Yoga

“The primary aim of yoga is to restore the mind to simplicity and peace, and free it from confusion and distress. This sense of calm comes from the practice of yogic asanas (postures) and pranayama (breath practices).”

—BKS Iyengar

Dr. Clapham is a registered and certified yoga teacher. She completed a year and a half teacher-training program with JJ Gormley at Sun and Moon Yoga Studio, Arlington, Virginia in 1996, has been teaching yoga ever since, and currently is a teacher-trainer at Sun and Moon Yoga Studio. She has spent extended periods teaching on the islands of Vinalhaven and North Haven, Maine. Dr. Clapham recently took a month long course at the Krishnamacharya Yoga Mandarim in Chennai, India, which deepened her knowledge of yoga philosophy and therapies, especially as they relate to integrative medicine.

Yoga is derived from a Sanskrit word “yuj” which means to yoke or unite. Yoga is considered both a science and an art. It is an ancient technique used to bring balance to the body, mind and spirit. Recently, scientific studies have proven what ancient yogis have known for centuries: the practice of yoga decreases stress and increases a sense of well being. This is truly integrated health and the ultimate preventative treatment.

In yoga, both effort and release are balanced, as is surrender and exertion.

Some of the benefits of yoga include:

Increases strength and flexibility Regulates blood pressure, decreases heart rate and respiration rate Balances opposing muscle groups Increases range of motion and relieves muscle tension Improves posture and balance Increases overall circulation Promotes long deep breathing Increases lung capacity, decreases breathing rate

Body uses oxygen better Enhances digestion and assimilation Promotes general elimination of wastes Regulates endocrine system Decreases stress hormones Enhances ability to focus and concentrate Improves attention and awareness