Finally, the warm weather has arrived. The days are longer and we are spending more and more time outdoors. Spring and summer is a time when most of us feel at our best. There are many reasons for this. There’s more daylight, so we are getting more vitamin D and we are benefitting from the fresh air. We also tend to eat better as there is an abundance of fresh fruit and vegetables. But also, and maybe more importantly, we are more active. We are out walking, biking, running, swimming, golfing, rollerblading, etc…

It has been proven that physical exercise produces natural endorphins (feel-good hormones). Most of us notice that we always feel better after we get up and move around, doing some sort of physical movement. Yoga is no exception. There’s a special alchemy that happens between the mind, body and spirit as we progress through breathing exercises, yoga poses, relaxation techniques and meditation. As we become conscious of our breathing and as we consciously control our breathe, we can also take control of the mind and reduce the mindless chatter that occurs. As we learn to still the mind, we become more aware of our thoughts and learn to think more positively. This is accomplished in yoga classes every day. As we progress through a series of yoga poses (asanas), we strengthen the body and increase flexibility in our joints. When this is accomplished, blocked energy is released and flows freely through the body. As a result, we experience greater vitality, happiness and self-confidence. As we master increasingly difficult poses, we become more confident and possess greater self-esteem. At the end of every yoga class, we move through relaxation techniques and meditation. This is a time for the mind and body to relax and just be. This allows us to deal with anxiety and depression. As you lie down in relaxation, the “feel-good hormones” sweep through your body and mind, and create a feeling of joy and contentment. Most people feel so incredibly happy and peaceful at the end of a yoga class, and to this day, I have not heard one person say they feel worse after a yoga class.

Yoga is a discipline that everyone can practice, regardless of age or ability. The majority of yoga poses can be modified to allow for beginners and advanced practitioners to practice together in the same class. And yoga has the power to enhance your abilities in other sports. If you are a golfer, runner, cyclist, soccer player or a weekend-warrior, practicing yoga on a weekly basis will improve your overall strength, agility and flexibility, and therefore improve your game or sport. If you have questions about how yoga can help you and your sport or game, please feel free to call me or email me.

Spirit Tree Yoga is offering a wonderful, not to pass up, Summer Special. For only $149.99 plus tax, you can practice unlimited yoga for the months of June, July and August. We offer over 20 classes a week, varying in times and open 6 days a week, so that you can truly practice your yoga when you want. We are conveniently located at 52 Pitt Street, above Echo Trends, between Water and First streets. Please check out our website at www.spirittreeyoga.net to get the most up-to-date schedule and review the variety of yoga classes we offer. New to our schedule is a Meditation class on Monday nights from 7-8pm, and two early classes on Tuesday and Thursday morning from 8-9am. You must experience yoga to truly appreciate the benefits. Be kind to yourself this summer and take advantage of the Summer Special. Your Mind, Body, & Spirit will thank you!! Please call Lisa at 613-330-4494 or email at Blanchard.lisa@yahoo.ca for more information. Enjoy the nice weather!

Namaste,

Lisa Blanchard

613-330-4494