Yoga is a physical, mental and spiritual discipline that originated in ancient India. The regular practice of yoga provides you with good health, mental clarity and an overall sense of peace and well-being. In the West, yoga class activities include asanas (postures), pranayama (breathing exercises), dhyana (meditation) and kirtan (singing or chanting).
Asanas (Steady Poses)
Most people think of asanas when hearing about yoga. The word "asana" literally means "steady pose." Asanas are postures that stretch your body and massage your internal organs. Asanas involve standing, sitting, twisting, bending and inverted positions. Examples of common asanas include headstand, shoulder stand, forward bend, cobra pose, triangle pose and warrior poses. You generally hold each asana for between 30 seconds to 2 minutes. If you are a teacher planning activities for a yoga class, there are many different poses you can choose from depending on the experience and ability of your students. It is best to include beginner and intermediate poses in your class, while offering suggestions for advanced variations if you have a mixture of students. It is also a good idea to start class with warm-up exercises such as surya namaskar (sun salutations) to prepare students for asana practice. You can also play music for students while they practice asanas.
Pranayama (Breathing Exercises)
Breathing exercises (pranayama) are another important activity for yoga classes. These exercises help students focus more deeply and feel a sense of calm and balance. Though pranayama technically comes after asanas in the classical texts of yoga, many classes begin with pranayama, as breathing properly helps center the yoga student, encouraging a proper frame of mind for class. If you don't do breathing exercises before beginning asanas, make sure to include them at the end of your classes, as they can also help transition students into meditation practice.
Dhyana (Meditation)
The practice of yoga asanas and pranayama prepare you for the experience of meditation. Meditation is thus a highly appropriate activity to include at the end of yoga classes. In meditation practice, have your students sit up straight with eyes closed. You can play a CD with a guided meditation or share any meditation techniques you may know or practice. You can also play soothing and peaceful music in the background while your students meditate. If done properly, meditation will lead your students to an experience of Samadhi (bliss). Meditation practice can last anywhere from 2 to 10 minutes.
Kirtan (Chanting & Singing)
Chanting mantras (sounds, syllables, words or phrases that are considered capable of creating spiritual transformation) or singing bhajans (devotional songs) is another option for yoga class activities. Chanting normally takes place at the beginning of class for 5 to 10 minutes. If you do decide to include kirtan in your session, be sure to pass out sheets containing the words for the mantras and bhajans you choose.
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