AMAZING. That's how I feel right now after completing my first 90 minute yoga class at a private (non-gym) yoga studio. I've tried "gym yoga" a couple times in the past, and just could not get into it for some reason. I finally decided to suck it up and listen to my clients who recommended I try practicing yoga in a private studio at least one day per week. The main reason I've decided to add yoga into my current training routine is to improve my flexibility. Don't get me wrong I do stretch on my own, but it does not compare to "BROGA". I'm here to share my first real experience with yoga along with some of the major benefits you will receive by practicing yoga.
"BROGA mat? Check! BROGA block? Check! TOWEL? Check! Don't forget that coconut water in the refrigerator!" These are the thoughts going through my head as I was getting ready to jog over to BE.in union YOGA, located in the heart of Union Square in Somerville. After a 5 minute jog I arrived at BE. for the first time evah! Alright, moment of truth, here I go... I walk into the studio, set up my yoga mat, take a seat and try to mentally prepare. Moments later, Christine (yoga instructor) walks in. (Wish me luck!)
90 minutes later (it goes by fast, I swear!) I am pouring sweat, my body feels nice and loose, and I feel uplifted. This is a feeling that I've never experienced before and it is hard to explain. My mind was clear of everything and I couldn't wipe the smile off my face even if I wanted to! As soon as I finished getting ready to walk home I approached Christine, thanked her for such an amazing class, and said "You sold me! Sign me up for more." That's right! I'll be returning next week for sure.Not only is yoga good for increasing flexibility, it has a lot of other benefits. Here are a few off the top of my head:
90 minutes later (it goes by fast, I swear!) I am pouring sweat, my body feels nice and loose, and I feel uplifted. This is a feeling that I've never experienced before and it is hard to explain. My mind was clear of everything and I couldn't wipe the smile off my face even if I wanted to! As soon as I finished getting ready to walk home I approached Christine, thanked her for such an amazing class, and said "You sold me! Sign me up for more." That's right! I'll be returning next week for sure.Not only is yoga good for increasing flexibility, it has a lot of other benefits. Here are a few off the top of my head:
INCREASED OVERALL STRENGTH
Holding some of these poses are not easy! I found myself in "childs pose" several times because my shoulders and triceps were not used to some of the static holds. I'm looking forward to getting better at these static poses and increasing my core strength as well.
IMPROVES YOUR POSTURE
This is especially important for those who sit at a desk all day in front of a computer. You may or may not notice but when sitting at a desk all day you tend to round your shoulders forward (stretching your upper back muscles and tightening your chest muscles), stick your head forward like a little turtle (tightening those little muscle in the front of your neck), and your hips are constantly being flexed in that seated position. If you are suffering from upper/lower back pain, this is why! You need to work on your flexibility and start correcting your posture on a regular basis. For more tips on correcting posture visit: http://www.spine-health.com/wellness/ergonomics/ten-tips-improving-posture-and-ergonomicsIMPROVES LUNG CAPACITY
“Because of the deep, mindful breathing that yoga involves, lung capacity often improves. This in turn can improve sports performance and endurance. But yoga typically isn't focused on aerobic fitness the way running or cycling are." (webmd.com)After learning how to control my breathing during the class I noticed my body was able to really relax and settle into a deeper stretch more comfortably. Thanks Christine, for making this easy for me to learn using her "yoga cues".
ENHANCES YOUR MOOD
As I mentioned above I could not stop smiling after this class. I left the studio in such a great mood, ready to conquer any obstacles that may come my way.
Oh, did I mention yoga also IMPROVES OVERALL ATHLETIC PERFORMANCE?
These are only a few of the many benefits of practicing yoga. I could go on all day! But, I would much rather you take a class on your own or with a friend to find out for yourself. I highly recommend BE. in union YOGA. If you live in the Somerville/Cambridge area check it out! I will definitely be back in there next week. Remember, yoga is for everyone, not just females! Us guys have this misconception that yoga is for women. Try it and you will notice that your are able to get deeper into your squat, approach a dead lift properly, increase your range of motion, reduce chronic pain, and more. Make yoga your part of your New Years Resolution! Set a goal to practice at least one day per week. You will not regret it, I promise.
Once again, big THANK YOU to Christine Resnikoff @ BE. in union YOGA for such an amazing class today. Check out their website for more information: http://www.beinunion.com
My little Riley boy teaching me proper form |
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