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There is a trend, especially among western practitioners of Yoga to focus almost exclusively on its physical aspects, best represented by the various poses or asanas one adopts during a session, and leave its mental and spiritual facets behind. Some do this because they don’t wish to burden themselves with a new spiritual teaching, others do it to avoid possible conflicts between yogic teachings and their own religion.

While being able to perform many poses flawlessly certainly makes for a more physically healthier and attractive body, limiting yourself to this one aspect out of the wide range of experiences and benefits Yoga has to offer will cause you to miss out on some of its most potent healing capabilities.

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If we dig a little deeper and examine the sutras or manual-like texts which deal with long-established yogic principles, a number of interesting observations come to mind. First, the focus is on Yoga’s holistic nature in dealing with human health. Compared to the various ways with which it seeks to treat a disbalance in one’s whole, there’s little in there that covers pure physical exercise. Second, Yoga takes into account the uniqueness of each individual. As our personalities have certain idiosyncrasies that make each of us what we are, so does our whole, and Yoga needs to adapt itself to each in order to be effective.

According to Yoga, the physical body is only the basest out of five dimensions, emotions being the highest. As you’ve probably caught on by now, all of these are intertwined and can’t be treated separately. This also means that we can positively affect one dimension and others will become healthier too. Concentrating on proper breathing can alleviate physical symptoms, and dealing with emotional problems gives the intellect renewed focus.

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All of these dimensions are governed by our mind. Its state is a determining factor for the entire human system. If we take steps to change our mindset for the better, the rest of the system will improve too. Even if the physical body sustains a considerable injury, focusing on techniques that employ the other dimensions like breathing and visualization, healing and recovery can still take place. Sadly, some ailments can’t be cured by such practices, but Yoga can still have a healing effect on sufferers by maintaining their quality of life in other areas, thereby helping them maintain a positive attitude.

Naturally, one’s mind can’t be influenced dramatically overnight; embracing the entirety of a Yoga-conscious lifestyle doesn’t come easy, but the rewards we can reap from taking advantage of it are definitely worth the investment.

If you find yourself or someone dear to you immersing themselves in everything Yoga has to offer, why not encourage and cultivate this new interest with an appropriate Yoga gift idea? Nano Jewelry are an inspired jewelry brand that has just the right selection. They have put together a number of Yoga gifts and gifts for Yoga lovers that will attract onlookers and show off their wearer’s personality with immaculate imprints of pure gold. Visit them online and take in all they have to offer.

What are the Benefits of Yoga?

What are the Benefits of Yoga?

Health benefits of yoga

admin  —  November 3, 2016 — Leave a comment

Health benefits of yoga

 

Yoga has been practiced as a spiritual, mental and physical discipline by Indians for more than 5000 years. The term yoga is derived from the Sanskrit word “yuj”, which means “to join.” The purpose of yoga was to connect the individual with the Ultimate. However, today it is more popular all over the world as a means of improving physical and mental health.

Yoga, as it is taught today, includes asanas (physical postures), pranayama (breathing techniques) and dhyana (meditation). It is usually a combination of the above three.

There are immense health benefits of yoga. It develops flexibility, increases strength and promotes balance. Here is a brief overview of some of them.

Physical movements in the asanas involve stretching of muscles and other soft tissues in all parts of the body. This results in release of lactic acid that would have built up due to lack of muscular movement.

Lactic acid buildup is one of the main reasons for pain, tension, fatigue and stiffness. Regular practice of yoga increases the range of motion and lubricates the joints. Yoga increases the body’s flexibility.

Some asanas are more vigorous than others. They strengthen the bones and muscles in the body and improve endurance. Postures like Adhomukha Shwanasana (downward dog posture) and Urdhvamukha Shwanasana (upward dog posture) strengthen the upper body. Asanas like Utkatasana strengthen the lower part of the body. Yoga builds increases core strength and relieves symptoms of back pain and arthritis.

Increased strength and flexibility results in improved posture. Right posture prevents many ailments. It also adds to the confidence immensely. Yoga enhances the oxygen-absorption capacity of the lungs. It provides relief form asthma. Regular practice of yoga improves overall fitness and stamina.

Yoga helps you to handle stress. Regular practice of yoga results in decreased production of catecholamines. These hormones are produced by adrenalin glands in response to stress. Yoga provides relief from insomnia.

Yoga is very good for cardiac health. It maintains a healthy blood pressure and heart rate. It boosts the immune system and decreases bad cholesterol and triglycerides.

Yoga lowers levels of neurotransmitters like epinephrine. This promotes calmness of the mind. Regular practice of yoga increases oxytocin levels. This hormone is associated with relaxation. Yoga improves memory and the mind’s ability to learn.

Yoga increases the ability to concentrate and improves skill in action. It promotes a positive attitude towards life in general. It is very effective against depression as it increases blood supply to the brain. Yoga is known to relieve symptoms of many mind related conditions like obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Even though yoga is a safe non-aerobic exercise, it should not be practiced without the guidance a capable teacher. It is definitely not a DIY venture. Before joining any school of yoga, it is always advisable to speak to the students of the school.

Yoga, if practiced under a capable guide, will surely enhance your spiritual, mental and physical well-being.

 

Health benefits of yoga