Consider yourself a mindful person? Try one of these exercise classes
“Mindfulness means paying attention in a particular way; on purpose, in the present moment, and nonjudgmentally.” according to John Kabat-Zinn, a leading expert on the subject.
Since yoga was developed by the Indus-Sarasvati civilization in Northern India over 5,000 years ago, people have realised that connecting your mind, body and breath has huge benefits. But it’s not just yoga that can help us practice mindfulness and it’s not always about meditation. If you are looking to get in touch with yourself, try one of these classes:
Yoga
Maybe you’ve dismissed yoga as ‘not your thing’ or maybe you’ve tried it in the past but never really got into it fully. Yoga is the grandaddy of mindful movement. If you’re life is hectic and busy, and you want to increase your flexibility and strength, this is the class for you. Not all yoga has to be spiritual either, you can choose a yoga style that suits you best. Hatha is more gentle whereas ashtanga (or power yoga) is dynamic and the series of vinyasas you move through give a fast-paced workout. However, if you are just starting out it’s essential to take a class appropriate for beginners. Mind Body and Green tell us why this is so important.
The art of swimming
Developed over 20 years by former competitive swimmer Steven Shaw, the Shaw Method is widely acknowledged by many senior health professionals as a highly effective approach to physical fitness and wellbeing. It is based on the Alexander Technique - a system that promotes well-being by retraining one’s awareness and habits of posture - and is safe for everyone to do. It leads to greater body awareness and the emphasis is on quality of experience rather than distance or speed.
AntiGravity classes
Suspended in the air, this is a new experience to let yourself go and experience the moment. Our AntiGravity classes fuse yoga, pilates, gymnastics and dance. If you think this sounds like it could be your next big thing, watch our video with AntiGravity founder Christopher Harrison to learn a little more.
Pilates
According to Pilates founder, Joseph Pilates, “The Pilates method of body conditioning is complete co-ordination of body, mind and spirit.”
Those who take part in a Pilates class know how much there is to think about: alignment, breathing, relaxing non-working muscles all at the same time. It can sound a bit overwhelming, but a good instructor will coach you through it and make sure you are doing the movements correctly - it is much safer to learn in a group class than by watching online videos.
Joseph Pilates said: “In 10 sessions you feel better, 20 sessions you look better, 30 sessions you have a completely new body.”