Most of us dream of living in a more balanced way that leaves us feeling:
- more toned and energized
- more relaxed and at peace
- more present and living in the 'now'
- more confident and in control of our lives
- more in harmony- physically, mentally and spiritually.
In the past you may have experienced some of these ways of being for a while, then, for any one of a number of reasons, you've fallen back into your old patterns. Why do we fall back into the trap of an inactive and unhealthy way of living, when we ALL know that by caring for our bodies we will undoubtedly live a longer, happier and healthier life?
Self-care often ends up in the too hard basket
When we buy a car, or a computer, it comes with a manual. Our bodies are the most complex biological system in the universe, and yet most of us have little understanding of how it actually works, physically or mentally. We recognize the importance of taking our car in for a service, oil change or tune up, but do we know how to service our bodies? We know how to install a new program on our computer, but do we know how to reprogram our minds?
Finding balance through Yoga
The ancient practice of Yoga simultaneously develops understanding of the human consciousness, the energy world of the mind, and the physical reality of the body. It creates union between body, mind and spirit, and brings balance and calmness to every level of our being. There are many forms of Yoga – just a few are listed below with a summary of their benefits.
- The practice of Hatha Yoga promotes flexibility, balance, inner strength and vitality in the physical body.
- In Chakra Yoga the focus is on our internal organs that generate optimal cardiovascular, respiratory and circulatory health which are the essence of our life support.
- In Pranayama we learn to breathe more effectively thus enhancing life at the cellular level and diminishing many of the social illnesses and ailments of the 20th century.
- Meditation allows us to achieve an elevated level of healing and presence in our lives.
- Jnana Yoga develops wisdom and understanding of the mind through relaxation techniques.
- Karma Yoga involves universal balance – just as what goes up must come down, also what is put out by us also comes back to us.
- Raja Yoga encapsulates the thinking process (Mind over Matter) such that when we think positive thoughts they result in positive outcomes.
- Yantra Yoga is the study of energy patterns based on the magnetic energy of the Universe.
You can begin with just 5 minutes per day
It's never too late to start bringing peace and balance to your mind, body and spirit through Yoga. It needn't be a chore – you could start with just a few simple stretches or a short meditation each day.
Learning, through Yoga, to be truly present in each moment can be the most meaningful journey of transformation you can achieve. Why not take the first step of that journey today?
Through her company, Bare Wellness, Leanne Bowman offers practical workshops and one-on-one consultations showing you how to easily incorporate Yoga into each day so you can live the life you love. For further information contact Leanne on 0400 071214 or leanneleo@live.com.au
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This article really inspires me right now, and I very much like the idea of incorporating it into your life in small gradual steps.
I was once told that to be a real yoga devotee you needed to commit to 90minutes a day – I didn’t have the space in my life to do that. So instead did no yoga. I really appreciated hearing that being present for 5 minutes of yoga whatever activity you choose (simple stretches or meditation) is OK.