It appears the peak of the yoga boom in the United States is over, as regular attendance is on the decline. According to a recent report by the New York Times, those reported practicing yoga "declined from 16.5 million in 2004 to 15.8 million almost four years later. One of the main complaints is not only the cost of classes, but the costly apparel that is so popular in yoga studios today.
Sadly, many may not be aware of the wide variety of yoga videos available for at-home use. Furthermore, special yoga clothing is entirely superfluous. The only clothing needed for comfortable practice is simple, loose fitting clothing that stretches easily. No special shoes or other accessories are required for traditional yoga practice.
Modern popular forms of yoga, such as Bikram (aka, "hot yoga"), may require specialized facilities or tools such as swings, straps or blocks, but these are not part of the ancient teachings taught by the Rishis (masters) and those found in the Vedas (ancient Hindu scriptures).
Traditional Hatha Yoga includes eight limbs (ashtanga), they are: Yama (ethical living), Niyama (self-discipline), Asana (yoga postures), Pranayama (breathing), Pratyahara (sensory transcendence), Dharana (concentration), Dhyana (meditation or contemplation), and Samadhi (self-realization). The pure teachings of yoga focus on the whole being, mind, body and spirit. The need for expensive trendy clothing, accessories or tools would detract, not enhance the yogic experience.
Yoga is meant to be an individual journey, not a competitive sport. It may be practiced in a classroom, or in the privacy of one's own home. There are a multitude of videos available for all fitness levels. In the Central Florida area, there are also a number of studios which offer classes for those trying yoga for the first time. Orlando studios include:
College Park yoga - (407) 999-7871
Shine On Yoga - (407) 601-4394
Yoga Matrix - (407) 354-0909
Studio One Wellness - (407) 852-5775
In the Space Coast area there is:
Downtown Yoga - (321) 676-4600
Yoga Center, Melbourne - (321) 728-0300
Peace & Tranquility Holistic, Indian Harbor Beach - (321) 298-8032
The following video is provides an illustration of basic yoga techniques:
Comments
As a 500 hr RYT who teaches free weekly classes at Gilda's Club in NYC to cancer survivors, I couldn't agree more, Tracey. In fact, sometimes I feel the hype - like many things - is being created and fueld by the media. There will always be some fringe fanatics who are looking for what's 'hot' and quickly move on. An ancient discipline like yoga will NOT be for them since they'll only have patience to scratch the surface.
Yoga is a time honored and powerful means to heal body/ mind/ spirit - no matter what your age, condition or circumstance...
Shanti!
Diane Cimine
www.yogarefreshrenew.com
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