The word "Yoga" from the Sanskrit for "yoke" means union, union of breath, body and mind. It is a physical, mental and spiritual discipline originating in India dating back probably to about 3000 years BC.  based on the philosophy of Patanjali who wrote down a series of yoga sutras outlining practises and ways of living.

It is a complete practise, using all your body but benefitting breath,  and spirit too. In my classes there are people of all ages (18 to 86 actually), sizes, abilties (beginners to yoga teachers), gender. It works this way because yoga works on different levels and yoga teachers are skilled in teaching in stages or modifying to suit who's in the class. Unlike gym classes you will meet the same people and all classes are friendly and supportive. 

There's a growing body of research which demonstrate just some of the benefits of practising yoga. Here are some of the ways yoga may be able to help you:

Relax, reduce stress and tension

Ease back pain and other physical discomfort

Increase flexibility and strengthen core muscles

Ease negative thinking and encourage positive outlook and enhance self-esteem

Develop your understanding of yourself and the world around you