Yoga
What is Yoga?
Yoga is an ancient practice that originated in India and encompasses a wide range of physical, mental and spiritual practices. The word “yoga” is derived from the Sanskrit root “yuj,” which means to yoke or unite, suggesting the integration of mind and body. Yoga aims to promote overall well-being and harmony through various techniques including physical postures (asanas), breath control (pranayama), meditation and ethical principles.
There are many different styles of yoga. The styles of yoga you can expect to practice at Castle Clinic are:
- Hatha yoga is a well-rounded, balanced style that combines postures (asanas) and breathing techniques (pranayama). You hold the postures for 5 to 10 breaths, focusing on finding the correct alignment and cultivating a balance of effort and ease in every pose.
- Vinyasa yoga is a modern version of Ashtanga and Hatha that includes many of the same poses but links them together into a dynamic, smooth, dance-like flow. You learn to move from pose to pose, connecting each one to each breath. It is also one of the most creative yoga methods, so expect every vinyasa class to be unique.
- Yin yoga involves long, deep floor stretches that target the deep connective tissues and activate the energy in the meridian channels. You typically hold each stretch for 3-5 minutes, using meditation practice and breathing techniques to remain focused and present.
Benefits of Practicing Yoga?
As yoga is about bringing the mind, body and soul into union, you can expect to gain a wide range of holistic benefits from a regular yoga practice, including:
- Improved flexibility – Yoga poses involve lengthening and stretching the muscles, tendons and ligaments. According to clinical studies, 10 weeks of regular yoga practice can bring you noticeable improvements in flexibility while enhancing overall mobility and reducing the risk of injuries.
- Enhanced strength – Many types of yoga practices work on strengthening the muscles as much as stretching them. Common poses like ‘plank pose’, ‘downward facing dog’ and advanced poses like ‘crow pose‘ are among the best for building body strength.
- Improved posture & balance – Many yoga poses help to open the chest and shoulders and promote a straight spine, which improves posture. Likewise, poses that require core stability, like ‘warrior 3’ and ‘boat pose’ improve balance.
- Chronic back pain reduction – Several studies demonstrate that yoga effectively reduces chronic low back pain and sciatica by easing pain intensity, strengthening the back muscles and improving spinal mobility.
- Increased productivity, creativity and focus.
- Increased circulation & energy levels.
- Reduced stress and anxiety.
Grant Ellis2024-01-24As someone who has suffered with lower back pain for some years, I have found that the osteopathic treatment I’ve had at Castle Clinic, followed by monthly ‘maintenance’ appointments has made a huge difference to my well-being. The practitioners and reception staff are all very friendly and caring, creating a relaxed atmosphere. I have recommended Castle Clinic to friends and family who are are all very impressed with their treatment.
James Towler2024-01-23I consult Jon Rebanks for physiotherapy when I need treatment the aches and pains we all get in life from time to time. I always feel that I am working with the best physio in the Harrogate area.
Paul Williams2024-01-22Excellent physio. Jon has been able to help me get back the full movement of my shoulder - which had been causing me pain for a number of years. He's massively improved my golf swing with the exercises and treatment he provided. He is also a really nice person.
Richard Jackson2024-01-20Jonathan (Jon) Rebanks is an excellent Physiotherapist, he has treated me for back pain, for a few years now and he certainly came into his own last year after I cracked 3 ribs and fractured my vertebrae. He has a pleasant manner, and comes highly recommended for his skills. C Richard Jackson MBE DL
Gillian Green2024-01-18I’ve been going to Castle Clinic for help with a back problem which I’ve had for 3+ years. I have been treated by Simon with Osteopathy and acupuncture. Both of these helped but it kept recurring. Simon did a taster session with the shockwave treatment, it made a huge difference. Sadly he left the practice and recommended I saw Daniel who did the same kind of treatments as him. I saw Daniel a couple of times and he mentioned the taster session I had with Simon with the shockwave treatment and thought it would cure rather than help the problem. I was having back spasms every 6 days which lasted for 4 days and the pain was awful. I had a course of 3 treatments, 1/week and I’ve been pain free for 21/2 months. I can’t recommend this treatment enough it has got me off all the prescription drugs and more importantly I’m able to do everything… Thank you so much Daniel and Simon
Richard2024-01-17Excellent service. Physiotherapy. Jon Rebanks swiftly found the underlying cause of a long standing problem. The combination of his treatments and exercises to take away, has put me right direction
Sandra Marks2024-01-15A slightly uncomfortable treatment at times but talked through and handled expertly by Daniel. This treatment is decreasing my foot and Achilles pain and any stiffness has been greatly reduced.
Gareth Welburn2024-01-14Pedicare. Good place. See Sarah.
Peter Drew2024-01-12I have been attending many visits to Castle Clinic Physiotherapy department with an annoying problem with my left shoulder following a fall some years ago. Following many treatments I am pleased to confirm that I am back to full health and can continue to play many games of golf. Thank you Jon Rebanks for all your help all all the very best for the New Year. Peter Drew
Catherine O'Sullivan2024-01-11I have been coming to Castle Clinic for over 20 years, primarily for Osteopathic treatment to aid my Rheumatoid Arthritis and other ailments as they continue to present themselves in feet, neck and shoulders. All members of my family have also been looked after with great care and professionalism and I continue to recommend friends for consultations and treatment. Sebastian Contreras and his team are all very experienced and demonstrate great empathy toward their patients. You will be glad you went.