What is Yoga?

Physiological Benefits ~ An Overview

Psychological Benefits ~ An Overview 

Many people think of yoga as a past time for flexible people. Others may think of yoga as a religion, or something mysterious that involves chanting and other seemingly strange practices.

Yoga translates as “Union” from Sanskrit, the classical language from India. In the most simple terms, the original purpose of Yoga was to unite the mind, body and spirit.

Yoga is an ancient practice that focused on the mind-body connection, and was seen as a path to spiritual growth. 

Many modern yoga practitioners have taken a less spiritual approach and focus more on the physical part of breathing, strengthening, and stretching.

Yoga may be a religion or way of life to many traditional yogi’s, but for me, yoga is one element of a comprehensive wellness lifestyle.

There are many types of yoga practiced in the world today. Some programs incorporate several types of yoga as well as Pilates to provide a well-rounded fitness regimen. This is the type of fitness that I practice and bring to others.

Yoga can be for everybody, and every body

Physiological benefits ~ An Overview

Practitioners of yoga have reported the following physiological benefits of their yoga fitness routine:

Improved cardiovascular efficiency.

Improved muscle strength & endurance (by using your own body’s weight/resistance.)

Improved posture (improved alignment both during and after class.)

Improved circulation.

Lower pulse rate.

Lower respiratory rate.

Increased energy level.

Improved grip strength.

Reduction in body fat.

Increase in lean muscle mass.

Reduction in back pain.

Improved flexibility/range of motion.

Improved digestion.

Yoga may not be a substitute for your current fitness routine, but it can most certainly be a helpful tool to help you achieve a greater level of physical fitness. 

Yoga can be modified to be gentle for those who are less physically capable, yet can be made challenging enough even for the most seasoned athletes.

Psychological benefits ~ An Overview

Practitioners of yoga have reported the following psychological benefits of their yoga fitness routine:

Creates a sense of calm, well being.

Improved concentration.

Improved mood.

Improved cognitive function.

Improved memory.

Decreased anxiety.

Decreased depression.

Decreased anger/hostility.

Ability to handle stress improves.

 

Yoga is not a magic pill, but for many people, it is a safe and integral part of an effective wellness
lifestyle.

© Sara Hutchison, 2009