Yoga BLOG

The reasons why people turn to yoga vary greatly. While some practice Buddhist asanas primarily to lose weight, others want to calm their minds. Depending on your preferences, you may experience results sooner or later. Even if you don't see changes within a few days, you should wait and see and not let yourself get stressed. The more regularly you practice yoga, the more guaranteed your success is. In this article, you'll find helpful answers to the question of when you can expect to see the first positive changes. Better body awareness: a benefit for life Of course, success always depends on your own wishes and expectations. If you want to lose 10 kg, for example, you won't achieve it in a few days. However, if you practice yoga during the day to get to know your body better, explore yourself, or discover your limits, you can see changes in just a few days. The period depends on the individual: How quickly can you commit to yoga holistically? Does your body feel partially numb? Is your mind open to change? These questions can help you understand the success story more easily. Yogi experts report that even after an intensive weekend of practicing the best yoga exercises, significant differences can be seen—not only in the mind, but in the entire system. Better mood – Yoga can change your mood in a short time Are you feeling under the weather, sad, or perhaps grumpy? Then various yoga exercises on the mat could quickly provide you with relief. Of course, sometimes your inner laziness or a busy schedule can prevent you from taking this step. However, you have to overcome this in order to feel better afterwards. With a brisk Vinyasa flow or a few asanas from Kundalini Yoga, you'll feel an improvement in just a few minutes. Give it a try. Lose weight with yoga: take your time Many people want to tone their figure—ideally with as little effort as possible. However, you should know that for a toned body, you should exercise daily. Beginners can start slowly, and the intensity can be increased over time. Yoga can be an ideal exercise for getting closer to a slim figure and feeling physically fit. Yogis usually have a relatively slim figure, which is related to the fact that they tend to lead a healthier lifestyle while incorporating daily yoga practice. Those who want to lose weight and gain strength need to practice flows with special exercises that train the stomach, legs, arms, and back. The yoga styles Power Yoga, Vinyasa Yoga, Bikram Yoga, or Ashtanga Yoga are best suited for this. This physically demanding session should always be concluded with a short meditation on a cushion or with Shavasana. Breathing exercises also help to better connect with yourself and bring your body and mind into a relaxed state. The results vary depending on the individual and the training. While some may notice a noticeable difference after just a few weeks, for others it takes longer. To notice changes as quickly as possible, it's important to incorporate your training into your daily routine. This is the only way to ensure your body gets used to it, and your muscles can also be trained more quickly. Combining it with other exercises can achieve even greater results. Mind, body and soul are in harmony – more joy in life within a short time Special yoga poses and various flows have a profound impact on your system, whether psychological, physical, or spiritual. Anyone who wants to change their life and find themselves more in tune with themselves should practice yoga. Ideally, this is the best way to achieve amazing results. The asanas from Buddhist teachings help you recognize yourself, discover yourself, and unleash your inner strength. The balance between body, mind, and soul improves – usually after a few weeks or at the latest, after a few months. Mobility and flexibility increase – doesn’t take long Unlike sports, many people want to not only build muscle, but also become more flexible. Yoga is the perfect sport for this. With appropriate asanas (especially Yin Yoga), you can quickly become more flexible. To achieve this, it's a good idea to integrate stretching exercises into your flow. This means that the focus isn't on exercises that promote muscle strength. You can learn the best yoga poses in a class, and the internet also provides a wealth of information. Yogis report success in this area after just a few weeks. The results become increasingly visible over months and years. So give yourself plenty of time to allow your body to get used to the new movements. The question of all questions: Does yoga have to be practiced daily? The answer is individual. The most important thing is that you know why you're doing yoga and vary the frequency accordingly. If you do yoga to unwind and relax, you can choose the best exercises for each situation. At the same time, it has been shown that yoga can also have a preventative effect – mental images occur much less frequently in experienced yogis. If you practice yoga to lose weight and supplement your exercise routine, it makes sense to get on the mat daily. Flexibility and inner contentment are also best improved by practicing daily. Ask yourself what your goal is and adjust your sessions on the yoga mat accordingly. How often do you practice yoga? What is the main reason you practice yoga?

The Mountain Pose - Tadasana Tadasana is an asana in Hatha Yoga . Tada means "mountain," and asana is the posture, or "mountain pose." It's about finding inner peace, being as strong as a mountain, and standing firmly on both feet in life. The Mountain Pose encourages us to accept the circumstances that life presents us with. We should not indulge in daydreaming and take responsibility for ourselves. We should remain true to our moral principles, stand tall even in difficult times, and fulfill our daily tasks. We must be able to take responsibility for the consequences of our own actions. The mental attitude Mountain Pose influences our inner and spiritual attitude. If we absorb Mountain Pose through constant practice, no stormy everyday life can unsettle us. We stand strong as a mountain in the storms of our lives. We regenerate and defy the moods and whims of our environment. Through Tadasana, we experience the infinite dimensions of our body and soul. We recognize our spiritual attitude toward our own lives and the lives of those around us. Tadasana is a good starting point for many other asanas. The calm and stretched posture also benefits our internal organs. Breathing, digestion, and circulation function much more relaxed. How does Tadasana work? Balancing: The body's horizontal and vertical balance is adjusted, the foot and leg muscles are balanced, and the nervous system is calmed. Strengthening: The pelvis is relieved, the back muscles are strengthened, and posture is improved. Strengthening: Stress is reduced, self-confidence is increased and inner stability is strengthened. Calming: Breathing becomes calm and balanced, concentration is promoted, and spirituality is stimulated. Revitalizing: Body and mind are brought into harmony, we receive more energy. Tadasana – Instructions Stand upright, both feet firmly on the ground so you don't sway, but stand calmly and serenely. Your big toes are almost touching. Now briefly lift all your toes and then place them firmly on the floor. Feel the ground beneath your feet and distribute your weight evenly across your heel, midfoot, forefoot, and toes. Close your eyes and bend your legs slightly. Tilt your pelvis slightly forward, gently tighten your buttocks, and gently push them further forward. Briefly lift your shoulders and then let them fall back and down. Your spine should be in line with your neck. Even if your eyes are closed, look forward and keep your chin parallel to the floor. Now imagine that there is a string attached to the highest point of your head that is pulling you very gently upwards. Now feel your breath. Notice how it flows calmly and completely naturally. With every breath you take in energy from the sun, light and oxygen. With each exhalation, let go of any tension that is within you. Stay in this position for a few minutes, then open your eyes and breathe in and out calmly. Tadasana, the wonderful mountain pose, can be described as a position of complete concentration and calm. You become aware of the symbolic connection between heaven and earth and the flow of life. Through Tadasana you learn to be mindful of your soul and your body, because through mindfulness of yourself, self-healing powers can be awakened. Different variations Anyone who engages with yoga quickly realizes how diverse this teaching is. The various variations, such as the lunar and solar versions, have great potential to bring calm and peace into one's daily life. The Solar Variation is able to influence the will, activate personal energies and improve breathing. Our breathing is often neglected, which can lead to serious illnesses. That is why breathing exercises are particularly important and they promote both our health and our concentration. A little tip: When practicing yoga and Mountain Pose/Tadasana, sit quietly in your favorite spot, assume a comfortable and relaxed position, breathe deeply, and focus on your breathing. For example, you can imagine a yellow ball spinning clockwise; this will bring you peace and serenity. Your breathing will be balanced and in its natural rhythm. ©iStock.com/yunava1

Swadhisthana Chakra The Swadhisthana chakra is also called the sexual chakra or sacral chakra. People with an active sexual chakra possess a high degree of creativity and enthusiasm, sensuality, and eroticism. A blockage of this chakra leads to a lack of energy and desire. Here you can learn how to improve the energy flow in your sexual chakra. What is the Swadhisthana Chakra? The Swadhisthana chakra is located approximately a hand's breadth below the navel, at the level of the lumbar spine. As the second of the seven main chakras, it lies between the Muladhara chakra (root chakra) and the Manipura chakra (solar plexus chakra). The Swadhisthana chakra is associated with the color orange, which represents sensuality and joie de vivre. The sexual chakra is associated with the element Apas—water—which represents all flow, purification, and clarity. Meaning of the Swadhisthana Chakra The Swadhistana Chakra is not called the sexual chakra for nothing: It is associated with, among other things, sexuality, sensuality, and thus also reproduction and species preservation. On a physical level, it is connected to the abdomen, the pelvic plexus (lumbosacral plexus), the sexual organs, and the gonads. The energy flow in the lumbar spine, bladder, and Kidneys runs through the Swadhisthana Chakra. People with an open, unhindered Swadhisthana chakra are often very passionate in every way. They practically overflow with creative power, creativity, zest for life, and positive energy. The Swadhisthana chakra enhances emotions such as compassion, love, devotion, and trust. Sexual energy is also increased by the Swadhisthana chakra. An active sexual chakra is often associated with a positive attitude toward one's own body, with fertility, and with relaxed enjoyment of sex. People with an active sexual chakra often also have very sensitive senses. The senses of touch, smell, and taste are especially heightened. When the Swadhisthana Chakra is blocked A blocked or disrupted energy flow in the Swadhisthana chakra often manifests as listlessness: a lack of energy, motivation, and desire. Other possible symptoms include an inability to enjoy life, mood swings, bladder and kidney problems, or lumbar pain. A disorder in the sexual chakra often has a direct impact on sexuality: loss of libido and erectile dysfunction can occur. People with a blocked Swadhisthana chakra often find sex unstimulating or even unpleasant, or have trouble experiencing orgasm. Some experience guilt-related feelings or general problems with intimacy. Conversely, a disorder can also lead to compulsive sexual behavior, increased impulsiveness, and sexual desire. The cause of a sexual blockage can be suppressed desire, for example, due to a very strict, anti-sexual upbringing or social and cultural conditioning. Disturbances in the Swadhisthana chakra can also occur in people who have experienced little affection for a long time or have had negative experiences in interpersonal relationships. How to activate the Swadhisthana Chakra Activating the sexual chakra stimulates everything that flows on a physical level: the bloodstream, the lymphatic system, menstruation, and even tears. A strengthened sexual chakra promotes and controls sensuality, intimacy, emotions, and desire. One's own sexual perception and body awareness improve. Fertility and sexual desire increase. The element of the Swadhisthana chakra is water. Accordingly, all flowing movements are suitable for stimulating it. 5 tips for activating the sexual chakra (Swadhisthana chakras): Yoga asanas Cat (Marjaryasana) and Cow (Bitilasana): Activated the Swadhisthana and also the Manipura Chakra Yoga Asanas Twisting Seat (Ardha Matsyendrasana) and Seated Forward Bend (Paschimottanasana): Stimulate the abdominal organs Swimming or thermal bath: Movement in the element of water is ideal for activating the Swadhisthana Chakra Meditation : Visualize a spring, waterfall or river while meditating Orange, jasmine, sandalwood or ylang-ylang are suitable as fragrances or massage oils to stimulate the sexual chakra ©iStock.com/helgy716

The effects of Samyama meditation – an overview Samyama is described as a level at which the opaque seeks to be made visible or transparent. In Sanskrit, Samyama is a technical term that summarizes three contemplative practices. Those who wish to follow the spiritual path can do so using various techniques: It always depends on how quickly you want to reach your goal. Read this article to learn why Samyama meditation is helpful and what benefits it brings. What is Samyama? First of all, we would like to explain the term samyama. According to tradition, the term samyama means "self-control, restraint, or restraint." In practice, it encompasses the combination ofdharana (concentration), samadhi (enlightenment), and dhyana (absorption)—these words were elaborated by Patanjali (the author of the Yoga Sutras) in the third chapter. You can better imagine Samyama like this: Generally speaking, this is a technique for focusing completely on a topic. Ideally, with a little practice, you'll be able to focus your thoughts on a specific point for longer and longer periods of time. This way, you'll also learn the difference between which thoughts are useful in your life and which aren't. Hatha yoga or Iyengar yoga (which is part of Hatha yoga; it's characterized by the fact that correct execution of the posture is paramount) on your mat can help you become even clearer and calmer. Even breathing also helps you go even deeper. Dharana (concentration) involves focusing your consciousness (your mind) on a specific event or point in your life. The mind calms down and relaxes. At the beginning, practical instructions can help you maintain focus more easily. You can focus on anything during this spiritual experience (on a deity, on pain, on a person in your life, etc.). Through this process you enter Dhyana . At first the focus is still on the breathing. For example, if you concentrate on a person, it is not about thinking about them with your mind. You simply direct your attention to them, you try to understand their inner being, to feel them and to establish a connection (= Dhyana) . Over time you perceive a feeling of oneness. You establish a deep relationship with the thing or object on which you previously focused your concentration. The goal of this stage is for you to become an objective observer. The heart and the head connect with each other. The body, the sense organs and the mind become calm. Samadhi is the next stage. This process is difficult to explain and requires personal experience. Devotion and the attainment of inner freedom play a significant role; we surrender ourselves completely to the object, to the person. We transcend the subtle sheath and merge with it. Furthermore, we can recognize a true being behind everything. You can integrate the Samyama techniques into your daily life to more quickly access various insights and true nature. Many people have very profound experiences with them and learn to know and understand themselves and life from a new perspective – even their perception can change dramatically. Combined with valuable yoga asanas, it can lead to tremendous success and even greater mindfulness in everyday life. Practical example for clarification: Pain and Samyama To better explain the technique, the method and the effect, we would like to give you this example. If you suffer from a specific pain in your body, such as a sore neck, headache, or backache, it's important to understand why this pain is there and what the purpose is. It's also important to find out how it can arise. Typically, it's related to various life circumstances (lack of exercise, unhealthy eating, too little time outdoors, too few moments of silence, etc.). Therefore, there's a wide range of options available to you to bring about change in your life. There's also the option of trying Samyama. Here, you concentrate 100% on the pain. You go really deep and accept it, just as it is. You breathe into it, feel it, and perceive it. At a certain point, it feels as if you are one with the pain. In the best case scenario, during Samyama Integral Yoga meditation on your cushion, you may even gain a basic understanding of the meaning of this pain. Furthermore, you can achieve pure presence during meditation. Patanjali and the eight-limbed path of yoga Patanjali created the eight-limbed path of yoga; this fact helps you better understand its origin and meaning. This is divided into three parts: Yama (the five ethical commandments) Niyamas (these summarize five personal rules for how to treat oneself; these include asanas, pratyahara, pranayamas, etc.). Yoga exercises help to stimulate or maintain the flow of energy—the energy channels are thereby opened; breathing exercises (pranayama) help prepare the body for pratyahara, dhyana, and dharana. Pratyahara is considered "withdrawal of the senses"—you no longer concentrate on memories or the mind.) Samyama (If the previous processes have all been completed successfully, you reach Samyama) Step by step: Make your way forward slowly Thanks to the information presented in this article, you have gained a good overview of what you can achieve with spiritual Samyama. It's important that you begin slowly and very consciously. Over time, the individual steps will become easier for you. If you find it difficult, you should look for a suitable online offering that describes the individual steps in more detail. Intensive courses can help you delve deeper into the subject and experience the state relatively quickly. Of course, the experience will be as intense as is right for you at the time. Have you already had experience with Samyama? If so, how did it go for you, and what perspectives have you been able to change as a result?

Children's yoga is good and fun Recently at a mother-child gymnastics class: While the mothers were busy with postnatal exercises, the children impressively demonstrated how naturally children practice yoga . Marie, Lucia, Nikos, and Finn lay on their stomachs as a baby quartet on a giant play mat – not on a yoga mat, at that – and diligently practiced the cobra pose. They pushed themselves up onto their tiny hands and very slowly raised their heads. Then they stretched their arms, tensed their shoulders and backs, and finally returned to the starting position, tirelessly repeating the exercise. Lucia and Nikos had recently learned to twist, and lying on their backs, they now managed to sit up. Marie and Finn, who could already sit up independently, did so with their legs casually spread. Some yoga movements are so natural that we all practice them instinctively before we can walk – practically from birth. Children's yoga – exercises for all senses and good mood From toddlers to teenagers: Children of all ages can be introduced to yoga exercises in a playful way. Yoga is good for children because there is never any pressure to perform. Some children experience this pressure as early as playgroup – and it usually grows into a heavy burden later in kindergarten, school, or sports club. Yoga is different. Yoga creates balance; children learn to trust their bodies and to feel themselves. The calm and concentrated, yet relaxed atmosphere of children's yoga is a welcome change from the stress that even small children increasingly experience. When mothers or fathers practice yoga exercises at home, the offspring are generally interested. This initial contact with yoga is perfectly fine. However, if children show sustained interest, we recommend enrolling in a yoga class for children. Qualified teachers ensure the correct execution of movements and select child-friendly exercises. They also package the yoga elements in short stories and games, tailored to the respective age group. How a yoga class for children works Some yoga schools offer classes starting at kindergarten age. Yoga teachers should, if possible, have additional training in early childhood education so they can consider the needs of young children and adapt their teaching style to their physical and mental abilities. For schoolchildren, taster courses are also offered as part of open all-day classes or through sports clubs – an alternative if the nearest yoga school is too far away. A yoga class for kindergarten and elementary school children contains calming, harmonizing, and activating elements. The class begins with welcoming games and simple relaxation and breathing exercises, sometimes involving small children's favorite stuffed animals. Modified asanas follow. Inspired by traditional yoga postures, they often differ in name and execution. Many children love the sun salutation sequences, especially when a fitting story about the sun as the source of life is told. The classes usually end with silent exercises or relaxing massage games. Teenagers feel most comfortable in special yoga classes for their age group because doing yoga with people of the same age is simply cooler than a regular class with a correspondingly higher average age. Little yogis have special requirements Whether it's playful yoga with lots of additional elements or a child-friendly adaptation of Hatha Yoga: with a variety of well-coordinated exercises, children will never get bored. Meditative exercises can also be easily integrated if the surroundings are exciting and understandable for children. Children like to imitate and thus discover the asanas. Teachers therefore have a role model function in the truest sense of the word; they must engage with the children, offer support, and show empathy. Sincere praise is good for children, but don't overdo it: children instinctively sense when the praise isn't meant sincerely. The most important thing is that children act on their own initiative and enjoy what they do – just like babies, who develop both mind and body through their movements. ©iStock.com/travnikovstudio

What is the decisive factor for running a successful company? The health, motivation, and vitality of employees. Those who feel balanced, comfortable in their bodies, and healthy can perform significantly better. This is precisely what matters for increasing the success of a business. You'll learn how yoga can help and all the other important information in this article. Problems at work: results in poor career success Numerous businesses report employee absences due to illness. A number of illnesses have increased noticeably, especially in recent years. In addition to back pain, psychological problems are the main reason employees stay home. Too many employees are absent too often, leading to problems within the company. Tasks and internal processes cannot be implemented as desired. As a supervisor or manager, you should take your employees' physical warning signs seriously. Conversations with employees and other measures can help ensure you take good care of them. In-house yoga classes are increasingly being offered. The asanas from Buddhist teachings are said to provide relief. Why is yoga useful in the workplace? If managers are open to change, introducing regular yoga classes could be a great idea. As mentioned earlier, back or neck problems in particular are often a reason why an employee cannot perform to their full potential or even has to stay home. a) Yoga is good for back problems Anyone with back, neck, or shoulder problems can incorporate yoga into their daily routine. Especially for office workers, yoga is a welcome change to feel fitter and more energetic. As an employer, you should also ensure that sitting on an office chair and desk isn't harmful to the body. High-quality office chairs and a height-adjustable desk can be a good solution. Line managers, managing directors, or department heads can encourage employees in their company to participate in these athletic, relaxing exercises. The most important asanas can be practiced together on the mat in a class. b) Better posture: less pain and more self-confidence Many people's posture is neither good for their body nor for their appearance. Therefore, it's essential to work on it. With the help of numerous yoga exercises, you can achieve significant change. Always remember: Buddhist teachings not only help you feel more comfortable in your body, but also improve your mental well-being. Posture plays a significant role in this context. c) Improved resilience: You can deal with difficulties better Yoga followed by meditation on your pillow will help you calm down and strengthen your mind. Employees under a lot of stress, in particular, should take the time to practice yoga every day. Therefore, it's advisable for companies to offer daily yoga sessions. This way, each employee can choose when they want to attend—it's especially relaxing after work. But even during your lunch break, it can help you enter the afternoon feeling more refreshed. Problems and challenges at work seem smaller and can be easily managed and resolved. d) Cohesion is strengthened In addition to the physical health of each individual, cohesion within a company is of course paramount. Joint activities such as company outings, an after-work beer, or in-depth, strenuous yoga sessions can help strengthen the sense of togetherness. They also increase employee physical activity, which, in the best case, also improves health. To ensure that as many employees as possible participate, it is advisable to schedule the sessions during the group lunch break or immediately after work. This allows many people to participate. e) Mindfulness and focus are improved To achieve good results, employees need to have an appropriate attention span. This ensures that work is done correctly. The asanas can help you concentrate better and be more mindful. This makes it easier for you to relax again and again. f) Harmony between body, mind and soul To promote harmony within one's own system, companies should offer daily yoga sessions. Over time, every employee who participates will notice a significant change. The balance between body, mind, and soul ensures that daily activities run smoothly, inner peace prevails, and challenges are met without stress. woman practicing yoga in the office What requirements must be met to participate? Yoga sessions should normally be designed so that everyone can participate. However, any physical complaints should always be checked by a doctor. This ensures that the employee is permitted to practice yoga. Company yoga: a brief overview The concept of a class is designed so that everyone, young and old, beginners, and professionals can participate. To achieve a holistic effect, a yoga class consists of various aspects: Asanas are the physical exercises Pranayama (breathing exercises) meditation Those who indulge in these three things are doing themselves a favor. Body, mind, and soul can relax and recharge. While the classes always follow the same structure, different topics can be addressed. If the focus is on the back, the focus is primarily on exercises that relieve pressure on the spine. If employees want to work out, they can try flowing Vinyasa or Ashtanga yoga. Yin yoga is ideal for finding relaxation and loosening the fascia – if employees are in action mode all day, restorative asanas can balance the metabolism and the mind. The variety of yoga exercises is very wide, so everyone can find something suitable for themselves. This is provided that a variety of classes is offered. Another important factor is that the yoga instructor is professional and can respond well to the needs of the employees. Do you also practice yoga at your company? If so, what benefits have you noticed?

Are you looking for relaxation, exercise, and like-minded people? Then a yoga retreat could be just the thing. Everyday life is demanding, and many people reach the point where they finally want to find a way to relax. Whether you've been on your spiritual journey for a long time or are just beginning, in this article you'll learn the most important reasons why attending a yoga retreat is worthwhile. Rustic Wooden Carved Sign For A Spiritual Retreat Against A Beautiful Leafy Backdrop Term Retreat: What is a yoga retreat? Yoga retreats are becoming increasingly popular, and many people long for this very special time away in a beautiful house amidst a wonderful natural setting in the tropics or in the heart of Europe. The trend of incorporating yoga into daily life is also growing. Therefore, in most cases, it's a good idea to combine these two factors. The word retreat means something like "withdrawal ." This is exactly what you'll experience on the various retreats. Especially if you choose not just a yoga retreat, but also a silent retreat. Here, the focus is on mindfulness, silence, and engaging with one's inner life. Most people also do a digital detox, which further strengthens inner peace. For more variety, it's worth looking around for the best yoga retreats with the best yoga styles. Because most retreats are held amidst stunning natural scenery, you can look forward to more than just a wonderful yoga journey. The power of nature will flow over you, and you'll emerge from everything feeling significantly more empowered. What are the seven reasons to attend a yoga retreat? If you're wondering whether booking a yoga retreat is the right decision, consider the reasons. If several of them appeal to you, it's worth trying this new experience. Group of young women are meditating in park on summer sunny morning under guidance of instructor. Group of girls outdoors are sitting in lotus pose on yoga mats on green grass with eyes closed 1. You have plenty of time for yourself Everyday life is stressful, and often there's hardly any time for yourself. If this is the case for you, then you should step out of your usual environment for a while. A yoga retreat can provide the foundation for recharging your batteries and having plenty of time for yourself. Distractions are limited, because apart from yoga sessions, delicious food, nature, and yourself, there's nothing to stress you out. 2. Great new acquaintances Depending on where you live, there are often not many people who think like you. On a yoga retreat, however, you will meet many like-minded people. This will strengthen you in a lasting way. Often, you can maintain contact even after the yoga retreat. 3. You do something good for your body If you don't get much exercise or movement in your daily life, a yoga retreat can strengthen your body and change your habits. Once you've gotten to know yoga, it will be much easier for you to incorporate daily asanas into your morning or evening routine. You'll notice a difference in your body relatively quickly if you practice yoga sessions daily during your retreat. You won't want to miss this – even in a stressful daily routine. 4. Pure relaxation Body, mind, and soul are stressed or under pressure when everyday life is challenging. Most people have chosen their daily routine so that they can barely keep up. Therefore, it's important that you take a week off to enjoy the peace and quiet and find inner peace. But it's not just your mind that can relax: Because the accommodations usually offer the finest vegan/vegetarian food, freshly squeezed juices, and dishes with nutritious superfoods, your body can recharge. In addition, factors such as women's circles, cacao ceremonies, meditation, and breathing exercises play a significant role in helping you fully focus on yourself. yoga retreat on the beach at sunset, silhouettes of group of people meditating 5. Mindfulness training Most people are familiar with the inner turmoil: a thousand thoughts and all the things on the to-do list. It's no wonder people long for a new experience and a vacation. On a yoga retreat, you'll experience a completely different life. During this week, the outside world plays a less important role; instead, you direct your entire focus on yourself and your inner world. This strengthens your awareness of the moment and allows you to experience what it feels like to be neither in the past nor in the future, but in this very moment. Suddenly, fears, worries, and insecurities disappear because you can fully immerse yourself in the present. You'll learn mindfulness while eating, during a yoga session on the mat , while showering, or while taking a walk. You can take this skill with you into your future life. 6. You will learn new yoga styles and intensive meditations Those looking to intensify their yoga practice can treat themselves to a yoga retreat. As a beginner, you should make sure that the individual sessions and yoga exercises are designed for newcomers—otherwise, it may be overwhelming. The combination of yoga, breathing techniques, and meditation on a cushion is very beneficial. Many yoga retreats offer excellent sessions for inner balance, focus, and increased mindfulness. 7. Broaden your horizons: You get to know yourself better In everyday life, we often fail to adopt different perspectives on life. In this context, experiences like attending a yoga retreat can be just the thing for getting to know yourself better. Yoga, meditation, and breathing exercises also help broaden your horizons. By engaging with yourself, you'll discover other sides of yourself. Furthermore, through conversations with other participants, you'll learn about their lives—this provides you with the perfect foundation for self-examination and viewing your life from a higher perspective. Former problems no longer seem so significant, you discover ideas for improving things in your everyday life, and, ideally, you realize how unique you are and that you can take control of your life. Those who participate in a retreat should take advantage of the shared evenings and activities to learn about other people's experiences—these can, in the best case, be life-changing and deeply inspiring. Have you ever participated in a yoga retreat? What was your experience?

Aqua Yoga: Great asanas in the water – for more well-being Yoga is wonderful – not only on a yoga mat at home, but also outside. Anyone who wants to combine the warmth of water with the beneficial asanas from Buddhist teachings should gather some information. Aqua yoga is a growing trend and is finding plenty of followers, especially in the fitness scene. Holistic, efficient, and sustainable – this article will tell you about the benefits of practicing yoga in the comforting water. Prepare to be amazed. What is water yoga? professional asian woman practice yoga sequence eagle pose (Garudasana) close up in swimming pool, aqua yoga blue water Yoga asanas are usually practiced on a regular mat in your living room or studio. You probably know it like this too? To add even more fun, people started wondering what effects Yin Yoga or other yoga postures have in the water. This gave rise to water yoga. It's also known professionally as Yoga Afloat . Here, you practice the traditional poses and combine them with the beautiful feeling of the water. You no longer need a mat—instead, all you need is your swimsuit or swim trunks and get started. The concept is still relatively new, so there are few training courses available yet. However, yoga courses are offered at select yoga centers. Relaxation and mobility on the water: What do you need to know? First and foremost, it's important that you find a course that provides you with all the necessary information. Aqua fitness shouldn't be started casually as a beginner. This variation can be particularly helpful for yoga beginners, as relaxation often sets in more quickly. We know this phenomenon from babies or from hot baths. Warm water ensures that the body, mind, and soul can relax. Advanced yogis can improve their fitness by following appropriate sequences. These are well-coordinated and performed at a brisk pace. The temperature should be between 32 and 34 degrees Celsius to ensure comfortable practice of the asanas and breathing exercises. Warm water is particularly beneficial for the muscles. The depth of the pool must be approximately 1.30 - 1.50 meters - this allows the aqua exercises to be performed perfectly. Who is Aqua Yoga ideal for? Are you wondering whether you should also integrate the element of water into your yogic practices? Experts emphasize that water yoga is suitable for everyone, regardless of whether you have previous experience with the exercises. And you don't have to be an athlete to get started today. Those who are overweight are welcome to try yoga in the water. Pregnant women can also perform certain exercises without any problems – but a doctor should always be consulted beforehand. This group of people may only practice water yoga under certain conditions: If you're someone who suffers from cardiovascular disease, it's better to find a different style of yoga. High blood pressure can also make it unhealthy for you. Anyone who suffers from inflammation of the veins should avoid water yoga. Everyone else can try out the new trend and be inspired by it. Can't swim? No problem – if the pool isn't that deep, even those who can't swim or are very inexperienced can try aqua yoga. The prerequisite is that you're not afraid. Young woman wearing swimsuit doing meditation on the depth of swimming pool What are the benefits of yoga in water? Today, many people strive for absolute health. Yogis, in particular, follow a holistic approach: they clearly understand that body, mind, and soul must be in harmony. Accordingly, they seek rituals that can establish this balance—yoga, of course, is one of them. If you choose to practice yoga exercises in water, you will benefit from the following advantages. a) Relaxation One of the most significant advantages is the rapid onset of relaxation when you choose this type of exercise. The warmth of the water and the floating sensation help regulate your body, and the carousel of thoughts can calm down. To recover even more deeply, it is helpful to end the session with a pleasant meditation session on the new cushion . b) Strength building Depending on the exercises you perform in the water, you will naturally also strengthen your body. Muscles will be built. The water pressure may require more strength, which accelerates your progress. c) Joints are protected If you have problems with your joints, water yoga can be the perfect alternative to yoga on land or other sports. The weightlessness of water protects your joints while strengthening them. It also relieves pressure on your musculoskeletal system. d) The risk of injury is lower If your body is sensitive or you often injure yourself while exercising, water yoga can be a great alternative. Overweight people in particular benefit from it. e) Cardiovascular system is strengthened In addition to the benefits mentioned above, aqua yoga has a positive effect on the cardiovascular system. f) Great activity for children and adults Parents who are interested in yoga can take their children to the class together. Even the little ones benefit from these movement sequences. Those who have gained a good overview of the key information during a class can practice the exercises in their own backyard pool in the future. It's important that the water temperature and depth are appropriate. This way, you and your kids can spend wonderful, active afternoons in the sunshine. g) Lose weight Are you one of those people who would like to lose excess weight? Then yoga in water is ideal for this. Make sure the sequences are dynamic to ensure your body is sufficiently challenged. h) To prepare for birth If you're pregnant and still want to stay fit, water yoga can be a sensible solution. It's gentle on your joints and prepares you for the moment of labor with special sequences. professional asian woman practice yoga sequence standing bow pulling pose close up in swimming pool, aqua yoga blue water How does water yoga work? Yoga in water and yoga on land do not differ much in the sequence: The body is warmed up (swinging or stretching exercises) The exercises are performed one after the other – either in a horizontal or vertical position. The breathing exercises or meditation at the end are important, but deep breathing is also emphasized during the sequences. Are you familiar with aqua yoga? If so, what do you think are its best benefits?