THE YOGI LIFESTYLE by Alejandra Calatayud

Before Yoga got to western shores as a new-age commodity to counter the hectic society we have created, it was an ancient tradition dating as far back as the Vedas, the oldest scriptures of Hinduism. Inevitably across time and space, Yoga’s real meaning and objectives have been lost in translation to many of the practitioners of the last century. The traditional yoga practice is about searching for a union between body, mind and soul — by no means a simple task. Certainly not something that can be achieved by stopping by the gym’s weekly yoga class and saying ‘namaste’ to the tattoo covered, pony tailed, attractive man in front of the class. Being a yogi is a lifestyle. It is not achieved on the last day of your teacher training, nor on that day your third eye opens itself to the world. It is a journey, which expands to every aspect of your life. I am not saying to be a yogi you must go live in the mountains or quit your job and go to India in search of your soul. On the contrary, being a yogi is about learning how to be conscious of yourself, amongst the chaos. It is about being in peace even when your train is delayed and your phone has no service. It is about breathing deeply when someone steals your parking space. It’s about realizing your health and your wellbeing is more important than staying at work until 8pm. Fret not, the work will be there in the morning, on the other hand, you will be more prepared to confront it if your mind and body are on the same page.

Of course, like most good things, this is easier said than done. However, it doesn’t take radical changes in your life to embark on the journey. It starts with intentions, open-mindedness and small actions. Take 5 minutes a week to sit in silence, only aware of your breath. Try water instead of Coke at lunch. Maybe make a green juice to accompany your breakfast. And of course, go to the gym’s weekly yoga class but make sure you are constantly exercising your body – and maybe quickly Google the meaning of Namaste before you say it though. Most importantly, always be aware that it is a lifestyle, you are not allowed to be a yogi from Thursday to Sunday and then mindlessly yell at your secretary at work on Monday.

YogaCare was created to facilitate that life. The different products are meant to compliment the mind, body, and soul in their journey towards each other. Look good, feel good and have the right equipment in your yogi life.