Experience at Art of Yoga

(n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.yogajournal.com/.image/t_share/MTQ2Mzg1Mjc2OTM0MTA0NTU3/istock-499609170.jpg

Before you start reading this blog, I have a question for you. What is Yoga to you? 

(n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.charleyoga.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/Question-Mark-Yoga-Lady-Square.jpg

When the word ‘Yoga’ comes to mind, most people would say it’s a type of exercise that requires you to be able to hold a difficult posture for a few minutes. Well for me, I feel that yoga is a practice of breath control, meditation and positive thinking. With more research, I found out that the aim of yoga is to join the body, mind, and spirit as one. Through the years, more and more types of yoga are being developed and now we have a wide variety of yoga such as Hatha Yoga, Yin Yoga and many others. I found out that people practice yoga for numerous benefits as it helps one to reduce stress, the risk for injury, improve posture and more.

A picture after my very first yoga class with my friends

So what better ways to understand what yoga is than to experience it yourself! 

I once went to a yoga class last year conducted in school and it was a new experience for me. As during the class, there was a lot of stretching and changing of posture. By the time the class ended, I was drained, and my muscles literally felt stretched! That was the time when I realized I wasn’t as flexible as I thought I was. I thought that maybe yoga was not something I would be keen to try out again. However, I decided to give it a second chance by going to restorative yoga. And WOW! It was literally a whole new world for me!

(n.d.). Retrieved from https://scontent.fsin1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/40400863_1634948753278315_7561395572213547008_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&_nc_ht=scontent.fsin1-1.fna&oh=0101bc23f2c5319eb93ea45f4e9a13a5&oe=5CB1D42F

Recently, I visited a place called Art of Yoga for Restorative Yoga. So, what is restorative yoga? Is it just another type of yoga that helps to reduce stress and anxiety? Or is there something more to it? 

So, I went to do a quick research before attending the class. Apparently, it is a yoga class that requires props such as pillow and blocks. Sounds like a relaxation class doesn’t it?! Like how do you even conduct a yoga class with pillows without having people falling asleep? With all these thoughts in mind, I felt even more excited to see what I could gain from this restorative yoga class!

Before the instructor started the yoga class, she suggested us to put on sweaters or jacket in case we felt too cold in the room. She even asked if we wanted to turn up the temperature of the air-con. And in my mind, I was like “WHAT!” I was so confused at that point of time as honestly, from my experience, yoga requires a lot of changing of posture which makes you sweat a lot. So, why did the instructor asked us to keep warm?

Apparently, she wanted us to be in our most relaxed state for us to fully experience and enjoy the one hour of restoration yoga. I will always remember the first posture that we did in class which was to lie down and relax while closing our eyes. Like wow! That’s simple. Seems like yoga wasn’t that difficult after all.

(n.d.). Retrieved from https://vectortoons.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/personal-development-collection-michael-009.jpg

Being in the quiet peaceful room along with slow, relaxing music playing in the background, I was able to relax and enjoy the air-con and listen to the instructor asking us to stop thinking about anything and just relax. With a room this quiet, it made me uncomfortable at the start as I am not used to this quiet feeling around me. However, as time pass by, I was able to listen to my own breathing and just go with the flow.

At some point in time during the class, I remember almost falling asleep because of how comfortable I felt. However, I woke up by the sound of vehicles passing by as I was the nearest to the window and just outside it was a road with many vehicles passing by. I would recommend that Art of Yoga would soundproof the room so that students would not be that affected by loud noises. As I was trying to stop myself from getting distracted, I heard the instructor asked us to change posture. We did some light twisting which was surprisingly very comfortable! We switched between a few more position that requires a little stretching and twisting, but it was all very comfortable, maybe it has something to do with the comfy pillow they provided. Hmm. I’m not too sure. Or maybe it was the whole atmosphere that makes it very relaxing.

(n.d.). Retrieved from https://onegrove.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/Cartoon-Cheryl.png

Throughout the whole one hour, the postures that the instructor told us to do were all very simple that we could do it with our eyes closed. Like literally, we had to close our eyes and change posture so that we can remain in the relaxation state.  It was challenging for me as I was afraid that I would end up doing a different position as everyone and become a laughingstock. However, I just tried to focus and concentrate on what the instructor was instructing us to do while she walks around to guide and correct us to be in a more comfortable posture.

The instructor constantly reminded us that it was fine to fall asleep during the class as it is the only time when we can restore and relax after a long day of work. It was honestly a very cool experience. I mean honestly, you don’t always get a chance to sleep in class! After a few twisting and turning while lying on the pillow, the class ended before we even know it. And one thing I can tell you for sure is that I was completely RESTORED and REFRESHED after the class.

(n.d.). Retrieved from https://i.pinimg.com/originals/d3/7d/9c/d37d9ce447300784d0938f466025aefe.jpg

Other than almost falling asleep in class, I did manage to gain some benefits! As stated in my experience, I did face a challenge of being distracted. However, in that one hour, I realized that if we were to put in effort, we can choose to focus on sounds we want to hear from. After listening and controlling my own breathing, I realized I did not hear much of vehicles passing by anymore. Restorative yoga taught me to be more discipline by concentrating on what the instructor is telling us to do and listen to our own breathing.

Another benefit was that I learned to stop my mind from thinking and be patient. It may seem like it is easy to relax your body through restorative yoga however, it is not easy to control the mind. Most of the time when we are sleeping, our minds are still constantly working which results in us feeling tired even after sleeping. Therefore, the class allows me to be at a relaxation mode and give my mind some time to rest which requires effort and lots of patience as we need to stay still in a posture for a couple of minutes. Well, staying still for a couple of minutes isn’t that easy after all as sometimes I feel the need to move about.

(n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.teamusa.org/-/media/USA_Triathlon/Images/About-Multisport/Multisport-Lab/2018/05/051818-Erin-childs-pose-800x400.jpg?la=en&hash=8CF354F7FE8BE76D0620C3C8011804D2B06AC289

So, after talking about my whole experience in the restorative yoga class, let’s have a better understanding of what I really signed up for!

According to my research, restorative yoga does not require many movements and the props used are mostly used to support the body in order to get better postures and avoid unnecessary straining. The main point of this yoga is to ensure that your muscles are relaxed and at the same time have some time to yourself to meditate and reflect. As compared to other yoga classes, restorative yoga is well-known for its ability to help in decreasing stress, increasing flexibility and it also helps one to heal from illness. Restorative yoga may seem easy because all the posture we needed to do were simple, however, if we were to understand it better, I realized that it is quite a challenge as it requires a lot of effort. It may not be easy to get into a difficult yoga posture, but it is even more difficult to try to stop your mind from running and relax.

A mini congratulation to the both of us for completing the yoga together!

Let’s move on to the operation of Art of Yoga!

When I first entered the studio, an iPad was there to welcome us to class. The iPad consists of the different classes at different time slot. After selecting the class that I signed up for, I found a name list inside with my name in it. Afterwards, I explored and found my way to the reception to pay my fees. They accept cash, cards and even GrabPay which is very convenient for people who don’t always bring cash around. There were even lockers provided for us to keep our bags, so we do not have to worry about it during class.

As I had some time to spare before my class begin, I walked around the studio just to realize that they have a pantry where their student can rest after class and enjoy their complimentary tea. They also had other drinks such as mineral water and other types of tea, however, you need to pay additional money for it. The thing that amazed me was that there was no cashier there at all! It’s all self-service, which means students pay for their drinks by dropping the cash into a box located in front of all the teas. It’s fascinating how they have so much trust in their students to be able to leave the money box unsupervised.

I did manage to try out their Vanilla Tea after my yoga class and all I can say is that their pantry is really my cup of tea. Being able to sit down and chill after class is really very good as after finishing class, you can head to the pantry and enjoy your tea quietly before leaving. And the lighting there were perfect for nice Instagram worthy photo. I visited their toilet and was surprised to see how clean and dry it was! I did not have to worry that my socks would get wet. They also have shower rooms for students to use after class.

An instagram worthy place in the pantry!

Now moving on to the sales and marketing of Art of Yoga!

From their website, it shows that they provide a trial class for SGD 10 to allow students to try out a yoga class without having to pay the full price. And to add on, the SGD 10 would be waived off when he/she purchases a pass within 24 hours. I feel that this a very good way for a student to try out the type of yoga class they want to experience without having to pay the full price of it, and they do not need to worry about committing to the type of yoga that they do not like. As different people have different preferences, this makes it easier for student to choose what they like. They also provide packages such as unlimited class pass, Ashtanga Yoga Pass and many other types of passes!

Art of Yoga has their own application designed for their student to manage their bookings, check their schedule and at the same time stay updated with their latest events. It is designed for both Android and IOS so smartphone users can conveniently access it. Along with the application, they also have a website specially made for first time guest to know what to expect from them. Through the website, it is easier for them to answer the enquires of their guest and at the same allow guest to read and learn about the different types of yoga they provide. They also have social media such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube to reach out to more people. How trendy!

(n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.writetogovern.com.au/wtg2012/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/Depositphotos_66073287_s-2015.jpg

My recommendations for Art of Yoga would be that it would be good to have a referral discount. By referring a friend to join any yoga classes in Art of Yoga, he/she can get a discount on their next class package. As people tend to share with their friends and family about the fun and relaxing classes they experienced, this would make them curious and would want to give it a try. With a referral discount, not only can the student get cheaper packages, his/her friends and family can join and take part in yoga classes together.

And next we have programming!

When I reached the studio, there was a class still ongoing before mine. Right after the class ended, my instructor started to prepare for our Restorative Yoga. They also have other ongoing classes such as Hatha Flow, Yoga Therapy, Vinyasa Flow and many others. As they have more than one room, they make use of it by having back-to-back classes. Their yoga classes duration ranges from 60 minutes to 90 minutes, and every yoga class uses different types of prop and is conducted at a different pace. Students have the option to choose from different category according to their own preference.

And lastly, customer service!

When I approached the reception to make payment, the lady was so friendly and even told me which room I would be having my class at without having to ask her. And as I was attending the yoga class with my partner, the lady realized that my partner has yet to make an account and register for the class. She then asked me if I was able to contact my partner to create an account while she would help her to register for the class on the spot. This shows how effective and efficient their working system is as they deal with problems fast and professionally even though the class was starting in a few minutes.

When I entered the room for my class, mats and pillows were already placed on the floor for us. It was surprising for me because we would usually take the mat ourselves, however, the instructor was nice enough to help prepare. After the class ended, the instructor reminded us to clean and sanitize the mat which I find is a very good practice to do. We went back to the reception to check out on the other packages they provide. The lady told us about the packages they provide and told us that they have complimentary tea for us in the pantry. The staff there were all very friendly and welcoming! Even though it was my first time there, I felt very cozy and comfortable which makes the experience even better for me.

Other then Yoga, I would like to introduce to you a wellness trend that I think would be interesting to promote in Singapore

(n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.blueosa.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/DIGITAL-DETOX1-865x433.jpg

In recent years, there has been an increase in the use of mobile devices. Everywhere we walk to, we would always see people constantly using their mobile devices and it is affecting their health unknowingly. Many types of research have shown that mobile devices emit electromagnetic radiation which is harmful to the body as it can be absorbed by tissues close to the device. It also causes an increase in the risk of chronic pain, such as back pain, neck pain and many more. Ouch! Sounds serious, doesn’t it?

Therefore, one wellness trend that I have researched is the Digital Wellness Escape. It is a retreat that is well-known in New York where people find it a must-do when visiting the country. This treatment focuses on relieving the stress of modern life and escape from the outside world. The treatment consists of activities such as soaking in a Shungite bath which is used as a shield to the body from electromagnetic radiation which is from the phone. And they also provide massage which focuses on the shoulders, neck, and back which helps to relieve strains from the overuse of phone.  

Other similar digital detox programs are the Manadala Spa and Resort in the Philippines where there are no television or Wi-Fi in the Digital Detox Villa as they offer other amenities to allow guests to recharge and relax. Chiva-Som International Health Resort in Thailand also provide a strict rule of “no mobile phones outside guest room”. They also provide numerous health and wellness treatments and therapy to help distract guest from using their mobile devices. Most of these wellness programs are in isolated places for guests to be away from the fast-paced living.

If this program is brought into Singapore, it will greatly benefit Singaporeans as most of the people living in Singapore are always on their phones and laptops. Imagine being away from your phone just for one day, sounds boring, doesn’t it? However, with a digital detox retreat, you get to enjoy treatments that help to shield your body from all the negative radiation from your phone. This would also help to decrease the percentage of people suffering from the risk of chronic pain. Singaporeans would be more likely to visit a spa for such program as it is unique and uncommon in Singapore.

It also helps Singaporean get a short break away from their busy lives. With their phones getting taken away, they would not constantly have the need to check their phone which is good as it will be a form of distraction for them. Being away from their phone will also allow them to fully enjoy the treatment and by the end of the session, they may learn to put aside their phone when they have time and relax. This type of treatment would most likely be well-liked by business people as they need to constantly face their phones and laptops.

(n.d.). Retrieved from https://thumbor.forbes.com/thumbor/1280x868/https://specials-images.forbesimg.com/dam/imageserve/749969281/960x0.jpg?fit=scale

Mandarin Oriental is famous for its Digital Wellness Escape. They keep away guests’ phone once they enter the place. They also provide massages and treatments as well as various activities for guests to engage in. Their activity ranges from journaling, coloring to mediation. After the end of the session, they would then return the guest’s phone neatly packed in a pouch. Mandarin Oriental has already started implementing this trend into its program which proves that it is usable and operational in Singapore. Even though it is already implemented, I feel that it would be good to promote it more due to the benefits that entail with this program.

Imagine getting entertained by all the activities along with receiving treatments and massage, doesn’t it already sound like paradise? I hope that more spa would consider adding this digital wellness escape as one of their spa menus so that more people would learn about it.

I hope this blog has changed your perception about yoga and wellness just like how it changed mine! That’s all for now! Namaste!

Namaste!

Reference

Admin. (n.d.). A Boutique Yoga Studio Along Singapore's East Coast. Retrieved from https://artofyoga.sg/Admin, S. (n.d.). Fees. Retrieved from https://artofyoga.sg/fees/

Digital Wellness Retreat at Mandarin Oriental, Singapore – Refined Travellers. (2018, February 27). Retrieved from http://www.refinedtravellers.com/digital-welness-retreat-mandarin-oriental-singapore/

Editor, Y. (2017, August 07). Why Restorative Yoga Is the 'Most Advanced Practice'. Retrieved from https://www.yogajournal.com/yoga-101/why-restorative-yoga-is-the-most-advanced-practice

Eight Spa & Wellness Trends to Try in 2018. (2018, October 10). Retrieved from https://www.westjetmagazine.com/story/article/spa-wellness-trends-you-need-to-try

Ling, J. (2018, October 23). Digital detox retreats from Singapore: Resorts in Southeast Asia offering for a tech-free vacation. Retrieved from https://esquiresg.com/digital-detox-retreats-from-singapore-resorts-in-southeast-asia-offering-for-a-tech-free-vacation/

Lok, E. (2018, October 11). Spa Review: The Mandarin Spa's Digital Wellness Escape soothes tired, phone-addicted souls. Retrieved from https://www.lifestyleasia.com/living/wellness/spa-review-mandarin-spas-digital-wellness-escape-soothes-tired-phone-addicted-souls/

Pizer, A. (n.d.). How Restorative Yoga Can Help You Relax and Rejuvenate. Retrieved from https://www.verywellfit.com/what-is-restorative-yoga-3566876The Digital Detox: Mandarin Oriental Digital Wellness Escape. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.harpersbazaararabia.com/lifestyle/the-escape/the-digital-detox-mandarin-oriental-digital-wellness-escape

The digital detox: Mandarin Spa treatment helps you switch off. (2018, January 30). Retrieved from https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/fashion-luxury/article/2130996/spa-treatment-digital-addicts-device-free-90-minutes

What is Yoga? - Definition from Yogapedia. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.yogapedia.com/definition/4/yoga

Why You Should Try Yoga. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?contenttypeid=1&contentid=2767

Yoga Poses, Benefits and History. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.emedicinehealth.com/yoga/article_em.htm#modern_yoga


Appendix 

Safeassign (Final)