Whether you’re wanting a rigorous early-morning workout to power you through the day, a daytime class that simply stretches the sinews, or a nourishing evening session to help you sleep, Aqualink has a yoga class to suit.
Good Sleep
Certain yoga postures aid sleep by activating sleep-producing hormones or switching off our over-worked nervous system. Fish posture and legs-up-the-wall are great examples. Yoga also teaches us the art of conscious sleep (Yoga Nidra); a systematic process that deeply relaxes body and mind Common student feedback is that the best sleep of the week happens after yoga.
Better Strength
Most of us equate yoga with flexibility but many postures are designed to build strength. Warrior position builds leg strength, plank position builds upper body strength, headstand builds (and requires) abdominal strength. When we’re physically strong, we respond better to life’s demands.
Better Balance
Standing on one leg is initially a physical challenge. We wonder if we can do it. We worry whether our gummy left knee will support us. However, the physical quickly becomes psychological. What if I fall? Will I hurt myself? Will I look silly? What will others think? Balance is about overcoming fear (think headstand and notice your reaction). Better balance helps prevent falls. It makes us more stable beings, unwavering in our commitments and steadfast in our support of others.
More Calm
Pranayama (breath control) teaches us how to breathe for optimal health and different life situations. Full Yoga Breath teaches us how to use the entire lung system (the way we should breathe every moment of the day). 4:4 Breath aids sleep and is a great tool for calming and slowing down. When we breathe consciously we connect body and mind and become more centred: a great space from which to operate -- no matter the task.
Better Self-Awareness
Yoga teaches you to notice stuff. Initially it may be your tight hammies, or that slightly raised right shoulder blade. With practice you’ll become aware of what sits behind and beneath. You realise the tight hammies are work-related (you stand all day), that the shoulder blade relates to a (long-forgot) childhood monkey-bar incident. Our bodies are storehouses of memories. With awareness we can work through them, with them, around them; appreciating what they conceal and reveal.
Best Classes
Aqualink classes are friendly, inclusive, fun and cater to all fitness levels. They are taught by some of the best yoga teachers in Melbourne. But don’t just take it from us, try out one of many classes available via the button on this page.