About this ancient practice…
Dating back over 5000 years, yoga is considered by many to be the oldest defined practice of self-development. The methods of classical yoga include ethical disciplines, physical postures, breathing control and meditation.
Derived from the Sanskrit word “yuji,” meaning yoke or union, yoga brings together mind and body. It incorporates breathing exercises, meditation and poses designed to encourage relaxation and reduce stress.
Traditionally an Eastern practice, it’s now becoming popular in the West. In fact, many companies, especially in Britain, are seeing the benefit of yoga, recognizing that relaxed workers are healthier and more creative, and are sponsoring yoga fitness programs.
Many studies have found that a little yoga in the morning, at night, or even on a lunch break, can minimize stress and increase productivity. It is believed that yoga is so effective for stress relief because, aside from the physical benefits that yoga brings, it encourages a good mood, an increase in mindfulness, and a healthy dose of self-compassion.
Benefits of yoga…
The following is only a partial list of the benefits of yoga.
- Reduced Stress
- Sound Sleep
- Reduced Cortisol Levels
- Improvement of many Medical Conditions
- Allergy and Asthma Symptom Relief
- Lower Blood Pressure
- Smoking Cessation Help
- Lower Heart Rate
- Spiritual Growth
- Sense of Well-Being
- Reduced Anxiety and Muscle Tension
- Increased Strength and Flexibility
- Slowed Aging Process
Yoga’s benefits are so numerous, it gives a high payoff for the amount of effort involved.
What’s Involved with Yoga…
The practice of yoga involves stretching the body and forming different poses, while keeping breathing slow and controlled. The body becomes relaxed and energized at the same time.
There are various styles of yoga, some moving through the poses more quickly, almost like an aerobic workout, and other styles relaxing deeply into each pose. Some have a more spiritual angle, while others are used purely as a form of exercise.
The goal during yoga practice is to challenge yourself physically, but not to feel overwhelmed. At this “edge,” the focus is on your breath while your mind is accepting and calm.
Enhancing Fitness…
Yoga is known for its ability to soothe tension and anxiety in the mind and body. But it can also have an impact on a person’s exercise capacity.
Researchers studied a small group of sedentary individuals who had not practiced yoga before. After eight weeks of practicing yoga at least twice a week for a total of 180 minutes, participants had greater muscle strength and endurance, flexibility and cardio-respiratory fitness.
Based on these findings, practicing yoga can be an effective way to boost strength and endurance, especially when used in combination with a regular exercise routine.
Not For Everyone…
Although many forms of yoga practice are safe, some are strenuous and may not be appropriate for everyone. In particular, elderly patients or those with mobility problems may want to check first with a clinician before choosing yoga as a treatment option.
The Bottom Line…
The evidence is growing that yoga practice is a relatively low-risk, high-yield approach to improving overall health. Finding the time to practice yoga just a few times per week may be enough to make a noticeable difference when it comes to your health.
Some Christians believe it is selfish to take time to exercise or view it as a waste of time, but our bodies are gifts from God. We are stewards in a sense, so it’s important to take time to care for them.
By being fit and healthy, we are also better able to carry out our God-given vocation on earth. So let’s focus on being healthy for God.
1 Corinthians 9:24
Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain.
