Practicing Yoga In A Group Setting Is Fun And....Good For You!
Scientific Benefits Of Practicing Yoga with Others. (Hint, it’s fun & good for you!)
There is something special about practicing yoga in a room filled with others! You’ve probably felt it yourself but did you know there are studies that validate your feelings?
Here are some science-backed studies we love that help explain the magic of a group class!
Increased motivation: Exercising with others can provide a sense of accountability and motivation. When you know that others are counting on you to show up to class, it can be easier to stay committed to your fitness goals. Plus, seeing others working hard can push you to push yourself a little harder as well.
Improved social well-being: Exercising in a group can lead to improved social well-being, as it provides an opportunity to meet new people and make friends. It also fosters a sense of community and support, which can boost mental health.
Increased adherence: Studies have shown that people who exercise with others are more likely to stick to their workout routine than those who exercise alone. This is because group workouts can be more enjoyable and less monotonous than solo workouts.
Increased accountability: Exercising in a group can provide a sense of accountability and peer pressure, which can lead to better performance and increased intensity of exercise.
Greater variety of workout: Group classes are often led by experienced instructors who can provide new and exciting exercises or routines, as well as offer modifications for different skill levels. this variety can help to prevent boredom and burnout.
Increased endorphins: Exercise alone releases endorphins, the body's natural mood-boosters. When exercising in a group, the release of endorphins is increased, leading to an even greater sense of well-being and happiness.
5 Tips On How To Build A Morning Yoga Habit Each Day
Here are our 5 Best Tips For Starting A Morning Yoga Practice (and why it’s such a great idea ;)
Starting your day with yoga feels amazing & can help set the tone for the rest of your day. Not only does yoga provide physical benefits, such as improved flexibility and strength, but it also has mental benefits, such as reducing stress and improving focus.
Here are a few reasons you may want to add yoga to your morning routine and our best tips on getting started!
Why Yoga Is So Good For You:
Yoga is a versatile practice that can be tailored to fit your individual needs. Whether you're looking to improve your balance and flexibility, build strength and endurance, or simply find a moment of peace and relaxation, there's a yoga practice that's right for you. At Flow, you can choose from a variety of styles, such as vinyasa, yin, or power yoga, and adapt the practice to your own level of fitness and experience.
Secondly, yoga can be done almost anywhere and with minimal equipment. All you need is a mat and comfortable clothing, and you're ready to go. This means that you can easily fit yoga into your morning routine, whether you're at home, in a hotel room, or even in a park. All of our classes are live-streamed so if you’re traveling or feel like practicing at home, you can pick any class on our schedule or library.
Yoga has been shown to improve mood and reduce stress, which can be beneficial for starting the day on the right foot. Many people find that a yoga practice can help them to feel more centered and focused, which can be especially useful for those who are feeling overwhelmed or stressed.
Here are 5 of our favorite tips to get your day going!
Set a regular time: One of the best ways to make sure you stick with a morning yoga practice is to set a regular time for your practice. Choose a time that works for you and make it a non-negotiable part of your daily routine.
Prepare the night before: To make your morning yoga practice as seamless as possible, prepare the night before. Lay out your yoga mat and any props you may need, and have your clothes and water ready. This will save you time and energy in the morning.
Wake up early: Waking up early allows you to start your day with a sense of accomplishment and gives you time to practice yoga before the distractions of the day set in.
Take a class with other people either in our studios if you live nearby or on zoom! If you're new to yoga or just want to get a feel for a particular style, take a class. Flow Yoga Center offers a variety of classes to suit all levels and styles, so you can find one that best suits your needs.
Be consistent: The key to developing a successful morning yoga practice is consistency. Make a commitment to practice every day, even if it's just for a few minutes. Consistency will help you develop your practice and make it a habit.
With its many benefits, both physical and mental, yoga can help you to feel more energized, focused, and relaxed. So why not give it a try and see how it can improve your day?
Visit flowyogacenter.com/schedule to pick your first class!
Our Best Hacks For Your New Year's Resolutions
Not so into New Year’s Resolutions but appreciate the idea of making space for a fresh start? Us too! Read on to hear Debra’s favorite hacks and maybe share some of your own!
Hello!
Today I'm sharing my best New Year Resolution hacks plus few events I'm excited about this month.
While I love the idea of choosing a "word" to help define what you'd like to see more of in your year, a phrase or affirmation resonates with me more. My phrase (below) is sitting proudly on my desk, and is part of the vision board I made with our Teacher Training group. It says:
"Do Less, Achieve More"
My husband laughed when he saw it, knowing how much I have on my to do list right now, but I'm very serious about it. I'm just a few days in and it's already opened up so many possibilities!
Here hacks I did this weekend to help bring it to life to make more space for doing less:
I archived every single message (745) in my very full inbox. I love a clean slate and this let's me start the year fresh & purposeful.
I gave everyone in my family a donation box, set the timer for 30 minutes, put on a fun playlist and together we decluttered.
I unsubscribed & muted my inbox & social media & set limits on my phone. I love the idea of replacing all unessential Social Media time with inspiring podcasts.
Now, moving forward, I'll be trying the Marie Kondo'ing (aka If it doesn't delight me, it's a NO! ) this year. I know you're probably thinking, "I can't say no to everything & everyone...I have responsibilities! A job!" Me too! But even within all of your to dos & responsibilities... I promise you have space. Here's my helpful hack: It's call it the 168 hours project,
Did you know we have 168 hours each week? That's a lot of leftover time even with a healthy dose of work & sleep. Check out this worksheet I created for you so you can reclaim your precious time and how to CREATE space to do more of the things you love, like relaxing in unplanned time, more yoga, playing, napping, taking time to cook slow delicious meals for friends, hiking and all the rest.
I plan on digging into this worksheet Friday in our co-working space as I sip some of the delicious tea we have available after Katie's lunchtime class. Will you join me?
We can gather informally at 1:30 pm. I'll kick off the session with a short & mindful meditation to get us in the mood for revamping our schedules. Members, this is FREE for you and if you're not a member, you're also welcome come hang out in our co-working space and join in with a day pass.
If I don't see you tomorrow, I look forward to seeing you sometime soon!
warmest regards,
Debra debra@flowyogacenter.com
ps. I know that I've had the chance to meet many of you over the years but if you're new around here, welcome!! A few things about me: I opened Flow in 2004 and I'm a mama to 2 growing boys (one who is already taller than me!!). As Flow grew, my husband Ian left his job working for a progressive think tank to help out. You will probably see him around the studio when yo stop in. Now, we're a true family business and we're so glad you here joining us in class!
Lotus Mudra (Padma Mudra) Hand Gesture For Peace & Perspective
Padma Mudra guides the flow of prana (subtle energy) towards the heart chakra and brings balance, calm, and perspective to the Anahata or heart chakra. Practice is said to produce harmony, purity, kindness, and joy to the practitioner.
Lotus Mudra (Padma Mudra)
Padma Mudra directs prana (subtle energy) toward the heart chakra. It’s said to bring a sense of compassion, balance, kindness & ease to the practitioner. Padma (lotus) mudra represents the ability to rise above challenges, get perspective and bloom!
1. To practice Padma Mudra first bring your hand softly into Anjali Mudra (prayer hands) in front of your heart center.
2. Slowly unfurl your hands like a lotus flower blossom open. Keep the base of the hands together, along with the thumbs and little fingers. Allow the index, middle, and ring fingers to gently open.
This hand gesture is said to inspire purity and perseverance by representing the lotus flower floating above the muddy waters of desire, fear, and attachment. It reminds you of the natural beauty of your soul and brings calm to the mind.
While you’re practicing you can close your eyes and take a few breaths and reflect on what is possible in this moment.
Have you ever practiced hand mudras? Let us know how it goes!
😍😍 Would you like more practice meditations, mudras, and classes? Check out flowyogacenter.com/memberbenefits For an amazing way to join and check us out!
