I always find the switch to and from British Summer Time something that takes a little adjusting to. My first thought this morning was, ‘what time is it?’, and then I move through the mental gymnastics of working out what the ‘real time’ is, and how much time I have gained or lost whilst I slept.
I write this morning through a jet lag haze of losing an hour’s sleep and an extra cup of coffee has been very welcome. As a family we flutter through the twice yearly conversation about it being more (or is it less) light in the morning or perhaps in the evening, and what the benefits are to farmers and to children walking home from school.
After all this necessary family ritual, I go and practice yoga - it’s 8am, (or is it 9?)
I find that my yoga practice changes with the seasons too, and as we gain a little more light and warmth I find my body seeks something a little stronger and more dynamic. I find my capacity to face a challenge increases too, and I return to poses that were last with me in the Autumn. I wonder if you have a similar feeling?
A focus on moving well is one of the three key lifestyle elements that are the cornerstone of my work at The Yoga Company, as I believe that they have the most impact on our overall health and wellbeing…
With so many studies into the benefits of physical movement, I am reminded that a regular yoga practice can have a significant impact on our overall wellbeing and this is very much based on scientific evidence.
With continued practice comes a gradual loosening of the muscles and connective tissues surrounding the bones and joints; this is thought to be one reason that yoga is associated with reduced aches and pains. Yoga helps to build muscle mass and/ or maintain muscle strength, which protects from conditions such as arthritis, and osteoporosis. Many studies show that yoga lowers the resting heart rate, increases endurance, increases proprioception and improves balance.
Yoga's ability to increase relaxation was also studied to evaluate its effect on sleep quality. The study found that a regular practice of yoga resulted in a significant decrease in the time taken to fall asleep, and in the feeling of being rested in the morning.
I really enjoy practicing yoga at home in the morning. I am fortunate to have a little space to roll out my mat, and I appreciate being able to practice without having to rush out of the house. My morning practice allows me to feel more positive in my body and more mentally focussed on the day ahead.
A 2012 US study suggests that the frequency and duration of home practice may be the key to reaping the most health benefits from yoga. The fact that it can be challenging to attend yoga classes at a studio, establishing a yoga practice at home can help with many common reasons for not practicing at all, such as being too tired, having a tight budget, or being too busy.
It is also reminder of the importance of bringing our yoga practice and everything that it entails into the home environment, where many important decisions are made and our habits, for better or worse, reside. Our yoga practice should be an integral part of our lifestyle and not another thing on our to-do list.
I am currently offering two online morning yoga sessions every week that could help you to establish your home yoga routine, and it would be a great pleasure to practice with you.
Sensible timing
The sessions are 45 mins which is long enough to incorporate key poses, breath work, and savasana but without eating into your day. Imagine feeling the benefits of a full yoga session before you leave the house, and starting your day feeling strong, calm and focused.
Affordable
I am also very conscious of making the sessions affordable, so with rising costs everywhere (including many yoga studio classes), my sessions will not be a burden on your finances. I also offer a 6 class pass which further reduces the overall cost.
Convenience
You can practice in your PJs, and leave your camera off. No need for a coordinated yoga outfit or even to brush your hair. It’s your home, your time and your body - be comfortable. Just say ‘hi’ at the start of the session, and let me know you are ok at the end.
£6 per session
£30 - 6 class pass
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