Yoga
 Yoga is believed to have originated in India over 6,000 years ago; there is also evidence of the practice in pre-15th Century South American Cultures, such as in St.Augustine, Colombia, where statues of ancient stone depict people in Yoga postures.
Yoga, in Sanskrit, means to 'Yoke' or 'Unite'
Yoga is not a religion; it is a way of life and a practical aid. The Yoga techniques can be practiced by any person of any faith or fellowship.
Yoga is a 'union' with all, as well as with the self.
There are many ways to practice yoga, however, there are four primary types of Yoga:-
Karma Yogis follow a path of self-less action to do good for others and see unity in diversity. They see work itself as the practice, when it is performed with the right mental attitude.
This type of Yoga teaches techniques such as chanting prayer, repetition of mantras; singing. Through these techniques emotional energy is channelled into devotion, turning negative emotions, such as anger and jealousy into a positive direction
Jhana Yoga involves the study of sacred texts and philosophical discussions, intellectual debates and introspection and is the path of intellect, wisdom and introspection which are all parts of Jhana Yoga.
Raja Yoga consists of a balance of the Karma, Bhakti and Jhana Yoga styles. It focuses on bringing awareness to the 'self' (the soul consciousness), which lies beneath the surface of the conscious mind.
It requires a healthy body, a statutory posture, and a withdrawal of the senses. Only then can the super structure of concentration and meditation succeed.
In Hatha Yoga the Asana (steady pose) and Pranayama (control of the vital energy), represent the 3rd and 4th steps of Raja Yoga.
This is the general style of yoga that is practiced in the Western and modern society.
| Hatha, in Sanskrit means: |
Ha - Sun. |
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Tha - Moon. |
Hatha means a balancing of energy and forces.
Postures (asanas)
Physical benefits.
Focus on increasing and maintaining spine flexibility, toning and rejuvenating the nervous system.
Gentle Stretches.
Twisting and bending movements encourage flexibility to the other joints and muscles of the body as well as massaging the glands and organs.
Circulation.
Is improved, to ensure a rich supply of nutrients and oxygen to all the cells in the body.
Mental Benefits.
Steady Postures.
Free the mind from disturbances, by physical movement, promoting steadiness of mind. Balancing the emotions and improving the outlook on life.
Pranic Benefits.
To gain benefit, asanas must be practiced regularly over a period of time, but once the benefits are felt, they will last longer.
Different poses put pressure on various joints, purifying and strengthening the energy points of the body.
Classes instructed by Ulli:
Hatha Yoga:
For beginners 18 - 25 year olds.
For intermediate students - 18 - 25 year olds.
Beginners: 30 - 50 year olds.
Intermediate :30 - 50 year olds.
The classes include: Meditation, Gentle Stretches, sitting and standing postures.
Hatha Yoga:
For Multiple Sclerosis sufferers and people suffering from other Disabilities
e.g. Arthritis, Rheumatism.
The classes include: Meditation and Gentle Stretches, done sitting and lying down only.
Classes are held in both the afternoon and evening on various dates and locations in Leek Staffordshire.
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