Yoga Benefits

I have decided to incorporate yoga into my training routine. My goal this year is to live a life more balanced and complete. I am guilty of ignoring  the importance of stretching and flexibility that should compliment my  training. If am truly striving for so much more than a trophy or my next show. I am striving to be a better, brighter version of myself. I also am eager to benefit from the other aspects of yoga principles such as meditation and yogi meals to help me continue to improve on my weaknesses with food and stress management. I have scheduled a daily yoga time at my gym. Luckily for me I have no excuses since they have a wide variety of classes and times during the week. I have included the classes I will be taking and their descriptions. I'll let you know on my video blog Friday how I did.

Monday - Hot Yoga
**Heated** In this class the teacher will use their own style to lead you through a vigorous sequence of yoga postures. The combination of heat, deep breathing, and challenge will bring you to new levels of awareness, balance, and well being. This is a multi-level class appropriate for any student looking to find their edge and grow
Tuesday - Slow Burn
From the slower progressive sequences, to the longer holding postures, the entire body and mind are brought into balance in this focused, intense yet calming class. It is a great option for newer students who may be nervous about trying yoga. You will be encouraged to explore all the benefits of each posture while finding equanimity between challenge and release. This practice is typically accompanied by soothing music. *for all levels
Wednesday - Fitness Yoga
Make the mind-body connection in this vinyasa-inspired yoga class. Working with the breath, you’ll be challenged through a dynamic flow of postures designed to improve strength, flexibility, endurance and balance. *for all levels
Thursday - OFF
Friday - Ashtanga Yoga
This vigorous practice, brought to great prominence through the teachings of Sri K. Pattabhi Jois, focuses on a pre-set, progressive series of postures. Our short form version of the Primary Series will make great use of breath and concentration to help calm the mind as you strengthen the physical body.


Studies show that practicing yoga, improves flexibility, balance, muscle endurance and help promote healthy eating habits. Even Nicole Wilkins (IFBB Figure Pro) promotes incorporating yoga into your training routine. See her perform some basic movements here.
I have been admiring Bella Falconi's physique for some time. She recently posted pictures of herself practicing yoga. I love the grittiness of the muscles with the beauty and grace of the flexibility.

What are ways that you handle and deal with stress?
- FitWhitt