Yoga, Not Just Flexibility
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While we're bombarded with commercials telling us about products to help us lose weight, get great abs and tone our muscles, we very seldom hear about yoga - an exercise that can do all of that and more.
Many think that yoga is just to maintain flexibility, something that muscle building programs fail to do- but both physical and physiological benefits are also credited to yoga.
Flexibility is recognized as the single biggest benefit of yoga. The positions the yoga practitioner can place himself in can leave many people shocked, if you've ever seen a yoga class or website. Yoga can help increase the range of motion in your hamstrings, back shoulder and hips.
The yoga poses, some of which may be held for prolonged periods, also help you build strength and muscle tone. You will also have improved balance as you learn to achieve poses.
Increased flexibility and strength also help in prevention of some types of pain. Think how good a stretch feels when you get out of the car from a long drive. Back pains, shoulder pain and even carpal tunnel pain are some of the pains relieved by yoga, these are just some of the benefits yoga extends to your body.
Breathing is extensively focused on during yoga. As you move through a pose, learning to take slower and deeper breaths benefits your whole body. Be prepared for some light-headedness while your are still learning how to breathe properly during yoga as your blood is carrying a better supply of oxygen. This will happen during your first few attempts but don't worry, it will pass. Controlling your breathing helps in reducing stress and managing pain.
While any exercise carries mental benefits as well as physical, the benefits of yoga come not from endorphins but from concentration and calmness. Concentration on breathing and body positioning is very important in yoga, this is also a good tool for stress reduction and to calm your thoughts. You may find that yoga in the evening helps relax your mind and body for sleep.
Starting in yoga is as easy as enrolling in a class, buying a video or watching a TV program directed towards yoga. You'll also need a carpeted area or a yoga mat and loose or flexible clothing. Body awareness is important in yoga whether you are by yourself or in a group. If a pose hurts, then use a modification or do not attempt it until you get stronger or more flexible. If you continue a yoga practice, you'll find the poses become easier and you may well look forward to yoga as one of the best "you" times of the day.
Article Source: Articlelogy.com
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