or longer if you can.\\n\n\\n4. Camel Pose\\n\\n\nNow that you’ve released the fascia along the backs of your legs, your feet, and your upper and lower back, it’s time to ease tension on the front side of your body. Camel pose targets your abdomen, spine, neck, and the fronts of your shoulders.\n\\nStart by kneeling in the center of your mat. Rest your hands on your knees and place the tops of your feet flat on the mat, and sit with a straight spine. With your knees still on the ground, raise your body up and engage your core. Place your hands on your hips and lift your upper chest and shoulders until your face is pointed toward the ceiling. Extend your arms one by one behind you so that you can grab your heels with your hands and continue to lean backward. Only lean as far back as you feel comfortable, and hold this position for 3 to 5 breaths. To safely exit this pose, release your hands from your heels and place them on your lower back for support as you slowly raise yourself back up.\\n\n\\n5. Cat Cow Pose\\n\\n\n\\nThis simple pose helps restore mobility and pliability to the fascia tissue throughout your upper body, and improves the flexibility of your spine.\\nFrom your hands and knees, gently arch your back and lift your face to look up as you inhale. Then, as you exhale, curl your spine and turn your face down to look toward your naval. Repeat this movement at least 10 times in a fluid motion.\\n\n\\n6. Extended Side Angle Pose\\n\\nExtended Side Angle helps release fascia tissue around your hips and the sides of your torso, while improving shoulder mobility.\\nBegin in Mountain pose. Step your left foot forward and turn it 90 degrees. Ground your right foot and turn it slightly inward, and hold your arms out in a “T” shape. Bend your left knee to a 90-degree angle with your left thigh parallel to the floor. Lean toward your left knee by hinging forward at the hips, bringing your left arm to the floor. If you’re unable to reach the floor, you can use a yoga block for support. Lift your right arm and extend it above your right ear, so that your body resembles a straight line from your right ankle to the tips of your right fingers. Breath and hold this pose for 30-60 seconds. Repeat on the other side.\\n"}},{"id":"cl9qycz6iku5k0ak7ivq72uto","slug":"yoga-for-spine-health-event","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"Announcing MyYogaTeacher’s Free Yoga for Spine Health Event","createdAt":"2022-10-27T10:58:40.019765+00:00","coverUrl":"fpcsfxqkrw85lugptun4.png","content":{"text":"Introducing the three-day yoga event from November 4-6 designed to help you eliminate and prevent back pain and improve spinal health!\\nAnd \\nyou’re\\n invited!\\n\\nHow common is back pain? Over 540 million people around the world suffer from back pain due to various reasons. It is the leading cause of disability worldwide and the third most common reason people go to the doctor!\\nYoga helps stretch and strengthen the muscles that support the spine and back, such as the paraspinal muscles and abdominal muscles.\\nBecause pain pain is so common and because yoga is scientifically shown to improve back pain and spinal health, we thought it was important to spread the word with a free event like this one!\\n\\nHow to join the Yoga for Spine Health Event:\n\\nMembers\\nJust click the links below to one or all of the classes you’d like to attend and register as you would any other group class! Simple as that.\n\\nNon-Members\\n\\nClick this link to sign up for your free two week trial\\n to get access to this incredible event! No credit card required.\n\\nAre you a nonmember who signed up for a trial in the past but it’s lapsed?\\nIf you’re not a member but signed up for a free-trial in the past, and it has expired, just reach out to \\ncare@myyogateacher.com\\n to let us know! We'll reset your trial and give you full access to the event.\\n\n\\n[NEW!] Referred friends & family:\\n\\nDid you refer a friend or family member to MyYogaTeacher? We’re so grateful for you!\\nYour family or friend should create a free account (they’ll get 2-weeks of access plus three complimentary 1-on-1 sessions). And if they sign up for membership, you both get $100 of MyYogaTeacher credit.\\n\n\\nThere’s no pain like back pain. It’s debilitating and exhausting mentally, emotionally, and physically. How will your life change when you’re free from pain? How empowered and safe will you feel knowing that you’re improving your spinal health without surgery or medications? How much more joy would you have? \\nTake back your freedom to move freely!\n\\nWe've put together an entire schedule of spinal health classes dedicated to helping you beat back pain and improve your life.\\n\n\\nCheck out the educational, inspiring, and exciting event classes and expert yoga instructors making this event happen!\\n(Click the class links to register for any or all of these amazing sessions!)\\n\\n\\nYoga for Spine Health: Improving Quality of Life with Zaeem\\n\\nFriday, November 4 from 5:30 pm PST/ 8:30 pm EST\\n\n\\n\\n\n\\nBack pain negatively impacts a person’s quality of life. Mentally, emotionally, and physically. In this one hour session, you will learn the science behind how yoga improves spinal health followed by a guided 30 minute yoga practice designed to reduce back pain. You’ll receive the tools you need to eliminate back pain and continue to improve your spinal health. Q&A to follow if time permits.\n\\n\\nYoga Flow for Upper & Lower Back Health with Neha\\n\\nSaturday, November 5 from 5:00 pm PST/ 8:00 pm EST\\n\n\\n\\n\n\\nEliminate back pain and increase mobility, flexibility, and strength in your back, spine and other areas of your body in this yoga session specifically designed with your back in mind. Most of this session is done from a seated position. You will begin with centering yourself, easy stretches, and then move into a yoga flow that ends with savasana. Join us!\\n\\n\\nImproving Sciatica and Lower Back Pain with Yoga with Shruti\\n\\nSunday, November 6 from 5:00 pm PST/ 8:00 pm EST\\n\n\\n\\n\n\\nSometimes, we practice yoga not knowing what will help and what will hurt us. In this interactive yoga session, you will learn poses that relieve sciatica and lower back pain and poses that cause it. You’ll walk away from this session empowered to practice yoga in a way that works to help you live back pain free!\\nWe don’t want anyone living in pain, especially pain that can be treated and prevented holistically without the terrible side effects of surgery and over-the-counter or prescribed medications. Because those things inhibit your life too!\\nOur goal is always to help you live your healthiest, happiest life in harmony with yourself and others.\\nSo join us for this free event! And don’t forget to check out other back pain related yoga classes MyYogaTeacher offers as a part of your membership or free trial! Or reach out to the yoga instructors below offering 1-on-1 sessions to specifically address your back pain and spine health!\n\\nAnkit Bhatnagar\\n\\n\\n\\n\\nLearn about Ankit\\n\\nDeepak G\\n\\n\\n\\n\\nLearn about Deepak\\n\\nLira\\n\\n\\n\\n\\nLearn about Lira\\n\\nNiyata\\n\\n\\n\\n\\nLearn about Niyata\\n\\nVijaya Pai\\n\\n\\n\\n\\nLearn about Vijaya\\n\\n\\nAnd remember: If you’re a nonmember who’s two-week free trial has ended, reach out to \\ncare@myyogateacher.com\\n to have your trial reset so you can easily sign up for these awesome classes!\\n\\nWelcome to MyYogaTeacher’s Yoga for Spine Health Event!\\nSee you soon!\\n"}},{"id":"ckufqnxdkykgn0b80viodhf9h","slug":"yoga-for-runners","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":null,"pictureUrl":null},"title":"Yoga for Runners: How Yoga Helps Runners Perform Better","createdAt":"2021-10-06T16:42:11.672793+00:00","coverUrl":"dgbpmcwawhsmhokutnzw.jpg","content":{"text":"Runners are a whole community of people. They are focused, consistent, resilient, and committed to their craft.\\nThey also tend to succumb to a whole host of physical issues specific to runners. Kind of like how tennis players often get tennis elbow (aka tendonitis) or sprained ankles from their constant change of direction, runners get shin splints, runner’s knee, plantar fasciitis, and their own set of ankle injuries.\\nIt’s no surprise to us that yoga for runners is a thing and that runners can seriously benefit from a regular yoga practice.\\nBut yoga might be a new concept to a lot of runners out there.\\nNot necessarily new in the sense they’ve never heard of it, but new in the way they’ve never thought about trying it out as a part of their training and recovery.\\nSo we wanted to discuss how yoga helps runners perform better, prevents injury, and helps their body recover.\\nIf you haven’t checked out MyYogaTeacher yet, we’d love to have you! With a continuously grown variety of classes, we’re confident that there’s a perfect class or two...or three out there for you! \\nYou can get your 2-week free trial here and take as many or as few as you want!\\n\\nYoga for core strength\\nWe’ve talked about it. You’ve talked about it. Virtually every trainer in every possible sport has talked about it. \\nCore strength.\\nAnd what is one huge benefit of yoga? A stronger core, of course!\\nFor runners, having a strong core means better torso stability when they’re running. Core strength allows a runner’s hips, pelvis, and lower back to work together seamlessly. Smoother operation of those areas means less lower back pain and fewer lower back injuries. Having a stronger core also means runners recover from missteps or loss in balance better, which may also help to prevent ankle and foot injuries!\\nPower yoga and vinyasa yoga are awesome choices for runners who are looking to improve their core strength and underused muscles.\\nBreathwork for runners: Yogic breathing\\nRunners are very focused on getting plenty of oxygen when they run. It’s a good thing, right? Right.\\nOne of the benefits of yoga for runners is that their lung function improves! Yogic breathing not only teaches runners how to breathe better, more steadily, and with more control while they’re running, it actually increases their lung capacity and strengthens the breathing muscles.\\nAnd since all yoga practices include some form of breathwork, runners benefit from yoga in an organic way.\\nYoga for runners: Flexibility\\nWe’ve mentioned this briefly in another article you’re welcome to check out titled \\nYoga for Athletes: 5 Reasons Yoga Should Be Included in Athletic Training.\\n\\nFlexibility for runners is important for keeping their overused muscles stretched out. Runners notoriously have tight hamstrings, hips, glutes, and quads. Tightness in these areas, in the long term, can cause postural problems, back pain, foot pain, and a rotated pelvis.\\nThis is where taking a yoga class for runners specifically helps them. Becoming more flexible will help their majorly used muscle groups recover while also helping to prevent injury during their runs and in their future.\\nYoga helps runners recover\\nOne of the most underused training tools in existence is...time. Recovery time, that is.\\nRecreational and hardcore athletes alike don’t spend enough time letting their bodies recover, much less use yoga as a recovery tool.\\nThe truth is yoga is the perfect recovery activity for runners. While a yoga class for runners is particularly helpful, any yoga class that involves passive stretching, such as yin yoga, will help runners release tension and relieve soreness in their muscles.\\nStretching also restores range of motion so runners can perform better after yoga.\\nBetter balance for runners\\nBalance for runners is important, particularly for trail runners, who often don’t run on an even or paved surface. Losing balance is an easy way to sprain or break ankles, incur foot injuries, and even fall, causing other injuries as well.\\nRunners who practice yoga reap more benefits than just the obvious ones. Balancing poses strengthen all the tiny muscles in the ankles and feet, which helps runners maintain their balance on uneven surfaces or regain it with more ease if they do lose it.\\nYoga poses such as tree pose, crescent lunge, extended hand-to-big-toe pose, eagle pose, high lunge, and chair pose are great yoga poses for runners to practice to help with balance.\\nPerfect yoga poses for runners\\nIf you’re a runner, we get that you may be busy or not all that comfortable participating in a yoga class (yet). So we want you to have some specific yoga poses for runners to use before and/or after your daily run. \\nButterfly pose\\n\\n\\n\n\\nHalf pigeon pose\\n\\n\\n\n\\nHappy baby pose\\n\\n\\n\n\\nDownward facing dog pose\\n\\n\\n\n\\nLizard pose\\n\\n\\n\n\\nForward fold\\n\\n\\n\n\\nToes pose\\n\\n\n\\nQuad stretch\\n\\nWe recommend holding each pose for 1-5 minutes on each side, and be sure to come out of each pose slowly. Only stretch so far as you don’t suffer. A bit of discomfort is ok, but if there is serious pain, back off on how far you’re stretching or release the stretch completely. You will feel the difference in your muscles immediately after this series of yoga poses for runners!\\nAre you a runner or a walker? We’d love to see you on the mat here at \\nMyYogaTeacher\\n! There are many classes offered that will improve your performance, help your body recover, and help you prevent injuries common for runners. Not to mention all the other benefits that everyone gets from practicing yoga! \\nGet your free 2-week trial membership here\\n and try any of the amazing group yoga classes taught by expert, highly experienced yoga instructors from the birthplace of yoga, India. \\nSee you there!\\n\\n"}}],"relatedPosts":[],"blogContent":{"id":"ckfqzorwg02dk0126dbc86vq7","slug":"yoga-a-journey-to-your-own-inner-self","author":{"name":"Shelly","teacherMytSlug":"shelly-1","pictureUrl":"shelly.jpg"},"title":"Yoga - A Journey to your Own Inner Self","createdAt":"2020-06-30T00:00:00+00:00","updatedAt":"2021-06-26T21:56:03.317146+00:00","coverUrl":"shellycover.jpg","seoDescription":"Yoga is beneficial for your mind and body. Learn to live yoga and soon you will see the benefits physically and mentally.","content":{"text":"By Shelly Piplani\\n\\nPracticing yoga is a tool that sharpens the mind so that you can see the reality clearly. It is not just a stretching routine that helps you get limber. In essence the yoga practice seeks to answer the question of what defines the present moment and help root your consciousness directly in it.\\n\\nHere is my journey to Yoga. I was always a person who was involved in different forms of workout. I loved to do any kind of workout. BE it dance , aerobics or CrossFit, there was always a feel good factor post workout. \\n\\nYoga was part of my workout. I used to love holding the asanas for longer. Till that time I was not aware how incredible an art and science Yoga is.\\n\\nThen started the urge to learn more in Yoga. Initially it was about mastering the Asanas and as I learnt the philosophy behind the practice there was no looking back. Then it was a mix of intense personal Sadhana and study of Yoga Philosophy. Then started the journey of teaching. Teaching Yoga is what started bringing happiness to me. Understanding the goals of the student's in one to one sessions and helping them reach there is what I started loving. \\n\\nI strongly believe \"We as humans have unlimited potential. All we need is to look inward and move forward\". Yoga is the journey which really helps you to understand your inner self. Yoga is the holistic approach of movement, breath, mindfulness and introspection.\\n\\nYoga can be addictive. That’s both good and bad. It’s good when yoga takes over your life and replaces old destructive habits with new helpful ones instead. When you crave a deep long \\nyoga session\\n instead of a drink after a stressful day, then yoga has successfully rewired your brain, at least to some level. But, when yoga becomes an obsession with asana for asana sake, the addictive mind is still present and, unfortunately, can still be quite damaging.\\n\\nWhen asana is your addiction instead of yoga, the danger is that you aren’t actually participating in a change of paradigm. We practice asana not to get better at asana. We practice asana as a tool to delve into the deepest reaches of the body and mind. The unique combination of breath and movement allows one to enter the operating system of the mind and make some updates. We get a chance to practice a radical new way of being—that is being at peace with yourself.\\n\\nFor me a practice session is something that can flow with ease, from posture to posture with breath. The structure of each session is based on every student’s requirements and goals. \\n\\n“Lets set the intention to \\nlive yoga\\n as a lifestyle. Lets be open to receive the inner guidance and let it steer the course of our life towards peace and happiness.”","html":"<p>By Shelly Piplani</p><p></p><p>Practicing yoga is a tool that sharpens the mind so that you can see the reality clearly. It is not just a stretching routine that helps you get limber. In essence the yoga practice seeks to answer the question of what defines the present moment and help root your consciousness directly in it.</p><p></p><p>Here is my journey to Yoga. I was always a person who was involved in different forms of workout. I loved to do any kind of workout. BE it dance , aerobics or CrossFit, there was always a feel good factor post workout. </p><p></p><p>Yoga was part of my workout. I used to love holding the asanas for longer. Till that time I was not aware how incredible an art and science Yoga is.</p><p></p><p>Then started the urge to learn more in Yoga. Initially it was about mastering the Asanas and as I learnt the philosophy behind the practice there was no looking back. Then it was a mix of intense personal Sadhana and study of Yoga Philosophy. Then started the journey of teaching. Teaching Yoga is what started bringing happiness to me. Understanding the goals of the student's in one to one sessions and helping them reach there is what I started loving. </p><p></p><p>I strongly believe "We as humans have unlimited potential. All we need is to look inward and move forward". Yoga is the journey which really helps you to understand your inner self. Yoga is the holistic approach of movement, breath, mindfulness and introspection.</p><p></p><p>Yoga can be addictive. That’s both good and bad. It’s good when yoga takes over your life and replaces old destructive habits with new helpful ones instead. When you crave a deep long <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signUp\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signUp\">yoga session</a> instead of a drink after a stressful day, then yoga has successfully rewired your brain, at least to some level. But, when yoga becomes an obsession with asana for asana sake, the addictive mind is still present and, unfortunately, can still be quite damaging.</p><p></p><p>When asana is your addiction instead of yoga, the danger is that you aren’t actually participating in a change of paradigm. We practice asana not to get better at asana. We practice asana as a tool to delve into the deepest reaches of the body and mind. The unique combination of breath and movement allows one to enter the operating system of the mind and make some updates. We get a chance to practice a radical new way of being—that is being at peace with yourself.</p><p></p><p>For me a practice session is something that can flow with ease, from posture to posture with breath. The structure of each session is based on every student’s requirements and goals. </p><p></p><p>“Lets set the intention to <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/\">live yoga</a> as a lifestyle. Lets be open to receive the inner guidance and let it steer the course of our life towards peace and happiness.”</p>"},"category":["therapy"],"utmCampaign":null,"utmMedium":null,"utmContent":null,"utmSource":null,"utmTerm":null,"utmSearchString":null,"imageHyperlink":[]},"loading":false,"blog_content":[{"type":"HTML","value":"<p>By Shelly Piplani</p><p></p><p>Practicing yoga is a tool that sharpens the mind so that you can see the reality clearly. It is not just a stretching routine that helps you get limber. In essence the yoga practice seeks to answer the question of what defines the present moment and help root your consciousness directly in it.</p><p></p><p>Here is my journey to Yoga. I was always a person who was involved in different forms of workout. I loved to do any kind of workout. BE it dance , aerobics or CrossFit, there was always a feel good factor post workout. </p><p></p><p>Yoga was part of my workout. I used to love holding the asanas for longer. Till that time I was not aware how incredible an art and science Yoga is.</p><p></p><p>Then started the urge to learn more in Yoga. Initially it was about mastering the Asanas and as I learnt the philosophy behind the practice there was no looking back. Then it was a mix of intense personal Sadhana and study of Yoga Philosophy. Then started the journey of teaching. Teaching Yoga is what started bringing happiness to me. Understanding the goals of the student's in one to one sessions and helping them reach there is what I started loving. </p><p></p><p>I strongly believe "We as humans have unlimited potential. All we need is to look inward and move forward". Yoga is the journey which really helps you to understand your inner self. Yoga is the holistic approach of movement, breath, mindfulness and introspection.</p><p></p><p>Yoga can be addictive. That’s both good and bad. It’s good when yoga takes over your life and replaces old destructive habits with new helpful ones instead. When you crave a deep long <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signUp\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signUp\">yoga session</a> instead of a drink after a stressful day, then yoga has successfully rewired your brain, at least to some level. But, when yoga becomes an obsession with asana for asana sake, the addictive mind is still present and, unfortunately, can still be quite damaging.</p><p></p><p>When asana is your addiction instead of yoga, the danger is that you aren’t actually participating in a change of paradigm. We practice asana not to get better at asana. We practice asana as a tool to delve into the deepest reaches of the body and mind. The unique combination of breath and movement allows one to enter the operating system of the mind and make some updates. We get a chance to practice a radical new way of being—that is being at peace with yourself.</p><p></p><p>For me a practice session is something that can flow with ease, from posture to posture with breath. The structure of each session is based on every student’s requirements and goals. </p><p></p><p>“Lets set the intention to <a\n class=\"inline-cta\"\n id=c899fa5c-36e2-4fae-a744-1e64cd015987\n href=\"/free-trial-o?utm_source=MYT__article&utm_medium=ckfqzorwg02dk0126dbc86vq7&utm_campaign=inline_cta&utm_content=CTA-INLINE&entity_name=Yoga - A Journey to your Own Inner Self&entity_slug=yoga-a-journey-to-your-own-inner-self&page_or_popup=/articles/yoga-a-journey-to-your-own-inner-self&entity_location=hyperlink_midst_of_article&article_cta=CTA-INLINE&from_article_page=true\"\n onclick=trigger_mixpanel_sign_up_cta(\"c899fa5c-36e2-4fae-a744-1e64cd015987\")\n title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/\" \n data-title=\"Yoga - A Journey to your Own Inner Self\"\n data-slug=\"yoga-a-journey-to-your-own-inner-self\"\n <u>live yoga</a></u> \n </a> as a lifestyle. Lets be open to receive the inner guidance and let it steer the course of our life towards peace and happiness.”</p>"},{"type":"CTA","value":"[CTA-DEFAULT]"}],"isSlugACategory":false,"searchCategory":"yoga-a-journey-to-your-own-inner-self","showPopUp":false,"popUpType":null,"showedPopup":false,"windowWidth":null,"ctaPath":"free-trial-o","redirectURL":"#","current_url":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/articles/yoga-a-journey-to-your-own-inner-self","student_details":"","facebookUrl":"","twitterUrl":"","copyUrl":"","emailUrl":"","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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Learn to live yoga and soon you will see the benefits physically and mentally.","content":{"text":"By Shelly Piplani\\n\\nPracticing yoga is a tool that sharpens the mind so that you can see the reality clearly. It is not just a stretching routine that helps you get limber. In essence the yoga practice seeks to answer the question of what defines the present moment and help root your consciousness directly in it.\\n\\nHere is my journey to Yoga. I was always a person who was involved in different forms of workout. I loved to do any kind of workout. BE it dance , aerobics or CrossFit, there was always a feel good factor post workout. \\n\\nYoga was part of my workout. I used to love holding the asanas for longer. Till that time I was not aware how incredible an art and science Yoga is.\\n\\nThen started the urge to learn more in Yoga. Initially it was about mastering the Asanas and as I learnt the philosophy behind the practice there was no looking back. Then it was a mix of intense personal Sadhana and study of Yoga Philosophy. Then started the journey of teaching. Teaching Yoga is what started bringing happiness to me. Understanding the goals of the student's in one to one sessions and helping them reach there is what I started loving. \\n\\nI strongly believe \"We as humans have unlimited potential. All we need is to look inward and move forward\". Yoga is the journey which really helps you to understand your inner self. Yoga is the holistic approach of movement, breath, mindfulness and introspection.\\n\\nYoga can be addictive. That’s both good and bad. It’s good when yoga takes over your life and replaces old destructive habits with new helpful ones instead. When you crave a deep long \\nyoga session\\n instead of a drink after a stressful day, then yoga has successfully rewired your brain, at least to some level. But, when yoga becomes an obsession with asana for asana sake, the addictive mind is still present and, unfortunately, can still be quite damaging.\\n\\nWhen asana is your addiction instead of yoga, the danger is that you aren’t actually participating in a change of paradigm. We practice asana not to get better at asana. We practice asana as a tool to delve into the deepest reaches of the body and mind. The unique combination of breath and movement allows one to enter the operating system of the mind and make some updates. We get a chance to practice a radical new way of being—that is being at peace with yourself.\\n\\nFor me a practice session is something that can flow with ease, from posture to posture with breath. The structure of each session is based on every student’s requirements and goals. \\n\\n“Lets set the intention to \\nlive yoga\\n as a lifestyle. Lets be open to receive the inner guidance and let it steer the course of our life towards peace and happiness.”","html":"<p>By Shelly Piplani</p><p></p><p>Practicing yoga is a tool that sharpens the mind so that you can see the reality clearly. It is not just a stretching routine that helps you get limber. In essence the yoga practice seeks to answer the question of what defines the present moment and help root your consciousness directly in it.</p><p></p><p>Here is my journey to Yoga. I was always a person who was involved in different forms of workout. I loved to do any kind of workout. BE it dance , aerobics or CrossFit, there was always a feel good factor post workout. </p><p></p><p>Yoga was part of my workout. I used to love holding the asanas for longer. Till that time I was not aware how incredible an art and science Yoga is.</p><p></p><p>Then started the urge to learn more in Yoga. Initially it was about mastering the Asanas and as I learnt the philosophy behind the practice there was no looking back. Then it was a mix of intense personal Sadhana and study of Yoga Philosophy. Then started the journey of teaching. Teaching Yoga is what started bringing happiness to me. Understanding the goals of the student's in one to one sessions and helping them reach there is what I started loving. </p><p></p><p>I strongly believe "We as humans have unlimited potential. All we need is to look inward and move forward". Yoga is the journey which really helps you to understand your inner self. Yoga is the holistic approach of movement, breath, mindfulness and introspection.</p><p></p><p>Yoga can be addictive. That’s both good and bad. It’s good when yoga takes over your life and replaces old destructive habits with new helpful ones instead. When you crave a deep long <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signUp\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signUp\">yoga session</a> instead of a drink after a stressful day, then yoga has successfully rewired your brain, at least to some level. But, when yoga becomes an obsession with asana for asana sake, the addictive mind is still present and, unfortunately, can still be quite damaging.</p><p></p><p>When asana is your addiction instead of yoga, the danger is that you aren’t actually participating in a change of paradigm. We practice asana not to get better at asana. We practice asana as a tool to delve into the deepest reaches of the body and mind. The unique combination of breath and movement allows one to enter the operating system of the mind and make some updates. We get a chance to practice a radical new way of being—that is being at peace with yourself.</p><p></p><p>For me a practice session is something that can flow with ease, from posture to posture with breath. The structure of each session is based on every student’s requirements and goals. </p><p></p><p>“Lets set the intention to <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/\">live yoga</a> as a lifestyle. Lets be open to receive the inner guidance and let it steer the course of our life towards peace and happiness.”</p>"},"category":["therapy"],"utmCampaign":null,"utmMedium":null,"utmContent":null,"utmSource":null,"utmTerm":null,"utmSearchString":null,"imageHyperlink":[]},"recommendations_group_class":null}
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