Yoga for the Nervous System

Yoga has truly always been “for the nervous system.” It is beneficial for all of our human systems an aspects.

The Sanskrit word, Yoga, is typically translated to English as Union. We could say it’s a practice to re-unite with self and other or to notice that there is no separation.

Love

The first suggested practice of Yoga (in the 8 limbs) is Ahimsa. Love or Reverence. We practice asanas (postures) with this in mind. We walk through life with this in our heart. If we notice we are not practicing that, it’s an opportunity to practice.

One of my teachers, Mariana Caplan, says…

“When it comes to trauma, the best medicine is love. Psychological wounds, knots, and contractions-even the psyche itself-respond much more effectively to love than they do to force or judgement. In this regard, self-love is not frivolous or indulgent, but actually necessary to heal trauma. Incredible healing comes when we combine mindfulness with self-compassion, and when we practice yoga well, it is a direct, embodied form of self love. Self-soothing is one way we can use love as a remedy to fear. Kind words, embracing our own body, a gentle voice, a warm bath, a walk in nature-opportunities to engage in soothing thoughts and actions are all around us.”

Yoga for the Nervous System is placing the emphasis on being kind to self. On being gentle. It is combining practices from Yoga and Somatics that bring us into the present moment.

Yoga is a practice of presence.

The more we research, study and practice the more we find to support our presence. Interestingly, another practice of Yoga is Svadhyaya - Self-study, Nature-study and the study of texts.

There are many things that can distract us from the present moment, and there are as many that can bring us back.

Yoga for the Nervous System is running for two more Sundays at 6:30pm at Kushala Yoga in Port Moody.

Hope to see you there,

Alissa

Edit: I now teach Yoga Nidra and the Nervous System on Sunday evenings at 8pm at Kushala Yoga.