top of page
Writer's pictureJamie Schmiling

A Gentleness Journey: Rejuvenating the Body and Mind with Gentle Yoga

Updated: May 15

By: Jennifer Much 


One of the most exhilarating parts of yoga isn't just that it's blissfully relaxing or that it can be practiced anywhere. The best part? It's ageless! Whether an individual is a young yoga enthusiast or a senior with limitations with mobility, Gentle Yoga helps to rejuvenate the mind, body and spirit. It provides the most profound opportunity to connect with one's surroundings and to also carefully engage multiple muscle groups safely.

What is Gentle Yoga?
Just as the name implies, Gentle Yoga incorporates slow movements performed with awareness of both posture and breath. Yogis move through poses gradually and hold the position for a few breaths. By avoiding fast, jarring movements, joints are nurtured so injury to muscles and connective tissues can be avoided. 

Through thoughtful movements, individuals can also enjoy the moment, as these types of poses tend to be far less complex. Poses can include gentle backbends, forward bends and relieving stretches, however, focus is placed on an individual’s own preference and accessibility. It is also possible to implement modifications to assist those with additional body limitations.

Hatha Yoga is a popular option that encases this mindset and is said to be excellent for beginners, too. It encourages movement without causing muscle strain and is very accommodating, as props are used to further enhance comfort.

Experience the Benefits 
Yoga can make a substantial difference in your wellbeing and has many benefits. Consistency is key and even 20 minute sessions can improve your health.

Key Benefits Include:
Improvement in Flexibility 
Building Muscle Tone 
Boost to Mood
Increase in Mental Focus 
Influencing Circulation

According to a quasi-experimental study conducted by the International Journal of Preventive Medicine, it concluded that yoga played a substantial role in reducing anxiety and depression in participants, particularly for women.

In the study, researchers credited yoga as a beneficial non-pharmacological and non-invasive treatment option for multiple disorders as it is known for being an intellectual and mental exercise that surrounds feeling and mood processes.

A Gentleness Journey 
Yoga is personalizable for each individual. While some may look to yoga to stay active, others savor the quiet moments that welcome clarity. When we invite individuals into our studio, we are extending an invitation for them to partake in their own health journey!

As we shift into June, we challenge you to take a different journey of your own! Over the course of the next month, work down the following list. After completing each task, write down how you feel using one word and circle it.

Gentleness Journey Bucket List 
- Start Your Day by Stretching
- Try a New Breakfast Recipe
- Don Your Favorite Cozy Outfit
- Listen to an Audio Meditation
- Schedule a Soothing Massage with Jamie
- Attend a Yoga Class
- Sip on Homemade Fruit-Infused Water
- Get an Extra Hour of Sleep
- Go for a Walk in Nature
- Watch a Beautiful Sunset

Once you have completed the tasks, refer back to your circled words. Using those words as inspiration, craft a message to serve as a reminder for you to always be gentle with yourself. Our journeys will always be different, but we hope yours helps to rejuvenate your body, mind and soul.

*To view current Gentle Yoga classes, visit https://www.rootsyogamindbody.com/book-online.
*To schedule an appointment or private session with Jamie, contact her at 
*Share your journey with us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/RootsYogaAlgoma.

Namaste! 
68 views0 comments

Comments


bottom of page