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2955 Vista Boulevard Sparks, Nevada |
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Yoga
Yoga Defined:
Hatha and yoga are both Sanskrit words. Hatha is made up of two words, "ha" which means sun and "tha" which means moon. The word yoga means union (it comes from the same root word as our word "yoke"). Hatha yoga unites the energies of the sun and the moon - or the feminine and masculine energies within each of us. Hatha yoga uses postures, or asanas, to promote the unity of body, mind, emotions and spirit. Under the heading of "hatha yoga" come many different styles. The Yoga Pearl offers a practice combining vinyasa and viniyoga - focusing on flow (vinyasa links poses in a flowing series that warms and energizes the body), while paying special attention to the needs of the individual through modifications (viniyoga).
Yoga is neither a religion nor a sport. Physical exercise, in the form of asanas (or poses), is part of yoga, but yoga encompasses much more than just physical exercise. Yoga is an ancient system of "proper living" including, but not limited to, the following:
- Exercise (the asanas)
- Breath Control (pranayama)
- Relaxation (savasana)
- Nourishment (the practice of eating mindfully)
- Meditation (dhyana)
Yoga is practiced with focus on the breath, in order to achieve integration of the body, mind, emotions, and spirit. Focus is on oneself (as opposed to another) and acceptance is practiced, not only of another, but of oneself.
The regular practice of yoga may provide the following benefits:
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Stress Relief
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Improvement in strength, endurance, and flexibility
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Improvement in mental focus and clarity
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Strengthening of the immune system
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Reduction in symptoms associated with depression
To get the most out of your yoga practice, here are some helpful tips:
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Clothing should be loose, comfortable, and layered. You may feel warm during yoga practice, yet may cool off quickly in savasana. Layering works best for these conditions.
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Any meal should be eaten at least two hours before practicing yoga. Your practice will feel more comfortable with a light stomach.
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Practice somewhere between the physical sensations of "hard" and "easy". Yoga should not be painful. Please consult with the instructor if it is painful and you are unsure of the modifications.
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Continue breathing throughout practice. Inhalation and exhalation should be done through the nose. The breath should not be held, nor should it become ragged or strained.
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If/when the mind wanders, gently bring it back without judgment. Continue to practice mindfulness throughout the session.
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Yoga is not a competition - not with another student, the instructor or yourself! Practice kindness to yourself and others.
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If you find yourself feeling strong emotions as you experience different postures, allow these emotions to surface and flow through you. Asanas may release emotions which have long been held in our bodies. Allow the release of these emotions without judgement.
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Practice daily - even if it is with a few simple postures. You will be amazed at the increased feeling of balance in your life even a few postures a day can provide. Take your practice beyond this class.
Class Etiquette:
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Turn off all cell phones and pagers during class.
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If you must leave early, try to leave before savasana pose, so as not to disturb others' relaxation period.
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Questions during class are welcomed - please feel free to direct questions or comments to the instructor at any time during the session. Please keep any casual conversation with another student to a minimum during the session.
Nutritional Consultation
An individual nutritional consultation is a wonderful way to jump start your journey to increased wellness and overall health. Whether you are looking for the opportunity to lose weight, eat more healthfully, or meet your own training goals a nutritional consultation is the way to do it!
Kathaleen (Kate) Midcalf is the owner of The Yoga Pearl. She has been in the fitness/wellness industry since 1990. She has helped others successfully lose weight and increase their fitness level through eating well and exercising. She holds certificates in meditation and yoga (including several specialty areas), and a Doctorate in Natural Health. Let her help you realize your own health goals!
Individual Consultation (60 minutes) - $50.00
Daily e-mail support (6 days per week) - $30.00 per week