The Sanskrit word for fire is ‘agni’ which is also the word used to refer to the digestive system. This highlights the ancient view of the digestive fire, needed to be activated and strong yet not overpowering to entirely destroy. It’s important to keep the digestive fire burning during all seasons but of course as we move into winter, it’s extra helpful to be able to hone the powers of internal warmth.
What Is Mandala Vinyasa?
A mandala is a Hindu and Buddhist symbol which represents wholeness. Each part of the symbol contributes to both the larger circular figure and the ‘buddhi’ – centre of all. This symbol demonstrates how each and every living being and action contributes to the whole macrocosm. No matter how small or big the mandala, there is no break, it is whole.
Allow Yoga To Ground You
All that we practice on the yoga mat is a metaphor for our lives outside. We don’t practise these shapes to get ‘good’ at them, we practise yoga to learn more about ourselves; our challenges, triggers, responses, thought patterns and so much more! A lot can be revealed in the practice and it’s important that we both prepare well and tend to our aftercare.
Managing Stress with Yoga
Stress is a natural response which evolved with us humans to keep us safe and alive. We now have so many less threats in our daily lives, yet stress is one of the biggest health problems that humans face.
Yoga is known as one of the most effective methods of self-regulation; it allows us to recognise symptoms of stress and empower ourselves to choose a new direction. Yoga offers many techniques that have the potential to stop the production of stress hormones and instead move into a state of rest and digest.
Unhelpful Habits We See In Yoga
We can all pick up unhelpful habits in our asana practice, as we’re focusing on one thing, we can miss another. These habits originate in our repetitive daily movements which can lead to...
Saving Time
This weekend the clocks change, and on this occasion, that means that we ‘gain’ an hour in the morning! Happy slow Sunday to us. Time management often comes up as an obstacle to us seizing the habits/lifestyle we would like to participate in more. We are here to help.
What the Heck is Yoga Nidra?!
Yoga Nidra is translated to Yogic Sleep. In nidra, the mind is not unconscious as it is while sleeping, but it connects us to our subconscious mind which holds our many impressions, experiences, and knowledge, it’s a place that we are not able to reside in during our usual waking state.
So What is Yin?
Yin Yoga is a modern style of yoga which is informed by traditional Chinese medicine.
It can be confusing…
The term ‘Yin’ alone refers to the opposition of ‘Yang’: Yin being the more soft, soothing, feminine and Yang as the more dynamic, active, masculine aspects of being. However, Yin Yoga is a specific style of yoga which incorporates its own meaning. This becomes apparent when considering a Restorative Yoga class which is working with the Yin aspects of being yet is different to Yin Yoga.
Am I there yet?
So you love yoga, connect with your yoga teachers and are considering becoming one yourself, but there are those doubts lingering… Am I there yet? It’s a perfectly legitimate question to all ask ourselves before taking on any new learning and/or challenge but we’re here to support you with this one.
What to expect on your first day at teacher training
Most importantly, this is not a test. You will not be getting weighed up against anyone else on your knowledge of philosophy or experience of asanas. Instead, this is an exciting day of connecting with a community who all have a common interest. This is a day to get to know others and yourself a bit more, noting where it is you are starting from, and peeking into all that there is to delve into.
The Fabulous Four! Meet Our New Teachers 😊
You may think I’m biased saying this, but we’re damn proud of the fine selection of exceptional teachers we offer you at Heather Yoga for developing & nurturing a safe, enjoyable and satisfying Yoga & Meditation practice that supports and positively impacts your physical, mental & emotional wellbeing.
Catching Up with Adam Hocke!
It's always the most fun checking in with Adam Hocke! Check out this replay to hear Adam and Heather discussing his upcoming workshop 'Mind-Body-Heart Alignment' and what Adam will be sharing as a guest expert in our Yoga Unwrapped© Teacher Training Programme starting 28th October 21.