Yoga

Yoga aims to balance different energy flows within the human body. As a form of exercise, yoga consists of asanas or postures that embody controlled movement, concentration, flexibility, and conscious breathing. The postures range from the basic to the complex, from the easily accomplished to the very challenging. While the movements tend to be slow and controlled, they provide an invigorating workout for the mind and body, including the internal organs.

Yoga exercises are designed to ease tense muscles, to tone up the internal organs, and to improve the flexibility of the body's joints and ligaments. The aim of proper yoga exercises to improve suppleness and strength. Each posture is performed slowly in fluid movements. Violent movements are avoided; they produce a buildup of lactic acid, causing fatigue. It can be practiced by anyone, regardless of age, to achieve a more limber body, increased physical coordination, better posture, and improved flexibility without incurring the potentially negative effects associated with high-impact forms of exercise.

Overall, the postures release stiffness and tension, help to reestablish the inner balance of the spine, renew energy and restore health. Some postures provide the added benefit of being weight-bearing which helps sustain bone mass (very important for women). Relaxation and breathing exercises produce stability and reduce stress and put you in touch with your inner strength. In addition, regular practice of yoga can promote graceful aging.

Young and old alike can practice yoga. While there is no one who should be excluded, you should check with your doctor before you begin a course if you suffer from a medical condition or have any doubts. If you have any concerns about your health or fitness, consult your physician, qualified health practitioner or yoga teacher before undertaking a yoga practice, especially with these specific health problems: high blood pressure, heart disease, arthritis, back or neck injury or recent surgery.

Health Benefits of Yoga

Yoga has both preventive and therapeutic benefits. It has been shown to offer both physical and mental benefits to the body and the mind.

The many physical benefits of yoga are:

· Improves flexibility and muscle joint mobility
· Strengthens, tones, and builds muscles; corrects posture
· Strengthens the spine
· Eases back pain; improves muscular-skeletal conditions such as bad knees, tight shoulders
· and neck, swayback and scoliosis.
· Increases stamina; creates balance and grace
· Stimulates the glands of the endocrine system
· Improves digestion and elimination
· Increases circulation
· Improves heart conditions
· Improves breathing disorders
· Boosts immune response;
· Decreases cholesterol and blood sugar levels;
· Encourages weight loss.

The mental benefits include:

· It increases body awareness
· Relieves chronic stress patterns in the body
· Refreshes the body by relieving muscle strain
· Relaxes the mind and body
· Centers attention
· Sharpens concentration
· Frees the spirit

Before you begin your yoga asanas, it is important to recognize your body's capabilities. Never force your body into a posture or try to go beyond your limit. Yoga is not a competitive sport. Progress may be slow, but with time your body will become flexible. Ease yourself gently into each position, and when you are holding a pose, check the body to see if you can feel tension building up anywhere. If you do, consciously try to relax that tension using the breathing.

Some poses affect mood and energy differently. Poses that are more stimulating include Sun Salutation, backbends, and standing poses. These poses are best done early in the day. More appropriate for the evening are forward bends, inversions, and restorative poses. Sitting forward bends are ideal for relaxing and recharging.

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This page last updated: July 7, 2005

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