mindful movement
Karen James portrait | Ellie Jade
Alliance and Yoga Journal found that, while the number of people practising yoga continues to rise, there were several points that participants highlighted when considering the reasons why they didn’t try yoga. Those reasons were that yoga can feel exclusive, and there is a perception that it’s ‘designed for young women’, and those who are flexible, athletic, or spiritual. Social media and a sense of competition may enforce those judgments, but we’re here to break down misconceptions and barriers – holding open the door to anyone who is interested in stepping on to the mat and giving it a go – and to explore why this ancient practice is so relevant to our wellbeing today. Forget about the ʼgram On Instagram there are more than 95.9 million posts under the tag #yoga, with many of the snapshots showing people in complicated, athletic poses, against stunning backdrops. While these feats are no doubt impressive, yoga practice is a personal thing, and the reality for the vast majority of people who enjoy it looks very different. So, first things first, let go of any sense of competition, or expectations about how you should look. This is a point that
Ask a yoga teacher Expert Karen James answers your questions about the practice: I’m not very flexible, can I still do yoga? Absolutely. It’s easy to get put off by social media when it comes to physical practice – most people are not inherently flexible, and have a normal anatomical range of motion. But yoga is not only physical, it’s a wonderful way to reconnect with yourself. What equipment do I need to get started? A mat, chair, or your bed – it depends on what type of yoga suits your body. There are days I practise without a mat and simply use household items to support my body – for example, a wall, chair, or stool.
resonates with life coach Andy Gill, who is also a qualified yoga teacher, and highlights how a large part of the practice is about how you feel on the inside. “Yoga is about more than stretching or becoming flexible, it is a way to connect with, and be in your body – to become embodied,” he explains. “Many of us are profoundly disconnected from our bodies,
Is it possible to adapt yoga for disabilities? Yes, and be sure to look for teachers who advocate for accessibility in all forms – especially now we can go online, as classes don’t necessarily have to be in person. There’s a lot of free yoga content available online. How can I make sure I follow safe advice? Information provided through social media is universal, but one size doesn’t fit all. Take it slow. The person running a class is there to facilitate, not dictate, movement of the body. Yoga practice shouldn’t be forced, and my best advice is, if in doubt, log off.
cut off from a resource that can keep us grounded, centred, and connected. Developing a deeper connection and trust to the resource of the body is a foundation for good mental health. Through yoga, we can develop this body connection, learning to have a better relationship with our bodies and thereby with ourselves, others, and the world.” >>> happiful.com | June 2021 | 17