Cold weather is here, and a transition into a darker, more subdued, “yin” time of year has begun. With shorter days, less time spent outside, and perhaps a stronger urge to stay in and “hibernate”, our bodies tend to ball up; muscles get tense to protect our internal organs from the cold, which creates a chain reaction in the mind and spirit. This is why, now more than any other time of year, it is important to actively find balance to counteract this instinctual urge to shut down.
One place to find balance is through yoga. A yoga practice is a way to get involved in your own physicality; to strengthen your body, create space and flexibility in the muscles and joints, build bodily awareness, and ultimately heal. A yoga class is a place to be completely “you”; your practice is entirely in your hands, you’re not competing with anyone or anything, and your only job is to breathe. Many of us have experienced the benefits of a few deep breaths when we feel anxious or stressed. Now imagine that feeling of calm reaching beyond just those few moments, and into your consciousness on a daily basis. This is what we seek with a yoga practice.
“Do I have to be flexible?” No! Would you take a Spanish class if you already spoke Spanish?
“Do I have to be in shape? What if I’m overweight?” Yoga is, literally, for every body. Don’t be intimidated by the poses or what you’ve seen on the internet when you Google “yoga”, because it’s not about that. It’s about you and your journey. If you have physical limitations, Mariah and Lexi, the Stone Turtle Yoga teachers, are skilled in creating modifications for students who aren’t able to go all the way into a pose, and they teach from experience, being students themselves who need modifications from time to time.
“But I have kids and a job and responsibilities. I don’t have time for yoga!” How many hours of TV do you watch per week? How much time on the internet or Facebook? As a great yoga teacher once said, “If you make time for yoga, you will have time for everything else you need to do.”
The bottom line is, wherever you are today, physically, mentally, or spiritually, we will meet you there, and help guide you towards improved physical and mental well-being. You might not love it or “get it” your first time around (we didn’t, either!), but give it a few tries and wait for that “ah-hah” moment. You’ll begin to develop an awareness you may have never had before, and you will likely begin to feel great on the inside and out, and find space in the body as well as in the mind. The unexpected benefit of any Stone Turtle Yoga class? A wonderful sense of support and kindness from our small but vibrant yoga community, composed of wonderful yogis of varying ages and abilities, each on her/his own path.
What class is right for me?
If you’re brand new to yoga, or looking for a way to stretch and move in a low-impact setting, Gentle Yoga is the class for you. Offered Monday at 9:00am and Tuesday at 5:30pm.
If it’s deep relaxation you’re seeking, look no further than Yin Yoga, offered Thursdays at 5:30pm.
If you’re craving more movement and flow, including Sun Salutations and the occasional back bend or inversion, Empower Yoga is your class. Offered Saturdays at 10:00am.
Now is the time. We have the quiet space, yoga mats, props, and friendly, certified instructors. All you have to do is show up!
Any questions? Don’t hesitate to call or email Mariah at 989-302-7928 or mariah@stoneturtleyoga.com. We look forward to seeing you!