Author: Keira Benson Added: February 8, 2010
Why yoga? Surely, I could get the same thing going to the gym? 1. Yoga works in a holistic way, that is, it addresses the whole body, improving the entire structure. By working with physical movements known as postures or 'asana', we can improve the range of movement within our joints, increasing both suppleness and strength. Tight muscles can restrict our movements and cause structural strain; tightness in the hips can put pressure on the knees and the restriction of short hamstrings can put the lower back at risk. Strong muscles help to support and bring stability to our joints, especially the spine, which is a common site of strain. Yoga postures take the spine through its full range of movements in a precise, controlled way, which can be extremely beneficial in releasing postural back pain. Taking joints through their full range of movement keeps them healthy and can even help to prevent against degenerative arthritis. 2. Yoga can increase our breathing capacity. It focuses on the breath by encouraging a relaxed 'steady' breathing during the physical postures and, in particular, during relaxation at the end of the class. Dedicated breathing exercises can also be taught during the class. All of these techniques help to improve lung function and reduce stress. 3. Yoga can also bring us a sense of calm and relaxation. It can help to minimise stress by shifting the emphasis from the sympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for the 'fight or flight' response, to the parasympathetic nervous system, which brings the body back into balance. If we can focus on our breath and our physical movements, it will allow our minds to forget all the activities of our busy lives and become still. This is why yoga is a holistic practice; bringing together enhanced physical well-being and improved breathing with a quiet, restful mind. Amongst the many different forms of yoga, these are the most common: Hatha - The practice of mental and physical cleansing through postures (asana) and breathing (pranayama). Ashtanga - The exploration of postures, breath control and concentration. Sivananda - A flowing style, which includes breath control, meditation, postures, chanting and relaxation. Yin - A practice that combines traditional Hatha postures with Taoist philosophy and Meridian Theory. Yin utilises the body's feminine energy, working on the deep layers of connective tissue through long passive holds. All forms of yoga come from the same root and are, therefore, relatively interchangeable, so an hour-long class once or twice a week in any of the disciplines will quickly start to work wonders on both your physical and mental well being. This article may be reproduced providing a hard link to the site in the resource box is retained.
--- Keira Benson found yoga last year after a two-year battle with a shoulder injury and has seen huge improvements since she began regular classes.
For more information about yoga in Southend-on-Sea, visit:
http://www.shambhalastudios.com
or email: wellbeing@shambhalastudios.com
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