The word yoga is of Sanskrit origin and means union of mind, body and spirit. In the West, the word is usually associated with the physical aspects of yoga known as asanas.
I had a recent interview with a budding yogini, Nadine McNeil, who lives and works in South East Asia; she shared the benefits and impact of yoga on her life.
Diane Robertson : When did you start practising yoga, and why?
Nadine McNeil: I got bored with 'working out' at the gym. I noticed that when I did a workout, as soon as I walked out I'd forgotten that I'd even been there! Six years ago a friend of mine invited me to a yoga class and basically, I haven't stopped since. Being blessed with the opportunity to live and work in Indonesia, this allowed me to take my practice to an even deeper level.
DR: What are some of the benefits of engaging in yoga?
NM: It is the space where I come to get 'uncomfortably' honest with me. It is my meditative prayer in motion. There are days when I am able to just ease myself into certain postures and then there are others when try as I might, my body just won't surrender. It is in these moments that I am reminded of the essence of acceptance of others and ultimately myself. It is said that real learning is borne through personal experience. My present life and work involve lots of travel.
One of the many experiences that practising yoga offers is that it transcends boundaries - from demographic to geographic. Wherever you are, there is a yoga studio 'just around the corner'. In Jamaica, I usually practice at Shakti Studio. Yoga naturally creates the essence of community. Practically all of my friends here in Jakarta, I met (them) through yoga.
DR: How did you know which type of yoga was best for you?
NM: Initially, my practice was limited to Bikram (done in a room that is intentionally heated) and Ashtanga yoga. As my practice deepened, I felt moved to engage in the more 'spiritual' aspects of yoga - through pranayama (breath/life force) and meditation. Lately, especially as I am about to undertake my first yoga teacher training, I have been drawn to Kundalini yoga as taught by the late master Yogi Bhajan. Later, I was introduced to 'Anusara yoga' through a weekend workshop that I participated in; I was impressed by the attention paid to the tailbone located at the base of the spine, which serves as the anchor for all asanas. Each discipline of yoga I practise teaches me something that enhances my overall yogini being.
DR: What tips would you give to someone who has never done yoga before?
NM: Perhaps the same I would about one's attitude to life in general; approach the experience without pre-conceived notions or beliefs. Practically speaking, do not consume food at least three hours before your practice. Be sure that you're adequately hydrated. Let your teacher know of any past injuries that you may have had. She or he will be able to recommend postures that specifically address those injuries. On the mental plane, be gentle, kind and loving with yourself, knowing that in time, you will ease into those postures that may initially seem impossible. Your practice is about you. Refrain from distracting yourself to compare your postures to others' and most importantly, remember to breathe. Prana or breath is the life force, our life essence that we inhale and exhale."
DR: Thanks for the privilege to share.
Dr. Diane Robertson is a pharmacist and recipient of an honorary doctorate in complementary medicine for her work in herbs; email: yourhealth@gleanerjm.com.