by Sofia Moreau

Ask anyone about yoga, and they will probably mention its benefits for flexibility and stress reduction. But have you ever pondered the frequency of practice needed for visible improvement, or the duration for which each pose should be maintained? Renowned yoga teacher Danielle Fields from North Star Yoga Studio provides insights on our inquiries.

Flexibility and Consistency: A Journey or a Destination?

Danielle reveals that the most frequently asked question from her students is about the duration required to enhance their flexibility. She emphasizes that flexibility is built over time, with persistent practice, and interestingly, it starts to fade the moment we take our range of motion for granted.

Danielle cites her experiences from frequent trips to Nepal, where she is charmed by the daily activities of the locals, who are always in motion in temples, homes, streets, and parks. In contrast, she notes that we have become increasingly inactive, adjusting our movements to what our lifestyles call for, thereby forgoing the flexibility required for a more hands-on approach to life.

“Even though our daily routines don’t ask for flexibility, doesn’t mean we abandon it,” Danielle advises, recommending a daily morning routine akin to how a cat or a dog awakens from sleep: stretching, yawning, and moving every part of their bodies gently.

Understanding Yoga Poses and Their Timing

The duration of posing in yoga largely depends on the style practiced. While some styles may encourage maintaining poses for two to ten minutes, others might require only three to five controlled breaths per pose. Danielle encourages incorporating dynamic movements into practices, focusing on the transition and shifting of weight instead of static holds.

Danielle advises finding a teacher and style that resonate with the practitioner. With a plethora of brilliant yoga teachers available, it shouldn’t be daunting to find a practice that caters to individual preferences.

Treading the Fine Line Between Challenge and Injury

Danielle stresses the importance of challenging oneself during a yoga session, but also sustaining awareness of the body’s limitations. She strongly advises acknowledging and prioritizing personal needs over any external pressures, stressing that backing off when necessary actually provides the body space to develop strength.

Unlocking True Potential: Frequency of Practice

According to Danielle, if you are serious about progressing in your yoga journey, the key is regular practice. Incorporating yoga into everyday life, learning to breathe and embodying mindfulness are crucial steps towards becoming an advanced practitioner.

Based in Kendal, Cumbria, Danielle Fields is a passionate yoga enthusiast, founder of North Star Yoga Studio. Over the last five years, she has played an instrumental role in popularising a lifestyle of embodied yoga practice in her region.

North Star Yoga Studio provides an exclusive offer for Wellspring24.com readers – a whole month of free yoga classes. Just email info@northstaryogastudio.com with code WS24FREE.

yoga, flexibility, poses, practice, Nepal, sedentary lifestyle, dynamic movement, injury, challenge, mindfulness, North Star Yoga Studio