Yoga for Natural Health and Wellness
What is commonly referred to as "yoga" can be
more accurately described by the Sanskrit word
asana, which refers to the practice of physical
postures or poses.
Asana is only one of the eight "limbs" or types
of yoga, the majority of which are more
concerned with mental and spiritual well being
than physical activity. Today, however, the
words asana and yoga have become almost
synonymous.
Would you like to learn yoga? Maybe you’re tired of
the same old exercise routine and want to try something different.
Or perhaps you haven’t been exercising at all and now you’re ready
to begin. Wherever you are, Yoga is great, even for beginners. If
you aren’t familiar with Yoga, this article gives you the basics of
Yoga.
Yoga Philosophy
The practice of Yoga is based on five principles. The
first principle, relaxation, is fundamental to nurturing your
nervous system and generating a calm, tranquil feeling throughout
your mind and body. The second principle, proper exercises focuses
on various Yoga positions, to get your body moving. Proper
breathing, the third tenet, concentrates on regulatory breathing,
conducive to greater concentration and increased levels of energy.
The proper diet principle introduces the idea of using food as
sustenance for the body, instead of as self-medication. Lastly,
meditation helps you to combat negative thoughts and focus on
positive thinking instead.
Benefits of Yoga
Yoga assists in body-mind connection. It focuses on
the connection of your body and mind and promotes a total physical
and spiritual well-being.
Yoga encourages and requires total concentration,
while inducing a feeling of calm and relaxation. It is also known
for enabling great flexibility and muscle relaxation. Yoga has long
been attributed for improved health and energy in people with
serious health ailments, such as arthritis and fibromyalgia.
Getting Started With Yoga
You don’t need any special equipment or apparel to
get started with yoga. Usually the basic requirements include a mat,
blanket and pillow. Your clothing should be something that allows
for flexibility and easy movement. Wear clothes that will not
confine your movement.
It is usually recommended that beginners purchase a
Yoga video or book to learn the basic Yoga positions. If you have
access to a local gym that offers a Yoga class for beginners, try
connecting there for a directed learning class.
See also:
Yoga in Bed |
Yoga for Stress Relief
|
Ways to Re-use a Yoga Mat
|
Yoga for Beginners |
Pilates for Beginners
Yoga Gear:
