Oxford-based Bliss Divine Yoga is all about getting back in touch with your body. Through the practice of Asana (steady pose), Pranayama (the breath) and working with awareness (meditation), the yogi gains access to a wealth of benefits.
On its most surface level, yoga is a challenging, fun discipline that keeps the body fit. It regulates the internal organs and balances circulatory, respiratory and hormonal systems. Yoga alleviates stress, aids in the healing of physical injuries and illnesses and helps us reclaim our general sense of well-being.
The practice works through the body to steady the mind, offering a real and lasting peace. Increased flexibility supports posture and health. Through the asana and pranayama work, the body is energetically realigned, helping to fight off illness and support well-being.
The style of yoga taught by Bliss Divine is Hatha, with the core of the class being rooted in Sivananda yoga. The class includes elements of Vinyasa (flow), precision, and a good balance of Ha (sun, or energetic) and Tha (moon, or restive/restorative) poses. The word Hatha translates to Sun & Moon, and Yoga means Union. One interpretation of this is that we are working with the practice to unite the Sun (Ha) elements of activity and dynamism with the Moon (Tha) elements of stillness, surrender and rejuvenation.
12 core postures are taught, and these postures are found at the centre of every style and practice of Yoga in both the East and West, giving the student reassurance that the practice will be relevant to whatever future choices are made in terms of style and direction.
These asanas have been outlined by Swami Sivananda, and his disciple Swami Vishnu Devananda as key to promoting a wealth of benefits and restoring balance and harmony to the body. More detail on the core postures.
Details of class times and dates in and around Oxford
To contact Bliss Divine Yoga email info@blissdivineyoga.co.uk
