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Yoga is for Every Body


omeone that has never tried yoga may believe some of the common myths about the practice: it’s not a real workout”, “it’s only for the flexible”, “it’s not for men or people with injuries” or “there’s only one type of yoga”. In fact, anyone who has practiced can tell you that these are all untrue. Yoga (meaning union, to yolk) is about connecting. Specifically, connecting with one’s mind, body and breath in the present moment, the only mo- ment that actually exists. And, those that are connected to them- selves find it easier to connect with their family, friends, community and any environment by which they’re surrounded. There are many types of yoga, and yoga is a practice that can


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fit every body. Vinyasa yoga is characterized by linking movement with breath, and the breath dictates the length of time held in specific postures. Vinyasa yoga creates heat in the body, and can be combined with a heated studio to create a cleansing environment by increasing the circulation and sweat that the body produces. These conditions also help to relax the muscles and make it easier and more comfortable for the body to work into each position. While physically challenging, Vinyasa yoga teachers often offer several variations for each pose and encourage rest in a child’s pose when the connection to the breath is lost, making most classes ac- cessible to everyone.


Restorative Yoga For those that prefer a slower pace, there are Restorative and


Yin yoga offerings that encourage mindfulness and relaxation in a stiller environment. These classes can be heated or not, and include postures that are held for longer periods than Vinyasa or other ac- tive types of yoga. The poses are typically held in seated or supine positions and slowly, passively allow the muscles to release tension


20 Essential Living Maine ~ November/December 2014


and the individual to focus on breath and the active release of stress, fear and anxiety. These classes can be great for beginners and for those that appreciate a gentle approach.


Pre And Post-Natal Yoga Prenatal yoga helps to bring strength and inner balance during


a time when the body and mind are involved in great physical and emotional changes. Knowing how to use and modify yoga postures to breathe, move and relax throughout pregnancy is beneficial to both mom and baby. Yoga during pregnancy helps a woman practice how to listen to her body and to respond calmly, which is wonderful preparation for labor, delivery and parenthood. Yoga postures and the practice of breath work is an effective way to soothe physical and emotional discomforts that can often occur during pregnancy. Prenatal Yoga classes are a great way to provide a time and space to quiet the mind and connect with one’s body and growing baby and also provide an open community to share in the wonderful new changes the body and babies are experiencing. Yoga is beneficial during the postnatal period as well. Typically, life is transformed with a newborn baby and gentle yoga based move- ments can help to gradually and safely recover muscle tone and strength. Restorative classes where rest and rejuvenation are the focus, are also quite helpful in the body’s ability to recover from childbirth.


Baby And Me/Kids Yoga As a new mom, it is only natural to want to bond- not only


with the baby, but with other moms as well. A Baby & Me yoga class offers both opportunities, while also re-toning and strengthen-


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