Yoga
What is Yoga?
- Yoga is a series of movements and poses (called asanas) that emphasize stretching, attentive breathing, and relaxation.
- The different poses originated from a 5,000 year old belief system from India.
- Yoga can help improve physical and mental health as well as improve flexibility and strength.
Are there different types of yoga?
- There are several different types of yoga such as hatha, iyengar, and astanga each with a different focus.
- Hatha yoga includes stretching and breathing exercises, poses, and meditation or relaxation techniques.
- Iyengar yoga is more intense, with poses that help build muscle strength and aline the spine and limbs.
- Astanga is an aerobic work out that will really work your heart and muscles.
Why is yoga helpful?
- Doing yoga several times a week can help:
– lower blood pressure
– help ease headache
– help ease arthritis pain
– reduce stress
– build muscle
– increase flexibility
– reduce anxiety
– help fight insomnia and other stress-related illnesses
What can I expect during a yoga class?
- Most classes have eight to 25 students and last 60 to 90 minutes.
- It's best to wear loose, comfortable clothing.
- Pads or props needed to enhance or modify poses are usually provided.
- There is not much talking or socializing once class starts because it is distracting.
- Classes generally start with a series of poses, each one held for a specific period of time.
- Your teacher will probably move around the room to check each individual's pose and suggest ways to improve their form.
- Classes typically end with a relaxation period to calm the body and clear the mind.
Yoga Journal: http://www.yogajournal.com
The Secrets of Yoga: http://www.thesecretsofyoga.com
A Healthy Me: http://www.ahealthyme.com/topic/topic13865
