Author: Us

Why is it never too late to start Yoga?

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Many people think yoga is only for the young, flexible, or athletic. The truth is that yoga is for everyone, at any stage of life. Whether you’re in your 40s, 50s, 60s, or beyond, you can start and experience its profound benefits. Unlike many other forms of exercise, yoga meets you where you are. It offers modifications and adjustments to suit your unique needs. Here’s why it’s never too late to begin:

1. Yoga is Gentle Yet Effective

High-impact workouts can be tough on aging joints. In contrast, yoga offers a low-impact way to build strength. It also improves flexibility and endurance. Many styles of yoga, such as Hatha, Restorative, and Gentle Yoga, focus on slow and controlled movements. These movements support the body instead of straining it. This makes yoga a safe and sustainable practice for beginners of any age.

Yoga time is my favourite time of the day

2. Increases Flexibility and Mobility

As we age, our muscles and joints naturally become stiffer, which can limit mobility and increase the risk of injury. Yoga helps lengthen and loosen tight muscles, improve range of motion, and enhance overall mobility. Even simple poses like Downward Dog, Cat-Cow, and Gentle Twists can make a noticeable difference over time.

The best part? You don’t need to be flexible to start—yoga helps you become more flexible!

3. Builds Strength and Stability

Aging can lead to muscle loss and reduced balance, increasing the risk of falls and injuries. Yoga incorporates weight-bearing postures that help build strength in a gentle and controlled way. Standing poses like Warrior I & II, Tree Pose, and Chair Pose strengthen the legs and core. They also work on stabilizing muscles. These poses improve balance and coordination.

Studies have shown that regular yoga practice can support bone health. This makes it particularly beneficial for those at risk of osteoporosis.

4. Supports Mental and Emotional Well-Being

Yoga is not just about the body—it’s also a powerful tool for the mind. Through breathwork (Pranayama) and mindfulness, yoga helps:
✅ Reduce stress and anxiety
✅ Improve mood and emotional resilience
✅ Enhance focus and mental clarity

Many people find that yoga brings a sense of peace and calm, helping them cope with life’s challenges more gracefully.

5. Encourages a Mind-Body Connection

Yoga teaches you to listen to your body and move with awareness. Unlike traditional workouts that may focus only on burning calories, yoga encourages you to be present in the moment. This mindfulness helps develop better posture, coordination, and self-awareness, leading to better overall health and well-being.

6. Promotes Heart Health and Longevity

Scientific studies show that yoga can help lower blood pressure, improve circulation, and support cardiovascular health. It also boosts the immune system and promotes relaxation, which can help prevent chronic diseases associated with aging.

A study published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology found that people who practice yoga regularly have lower risks of heart disease. They also have better cholesterol levels compared to those who don’t.

7. Accessible and Adaptable for Everyone

One of the best things about yoga is that it can be adapted to fit any fitness level. You don’t need to be able to do a headstand or complex poses to benefit!

✅ Chair Yoga – great for those with limited mobility
✅ Restorative Yoga – uses props like bolsters for deep relaxation
✅ Gentle Flow Yoga – slow movements with breathwork for a meditative experience

There is always a way to practice yoga, no matter your physical condition!

8. Yoga is About Progress, Not Perfection

Unlike competitive sports, yoga is not about winning or being the best. It’s about showing up for yourself, listening to your body, and making gradual improvements. Every small step—whether it’s a deeper stretch, better balance, or improved breathing—contributes to a healthier, more vibrant life.

9. Encourages Community and Connection

Joining a yoga class can provide a sense of belonging and support. Practicing in a group setting fosters social connections, which are important for mental health and emotional well-being. Yoga offers opportunities to meet like-minded people, whether it’s an in-person beach session or an online class. It allows participants to share positive energy.

10. Yoga Helps You Age Gracefully

Aging is a natural process, but yoga helps you do it with strength, mobility, and inner peace. It teaches you to embrace your body and mind at every stage of life, making you feel more vibrant, capable, and alive.

It’s never too late to start yoga because your body and mind will always benefit from movement, breath, and mindfulness. Whether you’re 50, 60, or 80, the best time to begin is now!

6. Promotes Heart Health and Longevity

Scientific studies show that yoga can help lower blood pressure, improve circulation, and support cardiovascular health. It also boosts the immune system and promotes relaxation, which can help prevent chronic diseases associated with aging.

A study published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology found that people who practice yoga regularly have lower risks of heart disease and better cholesterol levels compared to those who don’t.

7. Accessible and Adaptable for Everyone

One of the best things about yoga is that it can be adapted to fit any fitness level. You don’t need to be able to do a headstand or complex poses to benefit!

✅ Chair Yoga – great for those with limited mobility
✅ Restorative Yoga – uses props like bolsters for deep relaxation
✅ Gentle Flow Yoga – slow movements with breathwork for a meditative experience

There is always a way to practice yoga, no matter your physical condition!

8. Yoga is About Progress, Not Perfection

Unlike competitive sports, yoga is not about winning or being the best. It’s about showing up for yourself, listening to your body, and making gradual improvements. Every small step—whether it’s a deeper stretch, better balance, or improved breathing—contributes to a healthier, more vibrant life.

9. Encourages Community and Connection

Joining a yoga class can provide a sense of belonging and support. Practicing in a group setting fosters social connections, which are important for mental health and emotional well-being. Whether it’s an in-person beach yoga session or an online class, yoga creates opportunities to meet like-minded people and share positive energy.

10. Yoga Helps You Age Gracefully

Aging is a natural process, but yoga helps you do it with strength, mobility, and inner peace. It teaches you to embrace your body and mind at every stage of life, making you feel more vibrant, capable, and alive.

It’s never too late to start yoga because your body and mind will always benefit from movement, breath, and mindfulness. Whether you’re 50, 60, or 80, the best time to begin is now!

🌿 Ready to Begin?

If you’ve been thinking about starting yoga, why not take the first step today? Join us at Nokomis Beach or Manasota Beach. Find another local class, try an online session, or simply start with a few stretches at home.

✨ Your body will thank you for it! ✨

Manasota Beach 8:30 AM Mon through Friday
Nokomis Beach Daily 9AM

SOURCES:
Johns Hopkins Medicine highlights that yoga improves strength, balance, and flexibility, which are crucial for seniors to maintain mobility and prevent falls.
HOPKINSMEDICINE.ORG

Harvard Health Publishing notes that yoga can enhance cardiovascular health by lowering blood pressure and improving lipid profiles, contributing to overall heart health.
HEALTH.HARVARD.EDU

The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) reports that studies have suggested possible benefits of yoga for several aspects of wellness, including stress management, mental/emotional health, and promoting healthy eating/activity habits.
NCCIH.NIH.GOV

A study published in the journal Advances in Geriatric Medicine and Research found that yoga-based interventions help maintain breathing and heart rate, decrease blood pressure, lower cortisol levels, and increase overall well-being in the elderly.
PMC.NCBI.NLM.NIH.GOV

AARP emphasizes that yoga’s slow, measured movements and strengthening poses can help achieve better balance and prevent falls, which are a leading cause of injury among older adults.
AARP.ORG

A publication in the Journal of Behavioral Medicine indicates that yoga practice has positive effects on cellular aging, mobility, balance, mental health, and prevention of cognitive decline—all areas of concern for older adults.
PMC.NCBI.NLM.NIH.GOV

Healthline outlines several science-based benefits of yoga, including improved flexibility, strength, and body awareness, as well as stress and anxiety relief.
HEALTHLINE.COM

These sources provide comprehensive insights into how yoga can be beneficial at any age, particularly in promoting physical health, mental well-being, and overall quality of life for seniors.

🔥Beach Bliss: Yoga, Sunset, and Socializing Event🌅

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Join us for an enchanting evening by the shore, where tranquility meets community in a celebration of nature and well-being.
📅 Date: Wednesday 28th of February 🕔 Time: 6PM 📍 Location: North Jetty Beach on Casey Key in Nokomis

🧘‍♀️ Yoga by the Waves: Immerse yourself in the gentle flow of beach yoga, led by our experienced instructors. Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or a first-timer, this session is designed to rejuvenate your body and calm your mind amidst the soothing sounds of the ocean.

🔥 Fireside Gathering: Bring along your favorite beverage and a chair to cozy up by our small firepit. Indulge in the simple pleasures of roasting marshmallows or simply bask in the warmth of the flames as you connect with fellow attendees.

🌅 Sunset Serenity: As the sun dips below the horizon, experience the magic of a coastal sunset while surrounded by the company of like-minded souls. Take a moment to unwind, reflect, and savor the beauty of the natural world unfolding before you.

🎶 Crystal Bowl Meditation: For those who prefer to simply soak in the ambiance, we invite you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the ethereal tones of crystal bowl meditation. Let the harmonious vibrations wash over you as you find peace in the present moment.

🍪 Snacks and Socializing: Feel free to bring along your favorite snacks to enjoy before or after class. Share a treat with friends or make new connections as you mingle in the beachside atmosphere.

🌊 Open Invitation: Whether you’re here to stretch your body, soothe your soul, or simply soak up the scenery, all are welcome to join us for this unforgettable evening by the sea.

One of our favorite Yoga mats on the beach are Mexican Blankets these here are TRADITIONAL HAND-MADE QUALITY: Carefully crafted by Mexican artisans located in Tlaxcala, Mexico, each tassel is individually hand-tied to produce a high-quality authentic Mexican Yoga Blanket. These blankets are soft, thick, and available in a wide variety of vivid colors
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Don’t miss out on this opportunity to embrace the magic of the beach at dusk. Reserve your spot today and embark on a journey of relaxation, connection, and pure bliss.

Namaste 🙏✨

🌞 Yoga on the Beach & Lithium🌊

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As we dive into the tranquility of the sand and surf, let’s explore the hidden gem beneath our feet: lithium-enriched beach sand. Did you know that some beaches contain trace amounts of lithium, the same mineral known for its calming effects? Here are some fascinating tidbits about lithium and how it complements our beach yoga practice:

Sand Castle on North Jetty Beach, Casey Key in Nokomis
  1. Natural Stress Relief: Lithium has long been recognized for its mood-stabilizing properties, often prescribed in psychiatric medications. When present in beach sand, it can offer a subtle yet soothing effect on the mind, helping us unwind and find inner peace during our practice.
  2. Enhanced Well-being: Studies suggest that exposure to lithium in small doses may contribute to overall well-being and emotional balance. What better way to experience this than through the combined therapy of yoga and the calming presence of the beach?
  3. Mindful Meditation: With the gentle sound of waves and the feel of warm sand beneath us, beach yoga provides an ideal setting for mindful meditation. The presence of lithium in the sand adds an extra layer of serenity to our practice, allowing us to sink deeper into relaxation.
  4. Natural Connection: Just as we connect with the earth through our yoga practice, the presence of lithium in beach sand reminds us of the profound connection between nature and our well-being. It’s a beautiful reminder to cherish and respect the natural world around us.

So, the next time you roll out your mat or towel on the beach, take a moment to appreciate the subtle gifts that nature offers, including the calming presence of lithium-infused sand beneath your feet.

P.S. Don’t forget to join us for our next beach yoga session, where we’ll harness the serene energy of the ocean and the healing properties of lithium-infused sand!

TURKISH TOWELS  
Lightweight and Travel-Friendly: Pack light and travel with ease! Our compact travel towel is perfect for vacations, camping trips, and backpacking adventures. It takes up minimal space in your bag, making it a convenient travel companion. Get yours for Yoga on the beach and at home. Made in Turkey
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Revitalize Your Yoga Practice: Harnessing the Power of Green Tea Extract for Muscles

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In the quest for optimal well-being, many yogis explore diverse avenues to enhance their practice and overall health. One such hidden gem is green tea extract, celebrated for its potent benefits. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the importance of green tea extract for muscles and how you can seamlessly integrate it into your yoga routine.

Muscle Recovery and Green Tea Extract: Green tea extract is a rich source of antioxidants, particularly catechins. These compounds have been linked to improved muscle recovery by mitigating oxidative stress. For yoga practitioners engaging in various poses and stretches, this can be a game-changer, promoting quicker recovery and reducing post-practice soreness.

Boosting Endurance and Stamina: The EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate) in green tea extract has been associated with increased endurance. This means that incorporating green tea into your routine could potentially enhance your stamina during those longer yoga sessions, allowing you to delve deeper into your practice.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Yoga is not only a physical practice but also a mindful one. Green tea extract possesses anti-inflammatory properties that can aid in managing inflammation, providing a supportive environment for your muscles as you navigate through different poses. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals dealing with chronic inflammation or discomfort.

Implementing Green Tea Extract into Your Yoga Routine:

  • Pre-Practice Elixir: Kickstart your yoga session with a cup of green tea infused with a splash of lemon. The combination of antioxidants and hydration can prep your muscles for the stretches and movements ahead.
  • Post-Practice Recovery: Consider incorporating green tea extract supplements into your post-yoga routine. This can be in the form of capsules or as part of a protein smoothie. The antioxidants will aid in muscle recovery, promoting a quicker bounce-back after an intense practice.

Hydration Support: Hydration is key for muscle health. Green tea, whether consumed hot or cold, contributes to your daily fluid intake, supporting overall muscle function and flexibility.


Conclusion:
As a yoga lover committed to holistic well-being, integrating green tea extract into your routine can be a transformative step. The antioxidants, anti-inflammatory properties, and endurance-boosting capabilities make it a valuable ally for your muscles. Whether sipping a warm cup before your practice or incorporating supplements into your post-yoga ritual, the benefits of green tea extract extend beyond the teacup, enriching both your yoga journey and overall vitality.

FDA DISCLAIMER

The statements made within this website have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. These statements and the products of this company are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

LEGAL DISCLAIMER

Please consult your physician before implementing any new diet, exercise and dietary supplement programs, especially if you have preexisting medical conditions or are taking prescribed medications. The statements made on this website are for educational purposes only and are not meant to replace the advice of your physician or healthcare provider.

    Why is practicing Yoga regular important.

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    Yes, practicing yoga several days a week is important for maintaining the benefits of yoga and making continuous progress in your practice.

    Here are some of the reasons why:

    Consistency: Regular practice helps to develop consistency and discipline, which are essential for long-term success in any endeavor, including yoga. When you practice yoga regularly, you are more likely to stick with it and reap the full benefits.

    Muscle memory: Yoga poses can be challenging, and it takes time and repetition to develop the strength, flexibility, and coordination needed to master them. Regular practice helps to build muscle memory, making it easier to perform poses and progress to more advanced practices.

    Habit formation: Making yoga a regular part of your routine helps to establish a healthy habit, one that can contribute to your overall well-being. When yoga becomes a habit, you are less likely to skip practices and more likely to maintain your progress.

    Continuous improvement: Regular practice allows you to continuously improve your yoga skills and deepen your understanding of the practice. With each practice session, you can refine your alignment, explore new poses, and develop a deeper connection to your body and mind.


    Even on cold days, the beach Yoga practice can be invigorating and very beneficial. We tailor the classes so everyone stays warm. Make sure to dress warm, wear sox, gloves and a hat. (recognize that Santa In real life, h e doesn’t even have a belly. lol 

    Overall well-being: The benefits of yoga extend beyond the physical aspects. Regular practice can help to reduce stress, improve sleep, boost mood, and enhance overall well-being. When you practice yoga regularly, you are investing in your physical, mental, and emotional health.

    While there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of how often to practice yoga, most experts recommend practicing at least 2-3 times per week for optimal benefits. If you are new to yoga, you may want to start with 1-2 times per week and gradually increase the frequency as you get stronger and more comfortable. Ultimately, the best way to determine how often to practice is to listen to your body and find a schedule that works for you.

    Remember, consistency is key. Even if you can only practice for a short time each session, making yoga a regular part of your routine will help you to reap the full benefits of this ancient practice.

    Yoga and green tea extract

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    They are both natural and have been shown to have a number of health benefits. Some of the potential shared benefits of yoga and green tea extract include:

    Weight loss: Both yoga and green tea – extract have been shown to promote weight loss. Yoga can help to increase calorie burn and improve metabolism, while green tea extract can help to boost fat burning and suppress appetite.

    Reduced stress: Yoga and green tea extract can help reduce stress. Yoga can help to calm the mind and body, while green tea extract contains compounds that have been shown to have anti-anxiety and stress-reducing effects.

    Improved heart health: Yoga and green tea can both help to improve heart health. Yoga can help to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, while green tea extract can help to reduce inflammation and improve blood vessel function.

    Boosted immunity: Yoga and green tea extract can both help to boost the immune system. Yoga can help to increase circulation and improve the body’s ability to fight off infection, while green tea extract contains antioxidants that can help to protect cells from damage.

    Improved mental clarity: Yoga and green tea can both help to improve mental clarity. Yoga can help to improve focus and concentration, while green tea extract contains compounds that have been shown to have cognitive-enhancing effects.

    It is important to note that more research is needed to fully understand the potential health benefits of yoga and green tea extract. However, the evidence suggests that both substances can benefit overall health. In addition to the shared benefits mentioned above, yoga and green tea extract have some unique benefits. For example, yoga can help to improve flexibility, range of motion, and balance, while green tea extract can help to improve skin health and reduce the risk of cancer. If you want to try yoga and green tea extract, it is important to start slowly and gradually increase the amount of time you spend doing each activity. It is also important to talk to your doctor before starting any new exercise or dietary regimen, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.

    oRDER today

    Legal Disclaimer Please consult your physician before implementing any new diet, exercise, and dietary supplement programs, especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions or are taking prescribed medications. The statements made on this website are
     for educational purposes only and are not meant to replace the advice of your physician or healthcare provider.

    Summer Schedule and Yoga Ideas

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    Summer vacation is a great time to practice yoga. You have more time to relax and focus on your health, and there are many beautiful outdoor places to practice.
    Here are a few ideas for summer vacation yoga & our updated schedules for the Beaches

    SUMMER Schedule & Official Facebook Pages and Website links

    Manasota Beach:
    Is going into the Summer Break from June 1st on!
    We will be back MONDAY, October 2nd. Can’t wait!
    Keep following us: 
    Facebook: Manasota Beach Yoga 
    Tripadvisor Manasota Beach

    North Jetty Beach:
    Schedule for JUNE
    MON Toby
    WED Julie 
    FRI    Toby
    SUN   Sharon
    Be aware!! If it rains, the classes will take place at the pavilion.
    It’s not safe to be on the beach or under the pavilion during lightning or thunder.
    Please seek shelter until the weather improves. 
    Follow our Official Facebook page for updates. 
    Facebook: North Jetty Beach Yoga 
    Tripadvisor  North Jetty Beach

    Traveling? Summer vacation is a great time to practice yoga. You have more time to relax and focus on your health, and there are many beautiful outdoor places to practice. Here are a few ideas for summer vacation yoga.

    • Practice in the morning. This is a great way to start your day off on the right foot. It will help you wake up, energize your body, and clear your mind.
    • Practice at your beach. Any beach is a great place to practice yoga because the sand is soft and supportive. You can also enjoy the sound of the waves and the fresh air. (We all know that one;-)) 
    • Practice in a park. Parks are a great place to practice yoga because they are usually quiet and peaceful. You can also find shade trees to help you stay cool.
    • Practice in your backyard. If you have a backyard, you can create your own yoga space. Just put down a yoga mat and you’re ready to go.
    • Practice on a boat. You can practice yoga on the water if you’re lucky enough to have a boat. This is a great way to enjoy the scenery and get some exercise at the same time. (Challenging Balance)

    No matter where you choose to practice yoga, make sure to wear comfortable clothing and have Sun protection. You may also want to bring a water bottle and a towel.

    Here are a few yoga poses that are perfect for Summer Vacation:

    • Downward-facing dog. This pose is a great way to stretch your back, hamstrings, and calves. It also helps to improve your balance. 

      3 legged Dog Downward dog variation
    • Warrior pose. This pose is a great way to strengthen your legs, arms, and core. It also helps to improve your balance and flexibility
      Warrior 1
    • Plank pose. This pose is a great way to strengthen your core and improve your balance. It can also be a great way to cool down after a workout.
      Plank pose
    • Bridge pose. This pose is a great way to strengthen your glutes, hamstrings, and lower back. It also helps to improve your flexibility.
    • Toe hold pose. This pose may not be your first pick balance but balance often and make it fun it helps with strengths and cognition.  

    • Relaxation pose. This pose is a great way to relax your body and mind. It is also a great way to end your yoga practice.

    No matter your experience level, there is a yoga pose that is perfect for you. So get out there and enjoy the benefits of yoga this summer, and don’t forget the Warm-up! 

    Send us photos of you doing Yoga outdoors!

    Benefits of Yoga for Cyclists

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    How is your posture?

    Did you know that if you sit or stand straight, you get more oxygen, work your core and relieve back pain? 

    Here are the 6 pillars of our Beach Yoga Routine:

    Breathing, Balance, Flexibility, Spine, Strength, and Awareness. 
    How do these 6 pillars relate to cycling and how can you improve your performance by including them in your exercise routine?

    Yoga helps produce a strong, flexible body that is less prone to injury. Poses that build body strength, benefit cyclists,
    as many tend to have overdeveloped quads and backs
    but weaker abdominals, inner thighs, and often tight hamstrings and hip flexors.

    Yoga can be used as an excellent dynamic warm-up before a ride or a cool-down after a ride but is also a highly recommended additional workout for cyclists. The beauty of yoga and specifically our Beach Yoga is that anyone with any level can enjoy the benefits.

    Here are specific ways in which the practice of yoga can benefit cyclists.

    1. Strength: Improved Core Strength

    The core includes over 30 muscles connecting the pelvis from the hips to the spine.

    •strength enables cyclists to maintain proper spinal alignment and posture – even when fatigue starts to set in on a long ride.

    •decreases the pressure on the shoulders and wrists that come with riding postures.

    •decreases the risk of lower back injuries.

    Yoga is a great way to improve postural alignment and functional core strength.

    2. Improving Neutral Spine (health)

    While riding and doing Yoga

    The back was not designed to be held in flexion (forward bend ) for long periods, yet this is exactly what cycling requires. The position causes the supporting ligaments to become overstretched and weakened. It also causes excess pressure on the intervertebral discs. This can lead to upper back, lower back, shoulder and neck pain.

    Yoga poses that help realign the neutral spine position, like Mountain pose, benefit riders by providing a sense of spinal alignment both on and off the bike. Poses that focus on the wide range of movements in the spine allow the back to become flexible. They improve the pelvic tilt position to engage the core during correct cycling positions. A common challenge for cyclists is not falling victim to excessive upper body kyphosis due to excessive hours on the bike or sitting at computers and using cell phones. Over time, this posture causes cyclists to strain their necks to look at the road. This results in pain in the lower back, upper back, shoulders, and neck.

    3. Flexibility can it be improved?

    The simple answer is: Yes:
    Each body is different, but a body can lose its pliability because of posture, repeated similar exercises, or lack of movement. Regular stretch practice can improve flexibility. Increased flexibility in the hips, IT band, glutes, lower back, groin, external rotator, quads, and hamstrings. It also improves riding posture.

    Flexibility and range of motion equal quality of life and less potential for injury.

    4. Reduced Risk Of Injury

    When yoga is used as a means of “prehab” training, common injuries in the back and legs are less likely to occur. Because yoga approaches movement from a place of balance, the common imbalances experienced in riding can be addressed and improved. In cycling, the leg never reaches full extension, thus giving the hamstrings little opportunity to lengthen fully. Over time, this reduces the elasticity of the hamstrings and puts them at greater risk of strains and tears. Poses such as the Standing Forward Fold help increase the hamstrings’ flexibility for riders.

    As discussed above, improving core strength decreases the pressure placed on wrists while riding and decreases neck and shoulder pain.

    5. More Efficient Breathing

    Some bad news. Lungs don’t get bigger – no matter how hard you train. Lung capacity is dependent on height and gender. Taller people tend to have larger lungs and men’s lungs are bigger. Lung capacity decreases with age. Someone in their 80s has around half the lung capacity of cyclists in their 20s.

    However, for most people, whatever age they are, chances are they only use a fraction of their lung capacity.

    This is good news because it means you’ll perform better using more of your lung capacity.


    Breathe from your stomach

    Nasal breathing is substantially more efficient. Learning to breathe through your nose, even during most exercise levels, is not difficult. This leads to increased athletic performance.

    Focus on breathing from your stomach, not your lungs.

    How is your breath?
    Put your hand on your stomach and feel if it bulges out as you breathe in and if it pulls back on the exhale.


    The simple yoga breath is slow, controlled, and asks the breather to focus.  It is the opposite of the rapid breath many athletes take during higher-intensity bouts of exercise.  Slowing their breath down and focusing on it will allow participants to release tension and control their actions.

    Reminder
    Breathing better makes cyclists more efficient in their performance and allows quicker and more controlled recovery after hills and other high-intensity riding elements.

    Why is correct breathing so important?

    Individuals unfamiliar with focusing on their breath may find this portion of a yoga practice challenging and forgo its importance. 

    However, professional athletes are known to have major connections to movement and breath. This is especially important during challenging hill climbs, sprints, or accelerations.

    If cyclists are aware of their breathing through their yoga practice,
    they may find their rides more efficient and comfortable.

    Our Beach Yoga teaches Simple Yoga Breathing and includes it in each class

    5. Balance and how to get better?

    All athletes require balance skills, but cyclists are unique because they need to use those skills when their feet are off the ground.

    Balance is drawn from having a well-developed and stable core consisting of the entire trunk (upper back and shoulder muscles to the lower abs, hips and glute muscles).

    It also requires focus.


    Beach Yoga offers many variations to practice balance in movement, one-footed, two-footed, or with closed eyes. Each student balances at their own level, which increases after a few weeks of regular Beach Yoga sessions. 

    The Elephant in the Room
    – Bone Density and Cycling-

    Cycling is considered to be a highly beneficial sport for significantly enhancing cardiovascular fitness in individuals. Yet, studies show little or no corresponding improvements in bone mass as cycling is a non-weight-bearing exercise. Btw, swimming is similar.

    It has been observed that adult road cyclists have a low bone mineral density in key regions, for example, the lumbar spine.
    Conversely, other types of cycling, such as mountain biking, or in combination with other sports, could reduce this unhealthy and unsafe side effect of an otherwise wonderful sport.

    Now, the first exercise that comes to mind for weight bearing is weight training. The reality is, because of the possible unbalanced muscle development and some flexibility issues, many cyclists have, weights may not be the best choice.

    Recommendation:
    Yoga, in comparison, has the benefit of weight-bearing exercises and combines them with the improvement of flexibility and Spinal Health.

    Can Anyone do Beach Yoga?

    •Yes, anyone can do Beach Yoga. If you can ride a bicycle, you can do Yoga. There is no age limit and no fitness Requirement.  We have students in their 80’s and even 90’s.

    •I am bad in balance how will that work? Your balance will improve in a very short time.

    •Do men do yoga? Of course men do yoga, they benefit greatly from Yoga, often more than women.  Btw, Yoga was a male dominated activity until about 100 years ago.

    •I am not flexible can I come?  Yes, you don’t have to be flexible at all. We will help you to become more flexible.

    •Should I listen to my wife and go to Yoga? She wants the best for you and you know it. How does it work? Bring a large towel or blanket, water and come to class, that’s it.

    •Are artificial joints a problem? Typically no. You only do what you are comfortable doing and what your physician gives you the ok to do.


    Challenge
    The biggest hurdle is going to Beach Yoga for the first time.  Just take it easy. Nothing to prove here, Yoga is not a competitive sport. Yoga and the beach will be good for you, your quality of life and your cycling performance.  Beach Yoga will change your life in a very positive way    .

    Beach Yoga

    Manasota Beach
    Monday through Saturday 8:30 AM

    North Jetty Beach (1/2 mile South of Nokomis Beach)
    Daily 9AM

    Winter Solstice Event Impression

    Us

    It was a beautiful Winter Solstice last night and we had a lovely get-together and a special beach yoga class taught by Eileen. We could here the drums from the Nokomis Beach Drum Circle in the far distance. The photos were taken by Karen and Kathy. Enjoy! We may do this again soon. We offer Daily classes at 9AM at any weather.