Yoga
Yoga is a significant ancient practice that originated in India over 5000 years ago. It is a holistic system that aims to unite the body, mind, and spirit through physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation. The physical postures, or ‘asanas’ help to stretch and strengthen the body while promoting balance and flexibility. The breathing techniques, or pranayama, help calm the mind and increase awareness of breath. Meditation is a practice that has been used since thousands of years to cultivate mental clarity, emotional balance, and spiritual awareness. Meditation practices also help cultivate inner peace, mindfulness, and a sense of connection to the present moment. In today’s fast paced world, where we are constantly bombarded with distractions and stressors, meditation provides a much- needed escape for the mind and a way to maintain inner peace and mental well-being. Yoga & meditation are not just exercises, but a way of life that helps us live more mindfully and compassionately. Whether a person is looking to improve their physical health, reduce stress, or cultivate inner peace, they have something to offer everyone.
Ashtanga Yoga
Ashtanga yoga is a traditional form of yoga that was popularized during the 20th century in India. It is a physically demanding practise that consists of a set of sequences of the ‘asanas’ that are linked together with specific breathing techniques (pranayama) and focused gazing points (drishti). The Ashtanga yoga sequence is divided into six series, each with a specific focus and level of difficulty, and practitioners are encouraged to move at their own pace with guidance from a qualified teacher.
Vinyasa Yoga
Vinyasa yoga, on the other hand, is a more modern form of yoga, based on the principles of Ashtanga yoga itself but allowing for more creative sequencing and individual expression. It is characterised by fluid, flowing movements that are synchronised with breath, and it often includes music and other modern elements. While Ashtanga and Vinyasa share some similarities in terms of their emphasis on breath and movement and their focus on building strength and concentration, they are not the same. Ashtanga is a more structured and traditional form of yoga, while Vinyasa is a more free-flowing and creative form of it. Studio 7 offers sessions in both these forms, with an instructor who is well- versed with both the concepts and makes the practitioner comfortable trying both.