YOGA IS FOR EVERYONE!

Yogi Lea (Dr Lea Brindle), Flow Yoga teacher at The Ocean Spa tells all!

Everyone knows that Yoga is good for you and for many, can become a way of life. When practiced regularly, yoga will improve your flexibility, strength, stamina, balance and concentration. It will also leave you feeling both energised and more relaxed with an enhanced sense of perspective.

Something about Yoga that a lot of people may not realise, is that it can also benefit a range of conditions from bad backs to relieving and managing stress, as well as normalising weight and improving general well-being.

There is a common perception that only people who are naturally flexible can do yoga, but this statement couldn't be more wrong! Practicing yoga will promote these qualities, even if you are currently somewhat stiff and tight. If you have a specific medical condition however, you should talk it through with either your GP or yoga teacher before coming to a class.

Yoga classes are generally all about breathing, postures and meditation. However, many people find it also affects their diet and their lifestyle. Although it's not a case of 'no pain, no gain', it definitely isn't a quick fix. As with most things in life, you do get out what you put in, and need to practice regularly to gain real benefits.

While the image of a yoga class that most people have is of a class full of women, this is not necessarily true – yoga is also for blokes! Lots of men find yoga both challenging and hugely beneficial to their physical and mental well-being. Many men find the strength and flexibility that yoga can provide appealing and can help improve their overall effectiveness in other activities. Also, it can help prevent injuries and speed recovery from sports injuries, tightness, stress and pain. This also applies to women, of course, too!

Why not try out a class one Wednesday evening? Classes start at 6:15pm so be there five minutes early so I can show you the ropes. If you want to find out more about Yoga at the Ocean Spa, contact a receptionist at the club or call me to find out more. I very much hope to see you 'on the mat' soon!

Lea has been practicing yoga for over thirty years and strongly believes that people from all walks of life and age ranges can greatly improve their confidence, fitness and outlook on life by practicing yoga. He is qualified to teach yoga by the British Wheel of Yoga, the Independent Yoga Network and the Yoga Alliance. Lea is also a Chartered Psychologist with a small private practice.

To find out more about classes please call 01305 824117