Ms. Namita Nayyar:
Elaborate how yogalates came into existence & why according to you it is the best form of exercise?
Ms. Anshuka Parwani:
While I was practicing, I realised I got the best results when I was working with yoga and pilates. The blend of both gave me a complete 360 of wellness, health and fitness and hence I decided to merge them together.
Yogalates is a blend of of east and west because it effectively merges the ancient practice of Yoga from the east with the core stabilizing, posture enhancing dynamics of Pilates from the west. The origins of Yoga date back to around 3000BC India with the emphasis of creating union with oneself. Yoga can enhance strength, stamina, flexibility, balance and mental clarity. Through developing a conscious awareness of the body, mind, breath and life force (prana) it has the ability to be deeply relaxing and health enhancing.
Pilates helps in strengthening ones core/deep abdominals that augment sporting activities, assist in injury rehabilitation and supports those with back problems through re-educating the body’s postural muscles to create a very safe and strong foundation for movement.
Both Yoga and Pilates have changed and been adapted over the course of history.
Ms. Namita Nayyar:
How did yoga help you overcome a serious injury that you faced?
Ms. Anshuka Parwani:
In 2008 a near fatal bike accident left me undergoing multiple trauma with multiple fractures to the legs, a broken head and back injury. This is when along with physiotherapy, my therapy through Yoga began. Within weeks of practice and a strong mind, I was walking again. This is when I decided to dig deeper and understand the meaning of “Yog” & founded my company “Anshuka Yoga.”
Ms. Namita Nayyar:
What does a full body workout in your class look like? Is meditation a part of the routine?
Ms. Anshuka Parwani:
A full body workout starts with Surya Namaskars, asanas, Active Stretches, then going into arm balances and inversions. Post which we always go into several breathing techniques, pranayamas and end with a compulsory meditation of choice.
Ms. Namita Nayyar:
5 tips for a yoga beginner.
Ms. Anshuka Parwani:
- Do the Beginners’ Class. This is my number one tip if you are just starting your yoga practice and are confused about which classes are right for you.
- Let go of comparison
- Don’t forget to breathe
- View yoga as a learning experience
- Don’t force yourself into a pose or let a yoga teacher force you into a pose.
