The stunning autumn weather is here and Easter is around the corner.  It is a gorgeous time of the year in Orange to walk, swim, garden, and practice yoga.  The mornings are particularly sensational and these cooler nights and warmer days will continue until after Easter, hopefully.  We are planning a family yoga class in Cook Park on a Saturday afternoon before Winter shows up.  Is this something  you would like to bring your grandchildren to?  Or your own children, nieces, nephews, or maybe even your parents?  Let me know your thoughts.

As always, the studio runs on a reduced timetable over Easter and the school holidays.    During the holidays, I am teaching a few classes dedicated to slowing down, taking time to be still and renewing our energy.  These classes are centered around the nervous system and the vagus nerve.  

What are the Benefits of Yoga to the Nervous System?

As regular practitioners know very well, yoga is not just about physical exercise; it is a holistic practice.  Yoga has the power to calm the mind, reduce stress, and promote relaxation. Through a combination of asanas, breathing exercises (Pranayama), and awareness, yoga helps to activate the parasympathetic nervous system, also known as the "rest and digest" response.  This is where relaxation resides.

By practising restorative asanas we can lower blood pressure, change our breathing, release tension in the muscles and ease chronic stress and anxiety.  In fact we can change our physiology! This can have a profound impact on our overall health.  Chronic stress and anxiety are known to contribute to a wide range of health issues.

How Can Regular Yoga and Breathing Techniques Help?

By practising asana and breathing techniques such as pranayama, you can learn to control your breath and calm your mind in times of stress. Deep, intentional breathing can signal to your body that it is safe and can help to regulate your nervous system's response to external stimuli.  It can change the way you react to things.

B.K.S. Iyengar’s famous quote:  'Yoga does not just change the way we see things, it transforms the person who sees' highlights that the practice of yoga goes beyond altering perspectives to fundamentally changing the practitioner's inner self, consciousness, and character.  It emphasizes profound inner transformation over just external, mental shifts. 

Please note all classes are General in nature and open to students of any level and experience.

Tuesday 7 April 

6.00-7.30pm General class with Tricia – Restoratives, Meditation and Pranayama (breath work)

Wednesday 8 April

6.00-7.30pm General class with Kim

Saturday 11 April

7.30-8.30am General Class with Kim

Monday 13 April

9.00-10.00am Chair Yoga with Kim

6.00-7.30 General class with Tricia – The Power of Restorative Yoga (holding space to be still)

Wednesday  15 April

7.00-8.00am General with Fiona

Thursday 16 April

9.30-11.00am General class with Tricia

Saturday 18 April

7.30-8.30am General class with Tricia

11.30am-12.30pm Yoga Basics class for those wishing to try Yoga, with Tricia.  Bfring a friend who is new to yoga and do the class for free.

See you on the mat!

Timetable and purchase/book a class

Join Fiona for an exhilaring workshop on Backbends

Read the entire article....

By coming along to Fiona's workshop, you'll learn about the transformative benefits of Pranayama, a powerful practice that delves into the essence of breath and its profound impact on our well-being.  Fiona will look at basic anatomy, set ups for for Pranayama and go through some of the many pranayamas that yogis have practised for thousands of years.

What is Pranayama?

Pranayama is more than just a breathing exercise; it is a sacred art that connects the body, mind, and spirit. By harnessing the breath, practitioners can tap into a source of vitality and inner peace.

How Does Pranayama Affect the Nervous System?

Through the practice of Pranayama, we can regulate our nervous systems, promoting a state of calm and balance. By engaging in specific breathing techniques or Pranayamas, we can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, leading to relaxation and stress relief.

What are the Longevity Benefits of Pranayama?

Studies have shown that regular practice of Pranayama can have a positive impact on longevity. By optimizing the breath, practitioners can enhance oxygen flow throughout the body, supporting overall health and vitality.

How Can Pranayama Help with Anxiety and Depression?

Pranayama offers a natural and effective way to manage anxiety and depression. By focusing on the breath, individuals can quiet the mind, reduce stress levels, and cultivate a sense of inner peace and clarity.

Why Science Supports the Benefits of Pranayama?

Scientific research has validated the numerous benefits of Pranayama on both physical and mental well-being. From improving lung function to enhancing cognitive function, the evidence is clear.  

Anyone can practice Pranayama who has done at least a term in our classes.  Asanas that are taught in class prepare the nervous system, and the physical body to practice Pranayama.   By embracing Pranayama with an open heart and a curious mind, and practising regularly, it can have a profound impact on our overall well-being.

The workshop is from 3.00-5.00pm this Saturday.  Use this link to book your place.

https://orangeyogaroom.punchpass.com/classes/16914845

Are you looking to start the new year off on the right foot by prioritising your health?  Or maybe you are looking to incorporate yoga into your daily routine? Why not consider starting 2025 with one of our KickStart Programs?  The new year is the perfect time to kickstart your yoga practice and reap the many benefits that come with it.  Whether you are an existing student in our yoga community, or looking for a friendly studio to start your yoga journey, our holiday program has classes for all levels.

What are the Benefits of Yoga?

Yoga is not just about stretching and posing – it offers a wide range of benefits for both the body and the mind. From increased flexibility and strength to stress relief and improved mental clarity, yoga has something to offer everyone. By committing to a regular yoga practice, you can improve your overall well-being and feel more balanced in your daily life.

How Can You Get Started?

Starting a yoga practice may seem intimidating at first, but it doesn't have to be. Consider starting with beginner-friendly classes to build a strong foundation and gradually progress as you become more comfortable with the practice.

Setting Realistic Goals

As you embark on your yoga journey in the new year, it's important to set realistic goals for yourself. Whether you aim to practice yoga a few times a week or simply want to focus on learning the basic beginner level poses, setting achievable goals will help you stay motivated and committed to your practice.

Creating a Sacred Space

One way to stay dedicated to your yoga practice is by creating a sacred space in your home where you can practice without distractions. Whether it's a corner of your living room or a dedicated yoga room, having a space that is conducive to your practice can help you stay focused and in tune with your body.

Joining a Community

Consider joining our yoga community to connect with like-minded individuals who can support you on your journey. We offer classes and workshops for beginners to experienced students.  We are a friendly studio with certified teachers who care about your progress and are there to teach and guide you along the way.  NOW is a great time to enrol in a class or a KickStart Program. 

January Timetable

The timetable for January is below.  All the classes on the timetable are open to all students.  You can attend a single class or enrol in a KickStart Program to start 2025 with purpose and consistency.

***  Please note that the Saturday classes are free for those enrolling in any of the KickStart Programs. 

 Use this link to our booking syste, PunchPass to buy a pass and book your classes:  https://orangeyogaroom.punchpass.com/classes.

Read the entire article....

In the last blog I gave a short description of each of the five koshas.  In this blog I have included a link to a YouTube tutorial explaining the concepts of the koshers and their relationship to each other.  I hope this tutorial contributes to your understanding of the Koshas and helps to give you some context for your yoga practice.  By understanding the Koshas you can apply your understanding to your practice.  In this way you create a living philosophy that you practice on the mat, and eventually in your daily life.

Se you on the mat!

Tricia

Watch here:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xEdC9UOa_Ak&t=511s

Welcome back and Happy New Year!  

The teachers are so excited to be teaching in the studio and online.  I encourage you to make a commitment to your yoga and carve out time to look after your physical and mental health.  We look forward to serving you in class again and watching your progression.

*    Denotes Online only

**   Denotes Streamed Class

Join us and book your class online:  https://orangeyogaroom.punchpass.com/classes?jw=undefined&as=client.