What is Yoga?

Yoga is not just about asana ie physical practice. There is breathing (pranayama), bandhas (energy locks in the body), 'lifeforce' (prana), nadis (energy conduits/flows), mudras (hand gestures for subtle energy practice), opening or closing the senses (pratyahara), dharana (concentration), dhyana (meditation, contemplation), yamas (restraints), niyamas (observations) etc.

Yoga is a tool that we can use to tap into ancient wisdom and healing practices based around reconnecting with our own body. Listening to it, observing it and actively encouraging it to move and flow in new directions.

For me - the essence of yoga is about taking on new challenges, accepting and embracing change, trusting myself, my ability to find my equilibruim and not get flustered over change and things I cannot control. It is also about embracing change and seeing the results of the change, and being aware to new opportunities. It is to live in the moment, and really experiencing each moment as unique and something that you can learn from. For me, the essence of yoga is about loving the journey, no matter what or where the destination is. I know that my path will occur and I will choose branches that lead to the same destination.