Yoga has become an increasingly popular activity for people looking to improve and maintain their health. A wide variety of yoga classes are available that focus on different aspects of movement, breath, and awareness. For people looking to form a mind-body connection with a partner, couples yoga is a great option.
What Is Couples Yoga?
Yoga is an ideal way to exercise because it promotes flexibility in the body, strengthens muscles, and promotes relaxation. This can lead to the prevention of injuries and slowing of progressive musculoskeletal diseases, not to mention providing stress relief. Couples yoga offers people a creative and innovative way to interact, often leading partners to feel closer to one another and more open to communication.
Zen Yoga
Zen yoga involves two people assisting each other in graceful Tai Chi-like poses and stretches. It gives the couple a chance to work together by using their bodies as tools, bringing each other satisfaction through the movements. Tandem participation also enables the couple to work on breathing exercises and meditate together.
Acro Yoga
AcroYoga is a combination of yoga, Thai massage, and acrobatics. Its main elements include a circle ceremony, asana, partner flow, inversions and spotting, and partner acrobatics, to instill a sense of wellness in participants. A union for oneself, between participants and with the divine is emphasized.
Tantra Yoga
Tantra yoga is often associated with sex for couples, but it is actually known for its focus on inward, mystical encounters. Everyday activities are approached with awareness and intention, and regarded as opportunities to see the divine.
Where to Practice Couples Yoga
Classes specifically designed for couples are available at some yoga centers. Fitness studios may also offer yoga focused on interaction between partners. The advantage to these options is that the instructor may teach you new poses and make sure your movements are in alignment. If you aren't able to find a course, you may think of purchasing a recorded lesson or series on DVD. This is a cheaper option, and will offer you and your partner privacy if you prefer it.
Challenges
Both people must be mentally and physically present to practice couples yoga, though oftentimes there is an imbalance. If only you have experience with yoga, be patient and supportive of your partner, who may feel intimidated or inadequate to begin yoga. A common obstacle is that only one person is interested in practicing yoga. In this case, try to show your partner the benefits of yoga, and how important it is to you that he or she try something new.
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