OM Yoga Space: Yoga Intro

Also on this page: Health Benefits Testimonials Teaching Styles

WHY PRACTISE?

In the current age of technology, we need more physical activity. Yoga is a complete form of physical exercise combining breathing techniques, exercise, coordinating movements, and relaxation. It emphasizes balancing all the muscles and the practice of proper postural habits through gentle and controlled motions/postures. It allows for a sense of spinal and neurological wellness.
Yoga utilizes one's own body weight for resistance with the postures thus allowing for increases in strength, mobility, and the balancing of muscles. Yoga also promotes spinal flexibility. An increase in quality of life is another outcome. One will also gain a healthier emotional state and positive outlook leading to a reduction of stress. Physical activity and fitness reduces the risk for chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease.

The daily health choices we make regarding our health habits and lifestyle impact on our overall wellness and health destiny as individuals.

- Dr. Lisa Cadotte BSc, DC
Lockerby Chiropractic Clinic
upward dog
side plank

HEALTH BENEFITS

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The physical building blocks of yoga are posture (asana) and breath. A series of poses held over a period of time and synchronized with breath exercises every part of the body.
Yoga benefits your:

Cardiovascular system (heart and arteries) Asanas are isometric exercise, meaning they rely on holding muscle tension for short periods. This improves cardiovascular fitness and circulation. Studies show that regular yoga practice may help normalize blood pressure. leg wheel

Digestive system Improved blood circulation and the massaging effect of surrounding muscles speeds up a sluggish digestion.

Musculo-skeletal
Joints move through their full range of motion, encouraging mobility and easing pressure. The gentle stretching releases muscle tension and increases flexibility. Maintaining many asanas encourages strength and endurance. Weight-bearing asanas may help prevent osteoporosis, and when practised carefully under the supervision of a qualified Yoga teacher can also help those suffering from osteoporosis. Long-term benefits include reduced back pain and improved posture.

Nervous system Improved blood circulation, easing of muscle tension and the act of focusing the mind on the breath all work together to soothe the nervous system. Long term benefits include reduced stress and anxiety levels, and increased feelings of calm and wellbeing.

TESTIMONIALS

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"I started to learn yoga about 3 years ago, and have tried classes in gyms and private studios in Oakville, Sudbury, Toronto, Guelph and even New Delhi. Some of my best yoga experiences have been at the OM Yoga Space, where classes are just the right balance of useful instruction and peaceful, harmonious atmosphere for me. The instructors inform students of the physical and spiritual holistic healing that can take place through yoga practice without entering into too much disciplinary doctrine. The instructors' beautiful voices and the great choice of music also make these classes flow smoothly. I believe I am gaining physical and mental strength and flexibility, reducing stress and feeling generally more happy by practicing yoga at OM Yoga Space."
Madhur Anand, PhD

"I'd like to take this opportunity to thank you for the difference that you have made in my life. For some time, I have purchased yoga DVD's (or VHS tapes) and books and attended some classes. Yoga has been something that has intrigued me... I think because of what I have read about the holistic peace it can bring to someone. In our fast paced, confused society, we need an outlet of some kind. I am sooooo happy to have found your classes. They provide me with that outlet.
   It's difficult for me to explain how wonderful your classes have left me feeling. The atmosphere in your studio is most relaxing and calming. I can feel your passion when you do the classes. It really touches me very deeply. I find the Kundalini Yoga is exhausting (lack of a better word), physically and mentally, but leaves me feeling refreshed and ready to face the real world. I have done a few other classes and enjoyed them as much (in a different way, though).
   I find the visits to your studio are addictive. I had to miss last Tuesday and was very saddened (but thought of everyone while I was at work). Because I live an hour away, I rarely drive to Sudbury if I only have one thing to do. I find this is not the case with my Yoga. I wish I could attend daily, and hope to maybe do so. Although I haven't graduated to the place to practice at home, I have found that the mantras help me through my day. I repeat Sat Nam and hear you say "your body is only a vessel, there are no limitations", whenever things get physically or mentally draining. ... And it works!
    Thank you again... I hope that I can continue to work on positive changes in this direction. I want to learn so much more (diet, meditating, etc)."

(email excerpt from) Nicole Foy, Yoga Student

TEACHING STYLES

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Below are short definitions of styles incorporated into our classes.

Anusara Yoga Anusara is a spiritually-inspiring yoga form that combines Hatha (see below) and biochemical principles. It was developed recently by John Friend and is gaining huge popularity. Emphasis is on outer and inner body alignment and the heart. Anusara is suitable for all, as it is mindful of individual abilities and limitations.

Hatha Yoga This ancient style of yoga encompasses asanas (postures) and meditation, encouraging increased fitness levels and stress-relief. Hatha tradition focuses on pranayama (breath), alignment, and form.

Hatha Flow Getting in touch with your natural flow enhances yoga practice and your whole life. Through Hatha Flow, you will learn to connect and flow with the current of vital life force energy. Depending on your energy level, practice can be vigorous or as gentle as a walk in the park.

Kundalini Yoga Kundalini was designed for people leading busy lives who want to relax, energize, and uplift themselves quickly. It includes many Hatha yoga postures, provides a good challenge, yet is very doable for the average person. The positive effects of this yoga can be experienced in a matter of minutes. It consists of both held and moving postures coordinated with strong breathing patterns.

Sivananda Yoga This intermediate style focuses upon pranayama (breath energy) and classic asanas (basic poses). Diet and positive thinking are also heavily emphasized. Relaxation techniques and mantra chanting are also employed.

Vinyasa Flow Traditional Hatha poses are purposefully and seamlessly linked together with breath work to strengthen the body's energy centres. The resulting internal heat detoxifies muscles and organs and improves circulation. This challenging aerobic practice builds endurance, flexibility, and mental clarity/calm.

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Cardiovascular system (heart and arteries)	Asanas are isometric exercise, meaning they rely on holding muscle tension for short periods. This improves cardiovascular fitness and circulation. Studies show that regular yoga practice may help normalize blood pressure.
Digestive system	Improved blood circulation and the massaging effect of surrounding muscles speeds up a sluggish digestion.
Musculo-skeletal	Joints move through their full range of motion, encouraging mobility and easing pressure. The gentle stretching releases muscle tension and increases flexibility. Maintaining many asanas encourages strength and endurance. Weight-bearing asanas may help prevent osteoporosis, and when practised carefully under the supervision of a qualified Yoga teacher can also help those suffering from osteoporosis. Long-term benefits include reduced back pain and improved posture.
Nervous system	Improved blood circulation, easing of muscle tension and the act of focusing the mind on the breath all work together to soothe the nervous system. Long term benefits include reduced stress and anxiety levels, and increased feelings of calm and wellbeing.

Anusara Yoga	Anusara is a spiritually-inspiring yoga form that combines Hatha (see below) and biochemical principles. It was developed recently by John Friend and is gaining huge popularity. Emphasis is on outer and inner body alignment and the heart. Anusara is suitable for all, as it is mindful of individual abilities and limitations.
Hatha Yoga	This ancient style of yoga encompasses asanas (postures) and meditation, encouraging increased fitness levels and stress-relief. Hatha tradition focuses on pranayama (breath), alignment, and form.
Hatha Flow	Getting in touch with your natural flow enhances yoga practice and your whole life. Through Hatha Flow, you will learn to connect and flow with the current of vital life force energy. Depending on your energy level, practice can be vigorous or as gentle as a walk in the park.
Kundalini Yoga	Kundalini was designed for people leading busy lives who want to relax, energize, and uplift themselves quickly. It includes many Hatha yoga postures, provides a good challenge, yet is very doable for the average person. The positive effects of this yoga can be experienced in a matter of minutes. It consists of both held and moving postures coordinated with strong breathing patterns.
Sivananda Yoga	This intermediate style focuses upon pranayama (breath energy) and classic asanas (basic poses). Diet and positive thinking are also heavily emphasized. Relaxation techniques and mantra chanting are also employed.
Vinyasa Flow	Traditional Hatha poses are purposefully and seamlessly linked together with breath work to strengthen the body's energy centres. The resulting internal heat detoxifies muscles and organs and improves circulation. This challenging aerobic practice builds endurance, flexibility, and mental clarity/calm.