What is yoga?
Welcome to the Bikram Yoga Grosse Pointe Website! Every month we will feature a new topic in order to facilitate growth and understanding in your yoga practice. Some months the focus will be on a specific asana (posture). Another month we'll feature a discussion on yoga philosophy and history. We hope this monthly feature will inspire you and add depth to your practice. As always, if you have any questions or concerns about our practice, feel free to ask any of your instructors.
Yoga is an ancient practice from India that began at least 5000 years ago. In the West, most of us practice yoga as a workout, or to relieve stress. Yoga is both of these, but so much more. Hatha yoga, which we practice at Bikram Yoga Grosse Pointe, is one limb in a system that has many tiers. One simple definition of yoga is union or communion of body, mind and spirit. Yoga is a life of self-discipline based on the idea of simple living and high thinking. The ultimate goal of a life in this practice is liberation. Liberation from the constraints of the mind. As we practice yoga we elevate our conciousness. We uplift those around us with our newfound peace and calm. We become a positive influence in our surroundings, thereby infecting the world with this beauty.
Yoga is a discipline of transformation and the yoga studio itself is a place of transformation. When you enter the yoga studio, treat it as a place that is sacred. Enter the yoga room quietly and respect your fellow students who may be relaxing. If you feel the need to talk, do so quietly or go into the lobby or changing rooms. Make sure you arrive on time, especially if you are a first-time student. You may want to arrive early and spend a few minutes in savasana. Everyone should be present for at least one set of pranayama (deep breathing) as it is essential to begin your practice of Bikram Yoga.
See you in class. Namaste.
Erika