Yoga is a mind-body type of complementary &
alternative medicinal practice. It combines stretching exercises, controlled
breathing & relaxation techniques. Thus it helps bring together physical
& mental disciplines to achieve peacefulness of body & mind, helping
you relax & manage stress & anxiety. Yoga can also help lower blood pressure
& improve heart function.
Many
Faces of Yoga
Yoga has many styles, forms & intensities. Yoga
postures are a series of movements designed to increase strength &
flexibility. These poses or postures range from lying on the floor while
completely relaxed to difficult postures that may have you stretching your
physical limits. Everyone's body is different & yoga postures should therefore
be modified based on individual abilities. Selecting an instructor who is
experienced & attentive to your needs is an important first step to a safe
& effective yoga practice.
Controlling your breathing is an important part of yoga.
In yoga, breath signifies your vital energy. Yoga teaches that controlling your
breathing can help you control your body & quiet your mind in the process.
Health
Benefits of yoga
Stress
Reduction
A large number of studies have significantly shown that
yoga can help reduce stress & anxiety. It can also enhance your mood &
overall sense of well-being.
Practicing yoga can lead to improved balance,
flexibility, range of motion, strength & stamina. This means you're less
likely to injure yourself in other physical endeavors or in your daily activities.
Yoga also helps boost immunity by improving overall health of the individual.
Proper
Breathing
A part of Yoga involves paying attention to your
breathing. Focusing on your breathing can also calm your nerves & help
relax. It may on occasions also call for specific breathing techniques.
Yoga can help reduce risk factors for chronic diseases,
such as heart disease and high blood pressure. Yoga might also help alleviate
chronic conditions, such as depression, pain, anxiety and insomnia.
Some
Precautions
Yoga is generally considered safe for most healthy people
when practiced under guidance of a trained instructor. But there are some
situations in which yoga might pose a risk. You may be able to practice yoga
even in these situations if you take certain precautions such as avoiding
certain poses or stretches. If you develop symptoms or concerns, see your
doctor to make sure you benefit & not harm yourself performing Yoga.
Some
of these medical conditions are listed below -
Risk of Blood Clots
Eye Conditions, Including Glaucoma
Pregnancy
Severe Balance Problems
Severe Osteoporosis
Uncontrolled Blood Pressure