About Yoga

"Union of the physical and the spiritual" is one way of defining Yoga. It is the art of relaxing the body and silencing the mind to open ourselves to the universal energy in and around us. It is a way of life in which the body and the natural world are experienced as an expression of the Divine. We honour and respect the Divine by respecting our body and the world around us, through awareness of our breath, thoughts and body.  

At the core of the many different kinds of Yoga is awareness and mastery of our vital energy to live a healthy, peaceful and joyful life.

The practice of pranayama (breathing exercises), asanas (postures), relaxation and meditation maintains or regains flexibility of the body allowing a free flow of vital energy (prana, qi or light), in harmony with the world around us.

Yoga is a gentle way of moving the body which is suitable for all ages.

Wheel

From shavasana (total relaxation or corpse pose) we bend the knees, feet resting flat on the floor close to the hips. Hands are placed at shoulder level, elbows up, palms flat on the floor, fingers pointing towards the feet. We inhale and exhale, relaxing in this position. While inhaling, we use head, hands and feet to slowly push up in a backward bend. We maintain the position, breathing and relaxing. With every inhale we push the backwards stretch just a little bit further, gently, without forcing. Exhaling we lower our head and body.

This exercise confronts us directly with our fears. We easily bend forwards but to bend backwards is uncommon and causes fear and apprehension. With this exercise we build our self-confidence and willpower and we learn to see the world from another perspective.

This exercise tones the back and the legs completely. It strengthens and makes flexible the chest, stomach and waist, as well as the neck, hands, legs and feet. It gives excellent control over the body. 

 

Bicycle Kora

An exhilarating way to discover the beautiful surroundings of Bargemon is by bike. A 30 km loop or kora passes through Seillans, Claviers & Bargemon.

Starting from the Mas, a 5 km steady climb up and 5 km whirling down, at the speed you yourself control, takes you down to Seillans. Spectacular panoramas, as far as the azure blue sea, roll before your eyes. 

From Seillans a former railroad track makes for easy riding to the charming village of Claviers, offering a superb view of Bargemon, the target of return.

After a tough final climb back up to Bargemon, Pieter, making the kora for the first time on his birthday,  felt reborn - after catching his breath!