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 There are many types of yoga, and they all aim to balance the mind, body, and spirit by using combination of posture (asanas), breathing technique (pranayama) and spiritual and mental training. The spiritual, philosophical, and mental aspects of yoga are less practiced in the West.
One of the most important aspect of yoga is that it is noncompetitive. People of any size or age are able to learn and practice it, as long as they concentrated on their own capabilities.
The postures and breathing technique as designed to improve the flow of prana, or life energy. Prana flows through energy channels called nadis, and ill health signifies a blockage somewhere along these channels.
The body also has seven chakras, which are points of focused energy, and specific exercises in yoga concentrated on these areas which are found in the crown of the heas, the throat and the spine, the solar plexus, the center of the forehead, the heart and the navel.
The chakras are described as "whirling disks of light", and each chakra radiates a specific color and energy. As each chakra relates to specific spiritual, emotional, psychological and body issues, conscious awareness and balancing of these energy centers leads to well-being.
By improving fitness and suppleness, and helping people achieve and maintain a relaxed state of body and mind yoga can helpful in many physical and psychological conditions. These include stress related disorder, back and neck pain, respiratory difficulties, digestive disorder such irritable bowel movement syndrome, fatique, imsonia, arthristis and depression.
Benefits of Yoga
 Relaxation
Yoga exercises, such as gentle stretching, breathing, meditation and guided relaxation, release body tension and calm the nervous system and emotions.
Concentration
Focus, attention and concentration are promoted by a yoga practice of mindful movement and body awareness. The practice of balancing postures, in particular, builds concentration.
Toning
Holding yoga postures creates isometric exercise which tones every part of the body, including the internal organs.
Healing
Yoga exercises the glands, organs and endocrine system, massaging, toning and increasing circulation to stimulate, heal, and eliminate toxins from the body.
Flexibility
Yoga postures gently stretch the muscles in the body, increasing the flexibility and lengthening the muscles, tendons and ligaments.
Nourishing
Slow, gentle movements with deep breathing energize the body rather than tire it. This, in combination with yoga’s relaxation and healing benefits, allows daily renewal and nourishment of the body-mind-spirit.Recommended Book To Read The Complete Illustrated Book of Yoga (Paperback)
by Vishnu Swami Devananda
 It has been a wonderful guide. The many poses or asanas are wonderfully photographed, and the lessons section sets out various practice routines and time tables that are appropriate for every ability level. There is full section on the philosophy behind this yoga and its history, all of which is stated in a very clear and practical way. t is difficult to be all things to all people, but I think that this book does a good job at coming close! |
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