Saturday, April 9, 2016

Yoga Playground: An Exploration in the Practice of Yoga

By Erin Reilly

"I can't go to yoga class, I don't know how to do yoga!"
"I wish I felt comfortable asking a question in class."
"I'm curious about meditation and breathing exercises."
"I'm scared to go upside down."
"I've always wondered how to do ___________ pose."

Can you identify with any of these? The format of a regular yoga class, with its flowing series of poses like a moving meditation, can't often accommodate questions or deeply explore a pose. Though a flowing class can leave you in a deeply blissful state, there might be times when you leave feeling puzzled or questioning. Maybe you haven't been brave enough to even take a class!

Our new Lumina Natick class, Yoga Playground, which meets Mondays 11a-12p, offers the chance to learn yoga techniques within a class setting. It is appropriate for beginners through advanced students, since even the most advanced yogi can keep learning. It is often the most advanced students that have the most questions!

Would you ever say you can't take piano lessons because you don't know how to play the piano? Of course not; same with yoga-- you learn as you go! During class your teacher works with you on techniques, then you practice them. You can continue practicing your "yoga lessons" at home!

Each week at Yoga Playground, we will warm up with some flowing, breath-linked moves, then have fun exploring different areas of yoga, with time for demonstrations, questions and practice. We will always end with some delicious stretching and a wonderful relaxation.

Possible Topics (of course your suggestions are always welcome!):

  • Balance
  • Back bending
  • Arm balances
  • Building strength
  • Meditation
  • Yoga for Mood regulation
  • Breathing exercises
  • Going upside down (inversions)

The more you come, the more you will learn and before you know it, you will have a solid yoga practice!

Learning something new, especially something physical, is so good for your brain! Bring your open mind, your playful spirit, and your body, no matter what state it is in. 

Come play at the Yoga Playground!

Erin likes to combine the best of all that different yoga styles have to offer, into a class of creative flow, safe alignment, anatomical explanations and awareness of the mental benefits of yoga.

Erin began her yoga journey in 2001, right here at the Natick Longfellow Sports Club, taking classes with Janine Agoglia 3 times a week. Erin's background as a gymnast and hurdler prepared her well for yoga. Since then she has trained with many of the world's most famous yoga teachers (none better than Janine!), at the Kripalu Center in the Berkshires and in Boston.

Erin also teaches yoga and leads retreats at her waterfront home studio in Wellesley, Personal DAY Yoga. For more information about Erin and her classes, go to  www.personalday.net. 








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