An Important Message

Prior to Practice

Before attempting any physical activity it is important to make sure that you are physically fit and healthy. Always consult your medical practitioner before commencing any health program. Yoga should always be comfortable and steady. If you experience any pain during yoga practice discontinue the practice immediately. Pain is an indication of injury or illness. Please take careful note of the instructions before beginning your practice. It is important to take responsibility for your own health and wellbeing by being aware and sensible regarding any physical activity. Always listen to your own body and practice mindfulness when it comes to your health—close your eyes before each practice and consider how you are feeling; only begin your practice if you are feeling well enough.

During Yoga Practice

Hatha Yoga relies on the movement working with the breath; the breath is a vital part of the practice. In yogic theory the breath is responsible for moving the prana (life-force) or energy around the body. Always breathe in and out of the nostrils (unless otherwise guided). The nostrils have an excellent filtration system to keep bugs at bay. Usually in yoga practice we breathe in when opening away from the body (eg stretching up or out) and we breathe out when closing in on the body (eg bending over or folding inwards). Remember to give in completely and rest between each posture (for at least 30 seconds). Make sure you use a good yoga mat and work in bare feet. It is very important to relax the neck and head, do not hold them rigid during practice—tensing the neck area can lead to neck ache or injury. Special precautions need to be taken during pregnancy. If pregnant, refer to yoga books specifically designed for use during pregnancy. During practice, when the head is lower than the heart, remember to return to the upright position very slowly to avoid dizziness. If lying down, then roll over to the right side gently and then rest there for a moment before slowly sitting up. When doing balancing poses, gaze at something at eye level (that will not move) and/or hold the wall with one hand. Always wear loose-fitting clothing. Be aware and focus on the body and breath during asana (posture) practice. Remember, this is Mood Yoga—it’s not just about ‘doing’, it’s about ‘feeling’. Think of yoga as a form of therapy—a tool to give the bodymind what it needs at any given moment. Read through additional tips for yoga practice. Keep in mind that one of the main principles of Mood Yoga is Patanjali’s (The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali) concept that ‘if you control the breath, you control the mind’.

Truth is within ourselves
Robert Browning

Yoga Postures (Asanas):