YOGA
Nourish believes that a balance of mind and body is an important part of a holistic lifestyle. Yoga allows us to still the fluctuations of the mind, giving us the opportunity to unveil the truest versions of ourselves. Yoga is coming home to ourselves.
Philosophy
The physical portion of yoga, asana, is a moving meditation, in which we are able to peel back the layers of emotion we have built around our head and our hearts. By peeling back these layers, we are able to experience the truest nature of ourselves, we are able to objectively view our reality without our perceptions clouding our judgment. Yoga allows for appreciation of our bodies and the wonderful things they can do. Yoga asks for non-judgement and kindness, both towards ourselves and towards others. By incorporating the many facets of yoga philosophy into our lives we are encouraging mindfulness, kindness, truthfulness, and compassion to be the guiding forces of our lives.
Practice
As a registered yoga instructor, Shannon specializes in Hatha and Vinyasa yoga. Hatha refers to the practice of physical yoga postures, but hatha yoga is commonly used to describe a physical practice in which the postures are held for some time, allowing time to stretch and connect with the breath. It emphasizes the connection of the mind and body. Vinyasa yoga is a style of yoga that is commonly referred to as “flow” yoga, as the postures are strung together by the breath. The breath moves the body, typically at a faster pace than a hatha practice. Through vinyasa practice, we are able to move with the breath, connect to the mind, and let go of the things that no longer serve us.
What to expect from a Nourish yoga practice
Expect to move, breathe, and sweat. Nourish’s yoga philosophy is rooted in the belief that movement is medicine. Through breathwork and movement, you are able to dial down the mind chatter and learn to be presently connected to your mind and body. Vinyasa practices are faster paced, designed to build tapas or heat within the body, meant to purify the mind and body, releasing stagnant energy and making room for new energy. But as with any yoga practice, I encourage you to listen to your body and go at your own pace.
Practices are open to beginners and experienced practitioners alike. Yoga is wonderful in that it offers variations for every shape. From the most foundational shapes, to the more advanced variations, options will be provided for each posture, to ensure that you are able to find your edge.
Expect to have fun! Nourish’s yoga classes are meant to be fun, and at times feel like a dance party on your yoga mat. I believe that music has the ability to change your mood and your energy, and as such I incorporate music into our classes that is designed to move you. The music is used as an aid to draw you into the practice. We believe that with the right energy, and right sound, you can dial down the mind chatter and really vibe with your body and the movements. You can expect to hear music from many genres of music.
Come with an open heart and open mind. Sometimes leaving your expectations at the door is the best way to practice.