Chiswick yoga
In Sanskrit, one of the Classical Language of India, the term Yoga has many translations include "joining," and "uniting”. Typically this is thought to refer to the union occurring between the mind, body and spirit. According to ancient texts there are eight “limbs” of Yoga. Only one of these “limbs” (called asana) refers to the practice of physical postures or poses, and yet here in the West, it is these physical postures and poses that we mainly associate with the word Yoga.
It is through the practice of these postures and poses that balance in the body is achieved through developing strength and flexibility. The poses can be done quickly in succession (as in Power Yoga and Flow Yoga) or more slowly (as in Sivananda and Hatha Yoga).
At Roko we currently have four types of Yoga classes on the timetable and at least one Yoga class every day of the week. These are:
Power Yoga: a vigorous, fitness-based approach to Yoga that does not follow a set series of poses. Power Yoga classes can vary but they tend to minimize the meditation and chanting while maximizing the emphasis on strength, flexibility and fitness
Flow Yoga (or Vinyasa Yoga): following the practice of “breath-synchronized movement”, where you move from one pose to the next on an inhale or an exhale. It’s called Flow Yoga because of the smooth way that the poses run together and become like a dance. In this class expect movement, not just stretching but apart from that there is no set sequence for instructors to follow, so there is a lot of room for individual personalities and variations in classes.
Sivanada Yoga: promotes spiritual, physical and mental well being and is based upon five principles:
1. Proper exercise
2. Proper breathing
3. Proper relaxation
4. Proper diet
5. Positive thinking
After warming up, the focus is on the mastery of twelve basic poses, generally taken slowly so that each pose can be fully explored.
Hatha Yoga: this is the style that many people associate with the word "Yoga" today. Traditionally Hatha Yoga will leave you feeling relaxed with its slow-paced stretching and simple breathing. It is good for learning basic poses, relaxation techniques and becoming comfortable with Yoga.
For a complete listing of all the Yoga classes available at Roko Chiswick bridge please visit the classes & timetables page.
