A great intro to Yoga, taken (with great thanks) from http://yourtotalhealth.ivillage.com
Reviewed By: Liz Neporent, MA |
|||||||||||||
Yoga Basics
Yoga is a physical and spiritual practice with roots in ancient India but with relevance to daily life in modern times. The typical workout blends strength, flexibility and body awareness with a series of poses, postures and positions called “asanas”. While there are many forms of yoga, most yoga newbies find Hatha the best school of yoga to start with. It includes all of the basic yoga moves and breathing exercises, but leaves out the spiritual aspects of some other forms. There are also many different styles of Hatha yoga, some more meditative, some more physically vigorous. One of the most appealing aspects of yoga is its ability to promote flexibility andrelaxation. Most gyms offer classes or you can check your phone book for a local yoga studio. Most places offer classes in a variety of skill levels and times throughout the week. If classes aren’t your thing, check out a yoga DVD, TV program or book to help guide you through a routine. Yoga can be practiced to enhance overall health, to improve balance, to heal and prevent injuries, to strengthen muscles and to open the body for meditation. Yoga’s increasing popularity is proof that many people value an exercise system that engages the mind, body and spirit in equal measure. If you’ve never done yoga before, give it a try and see what it can do for you. Upside of Yoga
Downside of Yoga
Is Yoga For You?This chart can help you see how yoga fits your goals and lifestyle concerns.
Yoga Tips
|
Liz Neporent, MA on Yoga
Yoga may not seem a great workout for weight loss, but first glances can be deceiving. You won’t burn a whole lot of calories while doing yoga, but it gives other benefits.
For one, yoga will help you build muscle. With more muscle, you’ll maintain a higher metabolism even while at rest.
Yoga also improves your flexibility and posture, which will help you look taller and thinner and may help you burn more calories
during other exercises, such as walking. While yoga may not be enough to get you to your weight loss goal, it is definitely a step in the right direction.
iVillagers Say
“Bikram yoga has changed my life and healed my chronic back pain. It doesn’t happen overnight, nor is it handed to you on a silver platter, but if you respect your body and start to believe in the poses, you will find that yoga is the secret to a happy and well rested body. I feel young again!” –An iVillager
“I began my practice of yoga 26 years ago and it has changed my life in many ways: I am both strong and flexible (physically and emotionally); I am able to managestress in my life; and I no longer place value on material possessions — contentment lies in the present moment!” –iVillager jane2256
Leave a Reply