Why We Practice Yoga

and why you should ;-)

Recently I´ve been thinking a lot about the classes I offer: yoga, yoga for MS, strengthening, strengthening with elastic bands, Breathwork… and what each of these modalities bring to my students and why yoga is so precious to me.

It makes us feel better in our body

As we were having a chat with a few friends, one of my students said ‘When I do yoga, I love my body’.
One of the most immediate benefits of yoga is indeed the way it makes us feel better in our bodies. The physical postures, or asanas, help release tension, improve posture, and enhance overall physical health. Regular practice can alleviate chronic pain, improve cardiovascular health, and boost immune function.

There are tons of studies documenting the wide-ranging benefits of yoga. Research has shown that yoga can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, improve sleep quality, and enhance overall mental well-being. Yoga lowers the level of cortisol, the stress hormone. It significantly improves mood and anxiety.

We are not just a body. Yoga is not just physical activity

The benefits of yoga are not just physical. As we move through the poses, we become more attuned to our bodies, learning to listen to its signals and respond with care and compassion. Yoga reminds us that we are not just bodies in motion but beings of complex, interwoven dimensions.

The word "yoga" itself means "union" in Sanskrit, and the aim is to integrate all aspects of our being. When we engage in yoga, we are not just stretching muscles or holding poses; we are engaging in a practice that cultivates awareness, presence, and inner calm.

A unique aspect of yoga is that we always synchronise the breath with movement. This helps to create harmony, to be ‘in a flow’. This deep, rhythmic breathing activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which induces a state of relaxation and reduces stress levels.

Beyond the mat

Yoga encourages us to be present in the moment, to observe our thoughts and feelings without judgment, and to cultivate a sense of inner stillness. This awareness extends beyond the mat and into our daily lives. I truly believe that yoga helps us navigate life’s ups and down with more ease and increased resilience. By practicing yoga, we learn to stay grounded and centered even in the face of challenges. The discipline of yoga - and it is a discipline- teaches us patience, perseverance, and the ability to remain calm under pressure. This is invaluable.

Yoga is often misunderstood as merely a series of physical exercises aimed at improving flexibility and strength. While these are certainly benefits, yoga is far more than a physical exercise. It is a journey of self-discovery and transformation. It teaches us that we are not just bodies moving through space but complex beings capable of profound inner growth and resilience. When we do yoga, we not only enhance our physical health but we also nurture our minds and spirits, preparing ourselves to face life's challenges.

I am looking forward to joining a wonderful group this weekend in La Perdrix, in Dordogne area of France for a week of yoga and Breathwork. Let the journey and exploration begin…