What is Yoga & How it Can Change Your Life

Introduction
Let’s be real, lately, the world has been unpredictable and chaotic. Leaving us all to feel anxious, resentful, and unmotivated at some point. During times like these, it is so easy to get caught up in the negativity.
Let me ask: Do you ever wake up feeling lethargic/achy? Is your mind constantly wandering/overthinking? Have ever felt like you are out of alignment with your true self? That your life is out of balance? That you lack a sense of direction where to go next?

These are common struggles that we all go through but do not have to suffer from. What if I told you there is a tool available to everyone that can help solve all of these problems and more. Something that can make you physically fit, give you a sense of clarity in life, and increase your overall well being. This something I am referring to is yoga. Over the past few decades, yoga has grown in popularity around the world, and for good reason. Now before you make an excuse as to why you can not practice yoga, hear me out. I am not lying when I say yoga can be practised by everyone. As there are zero prerequisites, age or body restraints, or physical abilities for beginning a yoga practice. Yes that’s right, you DO NOT
have to be flexible to do yoga.

So what exactly is a yoga and why is it so good for you?
What is yoga?

Contrary to popular belief, yoga is not merely a method of exercise or way to get flexible. While it does include the physical commonly known practice of asanas (poses); this only scratches the surface of what yoga truly is. Instead, yoga is a mindset or a way of being in which you live
every moment of every day. It is a pearl of ancient wisdom known as, “the science of life” originating from the great sages of India thousands of years ago. The word yoga is derived from the Sanskrit word, “Yuj” which means ‘to join’ as it brings unity to the mind, body, and soul.

This is done not only through asanas but also through the repeated practice of pranayama, mudra, bandha, shatkarma, and meditation. All of which help to shift our focus from the external to the internal world beyond our 5 senses. Providing a way for one to live in harmony and connection with their true self. While traditional yoga follows a theme of spirituality, it does
not require you to be spiritual in order to practice it. I know I wasn’t when I first started. It does not force you to believe in a certain way but instead allows you to open your mind and experience things for yourself.

There are also many different types of yoga such as Hatha, Vinyasa, Ashtanga, Yin, and Kundalini. Each of these different variations offers something different depending on what one is seeking to gain from their practice. There are so many different aspects to yoga I truly believe that it has something to offer for everyone. It also never becomes old or outdated as it involves a lifelong practice of learning, growing, and becoming that is constantly evolving.

Inspired yet? Next blog I will talk about What are the benefits of yoga?

Meanwhile, if you want to contact me for a class here is the information. I can’t wait to hear from you!

Instagram- @karlieclarkyoga
Email- Karlie.clark95@gmail.com
Whats app- (+1) 314-578-9566

Namaste!  I’m Karlie- a certified educator and yoga instructor. In 2018 I left my hometown in the midwest USA to pursue my dream of exploring the world. Where I first spent a year in Saigon, Vietnam teaching kindergarten. Afterwards, I decided to shift my direction in order to continue travelling full time as I follow my passion for yoga and holistic health. I also love to write and to share my experiences while travelling, and this is how my blog- Exploring Educator was born. Where I discuss topics related to travel,  holistic health, conservation, and education.