Published on April 10th, 2017 | by Catherine Tingey

Is Yoga Just Stretching?

How is yoga different from other workouts? Why do you do Yoga? What can Yoga give me that I can’t get in the gym or with a trainer?

A new client asked me these GREAT questions last week, so I thought I’d take a moment to answer them!

1- Is Yoga Just Stretching?

Yoga involves stretching, and so much more. I like to explain yoga as a movement system like a pearl necklace. The pearls are the individual poses, the string is the breath. So yes, yoga is mindful stretching that also lowers blood pressure, strengthens balance, increases flexibility and trains the mind to be more peaceful.

2- Why Do You Do Yoga?

Yoga has given me a supple body that can do what I want it do. What I mean by that, is that yoga eases the aches/pains and general stiffness I’ve experienced (along with back pain) since I was about 12 years old.

Yoga is not the only workout that I do though. I also run, lift weights, do Pilates and hike outdoors. I am a big believer in moving your body through all sorts of different activities, primarily ones you enjoy! I am not a yoga snob.

3- What Will Yoga Give Me That’s Different From My Gym Workout?

Yoga will definitely improve your flexibility. That includes a greater range of motion, reduced risk of injury (if balanced with strength training either through strengthening postures, or a separate strength training program).

Yoga will also improve your balance, increase muscle strength and tone, boost metabolism, reduce cortisol levels (the stress hormone), and balance your body from the inside out with increased vitality, energy and respiration.

Lastly, yoga has been clinically proven to reduce insomnia, blood pressure and chronic pain.

If you are curious about adding yoga to your existing routine, or perhaps are just curious as to what the yoga hype is all about, consider trying out a private session with a Certified Private Yoga Instructor.

I’d love to work with you!

-Catherine

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Catherine Tingey

Entrepreneur, yogini, designer, award-winning filmmaker, personal trainer and former marathon runner. She left a career in finance to start her own business and along the way, became a yoga teacher. She has been practicing yoga for 31 years and teaching privately for 11 years.

Tags: Private Yoga, Private Yoga Instructor

About the Author

Catherine Tingey + Entrepreneur, yogini, designer, award-winning filmmaker, personal trainer and former marathon runner. She left a career in finance to start her own business and along the way, became a yoga teacher. She has been practicing yoga for 31 years and teaching privately for 11 years.