Gentle yoga is a powerful complement to Ayurvedic treatments

Introduction

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.

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." Some of the Asana activate the endocrine system which consist 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.

Yoga at Barberyn Reef

The main 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, it helps to delay the aging process. "You are as old as your spine".

At Barberyn Reef, Yoga is practiced in the morning and evening and the physicians encourage guests to join at least one session. The class held in the roof top with views of the ocean starts with the sun salutation and moves on to breathing exercises (Pranayama) and the teacher demonstrating 12 different Asana’s that will be practiced to keep the spine supple. Beginners Yoga classes and Ashtanga Yoga classes are also organized so the guest can enjoy different postures and routines. The teachers at Barberyn will adapt their daily yoga routine and the postures according to the guests attending the class so that they get the maximum benefit.

Tai chi chuan at Barberyn Reef

This is practiced one day a week and the focus is on improving the health. In these soft movement exercises guests have to focus on the movements & breathing which helps to bring about a state of mental calm and clarity. At Barberyn we do eight simple Thai chi chuan exercises for the guests and special mediation at the end of the class.

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.


The Yoga and other related classes are free of charge for resident guests.