Yoga Healing for the Mind and Body

What began long, long ago as a spiritual discipline in India has evolved into a wellness movement embraced by people of all ages and interests from around the globe. The word yoga comes from the Sanskrit yuji meaning “to unite.” Its practice combines physical poses (asanas) and breathing exercises (pranayama) with quiet mindfulness. But don’t let any of those italicized words intimidate you. Yoga is intended to meet everyone exactly where they are, as it provides an impressive range of long-term benefits.

How Yoga Benefits Mental Health

We can all agree that life moves far too quickly (at least some of the time) and that our everyday responsibilities can take a hefty toll on our mental, emotional and spiritual well-being. The practice of yoga encourages relaxation, creating a vital mind-body connection and actually calming your nervous system. This results in less stress, enhanced mental clarity and an elevated mood. You emerge from your yoga session feeling that you’re able to face challenges with a greater sense of focus and peace.

How Yoga Benefits Physical Fitness

There’s no need to run endless miles on a treadmill to improve your cardiovascular health. Or struggle with heavy weights to increase your power. Yoga’s asanas work every muscle of your body – including your heart. You’ll enjoy enhanced circulation and cardiovascular function as well as greater strength and flexibility. But those aren’t the only positive ways your body will change. Joint health and posture are boosted and sleep is deepened with continued yoga practice.

Participate in a Class

Whether you’re completely new to yoga or a seasoned yogi, joining an in-person class can do wonders for your practice. One of the primary benefits of yoga class is taking advantage of hands-on guidance from a certified instructor who can correct your alignment or help deepen your poses to ensure you’re achieving proper form and optimal elongation. This is critically important both to combat injuries and advance your flexibility.

Practice at Home

If you cannot attend in-person yoga classes regularly, accessing guided sessions online is the next best approach. After years of practice, you may choose to develop your own routine or flow by gently moving through your favorite asanas. The good news is that you can experience all of the benefits of yoga with a 20-minute-a-day commitment. We do recommend purchasing your own high-quality yoga mat as well as props such as a bolster, block and strap to gain the most from each session. Starting slowly and continually keeping the focus on your breath are also key to achieving your wellness goals.

Lansdowne Resort guests are encouraged to join in-person yoga sessions as well as other group fitness classes throughout their stay. You can choose to reserve our AAA Four Diamond accommodations or select a package that bundles your overnight stay with additional resort perks and privileges. We look forward to welcoming you. Namaste.