Yoga is so much more than the poses we practice on our mats! Yamas are the moral, ethical and spiritual guidelines of a person aspiring to reach balance, health, and well-being leading to spiritual development. There are five different characteristics, and these can be observed in our actions, words and thoughts. They help us to become kinder and more compassionate humans who form a healthier and happier society.

It's easy to get caught up in life's drama, to be focusing on personal gain and material possessions. But if we want to challenge ourselves and perhaps start a spiritual journey to learn about the mysteries of life, we can start with the first limb of the eightfold path of yoga, the Yamas.

By Leanne Gerich

You know, I really didn’t like yoga the first time I tried it. I was an athlete all my life, and enjoyed competition more than most. When I tried yoga I thought it was “too slow”. I didn’t think I liked it all too much. “Running is my yoga.” This is how I thought in my early twenties. I don’t know how it changed so readily. Most people have a grand story about their journey into yoga. However I was gifted a 10 class pass from a boyfriend's sister. No matter what my opinion was at the time, I couldn’t be a poor sport - I had to use the gift fully. It would have been rude not too!

Catch her if you can ~ When not on the mat she's a girl on the go! She recently completes the Gold Coast Marathon and is looking towards the Medic Marathon (in France!) later this year... For this gazelle a casual daily run of 20km is no biggie. She's forever chasing the sunrise, capturing some seriously beautiful pics of early mornings in Brissie while the rest of the world is still sleeping. 

Nadine began practicing Pilates 5 years ago to compliment her running training and was instantly hooked, becoming an Instructor herself soon after. She's been part of the Stretch family for over a year now with regular Pilates classes in our CBD Studio.

Nadine gave us some tips and insight into Pilates, and how it's helped shape her life!