“My body’s flexibility and how I can use relaxation in school. A fun example: Today I had to do a presentation at school and I was very nervous. By doing breathing exercises (simply in class), I was able to calm my nerves! My favorite asana or yoga pose is ‘The Tree’, it allows me to stand confidently on my yoga mat. I feel strong because no one can push me down and take away my balance in this pose. This pose is one of the poses I practice at home in my little self-made studio in the attic. It’s complete with my yoga books, a pot of tea and a candle.”

t school and I was very nervous. By doing breathing exercises (simply in class), I was able to calm my nerves! My favorite asana or yoga pose is ‘The Tree’, it allows me to stand confidently on my yoga mat. I feel strong because no one can push me down and take away my balance in this pose. This pose is one of the poses I practice at home in my little self-made studio in the attic. It’s complete with my yoga books, a pot of tea and a candle.” Chloe (18) got the idea of starting to do Yoga from her stepmom, she’s excited about: “I have trouble with my back, which is why I need physiotherapy. I’ve been doing yoga for 1,5 years now and I’m more flexible, but my back is really doing better as well. Yoga helps me gain more confidence too. You start believing in yourself more if you manage to do a difficult pose you weren’t able to do before. I practice a few poses at home almost every day, it’s very relaxing after a busy day. You can use yoga in practice everywhere very easily, even at school during stressful moments. You could focus on your breathing or do a small backwards bend on your chair to regain focus and posture.”

Yoga can increase focus for other sports too. Job, fervent BMX crosser, experienced the positive effects after just one yoga class: “By being aware of my breathing, I’m able to perform my ‘tricks’ with more confidence. I never thought yoga would help me like this.”

“I did a trial lesson without any expectations. I already noticed the positive effects on my mindset after the first lesson. The calming aspect intrigued me as well. For example, I learned how I can find peace during stressful situations. Yoga teaches you to achieve relaxation by exertion. Imagine being really busy with several homework assignments and tests. Instead of panicking in a stressful situation like that, I learned to breathe deeply in a certain position for a moment. After that, I’m able to assess the situation more calmly. Getting in a yoga position allows me to relax and empty my mind. I get a way better night’s rest now, too.”

“The thing I like most is being in touch with myself. I notice an improvement every single day. Not only does it still show with the poses, but with the breathing techniques as well. Yoga isn’t just something I do during yoga class. It’s a part of my life. No matter where you are or what you’re doing, you’re always breathing. Try to be conscious about it. This causes you to breathe consciously, which makes it easier to have a fresh and open mind!”