Yoga is an ancient practice that has been passed down for thousands of years by mostly Brown and Black practitioners from India and South Asia. It is a practice designed to bring balance to the mind, body and spirit. Yoga is considered a spiritual practice and a way of living. To me, yoga is not something that you do, it is something that you are!

If we want to break this down and get to the roots, the word “yoga” derives from the Sanskrit word “yuj” meaning “to yoke” or “to unite”. Sanskrit is “an ancient Indo-European language of India, in which the Hindu scriptures and classical Indian epic poems are written and from which many northern Indian (Indic) languages are derived.” (Oxford Dictionary)

Research has shown a daily or even weekly yoga practice can:

• Relieve chronic pain
• Increase flexibility
• Reduce stress and anxiety
• Improve mental well-being
• Build physical strength and stamina
• Improve cardiovascular functioning
• Protect your spine and support better posture
• Make you happy and improve your overall health and well-being

Many of us are first introduced to yoga through a physical practice (asana). Most people know common poses like Adho Mukha Svanasana (downward dog) or Bitilasana/Marjariasana (cat/cow) from magazines or social media platforms and there are many different styles of asana to choose from: Vinyasa, Ashtanga, Hatha, Power, Yin, Kundalini, Restorative, Yoga Nidra, etc. However, Asana is just a KISS, a small piece, of the depths yoga can offer you in your body, mind and spirit. Check out my page Deepening Your Practice for more!

Utilizing a yoga teacher who will listen to your goals and your concerns can help you navigate the benefits of not only a physical practice, but a connective practice as well. EVERYONE can practice yoga in a supportive space. If you are ready to get started and learn more, I would love to be your guide!