Have you noticed the increasing number of yoga classes advertised in Sooke? Have you seen people carrying their yoga mats with smiling and contented looks on their faces?
We are fortunate that the practice of yoga is growing in popularity and Sooke now hosts a wide variety of classes with more to come in the fall. There are classes for beginners as well as those with experience, for those with injuries or looking for gentle stretching and relaxation and for those seeking vigorous activity. Yoga is adaptable to the individual and so there is something for everyone. Contrary to what you might think, you do not have to be flexible to 'do' yoga. All you need is a willingness to practice.
Dr. Timothy McCall, MD, yoga instructor and author of the book Yoga as Medicine, lists 50 health conditions that are benefited by yoga according to scientific studies. These include: Alcoholism, anxiety, asthma, cancer, diabetes, Fibromyalgia, psoriasis, multiple sclerosis, osteoporosis, schizophrenia and kidney failure. See www.drmccall.com for details. So what is this ancient healing practice and how does it work?
The Sanskrit word yoga means to yoke or to join, union. It refers to the joining of body, mind and spirit. Yoga is not a religion; there is no dogma to follow. Rather it is a philosophy rooted a group of ancient scriptures. Through practices such as meditation, breathing exercises (pranayama), and physical postures (asanas) among many others, insights into the nature of existence arise.
Many Westerners driven by ambition seek greater flexibility, strength, stamina, energy and stress relief from yoga. All of these health benefits can be experienced, along with others, but they are secondary. The real benefit comes from deeper self-awareness and conscious living.
Numerous styles of yoga have developed over time. Fortunately for us here in Sooke, we have a variety of qualified instructors enthusiastic about sharing their practice. Check out yogainsooke.ca for profiles of instructors and class schedules. Also watch for news of a new yoga studio opening in Sooke in the fall.
For more information, watch the beautiful DVD “Yoga Unveiled” by Gita and Mukesh Desai, available from the library or see yogajournal.com and www.traditionalyogastudies.com.
