Yoga is the oldest self-improvement system in the world. It originated in India about five thousand years ago as a path to spiritual enlightenment. It has evolved into a path to revitalize the body, mind and spirit. Although it is more than physical activity most North Americans think of yoga as exercise. As a physical practice it is a non-competitive way to move the body, a way to create positive body image and to increase flexibility and strength. The asanas or postures work the whole person. They increase the flexibility of the muscles and joints; lengthen the spine; tone the internal organs, nerves and glands; release stress; and ease physical and emotional blocks held within the body and mind.

A complete Yoga practice includes Pranayama, which has come to mean Yogic breathing but is really the expansion and harnessing of the Prana or the life force, in other words: our vitality, our life source. Pranayama is a powerful practice as it can intensify all other aspects of the Yoga practice as it moves through the body.

Mindful breathing and other focusing aids during asana practice and meditation help instill the powerful benefits of yoga.

Yoga is more than a good stretch! With the practice of Yoga day-to-day life becomes easier; energy increases and at the same time the busy-ness of the mind eases.