Yoga in the Digital Age

In a recent international poll 84 percent of people said they couldn’t give up their smartphone for a day.

Our phones have become so much more than just communication devices. We work on them, they entertain us, they store our information, photos and videos and they provide us with instant knowledge. We’re using them like an extended mind. That’s amazing.

But it can also be a little disconcerting. Technology is having a big effect on some of our long-held ideas about the way we’re meant to live, work and relate to each other. And it can be terribly distracting too.

This is where a regular yoga practice can be so beneficial. It helps us focus and gives us a place to rest in the midst of all those flickering pixels.

Yoga simplifies things, bringing our minds back to our relationships with others, ourselves and our surroundings. It takes us out of ‘doing mode’ and gets us into ‘being mode’.

Unplug to Recharge

If you feel like your mind is scattered across many screens a yoga retreat is a wonderful way to recharge and restore your sense of balance and calm.

Then when you return to the digital world, you will be better able to use technology in a way that reinforces the life you want to lead, rather than using it as a distraction.

Yoga can help us use technology consciously, in a way that is fully determined by us.

And then you’ll find inspiration all over the place, especially online.

Here are a few of my favourite spots for some mindful inspiration.

http://www.jbrownyoga.com/

http://www.rachelyoga.com/

http://www.dailycupofyoga.com/

From Onny and the team – thanks for reading!

Cover for the Furry Ones

 

Cats are experts in relaxation and dogs know a thing or two about enjoying life.  So it’s not surprising that we enjoy their company so much.

But did you know they’re good for us too?

In recent years there have been many studies linking pet ownership to health, happiness and longevity. And if you have a dog, it may just be your heart’s best friend.

Owning a dog can help with heart disease, cholesterol, weight problems and high blood pressure.  In one study, patients with borderline hypertension saw significant decreases in blood pressure after adopting a dog.

Perhaps this is because a dog is the ultimate exercise buddy.  They’re always up for a walk and they bring a bit of routine to your day.

Other studies show that animals are good for your mood too.   People with pets are less likely to be affected by depression and they’re less likely to feel lonely.  That’s because spending time with animals elevates levels of serotonin and dopamine and these ‘feel good’ chemicals help keep us relaxed and calm.

Protection, friendship, happiness, health…animals look after us in many ways, just as we look after them.

And insurance can be an extra way to take care of your furry buddy.

The plans for cats and dogs are straightforward. They cover both illness and accident and you can add extra cover for things like vaccinations, check-ups and dental cover.  With insurance you can choose the best veterinarian and you’ll be able to pay for all medicine and surgery if it’s needed.

Your pet may also be covered for some inherited conditions and we may be able to insure older pets as well.

So give us a call to learn more and we’ll make sure your furry ones are covered.

From Onny and the Team – cheers for reading.