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Introduction to Yoga

         
Introduction to Yoga

Is Yoga For You?

Considering it's thousands of years old, Yoga has come a long way in recent years. But as mind/body exercise continues to take hold, the practice of Yoga has moved from the alternative to the mainstream.Today's hectic lifestyle has left many of us wondering how to manage the stress that comes along with it. While regular aerobic exercise and strength training can help, it isn't the complete answer. Some believe Yoga is the piece you need to complete the puzzle of keeping both the body and the mind fit.  

A Trend Worth following
 
Now, before you start conjuring up images of zoned-out new agers in pretzel-like positions chanting mantras, consider this: Yoga is an ancient practice that can help you deal with the stress of modern life. More and more people, stressed out or not, are discovering the benefits of Yoga. In fact, it has been reported that more then six million Americans are now practicing some form of Yoga.Yoga, which means "to yoke or unite", is the practice of uniting all aspects of a person - body, mind and spirit - through physical postures, breathing exercises and meditation. Flexibility, strength and muscle tone improve quickly as the mind and the body work together in harmony and unison.Choose Your Yoga

There are several different branches of Yoga, each with its own unique focus. Hatha Yoga, the most widely practiced form, emphasizes concentration and consists of gentle stretching and strengthening exercises. Because Prana, or life force, is thought to originate in the breath, Pranayama Yoga uses breathing exercises and breath control to enhance vitality and energy. Mantra Yoga uses the concentrated repetition of a word of phrase to aid in the control of the mind.

A Time To Relax

For some, Yoga is a primary means of relaxation, something that is often difficult to achieve in high-stress, high speed world we live in. Regardless of which type you choose, Yoga is an excellent way to stretch and strengthen the body, focus the mind and relax the spirit. In fact, most modern stress-reduction techniques, utilizes Yoga exercises, breathing and relaxation techniques to reverse symptoms of heart disease. Current research indicates that stress-related diseases respond favorably to this type of approach.Easing Into It The best way to get started in Yoga is to find a class that appeals to you. Find out where Yoga classes are being held in your area and stop by to see how you like it. There are many different approaches to Yoga - some focus on breathing, others focus on holding specific postures - and it's important to find the one that appeals to you the most.Yoga is a great way not only to relax, but also to improve your performance in other activities.

Once you have learned a few Yoga moves and breathing techniques, they can easily be integrated into your regular fitness routine. So don't let any preconceived notions of Yoga keep you from enjoying the benefits of this dynamic mind/body exercise.  

 

Yoga for Seniors

June 8, 2011 by

Yoga can be modified to suit the needs of seniors. Practicing yoga can help ease many of the physical problems experienced by seniors. In fact, yoga is becoming increasingly recognized as a good alternative to prescription drugs and invasive medical procedures. If you are a senior citizen, make sure you discuss practicing yoga with your doctor before you begin.

Why do seniors need yoga?

Seniors may not be very active and may  also suffer from poor posture. These conditions can lead to weak muscles, back pain, joint stiffness, obesity, constipation, insomnia and depression. Also, seniors may experience problems with circulation, which can contribute to reduced mobility and general health problems.

What makes yoga a good choice for seniors?

Yoga is a gentle, easy and natural method of improving overall health and quality of life for all people, regardless of age or physical condition. Many yoga poses can be modified so they can be performed in a chair, a wheelchair or even in bed.

What are the benefits of yoga for seniors?

PHYSICAL BENEFITS

Yoga involves safe and gentle movements that effectively tone and strengthen muscles, increase flexibility and restore vitality. These benefits provide greater control over the body, which can help improve seniors’ ability to move around safely. Yoga can also improve breathing, encourage relaxation and help people better cope with discomfort or pain. In addition, practicing yoga can help alleviate specific physical conditions suffered by many seniors, such as the symptoms of arthritis.

MENTAL AND EMOTIONAL BENEFITS

Participating in yoga classes provides social interaction, which encourages seniors to make new friends and feel a sense of community. The overall feeling of well-being that yoga offers can also lead to  a positive attitude toward life. Yoga can provide the calm and serenity needed to alleviate depression and anxiety. Moreover, as people’s flexibility, strength and energy increase, their confidence will grow.

 

 

Disclaimer: Information on this site is intended for general reference purposes only and is not intended to address specific medical conditions. You are strongly encouraged to consult a Physician before beginning any exercise program. If you have chosen not to obtain a Physician's permission prior to beginning an exercise program, then you are doing so at your own risk.

 

  

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