The Difference Between a Yoga Class and a Stretch Class

At first glance and especially as yoga has become more westernised, yoga and stretching can seem like they are the same thing, but the intentions and outcomes are actually very different.

A stretch class is designed to improve flexibility, mobility and posture.

It is an external practice focused on the body as an object and a desired outcome.

A yoga class extends far beyond the physical body, it  is designed to nourish our whole being. 

It is an internal practice that works on the whole system - body, mind, emotional well-being and nervous system regulation.

One of yoga’s super powers is its ability to retrain the nervous system.

In modern life, many of us live unconsciously in sympathetic dominance ie fight, flight or freeze mode. Even high intensity exercise, can often keep us locked in a heightened and inflamed state.

Yoga can help us switch into parasympathetic mode - through slow, mindful  movement and breathing. This is the ultimate state where the body can restore, repair and the mind can calm and soften. 

Through our yoga practice, we cultivate:

* Introspective awareness - we learn to witness our thoughts, feelings and sensations from the inside out.

* Nervous system regulation - we can shift from a state of stress and reactivity to one of restoration and balance.

* A calmer mind - we create space between stimulus and response so we can live with more clarity and presence.

Stretching is great for the body.

Yoga nourishes our whole being.  

 And, you don’t need to be flexible to do yoga. 

You just have to be willing to show up, breathe and meet yourself where you are.

Yoga has personally, been one of the greatest gifts of my life. 

I am a kinder, softer, and more conscious human being because of my practice and I hope that everyone that comes to my classes feels a shift toward softening, spaciousness and compassion for themselves and others.

Hope to see you on the mat soon 🙏