Let Me See You Do That Yoga

Last year I started bio-kinetics to increase my weak muscle tone and just build up strength in general. I have no limitations in what exercise I can do, I have a healthy body and am free to choose what ever physical activity I want. However,... After a lifetime of chronic illness and having never been able to do any sports at school, my body is very weak and unfamiliar with the whole exercise thing.


Like anyone, I also struggled with my mindset. It's been nearly 4 years since my transplant, which is 4 years of time I could have started working on my fitness, but I didn't. I joined a gym and went  a few times before injuring myself, then work kept me busy, then life kept me busy and now I have run out of excuses!

I'm going to carry on with bio-kinetics as it's a one on one appointment which means that I can push myself without the risk of getting injured. It also means that I avoid the risk of making excuses because I can't miss a session as these are already planned in advance (twice a week)

Apart from bio-kinetics I wanted to do something else and in keeping with my new 'zen' lifestyle, yoga seemed like the most appropriate option!

Yoga is said to have originated in India during the Golden Age, nearly 26,000 years ago. The actual Sanskrit word, when broken down, means "to control", "to yoke" or "to unite". The word has also been translated to mean "joining", "uniting" and "union". The union is made between the self and the spirit. Yoga is a major part of the Hindu religion as it embodies their natural state of being and spiritual enlightenment. Yoga is also a major part of Buddhism as a part of their meditation practices. It has even been linked to Islam and early Christianity. 

Physical Benefits of Yoga
Increased Flexibility
Increased Strength
Improved Balance
Increased Stamina
Improved Body Alignment (reduces joint pain)

Mental Benefits of Yoga
Stress Reduction
Body Awareness
Better Sleep
Improve self-confidence
Relaxation
www.everythingyoga.com

I did some research and found a site that offers thousands of free yoga videos which is perfect for someone like me who would prefer to learn at home. They have a 30 day challenge which I have just stared and it's nice and easy for beginners. Flexibility isn't my strong point so I'm looking forward to being able to touch my toes! Check out the website here - www.doyogawithme.com

Day one of yoga I learnt to use a yoga mat, not a blanket, otherwise this happens -

Not only do I want to practice yoga but I want to learn more about it's history and the beliefs in which it encompasses. For example the "Third eye" 

(also known as the inner eye) which provides perception beyond ordinary sight. The third eye refers to the gate that leads to inner realms and spaces of higher consciousness. In New Age spirituality, the third eye often symbolizes a state of enlightenment or the evocation of mental images having deeply personal spiritual or psychological significance. The third eye is often associated with religious visions, clairvoyance, the ability to observe chakras and auras,precognition, and out-of-body experiences. People who are claimed to have the capacity to utilize their third eyes are sometimes known as seers. In some traditions such as Hinduism, the third eye is said to be located around the middle of the forehead, slightly above the junction of the eyebrows.

The yoga symbol “Om” is found in Hindu and Tibetan philosophy. It is said to be the primitive sound of the universe and is connected to the Ajna Chakra (the conscience) or “third eye” region.

The lotus pose is a sitting pose meant to resemble the perfect symmetry and beauty of a lotus flower. Siddhartha Gautama, the founder of Buddhism, and Shiva, the God of Gods in Hinduism, are typically shown in this pose.

There are also many types of yoga, have a look at the 14 types here - www.mindbodygreen.com

Basically, there is a lot to learn, but I'm excited!