The gravity-defying arm balances of an advanced yogi are truly magical )and the envy of many less experienced yogi’s). There is no getting around the fact that the flexibility and strength needed to perform pincha mayurāsana (feathered peacock) or tittibhāsana (firefly) are way beyond most of us. But that does not mean that arm balances are off […]
“I’ll have to take up knitting,” a sulking friend confessed to me several days ago. She just conceived, and the advice given to her was to avoid vigorous physical activity until at least the 12th week of pregnancy, after the first trimester. It sounded like a lifetime to a gym-bunny like her. To add insult
When I started on the path of yoga, I became constantly aware of ways to get to the next level. After practising yoga intensively for six months in London, I decided to take the plunge and come to India. Here, I came to perfect my āsana practice and understand more about what yoga is. Here
Abs, core or midsection — whatever you call it, it should never be forgotten! You guessed it, this week we’re looking at core strength, focusing on the many layers of your abdomen. Before we jump straight in, let’s take a quick look at what it is we’re working out. There are six core muscles going
Twists are integral to most yoga classes. There are obvious twists: ardha matsyendrāsana (seated spinal twist) and twisted lunge. Then there are hidden twists: trikonāsana (triangle) and side crane. With preparation and focus, your twists can be a thing of beauty. Here’s how: Firm Foundations A good twist needs a solid base. A base that
Who’s Who and What’s What at 5 of the Internet’s hottest studios Whilst it’s true that London – like many of the world’s capital cities – has more yoga studios than ever before, it can still be difficult to get to class. With long days in the office, kids’ after-school rotas, socialising and the need
In recent months I have explored the wonders of the wrist and the secrets of strong shoulders. Each has a huge influence on the way we practice yoga poses and both, rightly, deserved the individual attention. But, what of the bits of the arm between? Just a couple of bones, a few muscles and a
Yoga is a practice, it is a study, it is discipline, it is a pleasure but most of all it’s a way of being. Yoga opens us in ways we never thought imaginable, usually starting with the body but ultimately opening our mind. Yoga can be intense, relaxing, strenuous, easeful. Yoga is many, many things,
The holiday season means different things to each of us. For many people, it offers the chance to spend some quality time with family and friends. This may mean travel, staying away from home or maybe welcoming others into your home. Parties, family meals and presents are all wonderful for those lucky enough to get
I love people watching – I’m a physio, I can’t help it. For me, time waiting for trains is time spent checking out how people stand. Spotting the person with great posture becomes my passion. You know the one who stands tall; elegant, effortless and a delight to watch. But why don’t we all move
