Tracing the origins of this discipline has not been as easy as one might think, considering that some of the figures and sculptures in the “lotus” position that have been found date back to between 10,000 and 5,000 years BC. But beyond the time it has existed, the truth is that its roots are strongly intertwined with Buddhism and philosophical currents mainly from India. And as far as the 20th century and the 21st century go, it has become a global discipline, practiced by millions of people around the world.
The benefits of yoga are countless, and in fact, the meaning of its name gives us a good clue: yoga in Sanskrit means 'union'. Union of what? Well, of our body with our mind. Paraphrasing the British philosopher Alan Watts, the technocracy of the last century has made our lives go at an unstoppable pace, and our perception of life is conditioned by logic and the 'cerebral', instead of the instinctive and natural that represents that connection between our body and our mind. Thus, yoga went from being a meditative practice to an integral exercise to strengthen the different aspects of our being.
There is so much content and lessons about yoga on apps, YouTube and many other platforms that starting to practice it is very easy, at least to get the basics; that is why it has become so popular as well. If you are one of those people who needs guidance from someone else or simply start or continue the practice professionally, we have a couple of recommendations here in San Miguel for you to discover more about this fantastic way to exercise your body and mind, and reconnect with your spirituality.
Yoga San Lucas
Photo via @yogasanlucas
San Lucas Vineyards is a space with many outdoor activities, and one of them is its yoga classes that are specialized in the Ashtanga technique or “of the eight parts”, which seeks to control the activities of the mind, through healing and strength of the body, working on breathing and the nervous system.
Santosha San Miguel
Photo via @santosha_san_miguel
This is a space dedicated to teaching yoga in its different forms. It offers in-person classes for small groups of 6 people, with highly trained instructors who can help you customize your routine as needed. You can also find private classes that you can schedule per session or in packages of four sessions. The advantage is that it has a great location in the Center, so it can be a good stop on your route along with your other daily activities.
Alejandro Trejo
Photo via @alexandrotrejom
Alejandro is a certified yoga and reiki instructor who, in addition to being the co-creator of Santosha, also teaches private classes in the city and its surroundings, leading important retreats and workshops involving music, art and dance.
Fatima Rivas Roldan
Photo via @fatimarivasroldan
Fátima is a Hatha yoga instructor, which is known for the practice of asanas (positions or postures), breathing techniques and meditation. She is currently teaching classes with small groups and taking all sanitary measures, at her private home or in outdoor spaces such as the “El Chorro” park. Check out her new schedule on her Instagram profile.
Do you teach yoga or do you want to recommend more spaces or instructors that you think our audience should know about? Don't hesitate to write to us at info@localguide.mx!
