Yoga, one of India's six great ancient philosophies, is not a religion but a physical and psychological discipline. The science of yoga encompasses all types of problems associated with the human condition. It is believed to have originated over 5,000 years ago. Yoga improves inner awareness: teaching us to tune in to our body and the mind through conscious breathing and physical postures. The physical aspect of the practice renews, invigorates and heals the body -- strengthening and stretching the muscles, joints and spine and directing blood and oxygen to the internal organs.

Practicing yoga helps balance our bodies and minds. Before beginning our yoga practice, we must realize that yoga is a journey, not a destination. Each day when we wake up, our bodies feel a little different. Therefore they will react differently as we practice. No two days will be the same, and we should accept that. We should remember to breathe, feel and listen to our bodies and accept who we are at each moment. We should let go of competition with, or judgment toward, ourselves and others, so that we may fully experience the joy of movement.  

The series of Pilates exercises developed in the 1920s by German immigrant Joseph Pilates improve strength and flexibility in the midsection. Regular practice corrects poor posture and prevents back pain which has become so prevalent in our sedentary society. Yogilates, created by Jonathan Urla, is a fusion of Yoga and Pilates, bringing the best of both into an effective, fun and rational exercise system