Have you ever thought about where you place your yoga mat in class might say more about you than you realize? Most of us are aware that our choices, even seemingly small ones (like mat placement in a yoga class), can reveal insights into our personalities and preferences. What do you think the psychology behind your mat placement might say about you?

Are you:

Front and Center: If you're the type to roll out your mat right at the front of the class, you may have a tendency to thrive on structure and routine. You're likely not afraid to be in the spotlight and possibly enjoy the accountability that comes with being in the front row. Research in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology suggests that individuals who prefer routine often seek stability and predictability in their lives so if you’re gravitating to that same spot right next to the teacher’s mat, we see you and appreciate you being the one to come hang out right next to us!

Middle Ground: Placing your mat somewhere in the middle of the room suggests that you're comfortable with both familiarity and change. You appreciate the sense of community that comes with being surrounded by others but also value your independence and freedom to move around. Studies have shown that individuals who embrace both routine and novelty tend to have a well-rounded approach to life. This flexibility (and not the kind that comes from being able to touch your toes) is a much-admired quality and especially appreciated when there is a room full of students and we need to make space for one more!

Back Row Warrior: If you tend to gravitate towards the back of the class, you might be someone who values privacy and autonomy. You prefer to observe from a distance and may feel more comfortable with a bit of space around you. According to research in the Journal of Consumer Research, individuals who seek a bit more space and solitude often prioritize introspection and self-reflection.

Corner Connoisseur: Choosing a spot in the corner of the room suggests that you're someone who appreciates a sense of security and protection. You like to have a clear view of the room while also feeling sheltered from distractions. Psychologists suggest that individuals who prefer corners may have a heightened awareness of their surroundings and a desire for control. Those of you who have your favorite corner of the room, we are all about it and are so appreciative of your grounding presence!

Ultimately, where you place your yoga mat in class is a reflection of your unique personality and preferences. Whether you're drawn to the front, the middle, the back, or a cozy corner, we are so grateful you choose to practice with us!

So, the next time you unroll your mat, maybe you take a moment to reflect on what your chosen spot says about you, and embrace the diversity of personalities that make our sweet yoga community so vibrant.

Join us at Better Buzz Yoga for a class and come embrace the beauty of self-discovery both on and off the mat. Wherever you choose to place your mat, know that you're always welcome.

Are you ready to take your yoga practice to the next level? At Better Buzz Yoga, we believe that true mastery of yoga comes not only from the dedication to your personal practice but also from the commitment to sharing your knowledge with others. That's why we offer the best yoga teacher training in Denver, led by our esteemed faculty of experienced certified yoga instructors from across the Denver Yoga Community.

So, why should you consider embarking on a yoga teacher training journey with us? Let's delve into the many benefits and incredible experiences awaiting you:

Deepen Your Practice: Yoga teacher training provides a profound opportunity to deepen your understanding of yoga asanas, pranayama, meditation, and yogic philosophy. Through intensive study and practice, you'll uncover layers of insight into the ancient teachings of yoga that you just simply don’t have a chance to get to in a 60, 75 or even 90-minute yoga class.

Expand Your Knowledge: Our comprehensive curriculum covers a wide range of topics beyond the physical practice, including anatomy, alignment principles, the history and philosophy of yoga, Ayurveda, subtle body and more. Our goal is to equip you with a holistic understanding of yoga, empowering you to guide others on their journey to wellness.

Transformational Growth: Beyond the physical benefits, yoga teacher training is a transformative journey of self-discovery and personal growth. As you explore the depths of your practice and delve into introspective exercises, you'll cultivate greater self-awareness, resilience, and compassion.

Community Connection: Joining a yoga teacher training program fosters a sense of community and camaraderie with like-minded individuals who share your passion for yoga. You'll form deep bonds with your fellow trainees, creating a support network that extends far beyond the training studio.

Professional Development: Whether you aspire to teach yoga professionally or simply deepen your personal practice, completing a yoga teacher training program enhances your credentials and opens doors to new opportunities within the yoga community.

At Better Buzz Yoga, our yoga teacher training stands out for several reasons. First, our teaching faculty comprises some of the most experienced and dedicated yoga teachers in Denver, ensuring that you receive the best guidance and mentorship throughout your journey. Second, voted the best yoga studio in Denver three years running, we offer a nurturing and inclusive environment where students of all levels feel welcomed and supported.

In addition to the common teachings of yoga, such as asana practice and meditation, our training program covers a variety of less common yet equally important topics, including:

Social Justice and Yoga: Gain a comprehensive understanding of how yoga and social justice are intricately interconnected.

Equity and Appropriation: Explore the relationship between yoga and our relationship to equity, marginalization, representation and how we interact in the modern day with this sacred practice.

Unique Sequencing and Teaching Methodology: Learn how to craft intelligently sequenced yoga classes that cater to the needs of diverse students, while honing your teaching skills and communication techniques and did we mention, an opportunity to teach for Better Buzz Yoga upon graduation?

Are you ready to embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery and empowerment? Join us at Better Buzz Yoga for the best 200-hour yoga teacher training in Denver, where you'll unlock your true potential and emerge as a confident and knowledgeable yoga instructor. Your path to becoming the best version of yourself starts here.

Do any of you struggle with getting a good night sleep the same way we do? In today’s fast-paced world, getting a full night’s rest can sometimes feel like an elusive dream.

At Better Buzz Yoga in Sunnyside, North Denver, we believe that a consistent yoga practice is one magical key to restful slumber. A consistent practice not only strengthens the body and calms the mind but also promotes a deep, rejuvenating sleep that leaves you feeling refreshed and revitalized.

But how does yoga contribute to better sleep? The answer lies in its ability to activate the parasympathetic nervous system, also known as the "rest and digest" response.

By engaging in what we often like to call ‘moving meditation,’ methodical, soothing movements and deep, mindful breathing, yoga can signal the body that it's time to unwind and prepare for sleep. Research published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine has shown that regular yoga practice can improve sleep quality, reduce sleep disturbances, and decrease the time it takes to fall asleep.

At Better Buzz Yoga Sunnyside, we offer a variety of classes specifically designed to promote better sleep and relaxation. Restorative, slow flow and yin yoga classes, in particular, are highly effective for calming the nervous system and inducing a state of deep relaxation. In these classes, students are supported by props such as bolsters, blankets, and blocks, allowing them to fully surrender into each pose and release tension held in the body.

Gentle flow classes, yin and restorative yoga classes can also be beneficial for promoting better sleep. These practices focus on slow, deliberate movements and long-held stretches, encouraging students to connect with their breath and cultivate a sense of inner peace. By releasing physical tension and quieting the mind, these classes prepare the body and mind for a restful night's sleep.

So, what poses are particularly helpful for promoting relaxation and preparing for sleep? Here are a few favorites:

Child's Pose (Balasana): This gentle forward fold stretches the back, hips, and thighs while promoting a sense of surrender and release.

Legs-Up-the-Wall Pose (Viparita Karani): This restorative inversion helps to soothe tired legs, calm the nervous system, and promote circulation throughout the body.

Corpse Pose (Savasana): The ultimate relaxation pose, Savasana allows the body to fully integrate the benefits of the practice and enter a state of deep relaxation.

At Better Buzz Yoga in Sunnyside, we invite you to explore the restorative power of yoga and discover how a consistent practice can transform your sleep and overall well-being.

Join us on the mat and experience the blissful union of mind, body, and spirit that awaits.

If you’re anything like most humans today, we find ourselves glued to desks and screens for more hours than we’d like to admit, leading to a common ailment: low back (and neck) pain.

Whether it's from prolonged sitting, poor posture, or a (more) sedentary lifestyle than might be ideal at times, the discomfort of lower back issues can be limiting, if not down-right debilitating.

At Better Buzz Yoga in north Denver, we understand the toll that this pain can take on your well-being, which is why we offer specialized yoga classes tailored to alleviate low back pain and promote spinal health.

So, why and how does yoga help? The answer lies in the science-backed benefits of a thoughtful yoga practice, guided by skilled teachers who understand the nuances of spinal mobility and core strength. Research published in the Annals of Internal Medicine has shown that yoga can be as effective as physical therapy in relieving chronic low back pain. By integrating a combination of gentle stretches, strengthening exercises, and breathwork, yoga addresses the root causes of discomfort while fostering a deeper connection between mind and body.

At Better Buzz Yoga, our approach to yoga for low back pain revolves around the six motions of the spine: flexion, extension, lateral flexion, rotation, axial extension, and axial rotation. These fundamental movements are crucial for maintaining spinal mobility, reducing stiffness, and building core stability. Through a carefully curated sequence of poses, our experienced teachers guide students through each of these motions, helping to restore balance and ease in the body.

Flexion poses, such as forward folds, stretch the back muscles and relieve tension in the spine, while extension poses, like backbends, counteract the effects of slouching and open up the front body. Lateral flexion poses, such as side stretches, target the obliques and promote lateral mobility, while rotational poses, like twists, release tightness in the spine and massage the internal organs.

In addition to these primary movements, yoga also emphasizes axial extension and axial rotation, which involve lengthening and aligning the spine along its natural curves. By practicing poses that encourage lengthening and decompression, such as mountain pose and seated spinal twists, students can alleviate compression on the vertebrae and improve overall spinal health.

Through consistent practice, our students at Better Buzz Yoga can experience lasting relief from low back pain, as well as increased flexibility, strength, and resilience.

Our supportive community and skilled teachers are here to guide you on your journey towards a pain-free life, one mindful breath and movement at a time.

Join us at Better Buzz Yoga and discover the how yoga can help relieve low back pain. Let's move, breathe, and thrive together.

We’ve all been there, it's easy to feel overwhelmed by daily stressors that bombard us from all directions. Finding moments of tranquility can feel overwhelming and sometimes, even impossible and yet it is also essential for maintaining balance and well-being. At Better Buzz Yoga, we believe that one of the most effective tools for achieving this balance lies within the simple act of mindful breathing, or pranayama.

Pranayama, a foundational aspect of yoga practice, involves conscious control and regulation of the breath. Beyond its physical benefits, such as improved lung function and increased oxygenation of the blood, pranayama holds profound effects on the nervous system.

Research conducted by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) has shown that a regular pranayama practice can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, responsible for promoting relaxation and reducing stress. This activation leads to a decrease in heart rate, blood pressure, and levels of cortisol, the primary stress hormone. In fact, a study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychology found that participants who regularly practiced pranayama techniques experienced significant reductions in anxiety levels compared to those who did not.

But what makes pranayama truly remarkable is its accessibility.

Even just two or three minutes of a simple breath practice can initiate profound changes in how our nervous system responds to stress. By incorporating mindful breathing into our daily lives, whether it's during a hectic workday or before bedtime, we can cultivate a sense of calm and resilience in the face of adversity.

Imagine starting your day with a brief pranayama session, setting the tone for a peaceful and productive day ahead. Or taking a few moments to breathe deeply during a stressful meeting, allowing yourself to respond with clarity and composure rather than react impulsively. These small yet impactful moments of mindfulness can be game-changers in our journey towards holistic well-being.

Try this simple Box Breathing Exercise:

Square Breathing (also known as Box Breathing):

Find a comfortable seated position, either on the floor or in a chair, with your spine tall and your shoulders relaxed.

Close your eyes gently and begin to bring your awareness to your breath.

Inhale deeply through your nose for a count of four seconds, allowing your abdomen to expand as you fill your lungs with air.

Hold the breath in for a count of four seconds, maintaining a sense of gentle pressure without straining.

Exhale slowly and fully through your nose or mouth for a count of four seconds, allowing your abdomen to contract as you release the breath.

Hold the breath out for a count of four seconds, maintaining a sense of relaxation and emptiness.

Repeat this cycle of inhalation, retention, exhalation, and retention for two to three minutes, focusing on the rhythmic pattern of the breath and the sensations it creates in your body.

Square breathing is a powerful technique for calming the nervous system and promoting a sense of balance and tranquility. It's particularly effective in moments of stress or overwhelm, serving as a quick and accessible tool for regaining control of your mental and emotional state.

As you integrate this practice into your daily routine, you'll likely notice a greater sense of calm, clarity, and resilience in the face of life's challenges.

At Better Buzz Yoga, we invite you to explore the transformative power of pranayama and discover how simple breath practices can unlock a world of inner peace and vitality. Join us in class to learn more about pranayama and come on this journey towards a calmer, more resilient nervous system. Experience the profound benefits of mindful breathing in your own life.

In the world of yoga, certain poses take time to learn and even more time to learn correctly to prevent injury over time, with repetitive motion - none more so than Chaturanga Dandasana (Four-Limbed Staff Pose), often hailed as a pinnacle of upper body strength and control. But what if we told you that mastering Chaturanga doesn't always mean pushing yourself to the point of potential of injury?

At Better Buzz Yoga, we believe in the transformative power of modification, and that includes redefining what it means to practice Chaturanga (among many other shapes too!)

Chaturanga, a foundational pose in vinyasa flow sequences, is traditionally performed from a high plank position, lowering down into a low plank with the elbows bent at a 90-degree angle. However, for many practitioners, executing Chaturanga from the toes can place excessive strain on the shoulders, wrists, and lower back, leading to potential injury and discomfort.

That's where the beauty of modification comes into play. At Better Buzz Yoga, we encourage our students to listen to their bodies and honor their unique needs. If lowering down into Chaturanga from the toes feels unsustainable or unsafe (or just not for you on any given day), there's no shame in taking the SAME pose from your the knees.

And, here's the real kicker: performing Chaturanga from your knees doesn't diminish its effectiveness. In fact, it can be just as—if not more—beneficial for building strength while protecting vulnerable joints, particularly the shoulders.

By distributing the weight more evenly and reducing the distance traveled, practicing Chaturanga from your knees allows you to focus on engaging your core, stabilizing your shoulders, and building functional strength without compromising safety.

At Better Buzz Yoga, we're all about working smarter, not harder. We believe that using props and tools or modifying poses to support our bodies is a testament to our commitment to long-term health and well-being.

We encourage our students to embrace the concept of "ahimsa," or non-harming, in their practice. This means listening to the signals our bodies send us, respecting our limits, and approaching each pose with mindfulness and compassion. Whether it's using blocks for stability in standing poses or practicing Chaturanga from the knees, the goal is always the same: to cultivate strength, stability, and resilience in a way that honors our bodies and promotes longevity.

So, the next time you find yourself in Chaturanga at Better Buzz Yoga, remember this: there's no one-size-fits-all approach to yoga, and that's perfectly okay. Whether you're lowering down from your toes or your knees, know that you're building strength, cultivating awareness, and nourishing your body from the inside out.