Yoga BLOG

Yoga for children: What are the positive effects? Yoga for adults is wonderful – many yogis already know this. But the asanas from Buddhist teachings can make a difference not only for adults. Little ones also benefit from children's yoga, which is specially tailored to them. Parents will learn in this article whether it's really worthwhile and what benefits come with these yoga exercises. Why is yoga also suitable for children? The answer is clear: Firstly, children love to move, so they respond to the urge to move much more automatically than adults do. Therefore, you probably don't even have to force your child to use their own body and imitate simple yoga exercises. Secondly, physical activity is healthy. Children's bodies need to move, just like an adult's. Yoga involves special asanas that have a lasting effect on the body, mind, and soul. This is an advantage over other physical exercises. What are the benefits of practicing yoga? If you exercise regularly with your child, you're killing two birds with one stone—physical activity is important for young and old alike. If you also choose yoga, you'll achieve amazing results. In the following section, you'll learn about the most significant benefits associated with the best yoga exercises. 1. Movement Of course, the factor of movement is almost the most important. Many children's daily lives consist of a lot of sitting. This is especially true because they spend at least six hours at school sitting in a chair. Therefore, it's advisable for them to get enough exercise in their free time. Whether you take your kids out into nature, invent ball games, or do gymnastics – it gets their circulation going. With children's yoga, you also have the advantage that the asanas on the mat affect the body, mind, and soul. This effect applies to children just as much as it does to adults. Depending on which asanas are practiced, they have different effects on the body. If you practice many strenuous sequences, you'll probably get out of breath, which will train your endurance. Otherwise, the main focus is on strengthening muscles, strengthening joints, and stretching ligaments. Your child will automatically become fitter, more flexible, and stronger – all in a playful and fun way. 2. Improved motor skills Improving or training motor skills plays an essential role in children. Children between the ages of three and six learn sequences such as balancing, standing on one leg, or climbing stairs by alternating legs. Yoga can therefore be valuable during this time and promote these movements. At later ages (between six and twelve), the focus is on improving fine motor skills, such as drawing or writing. Of course, gross motor skills can also be trained and practiced more specifically at this age. 3. Concentration is increased Adults also experience the problem of losing concentration after a while. There are various exercises to improve mindfulness and focus. Yoga can be helpful in this case. It shifts the focus to other areas of the brain, allowing the concentration area to breathe. Therefore, you can also incorporate yoga exercises at home to strengthen your little yogi's concentration—especially when they have a lot to learn. 4. Body weight is in balance In this country, as in other industrialized countries, many children are overweight at a young age. Here, too, yoga can be beneficial in keeping children active and, above all, psychologically balanced. Psychological disorders (which are not always immediately recognized) are often the reason why children overeat and don't want to exercise. You can counteract this with yoga. However, please note that yoga exercises are best discussed with your doctor. If your daughter or son is of normal weight, these exercises will help maintain it. 5. Better body awareness/feeling for the body Children only learn to sense their bodies over time. With yoga, you can intensify and improve this process. If your child practices yoga exercises daily, you will notice a change in your daughter's or son's body awareness. This will affect various areas of life. This will help your child understand more easily when they need rest, when they want to eat, or when they want to move. 6. Relaxation and rest Many children's daily lives are just as stressful as those of adults—especially considering that children aren't yet able to cope well with stress and challenges. Schoolwork, homework, and constant classes during their free time can make children feel overwhelmed. If this is the case with your child, you can change this. You can adapt your daily routine and incorporate daily asanas. Yoga is particularly beneficial and promotes a relaxed body and a free mind. Give it a try. What exercises can you do with your child? If these tips have helped you and you'd like to incorporate yoga into your child's daily routine, you can incorporate the following poses. They're very easy to learn and can therefore be practiced by your child alone. a) Seated forward bend Forward bends are very important. You'll also find this exercise in yoga for adults. The great thing is that you can do this pose together. To do it, sit opposite each other, stretch out your legs, and touch the soles of your feet. If the pose is difficult, a blanket or small yoga cushion can provide support. Once you're in this pose with your yogi, you can both bend forward. Be kind to each other and see how far you can go. b) Tree In the tree pose, your daughter or son stands upright and lifts one leg. The sole of the foot is placed either on the lower leg or the thigh. This pose promotes balance. c) The frog In this position, you squat down and place both hands on the floor, keeping the soles of your feet flat on the floor. d) The turtle It's particularly calming and therefore an ideal yoga position for a restless child. Here, you bend forward with both legs almost straight, your upper body leaning forward, and your arms tucked under your knees, palms flat on the floor. e) Warrior III This pose is ideal for promoting balance. It can also be performed together. You stand on the mat with your daughter or son and step back one foot (it will hover in the air). At the same time, you bring your arms forward, and your little yogi does the same. This way, you can hold hands to help maintain balance. f) cat In the cat pose, the little yogi gets into a quadruped position and raises the left leg while extending the right arm forward. Then, the arm and leg are brought together beneath the belly. This is repeated a few times, then the other side is switched. End your yoga class gently: Shavasana and meditation To end the training session gently, it's worth doing a short breathing exercise. A short meditation journey or simply lying down can also be beneficial, helping your yogi relax even more easily. Have you ever practiced yoga with your child? If so, what changes have you noticed in your son or daughter?

Yoga in the mountains: relaxation, self-discovery and vitality You can do yoga anywhere—whether on the beach, in your living room, or in the mountains. Mountain yoga retreats are an increasingly popular trend. Everyday life is filled with challenges, so people long for relaxation. What could be better than spending a relaxing vacation with yoga and hiking in the mountains? This article provides you with the most important information about this type of relaxing vacation. Distance from everyday stress – made easy with yoga Because many people have very challenging daily lives, they long for something completely different on vacation. With yoga in the heart of a mountain landscape, you can fulfill precisely these desires. The great thing about yoga is that you can practice it in your everyday life—not just while traveling. If that's not possible for you, or if you'd especially like to benefit from it while on vacation, yoga retreats are perfect for you. These are offered almost everywhere—meaning you can also pursue this desire at your favorite vacation destination. The special benefits of yoga in brief: Yoga helps you relax your body, mind and nervous system. Your body recovers from daily tension, and your back, shoulders and neck feel more flexible. The stress level drops and you can finally breathe deeply. Yoga can also be beneficial when you are in a bad mood or are feeling slightly depressed. Your body also feels strengthened and revitalized. As you can see, yoga on the mat has a multitude of positive effects on the body, mind, and soul. What could be more logical than incorporating these benefits into your vacation? Your yoga holiday in the mountains – wellness amidst meadows, alpine pastures and edelweiss Attention nature lovers: If you want to relax amidst beautiful natural oases during your vacation, then choose a trip to the mountains. They have so much to offer, and combining them with Hatha Yoga or other yoga styles will allow you to truly immerse yourself and rejuvenate. Why should you choose yoga in the mountains? Everyone has different preferences, yet most yogis desire similar things. There are many reasons why a yoga vacation in the mountains is worthwhile. a) Rest and retreat If you live in the city, you know how loud it is every day. In the mountains, you wake up surrounded by birdsong, the gentle sound of the wind in the trees, clear views of the nearby peaks, and cool, soothing mountain air. This environment is a great place to relax, retreat, and recharge. For those who want to escape the stresses of daily life and immerse themselves in themselves, a yoga retreat in the mountains is the perfect place to fulfill all their dreams. If you wish, you can also spread out your yoga mat in the alpine meadows and practice Yin Yoga or other yoga styles during sunset. b) Healthy food in the best hotels During your time out in the mountains, healthy food is a must. Most yoga hotels don't offer the traditional dishes you might expect from other restaurants or hotels. Instead, they emphasize variety, nutrient density, and flavor. You'll often find vegan or vegetarian options, and food intolerances are usually catered for. This way, you can be sure that your physical well-being is taken care of, and that it's not only delicious, but also very healthy and digestible. c) Wide range of courses for beginners, advanced and professionals Whether you're just starting out and want to discover the best yoga styles, or you're a long-time practitioner, the selection of classes is usually extremely wide. However, it's advisable to research the styles beforehand to ensure that the classes offered are exactly what you're looking for. A comprehensive offering often includes courses where you can relax on your cushion with meditation or breathing exercises – a great way to round off your yoga sessions. d) Hiking in the most beautiful areas of the planet If you enjoy being outdoors, a yoga holiday in the mountains is the best choice. After your yoga sessions, you can go hiking in nature and explore the mountains, alpine pastures, meadows, and forests. Many mountain regions offer countless different hiking trails, suitable for beginners and advanced hikers alike. You can choose the ones that best suit your needs. This is the perfect way to round out your yoga routine and benefit from plenty of exercise during this time. e) Meet like-minded people Sometimes it's not easy to meet like-minded people. Here, you can be sure that you'll meet many who share a similar passion for yoga and other spiritual topics like meditation, breathing techniques, etc. What should you consider before booking? There are a few things you should consider before booking: Choose the country you'd like to travel to and weigh up the different hotel offers. Often, you may have to find a compromise. Find a hotel that offers the exact courses you would like to attend. Maybe there is the possibility for you to travel together with an acquaintance, a friend, a girlfriend or your partner – that often makes it even more enjoyable. Consider how long you want to stay at the yoga retreat. The length of stay varies, so consider what feels right for you. The longer the trip, the better you'll be able to recover. If you have any intolerances or other special requests, you should clarify in advance whether these can be accommodated. Have you ever been on a yoga retreat in the mountains? What did you particularly enjoy?

All about Hot Yoga: What are the benefits and the most important tips As experienced yogis already know, there are many different styles of yoga, all of which have different effects on the human body and are exceptionally healthy. Therefore, everyone can choose the style that best benefits them. Hot yoga is very popular with many yogis, and studios also offer this popular style. In this article, you'll learn about the benefits of hot yoga and what you need to keep in mind when practicing this strenuous yoga style. Overview: What is Hot Yoga anyway? Hot yoga is also known as Bikram yoga in technical terms. Unlike other forms of yoga practiced in a regular studio, hot yoga takes place in a room with high temperatures. Even though the humidity is relatively low at 40 percent, the temperatures of around 35–40 degrees Celsius (95–104 degrees Fahrenheit) have an impact on the workout. This guarantees sweating. The yoga flow consists of 26 different asanas (including two breathing exercises) that can generally be classified as Hatha Yoga. Examples of postures include: grasshopper Chair Tree Bikram Choudhury (born February 10, 1946) is the founder of Bikram Yoga; the yoga style was named after him. Why is Bikram Yoga so great? Many people who love yoga are particularly enthusiastic about this style – and for good reason. A hot yoga class has numerous benefits for body, mind, and soul. As we all know, yoga has a positive effect on the entire organism. It can reduce stress, stretch muscles, and strengthen the body. But that's not all: Those who regularly visit a Bikram yoga studio can reap additional benefits: Thanks to the existing heat, tendons and ligaments can become more elastic. This automatically reduces the risk of injury, which is common among yogis who practice power yoga or other sports. Naturally, the heat makes it even easier to stretch the body. Do you sometimes feel down, tired, and slightly depressed? In this case, hot yoga may be just right for you and your health. This style of yoga can also have a beneficial effect on stress. Anyone with back problems and wanting to reduce them through exercises on the mat can do so with hot yoga. The asanas performed in this class are particularly relieving for the back and other muscles. The core and spine are strengthened and mobilized. Your cardiovascular system is put under even greater strain at these high temperatures – you'll notice this from the first minute of the class. Your lung capacity can improve through regular exercise. Do you want to lose weight? Then hot yoga could be ideal. If you really push yourself with hot yoga, you can burn even more calories thanks to the heat. It also builds a lot of muscle, thus increasing fat burning. Hot tips for you : If you incorporate shavasana or a short meditation on your cushion after the sequence of asanas, you'll get even more out of the class. Breathing exercises (pranayama) are also part of the hot yoga practice. These should not be neglected, as they connect you even more closely with your body. What should you consider as a beginner? Whether you want to try Hatha Yoga, Vinyasa Yoga, or Bikram Yoga, if you're unsure, you should always sign up for a yoga class beforehand. This way, you can be sure that you're performing all the asanas correctly and won't suffer any lasting damage due to incorrect execution. Further tips are: The Bikram studio should definitely be a good one. It's best to get information from other yogis who already have experience. This way, you can be sure that the selection is satisfactory. It's important that the instructor teaching Bikram is certified and teaches the original style. Of course, proper clothing is essential for practicing Bikram properly. A yoga towel is necessary to wick away sweat or to make certain poses on the mat more comfortable. Your clothing should be breathable and fit comfortably. It shouldn't be tight or uncomfortable. If you feel unwell at a certain point or during a particular asana, or if you experience cardiovascular problems, it's better to stop or ask the instructor if you can try an alternative pose. Whether you do Bikram, Vinyasa Yoga, Pilates, or any other physical activity, you must always drink enough (preferably drinks with electrolytes, such as coconut water). Attention: In these cases you should not do hot yoga As already explained in the previous section, there are many positive effects associated with practicing these asanas – but be careful: there are also contraindications that you should not neglect. If you already have cardiovascular disease, you should consult your doctor beforehand. You should also always seek medical advice if you have other physical complaints, such as low blood pressure. If you are pregnant and are not yet practiced in this style of yoga, it is better to wait until after the birth. The often described detoxification effect has not been scientifically confirmed. Of course, the problem of heating should also be considered during this time: the studios must be heated to at least 35 degrees, which means that a lot of energy has to be used for this. If you want to practice traditional yoga, which harmonizes body, mind, and soul, then hot yoga isn't for you. The focus is on physical fitness. Have you ever tried hot yoga? If so, what effect has it had on your body?

Is yoga, as we know it, just a myth? Nothing about yoga is as many yoga practitioners believe: The results of the yoga study by Briton Mark Singleton are astonishing and challenge the objections of all those who trust in the ancient Indian yoga spirit of "body, mind & soul." In his book, published in 2010 by Oxford University Press, the religious scholar Singleton presents it very precisely and comprehensively: Body-focused yoga is a relatively new teaching, not primarily Eastern but equally strongly Western in character. Let's summarize the core statements of "Yoga Body – The Origins of Modern Posture Practice" and form our own opinion. Yoga as a tiny cog in Indian culture In the Western world, we mostly know yoga as a form of Hatha Yoga . Hatha Yoga is said to have originally come from India, where it was practiced as part of a millennia-old Hindu culture. Singleton argues, however, that in classical texts such as the Upanishads or the Bhagavad Gita, yoga is mentioned at most in the sense of spiritual perfection and meditation . Asanas seemed to be of such secondary importance that they served solely to control the breath and sit still in a meditative state. Contemplation was desired, and asanas represented one path among many ways to reach the desired state. The roots in ancient Indian practices therefore have little to do with health and fitness-oriented yoga styles of the 21st century. It was only the collision of Indian nationalism after the end of British colonial rule and the European physical culture movement a good 100 years ago that "our" yoga was shaped by refining Western gymnastic exercises with a spiritual superstructure. Yoga as a trend sport of the late 19th century The term "physical culture" emerged at the end of the 19th century and is linked to increasing industrialization. Fewer and fewer people earned their living through farming and other physically demanding activities. Many moved to the cities and worked in factories. Factory owners were concerned with the productivity of their workers and thus promoted physical culture as a national mission. The image of the athletic, well-trained body was born at that time and left its mark in India as well. Hatha Yoga, previously practiced to control life energy in the sense of Pranayama – for purification and contemplation – became postural yoga. At a time when the Olympic Games were being revived by Pierre de Coubertin, Swami Sivananda, Paramahamsa Yogananda, Bishnu Choran Gosh, and more spiritually motivated representatives such as Vivekananda and Sri Aurobindo breathed new life into the idea of yoga. What Turnvater Jahn and the first modern bodybuilder have to do with yoga Religious scholar Mark Singleton, who lives in Santa Fe and teaches at St. John's College there, doesn't just make provocative claims. He supports his theses with historical sources, interviews contemporary witnesses, and considers findings from modern yoga research. Interestingly, in this context, the fitness wave in India at the end of the 19th century, influenced by bodybuilding pioneer Eugen Sandow, also had a political significance comparable to the German gymnastics movement of Ludwig Jahn, the "father of gymnastics." Indian men wanted to strengthen their bodies to break free from the colonial rulers. At the same time, however, they partly adopted training methods from the British army. By blending them with a context influenced by Hindu, Tantric, philosophical, and New Age thought, they gave physical culture its own direction and a completely new aspect of health. The legend of "body, mind, and soul" dates back to this time, making it only about 100 years old. In traditional yoga philosophy, mind and soul are one; there is no distinction. Singleton's conclusions Yoga is an exciting transnational phenomenon. Philosophical traditions and centuries of accumulated knowledge related to energy flows and states of consciousness have evolved into a new method through global cultural encounters and scientific advances. Modern yoga styles have emerged from cultural change and continue to evolve. This is precisely what makes yoga, this method that is neither sport nor religion nor medicine, yet encompasses a little of all of these, so unique. Image © StudioM1

what do you need to know? Yoga on the beach is a real highlight for many people. If you've been practicing yoga for a while, you know how amazing the results can be with the exercise sequences from Buddhist teachings. But even as a newbie, you can enjoy a yoga retreat by the sea and immerse yourself deeply in the wonderful effects of yoga. This article shows you the five best tips for your yoga vacation. Tip 1: When is a yoga vacation on the beach right for you? In general, the sea and the beach have a restorative effect on the human body. Therefore, there's nothing wrong with combining yoga and the beach. The following benefits await you during this trip: The salty air on the beach is good for your respiratory system, allowing your entire body to recover. Even for those who usually have difficulty breathing, beach exercises can be particularly effective. To be on the safe side, if you have any physical pain or illnesses, you should consult a doctor beforehand. The sun awakens your spirits. You automatically become happier and more joyful. The sun causes us to produce vitamin D3 in our skin, which in turn has a positive effect on our mood. The good news is that this so-called sun hormone can even be stored. This means you can continue to benefit from your stored vitamin D3 even after your vacation. Movement is good for body, mind, and soul. Yoga is a particularly attractive practice for harmonizing your entire body and supporting your health in a sustainable way. Gentle flows can feel like wellness. The daily grind of home suddenly seems a world away, and you can recharge your batteries and recharge your batteries. Gentle asanas strengthen, calm, and stretch your body, while challenging flows will get you sweating. Community with other women or men is beneficial and boosts self-confidence. Those who practice various flows together with other yogis feel connected and can engage in deep conversations during their time out. fitness, sport, yoga and healthy lifestyle concept - group of people doing warrior pose on beach Tip 2: Planning your trip properly As you can see, the benefits of the trip are impressive. All of these advantages await you if you choose this type of vacation or even a day trip. To fully enjoy your trip into nature, you should keep certain things in mind. It is therefore important that you obtain sufficient information about the provider. There are often hotels located directly on the beach that offer great deals. In some cases, private individuals also offer yoga classes. In these cases, you would have to arrange your own accommodation. It's important to ask yourself beforehand what exactly you want. Perhaps you simply want to travel to the beach and take a few hours there occasionally – in this case, it's sufficient if regular yoga sessions are offered nearby. If, on the other hand, you want to go on a so-called yoga vacation, you should choose a high-quality and comfortable hotel with appropriate amenities. Everything is usually included there. Which yoga styles would you like to do? You need to ask yourself this question before booking your trip. Beginners, in particular, should avoid a retreat that only offers advanced courses. The style of yoga is also crucial. Yin Yoga, for example, is perfect for calming down, giving your body more flexibility, and recharging your energy. If, on the other hand, you want to lose a few pounds, you should choose an Ashtanga or Vinyasa course. Many options also offer a variety of different yoga styles—this is especially interesting for those who want to gain insight into the broad realms of Buddhist teachings. Where should the journey go? In addition to the points mentioned above, the destination plays a significant role. If you want to stay in Germany, there are a wide selection of options along the North and Baltic Seas. Those who prefer to put their yoga mat down somewhere else will also find excellent options on the beaches of other European countries. Spain, Portugal, and Italy are popular destinations for a wonderful beach and yoga vacation. Tip 3: What are the two best asanas for the beach? In the following section, we'll introduce you to the best exercises for the beach. For these exercises (especially the second one), you should pack a high-quality yoga mat that's also designed for outdoor use. a) The tree Here, you stand upright and first pull your right leg up and place it over your left thigh. You're standing on just one leg, while the other is either leaning against your ankle or resting on your thigh. Your arms are pointing upwards. This is a perfect position for more balance and equilibrium. Then you switch sides. https://videopress.com/v/bDb6nnBA?resizeToParent=true&cover=true&loop=true&playsinline=true&preloadContent=metadata&useAverageColor=true b) Swivel seat This exercise is ideal for stimulating your digestion. It's also perfect for beginners and professionals. Sit upright and stretch out your right leg, bending your left leg. Wrap your right forearm around your left leg and twist your upper body to the left. Repeat this exercise on the other side. Tip 4: Meditation: Why it shouldn’t be forgotten! For a holistically relaxing summer vacation, meditation is a must. After valuable flow sessions, it's advisable to familiarize yourself with various meditation techniques on a cushion . When choosing a cushion, make sure it's of appropriate quality and suitable for outdoor use. Many yoga retreats automatically include the option of meditation sessions, because experienced yogis know that shavasana, or conscious pause, perfectly rounds off the practice sequence. Depending on the retreat, different meditation techniques are taught. Breathing exercises also play an important role. This allows you to immerse yourself even deeper in the yogic experience and achieve the best results. If you practice yoga alone on the beach, you can follow it with a guided meditation or simply surrender to the sounds of nature. Tip 5: Enjoy nature and external stimuli Those who already have extensive experience with indoor yoga will be impressed by how different it is at the beach. There are many more stimuli here: the sound of the sea, the sun on your skin, the wind in your face. Enjoy all these special moments and mindfully perceive each one. You'll notice that you become even more at one with yourself and nature. Fitness women sitting on yoga mats at the beach doing stretching workout. Women practicing stretching postures of yoga sitting near the sea. Have you ever practiced various asanas on the beach? If you have experience, how was it? What were the benefits?

Discover inner peace Are you longing for peace and serenity? Your daily life is stressful, and you don't know how to unwind? Then Sahaja Yoga could be perfect for you. Those seeking spiritual experiences can integrate this form of meditation into their daily routine. You'll find all the important information in this article: be inspired and find deep peace within. Concentrated relaxed man standing with closed eyes, having relaxation while meditating, trying to find balance and harmony isolated on gray. Yoga and meditation concept The term Sahaja Yoga: What does it mean? Sahaja Yoga has existed since 1970 and is considered a "religious movement." This concept, considered a meaningful continuation of the ancient yoga tradition, was developed that year by the Indian Dr. Nirmala Srivastava (often referred to as Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi). The focus of this yoga practice is the Kundalini energy, which is meant to be awakened. People with an awakened Kundalini energy are almost unstoppable, as they are fully connected to their self and their inner wisdom. By the way, the word Sahaja means "spontaneous" and in this context means that you are able to enter into meditation spontaneously. What is the goal of Sahaja Yoga meditation? The ultimate goal of yoga and meditation is always for people to be in harmony with themselves—and not just during their time on the yoga mat . Sahaja Yoga also aims to help people connect with their Kundalini energy and thereby experience a peaceful and fulfilling life. Thanks to this meditation, yogis come closer to this goal. What role do the energy channels and chakras play? To understand the principle of Sahaja Yoga meditation, you need to know that the energy channels and centers (chakras) serve as the basis of this teaching. The interaction of the nadis and the chakras is responsible for a person's well-being, whether they have much or little energy, and whether their energy is moving or not. According to Shri Mataji, it is important that all of these are in harmony to enjoy optimal mental, psychological, and physical health. What chakras are there? To give a brief overview, we list the seven most important chakras and their meaning. Muladhara Chakra (root chakra) stands for basic trust and security; it is located at the end of the spine. The Svadhistana Chakra (sacral chakra) is responsible for sexuality and creativity. It is located below the navel, in the lower abdomen. The Manipura Chakra (solar plexus) is responsible for self-confidence, self-control, discipline, and contentment. It is located directly above the navel. Anahata Chakra (heart chakra) is located directly in the heart space and represents compassion, love and empathy. Vishudda Chakra (throat chakra) is important for clear pronunciation and authentic communication; it is located in the larynx. The Ajna Chakra (third-eye chakra) represents intuition. It is located between the eyebrows. The Sahasrara Chakra (crown chakra) represents collective consciousness and direct access to the spiritual world and the universe. It is located a hand's breadth above the top of the head. When these chakras are balanced, you feel good and in harmony. It's also important that the Kundalini is in motion—this makes you feel strong, creative, and centered. There are also nadis, which are referred to as energy channels. There are three different types: Sushumna Nadi (this is the central channel, it runs along the spine to the crown chakra) Ida Nadi (this energy channel is on the left side of the body and represents the energy of desire) Pingala Nadi (located on the right side and includes the physical activities) Can Sahaja Yoga be practiced by everyone? The technique can be used by anyone, meaning it's right for you if you feel it's right for you. Here, you should listen to your gut feeling and simply give it a try if you're interested. Thanks to the great teachers and the worldwide distribution in over 120 countries, it's possible to get a glimpse of it almost anywhere these days. Sahaja Yoga can be an essential step on your path to self-realization. What are the benefits of Sahaja Yoga? This form of yoga is very transformative and has a lasting effect on your well-being. With the help of Sahaja Yoga you can bring your mind, soul and body into harmony. In addition, you will experience a kind of small enlightenment and be able to realize your spirituality. Your experience will change, and you will increasingly connect with your essence. In order to practice meditation in absolute silence, the awakening of the Kundalini is a prerequisite. This allows you to enter a divine, thoughtless state of consciousness. For this, the opening of the third eye is necessary. If you manage to reach this state, you will experience moments of complete silence, meaning no thoughts in your head. If you've done everything correctly, you'll feel a cool breeze on your hands and above your head. Don't stress if you don't feel it the first time. If you're unsure, you should find a guru or yoga teacher who can guide you. This will make it easier for you to reach this state on your meditation cushion . How does the process work? To ensure each participant is well-prepared for the program, it lasts 90 minutes. It consists of a theoretical and practical part: The theoretical part explains everything about the nadis, energy centers, and Kundalini energy, while the practical part reinforces what you have learned through physical exercises. To round off these sessions, the energy field is also cleansed. In addition, these elements play an essential role: Mantras poetry Music Have you tried Sahaja Yoga Online before? If so, how was it for you?

Yoga has gained increasing importance in recent years, both as a philosophy of life and as a form of physical activity. Originally developed in India, yoga has spread worldwide and inspired millions of people to incorporate this practice into their daily lives. Especially with the right clothing, yoga can become an incredible experience. For example, use an Urban Sports voucher code , which offers you incredible discounts on attractive and comfortable yoga apparel. In this article, we will explore the various aspects of yoga as a philosophy of life and as a sport and show how it can contribute to promoting physical and mental well-being. The Basics of Yoga: An Ancient Tradition Yoga has its origins in Indian culture and is a practice that works on physical, mental, and spiritual levels. There are various yoga traditions and styles with different focuses, but at its core, it's about bringing body, mind, and spirit into harmony. As a philosophy of life, yoga encompasses principles and techniques aimed at expanding consciousness and leading a harmonious life. Ethical and moral values, as well as mindfulness, play an important role in this. Yoga as a sport: The physical benefits Yoga as a sport involves performing various physical postures (asanas) and breathing exercises (pranayama) aimed at strengthening muscles, increasing flexibility, and improving balance. The physical benefits of yoga are numerous and include improving posture, relieving back pain, strengthening the immune system, and stimulating circulation. A great way to try yoga or deepen your practice is to use an Urban Sports voucher code. With this voucher code, you can participate in various yoga classes and studios in your city and discover the benefits of yoga as a sport. The variety of yoga styles offered allows you to find the right workout for your needs and goals. Mental and emotional benefits of yoga In addition to its physical benefits, yoga also has positive effects on mental health. The practice of yoga can reduce stress, alleviate anxiety, and lead to inner peace and serenity. Breathing exercises and meditation, which are often an integral part of yoga classes, promote concentration and body awareness. Regular yoga practice also helps you better manage emotions such as anger, sadness, or frustration, and can lead to increased self-confidence and self-esteem. The variety of yoga styles: something for everyone There are numerous yoga styles and disciplines, each with a different focus and thus catering to individual needs and preferences. Some styles, such as Hatha Yoga or Iyengar Yoga, focus on precise alignment of postures and are gentler, while others, such as Ashtanga Yoga or Vinyasa Flow, are more dynamic and powerful. Yin Yoga, on the other hand, focuses on holding stretches for longer periods and has a particularly relaxing and restorative effect. Kundalini Yoga combines physical exercises with breathing techniques, mantras, and meditation, and aims to awaken life energy. With the wide selection of yoga styles, it's easy to find a style that suits your needs and goals. Integrating yoga into everyday life: For a balanced life Yoga can be viewed as both a regular exercise routine and a complementary practice to other physical activities. There are numerous ways to incorporate yoga into your daily routine, whether by attending a class at your local studio, participating in online yoga classes, or practicing short yoga sequences in your own home. Regular yoga practice can help reduce stress, increase overall well-being, and enhance your quality of life.

Why Men Should Do Yoga! An Overview Many men have the misconception that yoga is only suitable for women. Fortunately, this is completely false – gentle flows are also more than beneficial for men. Anyone who wants to get physically fit and simultaneously train their muscles can seek out the best yoga exercises. In this article, you'll learn why gentle yoga flows can become part of every man's daily routine. Misconception: Yoga is only for women Many people have the misconception that yoga is always gentle and easy – but that's far from the truth. In reality, yoga can be just as strenuous as a light or moderate workout at home or in the gym. Hot yoga, Ashtanga , and Vinyasa are known for their strenuous nature. Furthermore, it's not true that women generally train more easily. All in all, the asanas from Buddhist teachings can be just as demanding as other physical exercises and are therefore an ideal addition to the exercise routine of active men. On the other hand, yoga can be gentle. Anyone who typically participates in other high-impact sports knows how beneficial it can be to do gentle physical exercises. Yoga is perfect in this case – Yin Yoga helps stretch your fascia and loosen the muscles throughout your body. And this point is just as important for men. A little fact at the end: In ancient India, it was men who practiced these exercises. Only here in Germany, there are still more women in the gyms, which doesn't mean you can't change this situation at any time. Which types of yoga are suitable? There are many different styles of yoga, each with a different impact on physical, mental, and emotional well-being. To find the perfect style for you, you should first ask yourself what you want from your yoga class. Do you want to stretch your body and relax? Then Yin Yoga is perfect for that. If you're a beginner, Yin Yoga or Hatha Yoga are recommended. If you still want to get a light workout on your non-workout day, a gentle Vinyasa Flow might be a good option. Want to get your body sweating? You don't necessarily have to go to the gym for that. Opt for a hot Bikram yoga flow (hot yoga): Here, you perform the various sequences at a room temperature of around 35°C. Power yoga (an American version of Ashtanga yoga, where the movements can be adapted to the yogi) is also perfect for toning and strengthening your body and building muscle and strength. Not convinced yet: Why is yoga good for men too? Mat exercises have many health benefits—but not just for the body. Deep breathing harmonizes mind and soul. This is especially important for people under a lot of stress. If you sometimes feel out of balance, the right exercises can restore inner balance. To achieve this, you should practice the appropriate breathing exercises. The sequences can also help the body relax after a strenuous endurance workout. Muscles and tendons are relieved and strengthened after exercise. The mind and soul also find peace with various flows from Kundalini Yoga or Yin Yoga. Other important reasons why men should do yoga Today's society, the demanding work routine, and personal problems mean that many people struggle to relax or experience other problems. Yoga flows can be helpful for the following conditions: a) Helps with sleep problems Do you have trouble falling asleep? Then these exercises could provide you with a gentle support. Thanks to the inner peace, you'll find it much easier to drift off into a deep sleep. b) Body, mind and soul are brought into harmony Today's everyday life is demanding, which inevitably means that everyone has to find their own method to achieve balance. If you haven't found a suitable way yet, you can take the time to practice yoga and meditation on your cushion . A yoga session should ideally always end with shavasana or a short, guided meditation. c) Are you inflexible? Flexibility isn't just sexy, it's also beneficial. Being flexible and agile makes other sports much easier. It also reduces the risk of injury, especially if you participate in other high-risk sports. d) Concentration is strengthened If your job requires peak cognitive performance, it may be advisable to consider yoga. Regular yoga practice helps you achieve inner balance. This means that concentration also improves in many cases. e) Relieve back or neck pain Many men complain of back pain. If this is also the case for you, you can try yoga. Certain exercises specifically strengthen your back, shoulders, and arms, and relax your neck. f) Your own body awareness improves If you feel like you're barely feeling your body, you can incorporate the asanas into your daily routine. Remember that these special yoga flows increase your awareness of your body, improving your body awareness and sensitivity. Many men learn to perceive their bodies this way—many can barely feel their physical needs. g) Mindfulness is improved People who are stressed have difficulty concentrating on the present moment. A daily yoga practice helps you become more and more engaged with the here and now. This is essential for long-term happiness and contentment, as well as for strengthening self-awareness. Accepting your feelings also becomes easier with a regular yoga practice. h) Stamina and perception during sex are improved When you're in tune with your body, your sex life will naturally improve. You'll feel better, be able to stay in certain positions longer, and your body will be stronger. You'll also be more mindful, which in turn will have a positive effect on your sex life. Naturally, your self-confidence will also be higher, allowing you to enjoy intimate moments even more. i) Successful footballers also do yoga While this isn't the only reason, it should still motivate you to try the asanas. There are many professional athletes who practice yoga daily. Would you like to be one of them? Then experiment and find the best asanas for you to balance your body. If you're a man, tell us if you already incorporate yoga into your daily routine? If so, what benefits does it bring you?

Wine Yoga: What is it? Yoga is versatile: Numerous yogis celebrate the asanas from Buddhist teachings and know exactly what benefits they have for the body, mind, and soul. The different styles create variety. To delve even deeper, here's a little insider tip: a glass of wine. Have you never heard of it, but it appeals to you? Then let the information in this article inspire you. Perhaps you'll enjoy a sip of wine at your next yoga class and experience the session with a whole new feeling. Fun or serious: Wine yoga – an explanation Yoga itself is a teaching that originates from Buddhism and is reminiscent of purity, spirituality, and self-development. At first glance, yoga and wine might not seem like a good match. Nevertheless, more and more people are becoming convinced by this combination. The basic principle is that fun and exercise are paramount. What is done in wine yoga? Those who choose this version of yoga can look forward to a delicious wine. This drink, already praised in the Bible, makes its way into this routine and has a few surprises in store. During the yoga practice, the best wines are tasted—red or white, depending on your taste. Perhaps you know the feeling that a little alcohol lightens the mood and lets tension dissipate. This is precisely what practitioners of wine yoga aim to achieve. At the end of the yoga class, no participant is sober and may be slightly tipsy, depending on their own judgment. Participants' experiences vary widely. If you desire mindfulness, relaxation, and joy, an hour of wine yoga can be beneficial. It's a different story if you don't drink alcohol or if it doesn't agree with you. Of course, the goal isn't to drink so much that you can't perceive anything anymore. This point is especially important for beginners. If you're not used to practicing asanas, a clear mind and full body awareness are essential. However, if you're already an advanced yogi, you can easily give wine yoga a try. What are the benefits of yoga with wine? To give you a better insight into this yoga practice, we would like to list the benefits. Relaxation is usually significantly higher when you're slightly tipsy on the yoga mat . This is because certain bodily functions are reduced under the influence of alcohol, and relaxation occurs more quickly. Your mind is noticeably quieter after drinking a glass of wine, meaning that comparisons with other yogis are less intense. You focus much more on yourself and find more balance within. You'll become looser and be able to relax more during the asanas. Perhaps you'll even be able to sink deeper and bring even more well-being into your body. Those who find it difficult to turn off the carousel of thoughts can try this option. Many people find it easier to focus on relaxation. And sometimes something funny can come out of it. There are also studies that explain that red wine can boost fat burning. This fact is particularly interesting for yogis who want to lose weight. In combination with meditation on the comfortable cushion , the effect can be further intensified. Is it a contradiction to do yoga and drink wine? From experience, there will certainly be yogis who say that these two components don't go together at all. This is particularly because drinking wine, beer, etc., puts the mind and body into a clouded state. In this context, it should be noted that this practice is neither about flowing through the asanas while drunk nor about overdoing it in any other way. Many people report experiencing balance problems, which can be disadvantageous when practicing asanas. Ultimately, everyone has to decide for themselves whether they want to try this trend or not. When is yoga with wine right for you? Depending on whether you drink alcoholic beverages or not, yoga with half a bottle of wine (of course, everyone has to find out the amount for themselves) may be advisable to enhance the recovery in your body and mind. If you are open to this experience and just want to try it out, you should do so. You want to sink even deeper into mindfulness and experience how alcohol in combination with yoga affects you. You find it difficult to switch off your thoughts and have not yet found a suitable way to do so. You love trying different wines and want to combine this with sports in a meaningful way. It's okay for you that the focus isn't on the effectiveness of yoga exercises; instead, the focus is on fun and enjoyment. You want to experience something special together with your partner. Finding the right event – here’s how If you've decided that this is something you absolutely want to experience, then it's time to find the perfect event for you. This trend, which originated in the USA, is increasingly gaining ground here, so you'll find plenty of providers in Germany. First and foremost, you need to know what you want. Often, the different yoga styles or the presentation of the program differ from one another. Furthermore, some events may only serve red or white wine. Here, you'll have to decide for yourself what you prefer and which event you want to attend. It can be very helpful to travel to a wine-producing region, where you can sample local specialties. If all of this is too much effort for you, you can buy a bottle of wine with your best friend or partner and do yoga at home with a few sips of wine. Have you ever tried yoga with wine? If so, how was the experience?