Gentle yoga is a powerful complement to Ayurvedic treatments

Although recently embraced in the West, Yoga has been recognized and practiced for thousands of years in South Asia as a powerful complement to Ayurvedic medicine and healing. Ayurveda and Yoga come from the same philosophical matrix. They examine the body - mind concept from the perspective of maintenance of health and the treatment of disease.

The yoga practiced at Barberyn is the traditional Hatha Yoga (postures) with Pranayama (breathing) It is designed to awaken the Kundalini. This form of Yoga helps to elongate the spine and if one can keep the spine supple, and then it can delay the aging process. "You are as old as your spine".

At Barberyn Beach the yoga sessions are held daily and the yoga and tai chi are free of charge for resident guests. The extensive grounds at Barberyn beach are well suited for the practice of yoga and a yoga pavilion has been built overlooking the ocean.

Barberyn Beach has become a popular venue for special yoga programme and yoga teachers from overseas often come with their pupils to practice yoga in combination with the Ayurveda treatment. Barberyn beach was the venue of the world yoga congress, Sri Lanka from 4th June to 11th June 2006. http://www.worldyogacongress.org

Yogic postures and breathing techniques have long been known for their health benefits. The 15 Century Manual on Yoga practice, the Hatha Yoga Pradipika states that as a result of the practice of postures (asana) there will be " sturdiness, absence of disease and lightness."

The postures (Asana) bring pressure on the acupuncture points in the body with beneficial results. For example the "Gomakasana" bring pressure on the acupuncture points of the kidney. This can help in keeping the kidneys healthy and functioning properly.

Some of the Asana activate the endocrine system which consists of ductless glands. This endocrine system is responsible in keeping all the vital organs healthy and functioning properly and aims at the perfection of the body.

Apart from the curative value, Yoga brings tranquility and stillness into our lives. The two aspects of Yoga thus provide a powerful tool for coping with physical and mental stress of modern day living.

At Barberyn there is no pressure to compete and the yoga classes are designed to cater to everyone - beginners as well as advanced students - so no one feels left out. Even the most "stiff as a board" types will be amazed at how quickly their bodies adapt to tackle

Challenging and complex positions. In just a few days your body rewards you with increased flexibility and stamina and supplement by Tai chi session.