You only get out what you put in
That's the catch phrase of a breakfast cereals we have in Australia called Nutri-Grain, I saw the ad last week and it got me to thinking about the importance of understanding the basic workings of our bodies.
The heavier you are the more energy it takes to perform a task. If you are 120kgs and are eating the energy requirements for a 80-90kg person it's probable that your body will break down lean muscle tissue as well as fat to make up the deficit energy requirements. May sound good in the short term (as you will lose weight fast to begin with) but in the long run you will probably gain more than what you started with, and this regained weight will be fat, making you 'fatter' than when you started.
So how do you know what your energy intake should be? The safest bet would be to visit your local GP or Nutritionist, they can give you all the information in regards to calorie intake. You could even join a weight loss group like Jenny Craig or Weight Watchers and follow their guidelines, taken from the World Health Organisation.
A basic rundown of your energy needs is as follows, please note this is only a rough guide you should consult your doctor or nutritionist before embarking on any weight loss program.
50-60kg = 5000kJ [1200cal]
60-70kg = 6000kJ [1400cal]
70-80kg = 6500kJ [1500cal]
80-90kg = 7000kJ [160cal0]
90-100kg = 7500kJ [1800cal]
100-110kg = 8000kJ [1900cal]
110-120kg = 8500kJ [2000cal]
Over 130kg = 9000kJ [2100cal]
Portions and Servings
We've all heard that we should eat 5-6 serves of bread/cereals/pasta; 5-7 serves of fruit and vegies; etc, etc. You learn this in school – it’s the Healthy Food Pyramid.
In today's society of super-sized meals we've actually lost sight of what an actual serving is. We fill large plates and bowls because we are so used to large servings. It's no wonder there is such a high obesity level in the world - we over eat all the time. If you were to put a proper serving onto a plate you'd be surprised at how 'little' it is.
Being used to larger servings of meals can make it hard to judge a serving for a meal. Don't fret! There are a few tricks you can use to trick your body into thinking it's eating those same 'big' serves you're used to.
* Measure or weigh out serving sizes, this will ensure you are getting the right serve. You do not have to use the serving size suggested, if you want a slightly larger or smaller portion adjust it accordingly – just be aware of what you are consuming and don’t overdo it.
For example, instead of a 250ml glass of juice with your breakfast have a 150ml glass. If you are on a higher energy intake, instead of the suggested 2 slices [25g] of meat for your sandwich add an extra slice to boost your intake.
* Use the same sized plate/bowl. By this I mean if you have cereal most mornings have it in the same sized bowl every morning. Once you have been measuring your cereal for a few weeks you will see how much "belongs" in the bowl. However, don't be fooled into thinking you no longer need to measure out your serve as it's easy to over judge while you’re pouring – by all means, start measuring on your own, just remember to check what you are doing occasionally.
* Use smaller plates. We are used to eating on large plates that generally tend to hold larger than normal servings. When you put smaller servings of meals on a large plate you can [subconsciously or not] feel like you are denying yourself, which could lead to binging or even a subconscious sabotage of your good effort. By using a smaller plate it's harder to 'overload' your plate, and you can trick your body into thinking it's not being denied. When you put the right serve on a smaller plate it makes the plate look 'fuller', and more like we are used to.
For example try eating your ice-cream from a rice bowl. A regular serve of ice-cream is about 50g; in a normal size bowl it looks rather small and pitiful. Now put the 50g serve of ice-cream in a small rice bowl and the bowl not only looks full but you don’t feel like you are depriving yourself of the treat. Also, in the case of desserts like ice-cream, try eating it with a teaspoon – it will take you a little longer to eat so you enjoy it more.
* Try eating your meals with different cutlery. In the above example of the ice-cream, instead of eating with a normal dessert spoon try using a teaspoon. It will take you a little longer to eat so you will enjoy it more. Try eating your main meal with chopsticks [ie a stir-fry or rice dish] it takes a little to get used to and you will eat slowly but you will savour and enjoy what you are eating more then the traditional means.
* Use smaller glasses. This works the same as the above point. Most glasses are larger then most drink serving sizes. Go and measure how much water a glass holds and take a look at the amount of juice you should have per serve - you'll be surprised at the difference. Again when you pour out an actual serving you may feel ripped off as the glass is ‘half full’. By using smaller glasses you can trick yourself into thinking u aren't being ripped off because the glass is full, not half empty.
What is a portion?
As I said before, we tend to 'oversize' our portions. So what exactly is a portion? Some basic portion sizes are as follows [all are in metric cups] And don’t forget, if you are counting calories you will need to consult your calorie guide and/or the label on the packet.
Bread & Cereal:
1/2 cup of dried or 1 cup of cooked pasta/noodles
1/2 cup cooked rice or 1/4 cup of dry rice
1 thick slice of bread or 1/2 a bagel or large roll
1/2cup of cooked beans/lentils
1 cup of flake type bekkie cereal
1/2 cup oats or muesli
Meat:
Poultry/pork [cooked] 75g [the size of a deck of cards]
Red meat 75g [deck of cards]
Fish fillet 1 med piece, 100g
Mince meat 1/2 cup
Nuts a small handful
Eggs 1 medium [55g]
Fruit & Veg:
1 large potato [about the size of your fist, 30g]
Apple/orange/pear - 1 medium size
Kiwi fruit, strawberries - 2
Dried fruit 4-6 pieces
Oven chips [cooked] 100g
Dairy:
Cheese 30g
Milk 250ml
Low fat yogurt 200g
Read the Label
Always read the labels for the 'suggested serving size' and 'serves per pack/bottle/etc'. And try and stick to one serve. Bottled drinks are notorious for having more then the recommended serve. Be careful especially when having soft drinks, such as Coke or Pepsi, most people have a 600ml bottle... a serve of coke is actually a 250ml.
For example the bottle of Mineral Water that I have actually has 1.5 serves per bottle. Its serving size is 200ml, I have 150ml served in a flute glass with my main meal so the bottle gives me 'two' drinks. It makes a nice compliment to my meal. Cutting serves like that is ok. It can create havoc when you are counting calories though but the Nutritional Info should have a energy per serve and energy per 100ml [or grams, etc]
The most important thing to remember to keep an eye on what you are doing - keep a food diary and keep track. Food diaries are very helpful to us, and are not just for calorie counters. Now before you say "But thin Sally doesn't use one, why should I?" -- 'Thin Sally' obviously doesn't have a food problem. Thin Sally probably already eats healthy and in moderation & is probably physically active to boot. Those wanting to lose weight on the other hand DO have a problem and need to work on it. You may not be aware of what you are putting in your mouth.... that popcorn & soda at the movies... the couple of mouthfuls of cheese at the grocery shop stand. You need to put in everything and work from there.
If you aren't counting calories or on some specific diet, like Akins/South Beach, or following what a die titian or doctor has given you, then you will need to basically follow the Food Pyramid. If you would like to try something different have a go at following the Asian Food Pyramid, it works on Daily, Weekly & Monthly foods. Both Pyramids work on "Everything in Moderation", and THAT is the key to healthy eating.
Remember: You only get out what you put in. You are eating to fuel your body, not eating for the sake of eating.
Energy Expenditure
So you've eaten well each day - that's a great start to weight loss. However, you need to do more in order to shift those excess kilograms, to do this you are going to have to 'burn off' the extra energy [this means fat]. Exercise in not your only weapon here - incidental exercise & normal household chores can also play a part.
It is important to mention that while you are training [exercising] there are three major things to remember:
1. See your doctor before you start any training [exercise] program. High impact aerobics are great but you need to work up to them - going hard at it straight up could cause injury. Also it could be hazardous to you if you have a heart [or other medical] problem. Your doctor will be able to help set you in the right direction.
2. Don't train [exercise] yourself to [or beyond] physical exhaustion. Training until you are physically sick and continuing is alright if you are in Special Forces but it is NOT good for us mere mortals. Listen to your body, take breaks if and when you need them and keep some water nearby. If you find yourself unable to keep up with an aerobics class stop and march on the spot. If you are weight training try lighter weights. You are trying to get healthy - not punish yourself.
3. The whole energy in/energy out deal does not work on a daily scale it averages out over a period of a time [ie a week]. So don't fret too much if you go "off the rails" one day food-wise [ie eat more calories then you should have or overindulged on a piece of cake] or miss an exercise session during the week. The important thing is to get back on track and not continue on the eating binge, etc. You maybe surprised at the end of the week to see that you lost weight despite the hiccup. With that said, let’s see what energy is burnt in various activities.
10,000 Steps Program
The 10,000 steps a day program works on incidental activity as well as actually getting out for a daily walk. The average person will burn approximately 1255-1880kJ walking 10,000 steps. This isn't power walking, just everyday steps. So naturally if you walk faster you will burn more energy. Also, people who are overweight will burn more energy then those who are at a healthy weight.
kJ[cal] burnt in 10mins
Here's a list of activities with their approximate kJ[cal] expenditure. These values are based on the number of kJ[cal] burnt after 10 minutes of continuous activity by someone who weighs 65kg. If you weigh more than this you will burn more kJs. Everyone’s metabolism is different but the general rule of thumb is the more energy you put into an activity, the more energy you will burn.
Activity kJ[cal]
Aerobics, low impact 230[55]
Aerobics, high impact 270[65]
Aqua aerobics 250[60]
Badminton 270[65]
Circuit training 355[85]
Cleaning the house 165[40]
Cleaning windows 165[40]
Cooking 125[30]
Cycling @ 9km per hr 125[30]
Cycling @ 15km per hr 230[55]
Dancing, ballroom 145[35]
Dancing, disco 270[65]
Driving a car 85[20]
Eating 60[15]
Gardening, digging 335[80]
Gardening, mowing 315[75]
Gardening, weeding 145[35]
Golf 230[55]
Ice skating, average pace 210[50]
Ironing 85[20]
Jogging slowly 335[80]
Mopping the floor 165[40]
Netball, average speed 290[70]
Pilates 125[30]
Running @ 10min per km 630[150]
Running @ 12mins per km 525[125]
Running @ 15mins per km 375[90]
Shopping 165[40]
Sitting 60[15]
Skiing 270[65]
Skipping 460[110]
Squash 585[140]
Stair climbing 460[110]
Sweeping 125[30]
Swimming, slow 355[85]
Swimming, fast 420[100]
Tennis 290[70]
Typing 85[20]
Vacuum cleaning 190[45]
Walking, slow 165[40]
Walking, briskly 250[60]
Walking uphill, slow 210[50]
Weight training, free weights 230[55]
Yoga 125[30]
It is recommended that you aim for 30mins of exercise a day. If this seems like too much to start with, break it up. Do three 10min sessions a day and build it up from there. It does not matter how you start out – the important thing to remember is that you are doing something.
Chyna Dolores
iyengar yoga
pilates yoga masaje
vinyasa yoga
what is yoga
yoga for men
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Showing posts with label yoga. Show all posts
Showing posts with label yoga. Show all posts
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
Yoga poses:introduction
It increases muscular strength. It reduces tension and stress. It has a low potential for injury, and it doesn't even look like exercise.
Why, then, don't more people practice yoga.
People think of yoga as being passive and mystical - an otherworldly activity that doesn't relate to their lives. People are experiencing a vacuum because of all the outward directed activity, and they are going to have to go back to the experience of self.
Although the Indian discipline of yoga has been practiced for more than 5,000 years, in this country there are few followers. Almost half the American adult population swims and close to a quarter runs or jogs, yet only 2 percent practices yoga.
The word yoga derives from the Sanskrit root yuj, meaning to yoke or connect. Through yoga's various techniques, one is said to arrive at mental and physical equilibrium, better health and inner peace. It has been described as providing, in effect, a ''work-in'' rather than a workout.
There are at least eight main branches of yoga and several offshoots of each, but essentially there are only two concerned with exercise: hatha yoga and kundalini yoga.
Hatha is the most popular type of yoga in the Western world. It is a slow-paced discipline that emphasizes controlled breathing and assuming various physical poses. It is said to aid the nervous system, the glands and the vital organs.
Kundalini, which was introduced to this country in 1969 by Yogi Bhajan, is more active, combining various modes of breathing, movement and meditation. It is based on the idea that body energy that is coiled below the base of the spine can be tapped so that it travels upward through different energy centers or chakras until it reaches the head. At this point one arrives at one's highest potential.
Classically, there are 84 basic yoga positions, or asanas, which are coordinated with special breathing techniques. The asanas range from simple bends and twists to pretzel-like contortions reserved for the most advanced practitioners. The various poses elongate the muscles and build flexibility. Along with the proper breathing, they help rid the body of tension. Static holds isolate and strengthen particular muscles.
Asanas have been evolved over the centuries so as to exercise every muscle, nerve and gland in the body. They secure a fine physique, which is strong and elastic without being muscle-bound, and they keep the body free from disease. They reduce fatigue and soothe the nerves. But their real importance lies in the way they train and discipline the mind.
Why, then, don't more people practice yoga.
People think of yoga as being passive and mystical - an otherworldly activity that doesn't relate to their lives. People are experiencing a vacuum because of all the outward directed activity, and they are going to have to go back to the experience of self.
Although the Indian discipline of yoga has been practiced for more than 5,000 years, in this country there are few followers. Almost half the American adult population swims and close to a quarter runs or jogs, yet only 2 percent practices yoga.
The word yoga derives from the Sanskrit root yuj, meaning to yoke or connect. Through yoga's various techniques, one is said to arrive at mental and physical equilibrium, better health and inner peace. It has been described as providing, in effect, a ''work-in'' rather than a workout.
There are at least eight main branches of yoga and several offshoots of each, but essentially there are only two concerned with exercise: hatha yoga and kundalini yoga.
Hatha is the most popular type of yoga in the Western world. It is a slow-paced discipline that emphasizes controlled breathing and assuming various physical poses. It is said to aid the nervous system, the glands and the vital organs.
Kundalini, which was introduced to this country in 1969 by Yogi Bhajan, is more active, combining various modes of breathing, movement and meditation. It is based on the idea that body energy that is coiled below the base of the spine can be tapped so that it travels upward through different energy centers or chakras until it reaches the head. At this point one arrives at one's highest potential.
Classically, there are 84 basic yoga positions, or asanas, which are coordinated with special breathing techniques. The asanas range from simple bends and twists to pretzel-like contortions reserved for the most advanced practitioners. The various poses elongate the muscles and build flexibility. Along with the proper breathing, they help rid the body of tension. Static holds isolate and strengthen particular muscles.
Asanas have been evolved over the centuries so as to exercise every muscle, nerve and gland in the body. They secure a fine physique, which is strong and elastic without being muscle-bound, and they keep the body free from disease. They reduce fatigue and soothe the nerves. But their real importance lies in the way they train and discipline the mind.
Sunday, June 17, 2007
Yoga, stress and acne
Hatha Yoga can help you towards better health and calm your mind so that you can solve your personal problems, but I do want to stress two facts. Yoga positions and the practice of yoga can be beneficial to your mind, your muscles, and even internal functions like your digestive system. Stress is a factor and cause of more physical and mental diseases than most of us can imagine. Yoga can be a remedy.
Yoga: Stress Reducing Way To Combat Acne
Yoga: Stress Reducing Way To Combat Acne
Many people that suffer from acne should look into the skin healing benefits of doing yoga. This relaxing form of exercise is an excellent way to regenerate both the body as well as the mind. Now how can yoga help to rid your skin of acne?
Stress is one of the largest contributors to someone experiencing an acne breakout. When you are tired and stressed your skin is one of the first things to suffer. Many skin experts claim that exercise will help rid the skin of acne however, sweat can cause new breakouts in addition to potentially making current acne problem worse then they were before you started exercising.
You will have a very hard workout when you participate in yoga. The difference is yoga is preformed at a much slower pace then most other exercises so you are much less likely to work up a sweat. This pace will allow a person to get a great workout and by not sweating as much they are likely to have their skin clear up as well.
In addition to being a low impact exercise yoga is known world wide as being an excellent way to relax your body. Since stress is a huge factor being able to lessen the stress in your life will do wonders for clearing up blemish problems on your skin. If you keep up with a regular routine of yoga you are likely to see healthier looking skin in no time at all.
Yoga is a suitable form of exercise for just about anyone of any age who is suffering from acne. If you are unsure about beginning a new exercise routine be sure to consult your health care provider. If you are looking for a great treatment for your acne problem as well as a fantastic way to get your body and mind feeling great then yoga is for you.
Acne Treatments and Acne Products UPDATE! Your Source of Natural Acne Treatment.Choose your type of yoga
On the personal level, our urban civilization brings with it tensions virtually unknown in our grandparents' time. We tend to Eve on the run, geared to split-second timing, to noise, to newscasts every hour on the hour, to phones jangling and cars honking, subway trains, deadlines and keeping up with the Joneses and seldom sufficient rest, relaxation or sleep. None of this is conducive to peace of mind. As for our physical conditions, as fast as the human body is enabled, through technical advances, to last longer, it falls prey to a new, totally different roster of ills. It is time to choose your type of Yoga.
What style of yoga is right for you?
What style of yoga is right for you?
Yoga is a meditation, an exercise and a therapy that aims to unite the mind, soul. All styles of yoga balance the body, mind and spirit but how they do so may differ. Some styles focus on the poses, while others may focus on breathwork, alignment or the flow of movement. You will always feel naturally realigned after a yoga class because the breathwork, postures and internal focus will remind you who you are.
Breathing is very important in yoga as the breath signifies your vital energy. In yoga, being able to control your breath can help you to control your body and your mind. No matter which style of yoga you choose there are many classes available and the health benefits are many.
The benefits of yoga are far ranging and plentiful. Yoga can help you with increased flexibility, increased strength and vitality, strengthening of the immune system, improving of circulatory system, stimulating of endocrine system, stretching and toning of muscles, weight loss, balance, management of chronic health conditions such as asthma, depression, back pain, osteoarthritis and osteoporosis - yoga is so beneficial to every part of your life. The great thing about yoga is that anyone can practice it, as there is a style to suit everybody.
There are several different styles of yoga, most being derived from Hatha yoga, a type of yoga that focuses on the body and breath and aims to develop control the body through poses (or asanas). Hatha represents the two sides of life - the yin and the yang, the dark and the light - and aims to bring these two sides into harmony and balance. However, there are some common styles and these are outlined below:
Ashtanga - is the "workout" form of yoga. It is an aerobic form of yoga and moves quickly. Bikram - is performed in a heated room. It is good for detoxification. Kundalini - awakens the Kundalini energy at the base of the spine and mixes chanting, breathing and yoga poses. Iyengar - one of the most popular in the world. It places much focus on attention to detail and getting the alignment of the poses absolutely right. It is a great style of yoga for the fitness conscious. Viniyoga - places emphasis on healing and is gentler than other styles. The breath and movement of the spine is carefully integrated and the intensity of the poses is subject to the health of the person practicing the yoga.
How do you find the most suitable yoga style and yoga teacher for you?
There are several different ways of finding a suitable yoga teacher or class, depending on your needs. If you are a beginner, it may be best to take formal classes or tuition for a while, so that you can get the feel for the poses and the breathwork, and so that the teacher can correct any errors in your posture. Before selecting a school it is best to give the teachers a call and discuss their styles to determine what is most suitable. You will see yoga schools advertising in local papers or you can locate local practitioners online at http://www.naturaltherapypages.com.auDavid Vitek is the Owner of Australia's Largest Natural Health Website. Come & learn about Bikram Yoga & how to Quit Smoking Naturally.
Yoga and Your Health
You know that Nature built into your body certain natural safeguards against disease, certain "defense mechanisms" for self -repair. Well, modern health Yoga helps the body's machinery function smoothly, efficiently, at peak performance. It encourages your body to derive every last possible atom of nutritive value from the food you now eat (so different from the natural diet of your ancestors) ... to get every second of refreshment and rest from your sleep ... to attain regularity, relief from little aches and pains, the ability to sleep deep and wake refreshed that can make the difference from feeling "pretty good" to feeling "terrific! "
Twisting Back Into Health
Yoga as a Chinese Medicine
Yoga is considered an exercise that helps with strength, cardiovascular and weight loss in the Western world. In ancient Chinese medicine, however, Yoga was also used as a practice in order to cultivate health. Anyone interested in Yoga, or practising the discipline will recognize that the health related to Yoga also provides nourishment for a better balance towards health.
Balancing the flow of energy that is happening in one's body is the philosophy that forms the basis of Chinese medicine. The incorporation of this medicine doesn't just include the balance of the body; it also includes the relationships of the mind and the spirit that relate to the body. All are considered to be intertwined and when the energy flow of one area is off, it changes the energy flow of the entire system.
Yoga as a form of exercise was used as a method to help with healing and balance in life, and can be considered one of the ways to use Chinese medicine. The practice of Yoga, while it can help to treat ailments, is recognized more often as a way to prevent disease and imbalance. By practicing Yoga, one can keep their health on all levels.
Yoga enables you to do this through the opening of the various points in the body with the practice. Chakras, or points in the body that help with energy flow is directly linked to every Yoga move. Yoga helps to open these chakras, and keep them open. By doing this, one is able to increase their energy and begin to stay in better health. Yoga is especially known for helping with problems such as insomnia, and in the functioning of internal organs.
In all branches of Yoga, the ultimate goal is to reach a constant state of perfect consciousness and can be a way of increasing one's spiritual awareness, Yoga is known to help increase energy as well as clear blocks that may be in your system and if you want a straightforward alternative to healing, as a practice it can help. Your energy will begin to increase and flow over time allowing you to stay in the best of health without the unnatural twists.
Alien writes for Family Physicians . He also writes for skin problems and natural herbs
Twisting Back Into Health
Yoga as a Chinese Medicine
Yoga is considered an exercise that helps with strength, cardiovascular and weight loss in the Western world. In ancient Chinese medicine, however, Yoga was also used as a practice in order to cultivate health. Anyone interested in Yoga, or practising the discipline will recognize that the health related to Yoga also provides nourishment for a better balance towards health.
Balancing the flow of energy that is happening in one's body is the philosophy that forms the basis of Chinese medicine. The incorporation of this medicine doesn't just include the balance of the body; it also includes the relationships of the mind and the spirit that relate to the body. All are considered to be intertwined and when the energy flow of one area is off, it changes the energy flow of the entire system.
Yoga as a form of exercise was used as a method to help with healing and balance in life, and can be considered one of the ways to use Chinese medicine. The practice of Yoga, while it can help to treat ailments, is recognized more often as a way to prevent disease and imbalance. By practicing Yoga, one can keep their health on all levels.
Yoga enables you to do this through the opening of the various points in the body with the practice. Chakras, or points in the body that help with energy flow is directly linked to every Yoga move. Yoga helps to open these chakras, and keep them open. By doing this, one is able to increase their energy and begin to stay in better health. Yoga is especially known for helping with problems such as insomnia, and in the functioning of internal organs.
In all branches of Yoga, the ultimate goal is to reach a constant state of perfect consciousness and can be a way of increasing one's spiritual awareness, Yoga is known to help increase energy as well as clear blocks that may be in your system and if you want a straightforward alternative to healing, as a practice it can help. Your energy will begin to increase and flow over time allowing you to stay in the best of health without the unnatural twists.
Alien writes for Family Physicians . He also writes for skin problems and natural herbs
Thursday, June 7, 2007
Benefits of Yoga
Yoga works very well through meditation to gain tranquility and assists the mind to work in harmony with the body. Yoga Guru Patanjali has defined Yoga as a ‘steady and comfortable state of Mind and Body’. And, a comfortable and steady state of body and mind is precisely what practising yoga delivers.
As any enthusiastic practitioner of Yoga will tell you, physical and mental therapy is the most important benefit of yoga. Aging, largely an artificial condition caused mainly by auto-intoxication or self-poisoning, has people scared of the process. What they do not realise is that the aging process can be slowed down by practicing yoga on a regular basis. And, no doubt, medical research will tell you that a clean, flexible and well lubricated body plays a significant role in reducing the catabolic process of cell deterioration. However, to derive the maximum benefits from doing yoga, one must combine the practice of yoga asana, pranayama and meditation.
Doing pranayama, asanas and meditation daily helps in diverse ailments, such as, diabetes, blood pressure, digestive disorders, arthritis, arteriosclerosis, chronic fatigue, asthma, varicose veins and heart conditions. Scientific tests have proven a yogi's increased abilities of consciously controlling autonomic or involuntary functions, such as temperature, heartbeat and blood pressure. Currently, research into the effects of yogic practices on HIV is underway and has indicated positive and promising results.
Medical scientists attest to the success of yoga therapy, as it helps to balance both the nervous and endocrine systems, which directly influence all the other systems and organs of the human body. Not only a curative, but a preventative therapy, as well, the very essence of yoga lies in attaining mental peace, improved concentration powers, a relaxed state of living and harmony in relationships.
Practising Yoga makes us aware that there is an inter-connectedness between our emotional, mental and physical levels, as we gradually begin to understand the more subtle areas of existence. The ultimate goal of yoga is to make it possible and enable one to fuse together the gross material (annamaya), physical (pranamaya), mental (manomaya), intellectual (vijnanamaya) and spiritual (anandamaya) levels, within our being.
In case, you are still unconvinced about the benefits of Yoga, why not read some yoga books, including yoga books on meditation and spirituality. There are even online yoga books and audiotapes, one can listen to while driving or running errands. Once you are convinced of the benefits of practising Yoga, the next step before beginning to practise it is to equip yourself with some yoga accessories, such as, a yoga mat, yoga strap and yoga block. Go Yoga!
Yogabestseller.com is your one stop place for all Yoga Accessories! Get massive range of Yoga books, Yoga mats, Yoga audiotapes at unbeatable prices! Buy Yoga Books, Yoga blocks, Yoga Straps, yoga meditation mats, foam blocks and many other yoga products at reasonable rates. Visit www.yogabestseller.com
Yoga Benefits - Part I
As any enthusiastic practitioner of Yoga will tell you, physical and mental therapy is the most important benefit of yoga. Aging, largely an artificial condition caused mainly by auto-intoxication or self-poisoning, has people scared of the process. What they do not realise is that the aging process can be slowed down by practicing yoga on a regular basis. And, no doubt, medical research will tell you that a clean, flexible and well lubricated body plays a significant role in reducing the catabolic process of cell deterioration. However, to derive the maximum benefits from doing yoga, one must combine the practice of yoga asana, pranayama and meditation.
Doing pranayama, asanas and meditation daily helps in diverse ailments, such as, diabetes, blood pressure, digestive disorders, arthritis, arteriosclerosis, chronic fatigue, asthma, varicose veins and heart conditions. Scientific tests have proven a yogi's increased abilities of consciously controlling autonomic or involuntary functions, such as temperature, heartbeat and blood pressure. Currently, research into the effects of yogic practices on HIV is underway and has indicated positive and promising results.
Medical scientists attest to the success of yoga therapy, as it helps to balance both the nervous and endocrine systems, which directly influence all the other systems and organs of the human body. Not only a curative, but a preventative therapy, as well, the very essence of yoga lies in attaining mental peace, improved concentration powers, a relaxed state of living and harmony in relationships.
Practising Yoga makes us aware that there is an inter-connectedness between our emotional, mental and physical levels, as we gradually begin to understand the more subtle areas of existence. The ultimate goal of yoga is to make it possible and enable one to fuse together the gross material (annamaya), physical (pranamaya), mental (manomaya), intellectual (vijnanamaya) and spiritual (anandamaya) levels, within our being.
In case, you are still unconvinced about the benefits of Yoga, why not read some yoga books, including yoga books on meditation and spirituality. There are even online yoga books and audiotapes, one can listen to while driving or running errands. Once you are convinced of the benefits of practising Yoga, the next step before beginning to practise it is to equip yourself with some yoga accessories, such as, a yoga mat, yoga strap and yoga block. Go Yoga!
Yogabestseller.com is your one stop place for all Yoga Accessories! Get massive range of Yoga books, Yoga mats, Yoga audiotapes at unbeatable prices! Buy Yoga Books, Yoga blocks, Yoga Straps, yoga meditation mats, foam blocks and many other yoga products at reasonable rates. Visit www.yogabestseller.com
Yoga union in Body, Mind, and Spirit
Yoga is an ancient practice that helps create a sense of union in body, mind, and spirit. The most important benefit of yoga is physical and mental therapy. Hatha Yoga can help you towards better health and calm your mind so that you can solve your personal problems. People start yoga for many reasons. They may want to increase their levels of health, fitness, and flexibility.
Yoga is an ancient art of staying fit, both physically and mentally. The yoga benefits are so enormous that they are still being discovered almost everyday. The benefits of this ancient art include physical, mental, emotional health, spiritual benefits and natural healing.
The art of Yoga has evolved over many centuries in ancient India. The earliest records of this form of art are found in the ancient Hindu texts and mythologies. Yoga keeps the mind and body of a person fit by slowing down the natural aging process. It reduces the amount of toxins absorbed by our body cell and thus slows down its deterioration.
The physical well being of a person is an obvious benefit of Yoga. There are specific yoga poses or asanas that are aimed at increasing height, losing weight from waist or hips, improving blood circulation, solving Gastrointestinal problems and respiratory problems, normalizing blood pressure levels and in keeping it under control, improving our cardio-vascular efficiency, improving physical strength and stamina are to name only a few.
Beyond the more obvious physical benefits, there are many spiritual benefits of Yoga. At a basic level Yoga helps by improving our level of concentration and mental clarity. At an advanced level it improves thought control, mind control and is also known to help in developing psychic powers. On a higher level Yoga unites ones self with the environment and the people around us. It helps us realize and experience how we are One with nature. It is a sort of enlightenment that makes us feel at par with the universe. We become more aware of the lives of people around us and how they are intertwined with our own. This makes us feel at peace with ourselves. Purifying, healing and rejuvenating exercises can restore health, force of life, joy and also lengthen life span. Certain exercises, such as Laya Yoga practices serve liberation, salvation of the soul and reinvent our relationship with God. Yoga thus provides mental peace and spiritual harmony. The realization of ones spiritual self makes us a better person.
The three main components to the practice of Yoga are: breathing, concentration and posture also known as asanas. All three components work together for specific objectives.
One of the most commonly practiced asanas is the Sirsha asana or the Headstand Pose. To do this exercise firstly kneel down and place your arms flat on the floor. Interlock fingers of both hands. Place your head between your hands, flat on the floor. Raise your back from the kneeling position so that you are on the tip of your toes, with your head still on the floor. Slowly raise your legs off the floor so that it extends upwards, keeping the body aligned and balanced. Breathing techniques used during the exercise enhance the overall effect.
Breathing techniques, also known a pranayama, is aimed at bringing more oxygen into our blood stream thereby improving the efficiency of our system. Breathing techniques go hand in hand with the various asanas.
Yoga finds immense use in our present day lives. From relieving office work tension to keeping de-stressing ourselves on a long flight to making us a better person in todays outright competitive and religiously divided world. It brings out a harmony in our precariously unbalanced lifestyles and emotional stability to our personal lives. It is surprising that sparing only a few minutes a day to practice this art can bring us enormous benefits.
Kevin Pederson can guide you on the {a href=" http://www.yogawiz.com"} working principles behind Yoga which focuses on the benefits of Yoga techniques intended to produce a positive state of mind in us. This article explores the spiritual benefits of yoga.
Explore The Spiritual Benefits Of Yoga
Yoga is an ancient art of staying fit, both physically and mentally. The yoga benefits are so enormous that they are still being discovered almost everyday. The benefits of this ancient art include physical, mental, emotional health, spiritual benefits and natural healing.
The art of Yoga has evolved over many centuries in ancient India. The earliest records of this form of art are found in the ancient Hindu texts and mythologies. Yoga keeps the mind and body of a person fit by slowing down the natural aging process. It reduces the amount of toxins absorbed by our body cell and thus slows down its deterioration.
The physical well being of a person is an obvious benefit of Yoga. There are specific yoga poses or asanas that are aimed at increasing height, losing weight from waist or hips, improving blood circulation, solving Gastrointestinal problems and respiratory problems, normalizing blood pressure levels and in keeping it under control, improving our cardio-vascular efficiency, improving physical strength and stamina are to name only a few.
Beyond the more obvious physical benefits, there are many spiritual benefits of Yoga. At a basic level Yoga helps by improving our level of concentration and mental clarity. At an advanced level it improves thought control, mind control and is also known to help in developing psychic powers. On a higher level Yoga unites ones self with the environment and the people around us. It helps us realize and experience how we are One with nature. It is a sort of enlightenment that makes us feel at par with the universe. We become more aware of the lives of people around us and how they are intertwined with our own. This makes us feel at peace with ourselves. Purifying, healing and rejuvenating exercises can restore health, force of life, joy and also lengthen life span. Certain exercises, such as Laya Yoga practices serve liberation, salvation of the soul and reinvent our relationship with God. Yoga thus provides mental peace and spiritual harmony. The realization of ones spiritual self makes us a better person.
The three main components to the practice of Yoga are: breathing, concentration and posture also known as asanas. All three components work together for specific objectives.
One of the most commonly practiced asanas is the Sirsha asana or the Headstand Pose. To do this exercise firstly kneel down and place your arms flat on the floor. Interlock fingers of both hands. Place your head between your hands, flat on the floor. Raise your back from the kneeling position so that you are on the tip of your toes, with your head still on the floor. Slowly raise your legs off the floor so that it extends upwards, keeping the body aligned and balanced. Breathing techniques used during the exercise enhance the overall effect.
Breathing techniques, also known a pranayama, is aimed at bringing more oxygen into our blood stream thereby improving the efficiency of our system. Breathing techniques go hand in hand with the various asanas.
Yoga finds immense use in our present day lives. From relieving office work tension to keeping de-stressing ourselves on a long flight to making us a better person in todays outright competitive and religiously divided world. It brings out a harmony in our precariously unbalanced lifestyles and emotional stability to our personal lives. It is surprising that sparing only a few minutes a day to practice this art can bring us enormous benefits.
Kevin Pederson can guide you on the {a href=" http://www.yogawiz.com"} working principles behind Yoga which focuses on the benefits of Yoga techniques intended to produce a positive state of mind in us. This article explores the spiritual benefits of yoga.
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