The relaxing, revitalising effects of yoga are well documented and largely well known by the general public but what exactly is it about that yoga that makes it such a valuable tonic to the stressors of modern life? From a personal perspective it's the blend of mindful movement, the opportunity to be still, connection with the breath and the intention that you set when you roll out the mat. Let's take a closer look...

Mindful movement: When practiced with real absorption in the moment either by anchoring your attention on the breath or the physical sensations of the body, yoga becomes a moving meditation. This allows a real physical opening and release of tension, a way of connecting and reclaiming the physical body and an opportunity to truly enjoy being inside your own skin. My yoga practice cultivates for me gratitude and amazement at what my body allows me to do and by staying anchored in the present moment I experience spaciousness from the relentless demands of everyday life and my own constant desire to achieve. It allows me to have a string of moments where I am completely surrendered to where I am at, where I don't feel the need to be doing more or wanting to be somewhere else.

Breath awareness and techniques: Yoga emphasises the importance of connecting with the breath and understanding it as a reflection of everything else that is occurring in your bodymind - on the mental, physical, emotional and energetic levels of your being. We connect with the breath not only to develop awareness but to heal. Just by observing the breath we give it the space to regulate itself or when we consciously employ breathing techniques we can create whatever energetic effect we most need: calming, clarifying, revitalising, releasing, centering and so on.

Restorative yoga: This is a style of practice that is greatly under-utilised and perhaps not so well known. It involves the long holding of different shapes while being supported by a variety of different yoga props such as bolsters, blankets, chairs, blocks, bands and the essential eye pillow. There is no effort or ambition required here - just an opportunity to be still, to breathe freely, to connect with the physical unwinding of the body and the mental untangling of our thoughts. This style of practice is highly effective for dissolving chronic stress and replenishing the bodymind, filling you back up so that you can give from an abundance.

Setting an intention or developing a yogic mindset: Yoga is not just a set of physical postures but comes from an ancient tradition with its own body of ancient wisdom. When the physical movements are isolated from these philosophies much of the value is diminished. These principles include an emphasis on acceptance rather than judgement, appropriate effort rather than striving, sensitivity rather than aggression and calm detachment as opposed to wanting or craving. When yoga is practiced with this intention it becomes a joyful exploration of the bodymind and a means of connecting with your essential self.

These are just my own observations! The amazing thing about yoga is that it is such a personal journey. I hope you give yourself the chance to enjoy exploring the different ways it can benefit you.