Isn't yoga a type of exercise?

The short answer is no! But keep on because nothing in life is black or white..

As surprising as it may be, the poses and workouts we see on social media or at the gym are only a small part of yoga.

But what else is yoga?

Initially, it is important to clarify that yoga is not a religion but a holistic way of life with the intentions to bring us into contact with all parts of ourselves: our body, mind, soul, emotions, and spirit.

Through practice, we learn to think and act according to the basic principles of non-violence, sincerity, self-restraint and generosity. We discover the magic of pausing in everyday life, thus strengthening the self-regulation of our emotions, reducing impulsiveness and spiraling into endless thoughts.

On the other hand, the practice of yoga also contributes to self-discipline. As we enter a state of calm, we observe our true self more clearly and at the same time strengthen the confidence in our values, self-knowledge and the continuous study of ourselves.

Breathing is another basic element of this philosophy, which grants us control over both our body and our mind and thoughts. During breathing practices we come into contact with this vital function that no longer occurs automatically and irregularly, influenced by the environment and our emotions. We learn to control our breathing, which automatically means that we gain control over our body, thoughts, and life. Conscious breathing equals conscious thinking...

Surely you have also heard of meditation and I will try to explain it through my own eyes, the eyes of a teacher who interacts with children who are easily and quickly distracted and whose words often reflect their overabundant disorganized thoughts. Meditation, and therefore yoga, shows us that concentration or otherwise focusing on one thing, feeling or thought is an ability that we can exercise and strengthen though self-practice! And after practicing this ability, we can even observe the world objectively, having regulated our thoughts and feelings, having quieted the mind and calmed our soul.

So why do yoga poses exist?

Imagine that you've had a chaotic morning from the moment you woke up. You suddenly enter the office, gym or house and someone tells you to stay still and feel calm and peaceful. A bit impossible, don't you think? Indeed, it is impossible. That is why it is important to offer our body some time to stretch, relax and unwind. Only then, can our minds and souls follow. So, in a yoga practice it is important to allow our bodies some space and time, so that later we can feel calm, concentrate on something or relax.

Did you know that yoga is not just a type of exercise?

If you are interested in finding out more, contact me and I will try to answer any questions in a future article.

Janette