Freeform yoga 101: How to begin your mindful practice
What's the story
Freeform yoga, a practice that focuses on fluid movement and personal expression, is becoming increasingly popular across African settings.
The form of yoga is mindful of the continent's diverse landscapes and climates, and presents unique benefits to its practitioners.
By being mindful of the surroundings and individual needs, freeform yoga promotes vitality and well-being.
The practice emphasizes flexibility, strength, mindfulness, while connecting people with their surroundings in a deeper manner.
Environment connection
Embracing natural surroundings
Practicing freeform yoga outdoors lets you connect with nature in a deeper way.
African landscapes are a perfect blend of savannas, forests, and beaches, which add to the experience.
The open air offers fresh oxygen which rejuvenates your body during the practice.
Being in nature also reduces stress levels by 20%, studies say. This connection brings you peace and grounding, which is critical to enhance vitality.
Climate adaptation
Adapting to climate variability
Considering Africa's various climates, one cannot expect the same yoga practice to work every time.
Freeform yoga allows for this transition by encouraging practitioners to adapt poses according to temperature or humidity.
For example, gentle stretches work best for hotter days, while more vigorous movements are suited for cooler temperatures.
This flexibility keeps you engaged with the practice, no matter the weather, and ensures consistent energy through different seasons.
Physical benefits
Enhancing flexibility & strength
Freeform yoga emphasizes dynamic movements that enhance flexibility and strength over time without the rigid structures or sequences of traditional styles like Ashtanga or Bikram Yoga.
Here, practitioners can explore a variety of poses at their own pace, guiding them towards greater physical resilience.
The practice, when done regularly, increases muscle tone, improves joint mobility, and boosts overall stamina, contributing significantly towards enhanced vitality.
Mental well-being
Promoting mindfulness & relaxation
Mindfulness is also a crucial component of freeform yoga.
Relaxation through conscious breathing and fluid motion sequences help remain in the present moment and eliminate anxiety by up to 30% in regular practitioners.
Plus, this mindfully active way of practicing yoga also helps balance one's emotions, keeping you calm in the storm of the modern-day life, and supporting mental health efficiently.