Zen Yoga & Pilates | Pilates studio

Zen Yoga & Pilates

Phone: 0402891588

Address: 385 Sherwood Road Rocklea 4104

Website: http://www.zenyogapilates.com.au

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• Gym/Physical fitness centre
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• Pilates studio

25.01.2022 Not worrying about something doesn’t mean that you don’t care. Not being stressed out doesn’t mean you’re not working hard enough. Just a gentle reminder that even if things feel easy, you’re not being lazy. ... Even if you don’t feel exhausted, you’re allowed to rest and relax. Even if your yoga class feels easy, you’re still practising. You’re still showing up for yourself. Even if you choose the easiest variation, you’re still challenging yourself. Even if you don’t think about your goals all the time, you are still going towards them. Even if your meditation wasn’t the best one, you still practiced and strengthened the muscle of awareness. Showing up is all that matters. #yogastudiobrisbane #brisbaneyoga #brisbanehotyoga #yogapractice #yogaprogress #zenyogapilates #zenbrisbane

24.01.2022 Udana Vayu The fifth vayu is closely linked to vishuddha (throat) chakra and governs upward moving energy and helps us to stand up confidently. It also helps us to stay connected with our higher vision and truth and hence it’s also aligned with the third eye and crown chakras. Udana vayu is responsible for speech, song, self-transformation, and self-expression that is aligned with our vision. It flows through the throat and neck into the head. It can be seen as the most ...subtle of the vayus as it helps us to keep our head up and stand up tall physically, mentally and spiritually. On the mat, focus on elongating through your spine and carrying yourself confidently through standing, sitting and supine poses. Off the mat, take time to connect with your desires and vision, knowing that you’re always guided and supported. . . . . . #meditation #yogi #namaste #wellness #yogalove #yogainspiration #mindfulness #yogastudiobrisbane #brisbaneyoga #yogapractice #yogaprogress #spiritualpractice #pilates #yogaeveryday #yogalifestyle #hotyoga #peace #zenyogapilates #zenbrisbane #chakrabalancing #energyhealing

23.01.2022 Asteya = Non-stealing The third of the five yamas of the Yoga Sutra is asteya, translated as non-stealing. Yamas are moral codes that help us navigate through life and behave towards others in a yogic way. But what else does asteya stand for besides not taking whats not yours? Asteya reminds us to look within and see that we are already whole and complete the way we are. This doesnt only mean that we are surrounded by abundance of material things but we already have ever...ything that we need within ourselves. We have the strengths, faith and love that can carry us through life and fill us with joy. The need to steal or the constant desire to get something new comes from the belief of not-enoughness and forgetting the abundance that lies in the present moment. If we only focus on the things that we desire, its easy to forget what we already have and how far we have come. Honouring asteya on the mat means that we allow everyone to practice in peace and know that our practice is good enough the way it is. Even though its important to challenge ourselves regularly, asana practice should be about exploring the experience in the represent moment and not worrying about poses we cannot yet do. Living by the rule of asteya off the mat means not taking things that arent ours and not hoarding material things. It also means setting goals from a place of present moment awareness and contentment rather than thinking that reaching a goal or buying a new material item will fill a gap in our life. To practice asteya today, write down three things that youre grateful for and reflect on your goals - have you set them from a place of abundance or are you trying to fill a gap in your life? #yogastudiobrisbane #yogabrisbane #brisbaneyoga #zenyogapilates #zenyogabrisbane #yogaprogress #pilates #mindfulness

23.01.2022 Utthita Trikonasana - Extended Triangle Pose Trikonasana is one of the foundational yoga poses and can have amazing benefits such as strengthening the body, improving posture and deepening awareness. It can be a tricky posture though because going too deep into it can easily compromise the alignment of the hips and spine. Patanjali reminds us in the yoga sutra that practising is all about gradual progression and detaching ourselves from the outcome. Asana is only one of the ...eight limbs of yoga so lets look at trikonasana through the first limb - the yamas. Ahimsa - Non-violence: Are you treating your body with kindness and compassion and only going as deep into the pose as feels good in the present moment? Our bodies change every day so let go of any judgement on how your body feels and see yourself with compassion. Satya - Truthfulness: Is practising trikonasana and exploring your bodys boundaries in alignment with your inner truth and calm? Or is the desire to push yourself deeper arising from ego? Asteya - Non-stealing: Gradually enter the pose, exploring your body with present moment awareness. Notice what feels good and allow yourself to stay there. Focus on the feeling within and let go of thinking how far you should be going. Brahmacharya - Behaviour that leads to Brahman, moderation: Notice how youre using your energy in the pose. Is there any strain or tension in the body and can you find more ease and softness? Allow your breath to flow effortlessly in and out of your body. Aparigraha - Non-possessiveness: Let go of any end goal and allow yourself to practise the pose just for the sake of practising. If youre in class, just focus on you and your experience without comparing yourself to others - we are all unique. #yogastudiobrisbane #yogabrisbane #brisbaneyoga #zenyogapilates #zenyogabrisbane #yogaprogress #pilates #mindfulness #trikonasana #yogasutra #yamas

23.01.2022 Manomaya Kosha = Mental Sheath One layer deeper from the physical and energy sheaths is manomaya kosha, the mental body. It’s more subtle than the first two koshas, it’s known as the mind or mental sheath and consists of our thoughts and emotions. It’s not only the thoughts that come and go, it’s also the subconscious beliefs that we have about ourselves and the inner critic - the negative things that we often tell ourselves. ... Because all the koshas are deeply intertwined with each other, the manomaya kosha can affect our physical (annamaya) and energy (pranayama) koshas as well. When our minds are filled with limiting beliefs or negative thoughts or our emotions are heavy, we can feel it as heaviness in the body and it might feel like the energy in our body is not circulating freely or that we are not connected to the collective energy around us. The manomaya kosha, or mental body, can be maintained through meditation and becoming aware of our thoughts. Next time you’re on the mat, become the observer of your mind. Notice the thoughts and treat them as clouds passing by, knowing that you don’t have to label them in any way or follow them all the way to the horizon. If you notice a negative belief about yourself, see if you can simply let it go. Know that it’s just a thought and it doesn’t define you as a person. #yogastudiobrisbane #yogabrisbane #brisbaneyoga #zenyogapilates #zenyogabrisbane #yogaprogress #pilates #mindfulness #thefivekoshas #yogasutra

23.01.2022 The secret behind most arm balances? Courage. Practising arm balances such as flying pigeon, flying splits, crow pose and so on requires courage in order to lean forward, trust yourself and take flight. Even though they are challenging poses and require strength and balance, the biggest thing we usually need to overcome is our own mind and the fear we carry with us. ... In the same way as taking risks in life, we will never know how something will turn out without giving it a proper chance. When we approach challenges with an open mind and visualise our goals and then start working towards them with present moment awareness even without any guarantee of the outcome, we might be surprised how far we can get. The same applies to any challenging poses on the mat. Practising them even if we were afraid of falling is a sign of courage and can teach us lessons and give us confidence that we can use in our lives off the mat. And what if you fall? You can always get back up and give it another go. #meditation #yogi #namaste #wellness #yogalove #yogainspiration #mindfulness #yogastudiobrisbane #brisbaneyoga #yogapractice #yogaprogress #spiritualpractice #pilates #yogaeveryday #yogalifestyle #hotyoga #peace #zenyogapilates #zenbrisbane #flyingpigeon #armbalance

23.01.2022 Inhale or exhale? In a class where you move with your breath, things can quickly go from I’ve got this to Wait, should I breathe in or out? Inhales are typically energising and expansive. They help us open through the front line and create space in the body and length in the spine. ... Exhales, on the other hand, help us to seal the space and length created on the inhales, and they can be cooling, nurturing and calming. They also help us to relax. Because of these qualities, you would usually take a breath in before a forward fold or a twist to create space in the spine before moving into the pose to protect your spine. You would also typically breathe in when you’re moving into a backbend or a heart opener. And when you start folding forward or twisting, the exhale helps to keep the length in the body and engage your core. Breathing can also help you boost your mood or reduce stress. If you’re feeling lethargic or tired, deep and invigorating inhales can help you become more energetic and fight off brain fog. On the other hand, when you feel stressed out or fatigued, slow and nurturing exhales can help you activate relaxation response and reduce stress in the bodymind. #meditation #yogi #pranayama #breathein #wellness #yogalove #yogainspiration #mindfulness #yogastudiobrisbane #yogapractice #yogaprogress #spiritualpractice #pilates #yogaeveryday #yogalifestyle #hotyoga #onandoffthemat #zenyogapilates #zenbrisbane

23.01.2022 MAKEPEACE ISLAND RETREAT Do you need a little vitamin sea to congratulate yourself for making it through 2020?! The restrictions might keep us from having large gatherings, traveling freely, or welcoming family + friends with a hug. But for the rest of this year we can be creative by traveling locally, spending more time reading, and enjoying this new wave of warm weather. Makepeace Island is located in the Noosa river just a few minutes boat ride off the cast of the marina -... although youll feel like youre on your own Balinese island. Its privately owned by Richard Branson, Brett Godfrey and prominent Queensland business entrepreneurs and philanthropists Cathie Reid & Stuart Giles This dream team have created a place where organic produce, beehives, recycling and a wastewater purification system are at the heart of their operation. Patty at Mana Yoga Retreats has a few spaces left for her October retreat at Makepeace Island Retreat just for Zen friends (her other retreats have all sold out)! So grab your togs + join me for a long weekend! October 29 - 1 November 2020 see the link in our bio Jana #manayogaretreats #zenyogapilates #visitnoosa #sunshinecoast #thisisqueensland #noosaheads #visitsunshinecoast #brisbaneyoga #townsville #goldcoast #yogaaustralia #yogaretreats #privateisland #queenslandholiday

22.01.2022 A = Not Himsa = Hurt Ahimsa = Non-violence There are eight limbs of yoga in the Yoga Sutra, all of which provide insight and guidance on how to live our lives in a yogic way. The first two of these limbs are called Yamas and Niyamas - Yamas offer us guidance on how to behave towards others and the environment and Niyamas refer to inner observances. ... Both Yamas and Niyamas are further divided into five reflective tools and today, we are exploring the first yama which is called ahimsa, or non-harming. Even though Ahimsa amongst other yamas offers guidance on how to behave outwardly towards others, its a practice based on self-reflection and observance. When we are aware of ahimsa in our everyday lives, we stay clear from physically harming others, the environment or ourselves and become aware of any ways we may be causing suffering to others. Ahimsa means acting in harmony rather than causing harm and actively reflecting on our own behaviour. Ahimsa can relate to thinking negatively about other people and ourselves. If we have negative thoughts, it creates unnecessary stress and tension in the body-mind. Ahimsa encourages us to be mindful of our thoughts and see ourselves and others with loving kindness. It helps us to set clear boundaries and challenge ourselves in a healthy way without constantly pushing ourselves too far. How are you practising ahimsa today? #yogastudiobrisbane #yogabrisbane #brisbaneyoga #zenyogapilates #zenyogabrisbane #yogaprogress #pilates #mindfulness

22.01.2022 Pregnant ladies - our yoga class just for you is starting next Saturday 26th September at 11am If youd like to prepare your body and mind for birthing then this class will be a great resource! It will also leave you feeling revived, rested and nourished as we use a mixture of breathing practices , yoga poses and meditations Run by Jaz - our Yoga Therapist and recent new mama of a beautiful baby boy ... Special 5 Class pass available on our website - book in to reserve your spot as COVID number restrictions are still in place https://zenyogapilates.com.au #yogabrisbane #brisbaneyoga #prenatalyoga #prenatalhealth #zenyogapilates

21.01.2022 LOVING KINDNESS May you be well. May you be happy. May you be in peace.... From all of us @zenyogapilates we wish you + your families a very happy + safe Christmas filled with love + laughter. #zenchristmas #zenbrisbane #yogaeverydamnday #namaste #yogalove #mindfulness #pilates #yogaeverywhere #yogaeveryday #peace #lovingkindness

20.01.2022 Slowing down for the holidays Self-care looks different for everyone but always comes down to the same intention of putting our needs first and remembering to nurture ourselves in the day to day life. Taking care of ourselves is often associated with adding something into our days - like a bath in candlelight, a moment to ourselves with a cup of tea or relaxing with a face mask on. ... But what if we flip that around and see self-care as working with what we already have, letting go of extra things on our plates and responding to our needs as a priority. Self-care doesn’t have to be about walking slower or eating slower, it can just be about adding more intentionality in everything you do and being more aware of the day to day activities. It can be about drinking water when you feel thirsty and responding to that need even though you’re busy at work. It can be about taking an extra minute in the morning when you first wake up to scan through your body to notice how you’re feeling to start you day with more intentionality. Self-care can be about stopping a few times during the day and simply breathe. It can be about unapologetically saying no to things that your intuition wants to say no to. It can be about giving yourself permission to completely slow down during the holidays and enjoying the act of non-doing without any guilt or shame. How are you taking care of yourself over the holidays? Comment below . . . . . #meditation #yogi #namaste #wellness #yogalove #yogainspiration #mindfulness #yogastudiobrisbane #brisbaneyoga #yogapractice #yogaprogress #spiritualpractice #pilates #yogaeveryday #yogalifestyle #hotyoga #peace #zenyogapilates #zenbrisbane #selfcare #turninginward #slowliving

20.01.2022 Vijnanamaya Kosha = Wisdom Body The fourth kosha is the second deepest layer and stands for the wisdom or intuitive body. It goes deeper than the mental body, beyond the ego mind, and can be associated with intuition and deeper sense of awareness. A great way to start connecting with the fourth kosha and your own inner wisdom is by strengthening your intuition through different practices such as going for a walk without a destination and simply walking where your intuition... guides you. Enhancing and strengthening the vijnanamaya kosha happens through meditation, when we strengthen our ability to listen to our own inner truth and distinguish between right and wrong. Only when the mental chatter quiets down can we hear what our intuition and inner guidance is telling us. Whenever you have to make a decision and your intuition says one thing and your thinking mind says another, you’re balancing between the mental and wisdom bodies. So take time to turn inward to ask yourself what truly feels better for you. Do you trust your intuition when making decisions in your everyday life? Comment below #meditation #yogi #namaste #yogasutra #thefivekoshas #intuition #innerwisdom #wellness #yogalove #yogainspiration #mindfulness #yogastudiobrisbane #brisbaneyoga #yogapractice #yogaprogress #spiritualpractice #pilates #yogaeveryday #yogalifestyle #hotyoga #zenyogapilates #zenbrisbane #followyourheart #beyou

19.01.2022 NEW YEAR SALE! Get your Zen in 2021! We are bringing in 2021 with a sale! for the next 21 days we are offering discount 10% on:... + 10 class pass + 20 class pass + 6 month unlimited pass DISCOUNT CODE: ZEN2021 #zenyog #yogasale #yogabrisbane #yogaeverydamnday #meditation #namaste #wellness #yogalife #yogainspiration #motivation #pilates #peace

19.01.2022 Prana = life force, energy, breath, Yama = control, Ayama = Expansion, liberation Pranayama = Control of breath, Breath expansion The fourth of the eight limbs of yoga is called Pranayama and usually translated as control of breath. In the Yoga Sutra Patanjali says that practising pranayama helps us to still the fluctuations of the mind and create more clarity to prepare for meditation. ... Prana is often translated as life force or vital energy and on top of helping us create more mental and emotional clarity, breathing exercises help us to clear vital pathways in the body so that the breath can flow easily and without constriction. Different pranayama techniques have different benefits - some help us to create heat in the body, detox the body and prepare for physical practice and some help us to calm the nervous system, cool down after a practice and prepare for meditation. What they all have in common is that pranayama techniques are a great way to anchor ourselves to the present moment and calm the mind. On the mat, allow your breath to constantly flow in and out as easily as possible. If you notice that youre holding your breath in a challenging pose, find a different variation that allows you to breathe calmly. If Ujjayi breath is part of your practice, reconnect with it throughout the practice and allow the pace of your breath to guide your movement. Off the mat, regularly stop to take a few deeper breaths in and slow breaths out. When you slow down your breath and bring your attention to it, you send your nervous system a signal that its okay to relax. So even when life is busy, create short moments of calm by breathing mindfully. This will not only help you to release stress but also improve focus. #yoga #yogastudiobrisbane #yogabrisbane #brisbaneyoga #zenyogapilates #zenyogabrisbane #yogaprogress #pilates #mindfulness #pranayama #breathingexercises #zenbrisbane

19.01.2022 Pranayama Kosha = Energy Sheath A step deeper from our physical body is our vital energy body in which the life energy or prana circulates. Prana flows through meridians - the invisible pathways of energy that travel through all our body parts and organs, and pranayama kosha is what affects our mood, energy levels and the way we feel. ... When you feel tingling sensations in your fingers, a wave of warmth traveling through your body, feel your breath or sense the energy of the people and things around you, you’re in touch with your vital energy body. Yoga, specifically breathing and pranayama practices are what help us keep the pranamaya kosha healthy. It needs attention in the same way as our physical body to function well and in order for us to feel energetic, calm and balanced. Taking care of our vital energy body helps energy to freely flow in our body and it also helps us keep our physical body healthy and free from illness. Next time you feel fatigued or stressed, connect with your pranamaya kosha with breathing exercises. Even a couple of minutes of deep breathing can make a huge difference in how you feel. #yogastudiobrisbane #yogabrisbane #brisbaneyoga #zenyogapilates #zenyogabrisbane #yogaprogress #pilates #mindfulness #pranamaya #thefivekoshas #yogaphilosophy #yogateacherbrisbane #hotyoga #meridians

18.01.2022 Early Bird pricing ends on the 15th December! Understand yoga from its beginning to now. Deepen your spiritual knowledge and yoga practice. Learn to meditate with heart and move with soul. Learn more about our 3 month Yoga Alliance Registered 200hr Yoga Teacher Training in Brisbane this February. https://www.manayogaretreats.com/products/teacher-training

17.01.2022 Ivara Pranidhna = devotion, surrender to higher self The fifth of the five niyamas is perhaps the most important one of them all. It can be translated as devotion or surrendering to something bigger than oneself, however, its up to the individual whether the higher power is called universe, love, collective consciousness, god or something else. Ivara Pranidhna stands for surrendering whatever is. On the mat, it is about surrendering to the poses, sensations and the brea...th. Its not about giving up or losing your alignment but rather surrendering to all sensations - even if youre holding a challenging pose for an extended period of time. It can also be surrendering to the fact that on a given day, your body may feel a bit different and might not be able to get to the poses that come to you easily on other days. Off the mat, in your day-to-day life devotion stands for letting go of the urge to control everything and surrendering to what is, even if its uncomfortable. This doesnt mean that youre not allowed to feel feelings such as disappointment or anger but its about knowing that sometimes things are out of our control and we can do nothing else than accept and surrender. Ivara Pranidhna also reminds us that worrying causes suffering in the present moment and doesnt solve past or future problems. We are often focused on things that we did or didnt do in the past, things we should have said differently or thinking about how things will unfold, but this niyama helps us to remember that we can only affect things that are happening in the present moment. Life is right here and right now. #yogasutra #namaste #wellness #niyamas #mindfulness #onandoffthemat #niyamasinyoga #yogaphilosophy #yogastudiobrisbane #brisbaneyoga #zenyogapilates #zenbrisbane

17.01.2022 Brahman = Creator, source of existence in Hinduism Charya = Behaviour Brahmacharya = Behaviour that leads to Brahman... The fourth of the five yamas has in some yoga lineages been understood as celibacy but it is more commonly translated as the right use of energy or preservation of vital energy, and it can be understood as moderation. Practising brahmacharya is about being mindful of your cravings and of how you use your energy. Its about listening to your body to tune in and to understand where your desires come from. On the mat, brahmacharya can be followed by practising in a way that feels good without pushing yourself too much and trusting that you are constantly progressing in your practice. Brahmacharya can also be practised by challenging yourself in moderation and setting healthy boundaries. When you notice that you have really strong desires or you are overindulging yourself, doing a grounding yoga practice and connecting with the present moment can help you to manage the desires. Off the mat, brahmacharya stands for creating balance and being aware of your senses. Its also about being aware where you are directing your energy and noticing if youre preserving your energy or directing it towards pleasing others or always pushing yourself a little too much. How are you practising brahmacharya today? #meditation #yogi #namaste #bramacharya #yogasutra #wellness #yogalove #yogainspiration #mindfulness #yogastudiobrisbane #brisbaneyoga #yogapractice #yogaprogress #spiritualpractice #pilates #yogaeveryday #yogalifestyle #hotyoga #peace #zenyogapilates #zenbrisbane #brisbanewellness

17.01.2022 EARLY BIRD 25% discount until Sunday 1st November : Yoga For Birthing Very excited to be hosting @riseyogatherapy Birth Preparation course on 5th-6th Dec If you are currently pregnant and are interested in how you can use the tools and practices of yoga to have a more calm and confident birth experience for both you, your birth support partner and your bub, then this is course will be perfect for you ! ... The course is run by one of our resident yoga teachers, Jasmine, who is a qualified Yoga Therapist and recent new mother herself . To find out more and secure a space then see the Rise Yoga website : early bird code is: EBDEC2020 https://www.riseyoga.com.au/yoga-for-birthing #birthpreparation #brisbanebirth #birthprep #birthingcourse #birthcourse #prenatalyoga #pregnancyyoga #physiologicalbirth #midwifebrisbane #doulaservices #midwife #hypnobirthing #calmbirth #midwifery #pregnancy

17.01.2022 Svadhyaya = Self-study The fourth niyama is what encourages all yogis, no matter how far they are into their yogic path to always remain students and seek to understand themselves, their inner world and the world around them better. To practise svadhyaya, its not enough to just read sacred texts or learn new yoga poses - this niyama is mostly about reflecting. For example, if you study the yoga sutra, its not enough to just read it through - to truly understand it, you mu...st reflect on it, see if it truly resonates with you and explore different ways to incorporate it into your life on and off the mat. On the mat, svadhyaya is about noticing and reflecting on the quality of your breath. It is about practising with full awareness and being present with your body to notice any sensations or feedback from your body and reflecting on what the feedback tells you about. Its about observing the fluctuations of your mind and allowing yourself to always come back to the present moment. Off the mat, svadhyaya is about taking time to reflect on life and question your actions to understand why you made a certain decision or reacted in a certain way. Self-study also helps you to dive deeper and ask yourself what it is that is really aligned with your truth and what are your deepest desires. #meditation #yogasutra #namaste #wellness #yogalove #yogainspiration #mindfulness #yogastudiobrisbane #brisbaneyoga #yogapractice #yogaprogress #spiritualpractice #pilates #yogaeveryday #yogalifestyle #hotyoga #peace #zenyogapilates #zenbrisbane

17.01.2022 HAPPY NEW YEAR! We wish everyone a very happy + boring 2021! Take the lessons from the pain of 2020, leave behind the negative emotion,... live in the present as this is all we have. #zenyogapilates #intention #yogaeverydamnday #namaste #yogalife #yogalove #mindfulness #yogaeveryday #yogini #peace #happynewyear #love #goals #party #celebrate

16.01.2022 Anandamaya kosha = Bliss Body The fifth kosha is the deepest and the subtlemost layer of ourselves. It’s the bliss body where we are in complete unity with our deepest self and experience true contentment, gratitude, unconditional love, and oneness with ourselves and the world around us. The anandamaya kosha goes beyond the thinking mind and our wisdom body deep into our core. In the same way as the eighth limb of yoga - samadhi - anandamaya kosha is something that we mig...ht experience every now and then in a deep state of meditation. Entering and experiencing anandamaya kosha is not something we can simply make happen - we can only truly experience it when we stop trying, let go of effort and simply allow it to happen, if the time is right. However, practising meditation and non-attachment regularly through yoga and being aware of the subtlemost layer of ourselves can give you the tools to access this deepest kosha more often. Anandamaya kosha is our true nature, the part of us that is always deep within our core. It’s where we move from suffering and disease to bliss and ease and truly experience contentment and gratitude on a deeper level. . . . . . #meditation #yogainspiration #yogasutra #wellness #yogalove #onandoffthemat #thefivekoshas #mindfulness #yogastudiobrisbane #brisbaneyoga #yogapractice #yogaprogress #spiritualpractice #pilates #highestself #anandamaya #yogaeveryday #yogalifestyle #hotyoga #zenyogapilates #zenbrisbane

15.01.2022 We are slowly moving towards spring, longer days, warmer weather and higher energy levels. Spring is the perfect time to harness energy for the summer, set intentions from the heart and spend extra time on self-care. Focus on noticing the subtle changes in the air to be present with the change of seasons and observe the energy around you. Use your breath to detox your body and your mind. Breathe in the fresh spring energy and allow yourself to receive. Breathe out old stagn...ant energy, clearing out anything that you wish to leave behind. Ask yourself what you want to focus your energy on and what you want to experience more of in your life. Set this as your intention and when you make decisions, ask yourself if the decision is aligned with your heartfelt intention. Open your heart to receive love and compassion from others and bring a smile into your eyes. After the winter, spring is the time of turning outward. But to fill your own cup first, take time regularly to slow down and check in with yourself. Cherish the simple things and moments of stillness such as having a cup of tea during the sunset. #settingintentions #yogi #namaste #wellness #yogalove #yogainspiration #mindfulness #yogastudiobrisbane #brisbaneyoga #yogapractice #yogaprogress #spiritualpractice #pilates #yogaeveryday #yogalifestyle #hotyoga #peace #zenyogapilates #zenbrisbane #yogabrisbane #brisbanewellness

15.01.2022 YOGA TEACHER TRAINING We are so excited to be hosting Mana Yogas 200hr Yoga Teacher Training in February! Whether you are wanting to be a career yogi or dive deeper into your practice, this is going to be the perfect way to learn from Brisbanes most experienced senior teachers led by senior teacher Patty Pearlman.... This training will be held over 7 weekends, you will; Deepen your own understanding and develop a dedicated daily asana and meditation practice. Gain in-depth insight of the traditional teachings, learning the significance of the 8 limbs of yoga through practice, lecture, discussion, teaching and a personal guidance. Feel confidant and comfortable to safely guide a yoga class with knowledge and heart. Graduate with a Yoga Alliance accredited 200hr Certificate.

13.01.2022 Sam = Entirely Tosha = Satisfaction Santosha = Contentment The second of the five niyamas, is santosha, often transferred as contentment. It comes down to the same core belief as many of the yamas too - when we rest in present moment awareness, we understand that we already have everything within us. ... Practising santosha is about detaching ourselves from what has happened in the past or what we want to happen in the future, and being fully present in the here and now. Its about being mindful of what we have and where we are right now, cultivating gratitude for the present moment and then moving forward from there with full awareness and feeling of contentment. Often we think that we can be happy when something happens or when we reach a certain goal so santosha reminds us to look inward and notice how far we have come and how we already have every reason to be happy. It reminds us that goals or achievements dont define us and we dont have to be successful or busy in order to be worthy. Santosha is about knowing and believing that we have everything within us and we dont have to change anything in order to be content - we have the permission to enjoy life and be happy just by simply being in the present moment. In the same way, when practising yoga on the mat, santosha reminds us that our practice is perfect the way it is right now. We can always aim to progress but its best to do that by first acknowledging and honouring where we are in our practice right now. #meditation #ypgasutra #niyamas #eightlimbsofyoga #yogi #namaste #wellness #yogalove #yogainspiration #mindfulness #yogastudiobrisbane #brisbaneyoga #yogapractice #yogaprogress #spiritualpractice #pilates #yogaeveryday #yogalifestyle #hotyoga #peace #zenyogapilates #zenbrisbane

12.01.2022 Do you fill your own cup first? Are self-care and different relaxation techniques a regular part of your daily routine? What we often forget is that taking care of ourselves should be a staple in our lives - we are worthy of taking time for ourselves even if we dont feel stressed or experience anxiety right in this moment. Different relaxation techniques definitely help to reduce stress when we experience it but they are actually best for preventing stress on a daily basi...s and helping our body-mind to switch to relaxation response. In our busy everyday lives, we might be occupied with making sure that everyone else is doing fine that we forget about ourselves. Many of us also might have some subconscious beliefs that make us believe that we have the permission to slow down and tap into self-care when we are sick or feel stressed. Today, take time to check in with yourself, even if you dont feel like you need to. Take time for you - it doesnt have to be much, even a few minutes of deep breathing, a couple rounds of sun salutations, or writing a journal can be very helpful. You are always worthy of filling your own cup first. #meditation #yogi #namaste #wellness #yogalove #yogainspiration #mindfulness #yogastudiobrisbane #brisbaneyoga #yogapractice #yogaprogress #spiritualpractice #pilates #yogaeveryday #yogalifestyle #hotyoga #peace #zenyogapilates #zenbrisbane

12.01.2022 Satya = Truthfulness The second of the five yamas of the Yoga Sutra is satya, often translated as truthfulness. Truthfulness is a reflective tool that helps us to stand in our own truth and be honest with ourselves and others. In the same way as ahimsa, satya offers guidance on how to behave towards others but it too starts with self-reflection. Practising yoga and calming the mind offers us more space to explore our true nature and find our inner calm. When we act in alignm...ent with the inner calm and let go of ego-driven thinking, we honour satya, truthfulness. Honouring satya means we are both honest and truthful with ourselves and others. We make decisions based on our deepest desires and arent afraid to follow our intuition or stand behind our actions that are aligned with our inner self. In the same way, when we interact with others, we speak our truth and stand behind our words. Speaking our truth doesnt mean that we are in the liberty of being hurtful at others - it means that we have the courage to express ourselves and our opinions that are aligned with our inner satya. How are you practising satya today? #meditation #yogi #namaste #wellness #yogalove #yogainspiration #mindfulness #yogastudiobrisbane #brisbaneyoga #yogapractice #yogaprogress #yamasandniyamas #yogasutra #spiritualpractice #pilates #yogaeveryday #yogalifestyle #hotyoga #peace #zenyogapilates #zenbrisbane

12.01.2022 When we practice yoga and bring our awareness back into our body, we practice grounding. Grounding can be incredibly soothing if you experience any uncomfortable emotions such as fear or anger or if you feel stressed or anxious. Its a practice that helps us to reconnect with the present moment and remind ourselves that we are safe right here, right now. One of the most effective ways to practice grounding is surrounding yourself with nature or walking bare feet on the gro...und but in everyday life, thats not always an option. To feel more grounded during a busy day at home or at work, try these simple practices to bring your awareness back to the here and now: Take a moment for mindfulness. Notice your surroundings, listen and hear any sounds around you and observe where your body makes contact with the support underneath. Take a couple of deep breaths in and release them slowly. Touch and feel something with your hands. For example, place your palms on your body and just simply notice how that feels. Notice the temperature of your hand against your skin or clothes and observe the weight of your hands on the body. Move your hand gently and observe how the sensations change. Either standing up or sitting in a chair or the edge of your bed, bring your feet firmly on the ground. Notice all the corners of the feet on the ground. Lift your toes gently and then allow them to land on the floor. You can even bring an image of roots growing from your feet into the ground. #meditation #yogi #namaste #wellness #yogalove #yogainspiration #mindfulness #yogastudiobrisbane #brisbaneyoga #yogapractice #yogaprogress #spiritualpractice #pilates #yogaeveryday #yogalifestyle #hotyoga #peace #zenyogapilates #zenbrisbane #brisbanewellness #grounding #holistichealing

11.01.2022 During the past five weeks we explored the first limb of yoga, the yamas. Today, we are starting to dive deeper into the second limb which is called niyamas, often referred to as inner observances. The reason why both yamas and niyamas come before asana in the eight limbs of yoga is because yoga goes way beyond the practice on the mat. And when we come to the mat, we want to make sure that we arrive there with right intentions so that the practice can best serve ourselves an...d others that we share it with. The first of the five niyamas is called Saucha which can be translated as cleanliness. In the same way as the whole practice of yoga, saucha applies to life both on and off the mat. Cultivating saucha helps us to clear the clutter in our environment and mind, set clear intentions, eat clean food and be mindful of how we treat others and the planet. Saucha starts from letting go of the things that no longer serve us. That might be old thought patterns, relationships, eating habits or items that we own. When our minds are filled with unnecessary thoughts or the space we are in is cluttered and untidy, it can be difficult to find calm in the inner world. How are you practising saucha today? #yogastudiobrisbane #yogabrisbane #brisbaneyoga #zenyogapilates #zenyogabrisbane #yogaprogress #pilates #mindfulness #yogasutra #niyamas

11.01.2022 Where attention goes energy flows. Taking time to notice and reflect on our thoughts is a great way to see where our energy really goes and if we are creating unnecessary stress through repetitive, fearful or negative thoughts. Sometimes its difficult to see the forest from the trees when our minds are filled with thoughts and worries and thats why reflecting on our thoughts through journaling is a great way to get some perspective.... When we worry about something or go repeat the same thought over and over again, our bodies can react to it with a stress response which can make it even more difficult to break the cycle. Even small worries can seem very big in our minds when we repeat them and keep them to ourselves. And heres where journaling comes in handy. Writing down thoughts and worries is a great way to create space in the mind and increase clarity. Writing worry thoughts down can also help with gaining some perspective and noticing that we may have exaggerated them in our minds. Another great way to break the cycle of negative thoughts is to write them down and then try to provide evidence to support the fear or worry. When you write this down you might notice that these thoughts may have been a creation of your mind and right now, right here, you are completely safe. #yogastudiobrisbane #yogabrisbane #brisbaneyoga #zenyogapilates #zenyogabrisbane #yogaprogress #pilates #mindfulness

11.01.2022 Annamaya kosha - the physical sheath Annamaya kosha is our physical body, the most dense form of energy which consists of the food we eat. It’s what we often identify with the most because it’s the most tangible of the five koshas as it’s what we can see, feel and move. Even though the five koshas are intertwined, we use the outer layers to access the inner layers. Taking care of annamaya kosha, or our physical body, helps us to connect deeper with ourselves as well as expe...rience life fully and with more ease. Asana and pranayama are practises that help us keep the physical body healthy and energetic. But yoga doesn’t only help us to become more flexible or stronger - it helps us to deepen our body awareness and notice what’s really happening within. Often we go through days without really paying attention to pain that we might experience or stress that is weighting us down. A sense of calm and relaxation in savasana is a perfect reminder of our bodies’ natural state of ease and how our bodies are always seeking harmony and healing. So taking care of the annamaya kosha is finding ways to get back to the same feeling of bliss that you might experience at the end of a class, caring for your body and really connecting with it from the inside. #yogastudiobrisbane #hotyogabrisbane #brisbaneyogateacher #zenyogapilates #zenyogabrisbane #yogaprogress #pilates #mindfulness #yogasutra #thefivekoshas #annamaya

11.01.2022 COMMUNITY YOGA THIS SUNDAY Join the gorgeous Hollie this Sunday at 10:30am. Class is by donation with all donations going to Orange Sky.

10.01.2022 What is your favourite backbend? Comment below Backbends are great poses that have so many amazing benefits such as Opening the heart and frontline of your body... Creating space in the abdominal muscles and rib cage so that its easier to breathe deeply Strengthening your back and creating a more mobility in the spine Improving posture They can be energising and help you become more confident Whenever you feel tired or lethargic, backbends can help you to feel more energetic. When forward folds are great for turning inward and grounding, backbends help us to turn outward and prepare for challenging situations. #meditation #yogi #namaste #wellness #yogalove #yogainspiration #mindfulness #yogastudiobrisbane #brisbaneyoga #yogapractice #yogaprogress #spiritualpractice #pilates #yogaeveryday #yogalifestyle #hotyoga #peace #zenyogapilates #zenbrisbane

09.01.2022 Asana = seat The third limb of yoga is called Asana which translates to seat or posture and refers to the physical practice of yoga. Even though yoga in the modern world is very focused on different Asanas and the physical practice, Patanjali barely mentions Asana in the yoga sutra. He refers to Asana as a comfortable and steady seat that is easy to hold during meditation and that helps the awareness to rest in the whole conscious experience, not any aches or pain in the bod...y. The seat should be comfortable and steady so that the mind doesnt have to focus on the body. When the seat is comfortable, the prana or breath can easily flow in and out and be regulated without feeling constricted. As the third limb, Asana can also be seen as a physical practice that helps the body to become stronger, healthier and more flexible so that its easier to proceed to the remaining limbs. Asana is also referred to as a way to still the fluctuations of the mind or solely as a practice to prepare the body-mind for the real yoga - or oneness that happens in deep meditation. Even if the reason you turn up on the mat is because of the physical challenge, explore Patanjalis idea of a steady and comfortable posture in your practice. Notice when an Asana doesnt feel steady or comfortable anymore and observe your breath - when you notice that you have to hold your breath in a pose, choose a more gentle variation. The goal of yoga is not to be able to reach the most advanced variation of each pose but to find the ease and steadiness, both in the body and mind. #yogastudiobrisbane #yogabrisbane #brisbaneyoga #zenyogapilates #zenyogabrisbane #yogaprogress #pilates #mindfulness #yogasutra #yogalifestyle #asanapractice #brisbaneyogastudio #zenbrisbane

09.01.2022 MEDITATION MINI RETREAT 10am SUNDAY 13TH SEPTEMBER Patty Perlman of Mana Yoga Retreats will lead you through a 2 hour mini retreat.... Meditation often has an incredible stigma. Those who do it must be calm and enlightened, those who dont say I really should try that. And most of us think it involves sitting silently in white cloth pants on a rock ledge for days. Well Im sorry to tell you that instagram photo you saw isnt the reality. Meditation can be a part of your day, it can only take 5 minutes, and you can do it in a suit or sweatpants. You can have a busy mind, interrupting children and time constraints. In this meditation workshop you will learn: - Mudra meditation - Breath meditation - Mantra techniques This is for the modern person who wants to incorporate meditation into their life to reduce stress, help them focus and alleviate anxiety. There are different techniques that work for everyone, and after this workshop you will leave with a toolbox to choose from. The workshop will conclude with a relaxing and restoring guided yoga Nidra. Book via link in bio #zenyogapilates #meditationbrisbane #meditate #spiritual #yoga #healing #mindfulness #spirituality #health #wellness #gratitude #selflove #consciousness #yogalove #selfcare

09.01.2022 Yoga does not transform the way we see things; It transforms the person who sees. Yoga doesnt make the problems of the world or our worries disappear. It doesnt make the world a quieter place and its not the answer to all the questions. But it can help us create more space in our bodies and minds and invite more stillness and calm into our own inner worlds so that we can see the outer world from a different perspective. It doesnt fix our problems but it can help us put ...the problems and worries into perspective. It reminds us that some things are out of our control but we can always control our reaction to things. It helps us to get through uncomfortable emotions and see ourselves with love and compassion even in difficult times. It can help us accept things we have previously resisted and remind us of our own inner power. How has yoga impacted your life - on and off the mat? #yogastudiobrisbane #yogabrisbane #brisbaneyoga #zenyogapilates #zenyogabrisbane #yogaprogress #pilates #mindfulness #brisbaneyogastudio #yogabenefits #meditationpractice

08.01.2022 Tapas = Discipline The third niyama is all about coming back to why you practice and finding the inner fire or passion for yoga, wellbeing and taking care of yourself. When you then consistently follow the inner fire and show up for yourself and have discipline when you feel like you are lacking direction or are about to give up, you are practising tapas. Tapas doesnt mean that you need to push yourself to practise when you are not feeling well or that you should only focus... on your goals - it simply means being consistent and gradually working towards your goals with a heartfelt intention. If you try a new challenging asana on the mat and havent quite mastered it yet, tapas means trying again and trusting that by practising consistently and enjoying the journey, you will get there. The whole practice of yoga is about present moment awareness and so is tapas. If you are feeling unwell or have injured yourself, practising tapas could be turning up on your mat to meditate or cultivating more self-compassion in your life by allowing yourself to take the time to rest and heal. #yogasutra #forearmbalance #yogi #namaste #wellness #yogalove #yogainspiration #mindfulness #yogastudiobrisbane #brisbaneyoga #yogapractice #yogaprogress #spiritualpractice #pilates #yogaeveryday #yogalifestyle #hotyoga #zenyogapilates #zenbrisbane

08.01.2022 Even when you dont see it or pay attention to it, your breath, prana or life force is flowing with you and carrying you through life. Practising pranayama can help you to shift from breathing unconsciously to breathing consciously and to be present with the breath. Regulating the breath is a powerful way to regulate the activities of your mind and through that it can help you to change the way you feel mentally, emotionally and physically. Paying attention to the prana on... the mat is a good starting point and helps you slowly to bring the practice of pranayama off the mat. Because your breath is deeply connected to your mind and nervous system, learning a few simple exercises can be really helpful when it comes to managing and reducing stress and engaging your natural relaxation response. To help your body-mind relax today, try a breathing exercise that allows you to lengthen your exhales which in turn can assist with sending your nervous system a signal that youre safe and its okay to let your guard down. Simply take a deep breath while counting to four, hold the breath in for four and then slowly breathe out for the count of eight. Allow your exhale to come to a complete stop before you start your next breath in. Repeat for 5-10 times without rushing - just take your time to bring your awareness back into your body and ground yourself to the present moment. #pranayama #breathingexercises #mindfulness #yogastudiobrisbane #brisbaneyoga #yogapractice #zenyogapilates #zenbrisbane

07.01.2022 Pregnancy Yoga starting Saturday 26th September at Zen @ 11am (if youre a first time mamma then get the lie-ins when you can!) Join us at any point in your pregnancy for a 1 hour class designed to keep your changing body feeling nourished and starting to prepare for the journey of childbirth. Run by the lovely Jaz who is a new mum herself as well as a qualified Yoga Therapist. ... Book in at our website to reserve your spot: https://zenyogapilates.com.au #brisbaneyoga #prenatalyoga #pregnancyyoga #yogabrisbane #zenyoga #yogastudiobrisbane

07.01.2022 Vyana Vayu The fourth vayu governs expansion and circulation from the heart centre and lungs into the limbs and rest of the body. Last week we explored samana vayu which flows from the periphery to the centre of the abdomen so vyana vayu is the opposite force - flowing from the centre to the periphery. ... Vyana vayu assists all the other vayus in their functions and creates awareness of the whole body. A weak vyana body can create feelings of disconnection with your body and energy flow as well as manifest as scattered thoughts. To bring awareness to vyana vayu and to strengthen it, focus on deep, expansive inhales and observe the prana flowing from the chest to the whole body, and hold the breath in before releasing it. On the mat, explore vinyasa-like movement that increases the circulation in your body as well as longer holds that allow you to stop and breathe. Take 3 deep breaths and hold them in for a count of 3 and comment one word below describing how the breath made you feel! . . . . #hotyogabrisbane #brisbaneyoga #yogastudiosaustralia #brisbaneyogateacher #yogaeveryday #yogalifestyle #onandoffthemat #mindfulness #movingmeditation #selfkindness #selflove #intentionsetting #heartcentered #pranamaya #breathingexercises

06.01.2022 A = Non Parigraha = To seek, to possess, to crave Aparigraha = Non-possessiveness, non-greed Its time to explore the last of the five yamas - aparigraha, or non-possessiveness. When asteya focuses on non-stealing and brahmacharya is about being mindful of your energy and doing things in moderation, aparigraha complements these two with an aspect of non-greed and letting go of what no longer serves you. ... Following aparigraha means letting go of the attachment to the outcome and practicing yoga and meditation because it feels good in the present moment, not to reach a certain goal. When you make decisions, aparigraha helps you to make them from a place of present moment awareness and focus on abundance instead of the things your ego-driven mind may think you lack. Aparigraha is particularly important in situations where you might experience a feeling of jealousy. When you notice that you compare yourself to others or find yourself wanting something that someone else has, take time to remind yourself of aparigraha and focus on the things youre grateful for. Oftentimes, when we compare ourselves to others, we forget that we are all unique and incomparable. Aparigraha helps us to tune inward and become aware of the being within and it helps us to remember that we already have all that we truly need within ourselves. #yogastudiobrisbane #yogabrisbane #brisbaneyoga #zenyogapilates #zenyogabrisbane #yogaprogress #pilates #mindfulness #brisbanelifestyle #brisbanewellness #hotyogabrisbane #yogasutra

06.01.2022 YOGA TEACHER TRAINING We are so excited to be hosting Mana Yoga's 200hr Yoga Teacher Training in February! Whether you are wanting to be a career yogi or dive deeper into your practice, this is going to be the perfect way to learn from Brisbane's most experienced senior teachers led by senior teacher Patty Pearlman.... This training will be held over 7 weekends, you will; Deepen your own understanding and develop a dedicated daily asana and meditation practice. Gain in-depth insight of the traditional teachings, learning the significance of the 8 limbs of yoga through practice, lecture, discussion, teaching and a personal guidance. Feel confidant and comfortable to safely guide a yoga class with knowledge and heart. Graduate with a Yoga Alliance accredited 200hr Certificate.

05.01.2022 Namah = Bow, Te = To you Namaste = I bow to you Ending a yoga class by saying namaste to the teacher and the fellow yogis is so common that often we may forget what namaste actually stands for. So what does it really mean?... In short, namaste is a way of saying and gesturing that we are all one. It goes beyond the ego and stands for the union of the souls. It allows two or more people to come together energetically and honour each other on a deeper level. The gesture of having your hands in prayer at your heart centre is called anjali mudra. Anjali means to salutate and mudra means to seal and the gesture itself allows you to feel a greater sense of presence as well as connect with the heart centre, where the soul resides. Combining the grounding anjali mudra with the namaste gesture helps us to connect with ourselves and others in a state of present moment awareness and really explore what yoga is truly about - oneness and being free from ego-driven thinking. Namaste can be translated as The divine light in me recognises, honours and bows to the divine light in you. #meditation #yogi #namaste #wellness #yogalove #yogainspiration #mindfulness #yogastudiobrisbane #brisbaneyoga #yogapractice #yogaprogress #spiritualpractice #pilates #yogaeveryday #yogalifestyle #hotyoga #peace #zenyogapilates #zenbrisbane

05.01.2022 New Pilates class starting Tuesday 1st December Ness will lead you through two classes: Express mat Pilates (6.15am - 6.45am - 30 minutes)... This face-paced workout uses body-weighted exercises to increase your mobility and muscular strength. Focusing on the Pilates principles including alignment and breathing, this class is suitable for beginner to intermediate clients. Benefits of Pilates include increased body awareness, balanced muscular strength on both sides of your body, muscular control, mobility, coordination and lengthening of muscles. Classes may include small apparatus and tactile adjustments to make sure you get the most out of this class. Stretch and release (6.50am - 7.30am 40 minutes) A slower-paced mat class that combines dynamic and static stretching with Pilates exercises that lengthen the muscles and promote mobility of the spine. Stretching can assist with well-being by reducing muscle tightness, increasing stability and control by teaching body awareness and giving you more freedom with your movements. A full body stretch and release will rejuvenate both the body and soul. Classes may include small apparatus (foam rollers, spikey balls, bands) to assist with lengthening and the release of muscles. #fit #yogaeverydamnday #wellness #pilatesbody #balance #core #strength #stretch #namaste

05.01.2022 Join the lovely Hollie this Sunday for a beautiful yoga class. All community classes are by donation, with all donations going to Orange Sky

03.01.2022 Special 5 Class Pass available for our new Pregnancy Yoga class starting on Saturday 26th September Book in here: https://zenyogapilates.com.au

03.01.2022 SPRING SCHOLARSHIPS were all just walking each other home Ram Dass Zen Yoga + Pilates is offering Scholarships again this year.... This year we thought it was appropriate to offer these scholarships in the spring, as it is a time of renewal and last week is also the week of Suicide Awareness and R U OK? day. We also feel that it is now more than ever, with the challenges of Covid, it is time to give back to our community. In addition to the benefits of a regular yoga practice, having a supportive community around you uplifts and unites. If you, or if you know someone who is missing out on a regular yoga or pilates practice because of financial constraints, you or they can apply for one of two 6 month unlimited memberships being offered. For all of the people who are suffering from anxiety, depression or any mental health conditions, we see you, we hear you + you are loved. Nominations will close on the 30 September with passes available on the 1st of October. Please email [email protected] #mentalhealth #psychology #soulhealth #ruokday #beyondblue #betteroutcomes #depression #anxiety #mentalhealthawareness #wisdom #courage #yogaformentalhealth #yogaforlife #zenyogapilates

03.01.2022 ZEN CAUSE At Zen we understand that life is often a little bumpy and upside-down, particularly 2020! Last year we started a scholarship program to give back to our community by offering free memberships + passes to people who for whatever reason have not been able to come to the studio. We are now renaming this program to ZEN CAUSE, in honour of Jana’s father who died of suicide nearly 14 years ago.... Any donations will go to supporting community members who for whatever reason are unable to attend classes due to financial challenges but would benefit from improving their overall wellness through both the physical + spiritual aspects of attending classes. At Zen we are so passionate about the benefits of what we offer through our classes, which help to overcome grief, depression, anxiety and other physical and mental health issues.so we want to give back to as many people as we can. In the last two years we have given away nearly $5,000 worth of passes, and we would like to be able to continue the tradition by offering passes every six months, we had one in September so our next program offering will be in April 2021..For every dollar donated by our amazing community, we will match in passes! If you’d like to donate to Zen Cause so we can match every dollar donated, you can click the link in our bio. In the meantime, if you know of someone who would love a pass before our next program, we currently have 1 x 10 class pass that has been so generously been donated by another Zen Community member, email [email protected] Zen Cause link: bit.ly/zen-cause #payitforward #yogaforeveryone #yogaeverydamday #yogaformentalhealth #love #health #yoga #inspiration #giveback #charity #yogastudiobrisbane #yogabrisbane #brisbaneyoga #zenyogapilates #zenyogabrisbane #yogaprogress #pilates #mindfulness #selflove #mindfulness #anxiety #depression #mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealthmatters #healing #suicideprevention

02.01.2022 Cooling breath to beat the heat As the summer is approaching and days are getting hotter, it’s important to keep hydrated and cool down. Sitali and sitkari pranayama techniques can be amazing for cooling the body down slightly to beat the heat. They are also great techniques to reduce stress and heighten your sense of awareness. ... Sitali is the taco tongue breathing technique. On the in-breaths, you curl your tongue like a taco shell and breathe in through the curled tongue. You’ll feel the cooler air against your tongue when you breathe in, and then allow the breath naturally flow out through your nostrils. Sitkari is another great cooling breath technique and especially good for those who can’t curl their tongue. In sitkari, you open your lips slightly on the inhale and breathe in through the gaps between your teeth. In both of the techniques, the air will feel cooler when it flows in, helping you to cool your body down and become more aware of the sensations of your breath. On the exhales, close your mouth and breathe out through your nose. As with any pranayama techniques, first get started by finding a comfortable position in a quiet place and take a few deeper breaths to ground yourself in the present moment and then continue with either sitali or sitkari for a couple of minutes. What is your favourite pranayama technique? Comment below! . . . . . #yogastudiobrisbane #yogabrisbane #brisbaneyoga #zenyogapilates #zenyogabrisbane #yogaprogress #pilates #mindfulness #pranayama #sitkari #sitali #coolingbreath #beattheheat #meditation #stressrelease #breathingtechniques #breathingexercise #yogaoffthemat #hotyoga

02.01.2022 Reminder to slow down and take a few deep breaths. Breathe in through your nose, filling your body with new vital energy and then breathe out through the mouth and notice your body relaxing. Allow your breath to resume to its natural rhythm and instead of controlling your breath, allow yourself to be breathed. Observe the even flow of your breath and let it naturally flow in and out without any effort from you. ... Notice your body and see if you can allow it to soften and relax a little bit more. Let your body to become heavier, sinking deeper into the support underneath. Observe your body from inside - how is it feeling? Allow your inner world to slow down and let go of the hustle and bustle of the outer world. Know that all your thoughts can wait and right now, you have the permission to enjoy this sacred present moment. Maybe you can imagine that each breath in creates a feeling of calm at your heart centre and each breath out spreads the feeling of calm to your whole body. #yogastudiobrisbane #yogabrisbane #brisbaneyoga #zenyogapilates #zenyogabrisbane #yogaprogress #pilates #mindfulness #slowliving #slowingdown #selfcare #yogalifestyle