The practice of yoga starts with the physical body – exercises and postures called asanas. This suits most people because the body is what we know, or think we know. We can see it, touch it and have some control over it. Through yoga we get to know our bodies better and learn to do things which help it to function more efficiently.

We learn asanas which get the body’s energy moving. Through breathing we learn to control and balance that energy. Yoga is often praised for its stress-reducing properties. Stress and tension cause the body to tighten up which blocks energy flow. In yoga we use asanas and breathing practices to open constricted areas of the body and mind. This helps to release and erase tension.

As the body relaxes and opens, the mind becomes calm and less busy. When the mind is less busy, negative feelings - anxiety, fear, and anger - melt away. The mind opens up to positive feelings - patience, acceptance, and compassion. Yoga helps us realise the amazing mechanism that is the body.

Regardless of age, fitness or  flexibility, as long as we practice mindfully and to the best of our ability, yoga works on a subtle and deep level on our whole being. Practicing yoga isn't about getting picture-perfect poses. It’s about being sensitive to our bodies and being quiet enough to hear what our body is telling us.