Gordon Cameron asked:




Yoga attempts to unify the body, mind and spirit and to heal one is to heal all. Yoga makes use of a whole range of stretching positions to align, center and ground the physical body - balancing the mind and relaxing and uplifting the spirit.

The healing power of yoga has been known for centuries and in India, yoga is used to treat many diseases and conditions. Many, many people have achieved a lower blood pressure by using yoga and by adapting to its benefits.
Yogas power lies in the way it combines body, mind and spirit - synchronizing them to one entity instead of three separate ones. This allows for healing to be received and accepted.

Learning Yoga
It's not hard to learn yoga although it may look like it is at first. It's really more about the state of mind you achieve during the stretches than about the stretches themselves. There are several styles of yoga and all provide the same healing benefits.

If you are a novice who wants to learn yoga for blood pressure treatment then the Hatha Style is best. It's the commonest in the west and an easy in route for a beginner. Hatha poses are gentle and easy on the body and each class starts with a mediation session. The breathing techniques and patterns used in yoga help to promote relaxation and will lower BP in the process.

Lowering Your Blood Pressure with Yoga
Yoga lowers high blood pressure by encouraging you to relax using deep and correct breathing. Most of us do not breathe properly - we breathe from our chest not from our lower diaphragm. Yoga teaches you both the correct way to breathe and also different types of breathing techniques.

Yoga meditation will teach you to properly and fully relax. Being able to mediate is something we can all do but for many it will be hard at first to make their minds go quiet and passive. Keep trying - practice makes perfect.

If you really want to lower your blood pressure through yoga then you have to practice it every day for at least fifteen minutes each time. Be patient. Persevere. The benefits are worth it.

Once you learn to control your mind, you will be able to control your blood pressure!

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Shalini Singh asked:




Kapalbhati is one of the best yoga techniques that have been given to us by sages of India. It is a gift to humanity. The idea is simple, breathe in normally and exhale forcibly allowing the stomach to collapse. Do it for 10 minutes and feel the difference within days.

Kapalbhati is one of my favorite pranayamas. Kapalbhati is a subcategory of Pranayama that comes in the 3rd chapter of "Pantajali Yogdarshan". Amongst the several Pranayamic exercises and techniques; Kapalbhati is noteworthy as Kapalbhati is an exercise the practice of which imparts glow to the skull; a cleansing process which brightens the forehead. Kapalbhati is a pranayama technique which invigorates the entire brain and awakens the dormant centers that are responsible for subtle perception.

Although performing kapalbhati is basically quite straight forward, it is important that it is performed correctly in order to obtain the best results. It includes breathing slowly as usual and then forcing the breath outside. A major effect of kapalbhati is to increase air pressure in short bursts in the nasal pharynx and sinuses, which stimulates the forward part of the brain. However, if both nostrils are blocked, Kapalbhati cannot be done. The technique uses short and strong forceful exhalations while inhalation happens automatically.

Kapalbhati is theretofore a highly energizing abdominal breathing exercise as it causes the stomach to collapse as the exhalations are forced. Kapalbhati is a highly energizing abdominal breathing exercise. Kapalbhati could be done as fast as two strokes in a second. Kapalbhati is the one major yogic breathing technique capable of expelling toxins from the lungs. Though kapalbhati is usually done sitting down, it can be practiced standing up.

This pranayama technique actually invigorates the brain and cleanses the mind. I think Kapalbhati is the one that helps me most. Baba Ramdev is a great proponent of the Kapalbhati and suggests at least 10-15 minutes a day to get rewards.

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Sheridan Hammond asked:




Immerse yourself in the world of an ancient and powerful discipline for cultivating physical, mental and spiritual growth – Yoga. This intimate practice offers escapism, peace of mind and a sense of stability for all who endeavour to learn. By embracing yoga you will be opened up to a whole new perspective on life.

Learn Yoga…

Yoga can provide a foundation for living and constant direction in your life. Astanga is one of the most common form of yoga practised. It was handed down from Rishi Vamana, through a long lineage of Masters and is practiced around the world today. Qualified yoga instructors are certified through Yoga Alliance International, which enables them to share the yoga experience with others.

Yoga is more than simply poses and stretches, it focuses on calming the mind and strengthening the body. Therefore, instructors always ensure a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere for everyone – from beginners through to veterans. Rejuvenative yoga covers subtle techniques for creating an understanding of our body through releasing tension, mainly from the hips and shoulders.

Yoga Nidra is another practiced type of yoga, which literally translates to “sleep of the yogis." It is used to prepare mentally and physically prior to seeking deeper levels of consciousness and awareness through meditation. Yoga Nidra is enjoyed so much because it gives a feeling of total relaxation, and is often practiced by enthusiasts daily. It is one of the most powerful opportunities that people can take in order to escape from the tension of materialistic life.

Live Yoga…

Our hectic modern day lives tend to make us lose touch with ourselves; however by embracing the practice of yoga, this can be overcome. In philosophical terms yoga means a refined rejuvenative reunion with ‘self,’ a journey of self-discovery. This practice restores the body and mind to its fundamental state of well-being, peace, and vibrant alertness. It encourages balance and harmony in all areas of life in addition to assisting with the rehabilitation of injuries.

When practiced traditionally Astnaga Yoga is a 6 day a week exercise. Once introduced to the yoga, many find it inescapable and integrate it as a regular activity in their daily lives. Those who practise yoga will experience increased flexibility and toning of muscles. Yoga has also been proven to assist in preventing illness and supports an entirely healthy and invigorated mind, body and soul.

Love Yoga…

It is important to realise we don’t need to buy something material to make us feel good. Yoga activists acquire a sense of increased physical strength and flexibility, in addition to greater concentration and general well-being. What could be better than treating your mind and body to an intimate practise that serves to benefit your well being?

The opening prayer for the practice of yoga reads as: “Because I want more peace of mind and stability in life, I faithfully practice yoga as it has been passed down by the gurus.” Yoga allows for the creation of peace as well as physical, mental and spiritual awareness and escapism.

Of those who seek to learn yoga, many end up living it and loving it.

Paul Jerard asked:




Parkinson's disease affects motor and speech skills and is characterized by muscle rigidity and tremors. This degenerative disease is also chronic, meaning life long and progressively crippling.

People with Parkinson's disease appear stooped and move slowly as the disease progresses. Age is a factor, as is evidenced by a great deal of the older population showing symptoms. Their walk is often a shuffling gait with very short steps. The person has trouble lifting their feet. Arms don't move, or move little, when the person is walking. Range of movement is impaired and their hands shake. This palsy is the most telltale sign of Parkinson's.

Other symptoms that develop can be even more debilitating. Problems with speech, and swallowing, cause an inability to communicate. Fatigue and depression are present in nearly half of Parkinson's cases. Parkinson's disease affects distal muscles first (muscles farthest from the body, like hands and feet). As the disease progresses, proximal, or the muscles closer to the trunk of the body, become affected.

This disease often is attributed to having no cause. Some factors can play a role, such as head trauma, drug use, toxins, or genetic predisposition. While there are several pharmaceuticals on the market, some of them seem to become counter-productive, but there are new and encouraging development trials.

At present, there doesn't seem to be a break-through drug to stop the advancement of Parkinson's disease. However, physical activity and therapy can alleviate some symptoms. The more the body and mind are active, and work together, the more successful treatments are for patients. Yoga works to unify the mind, body, and spirit.

Yoga practice engages the mind and clarifies focus. In the process, the postures, breathing, and movement, stimulate the nervous system and improve health. Pharmaceuticals, in conjunction with Yoga practice, seem to be the best option for students with Parkinson's disease.

© Copyright 2008 - Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

Suzanne Early asked:




Yoga Moves To Create Mind Body Balance

So there I was, trying to hide in the back row - doing my yoga moves and grooves - well my version of them anyway - ever been there? Legs tangled up in knots or crossed in a position I can't get out of. If only I had been listening to our instructor, instead of having an attack of the giggles with my sister-in-law. However, I hung in there in the hope that in time I would become more in tune, have more balance, have coordination and feel the benefits that others told me about. So what are they anyway?

Health benefits of yoga moves include increased balance and flexibility, mental clarity, improved strength, relaxation and energy. It works to integrate mind, body and spirit.

Your yoga stretches will increase the range and flexibility of your muscles and joints. Different yoga positions promote different skills and varying balance, encouraging strength with supporting your own body weight.

This type of exercise, as does Pilates, can help to improve your back alignment, strength and flexibility. Back pain is so common these days and one way to manage pain could be beginning yoga. For men, classes are welcoming and encouraging, as it is for seniors, where exercises, if necessary, can be done in a chair. You come away feeling invigorated, and relaxed with a greater sense of well being.

Learning to breath correctly can help focus the mind and breath. Most of us do not breath correctly. Deep belly breathing is encouraged. Getting more oxygen into your body, focusing on having depth and rhythm in your breathing, quietens your body. Mentally concentrating on your breathing can help calm your mind, which in turn relieves stress, and we could all do with a bit less of that couldn't we!

Being aware of your body and in tune with how it works, can help you with the signs of breast cancer. Since I am passionate about breast health and encouraging women to become breast aware, doing their monthly breast examination, I feel yoga is another thing women can do to improve their health. Proactive women taking care of their health often do breast self exam. Being aware of how your body moves and feels, puts you in a good position if changes were to occur with your breast. The health benefits of yoga are many, so what are you waiting for, have a go, listen to your instructor and avoid the giggles in the back row!

Glen Wood asked:




Recommended by Prevention Magazine Yoga: Relief from Neck and Shoulder Pain offers a comprehensive look at gentle yet effective yoga poses to relieve tension, increase strength, and improve posture in the neck and shoulders. Lillah provides clear guidance for the safe execution of each pose, suggestions for correcting common mistakes, and non-weight bearing alternative poses for therapeutic needs.

Although no one treatment works for everyone, many aspects of yoga make it ideal for treating back pain and neck pain. For example, studies have shown that those who practice yoga for as little as twice a week for 8 weeks make significant gains in strength, flexibility, and endurance, which is a basic goal of most rehabilitation programs for back pain or neck pain.

A common cause of shoulder pain is soreness of the tendon (a cord that attaches a muscle to a bone) of the rotator cuff (the part of the shoulder that helps circular motion). If shoulder pain and immobility are keeping you awake at night or from the daily activities you love, you are not alone.

The Alexander Technique is often used by people with postural problems, chronic back and neck pain, or a desire for improved performance in sports or the performing arts. Much of what is known about the benefits of the technique has been anecdotal.

More recently, small scientific studies have suggested benefits for stress reduction, back pain during pregnancy and chronic pain (Atchison, 1999), pregnancy and childbirth (Stallibrass, 1997), enhanced relaxation (Kerr, 2000), improved balance in older women (Dennis, 1999), enhanced respiratory function (Austin, 1992) and improvement in posture, spasticity and anxiety in people with learning disabilities (Maitland, 1996).

It is best to do your yoga exercise for low back pain under the supervision of a good yoga instructor, and if you encounter any problems with these poses, you should consult an expert. Even just one or two sessions with a yoga instructor can help, as an instructor will help you with your form and posture during poses.

Yoga - Relief from Neck & Shoulder Pain (VHS Video)featuring Lillah Schwartz Relieve stress and improve posture with this comprehensive routine 60 minutes of Instruction 22 Minutes of Guided Practice. A simple time tested, therapeautic sequence of yoga postures focused on relieving tension, gaining strength and improving posture in your neck and shoulders. The 60 Minutes of Instruction provide you with clear gentle guidance for the safe and effective execution of each yoga pose and teaches you how to correct the most common mistakes.

Paul Jerard asked:




Although Hatha Yoga is much more than exercise, we can make factual comparisons, to other forms of physical exercise, to understand how this ancient practice manages to have such an enthusiastic following. On the physical level, the practice of Hatha Yoga can help a student develop strength, balance, flexibility, and cardio vascular endurance. In comparison to other forms of exercise, Hatha Yoga encompasses all of their physical benefits and more.

Some people would question the cardio vascular aspect, but they have not practiced Surya Namaskars (Sun Salutations). This is a sequence of postures, which by itself, enhances strength, balance, flexibility, and cardio vascular endurance. Usually, Surya Namaskars contain twelve postures, but there are exceptions, and there are many different sequences.

Some forms of Power, Vinyasa, and Flow Yoga, connect movement in a similar fashion. Anyone who has practiced these forms of Yoga can attest to the aerobic value. Yet, some studies will question this, because Hatha Yoga is not a high impact exercise. All forms of Yogic exercise respect, and safely work, to preserve the joints.

Yet, exercise of moderate intensity, performed over time, is classified as aerobic. To go a bit further, any exercise activity, which requires oxygen to metabolize glucose, in exchange for energy, is aerobic. With that said, no one usually questions the benefits of strength, balance, and flexibility from Yogic exercise, especially if they witness a room full of women over 50, who can balance their body weight on two hands in bakasana (also known as crane or crow pose).

The postures (asanas) are designed to massage internal organs, preserve skeletal health, and tone the muscles. Massaging internal organs is of primary importance to our survival. We can send toxins on their way by keeping the body in motion, and we do not need high impact movement to perform this task. Prevention of disease, and early detection of disease, are benefits of an internal awareness, which comes with Yoga practice.

On the skeletal level, we want to keep our joints intact for as long as possible. The ligaments and tendons are precious, so we work to keep them in good working condition, as well. On top of this, spinal alignment, during posture practice, helps with mobility, when we become seniors.

How many other exercise systems work so completely? This does not take away the value of cross training. By all means, walk, swim, and play your favorite games; but in comparison, Yoga, on the physical level, is the "Great Healer" of all forms of exercise.

© Copyright 2008 - Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

Bertil Hjert asked:




Understanding yoga is not easy. In fact, anything that had been in existence for more than about thousands of years is not easy. The origins of this unique form of physical act or exercise are not very clear. However, experts feel that the origins of yoga were found either in ancient Egypt or ancient India.

As we all know, yoga has gained tremendous popularity since last few decades. The different types of postures of yoga have helped many people to promote healthy mind, body, and soul. It has been proved as an excellent means of relaxation, which proffers a sense of inner peace and balance.

These days, the art of yoga has become a never ending rage among youngsters, children and the old. With celebrities like Madonna embracing yoga for health benefits, the craze for this unique form of exercise is here to stay.

A) What is yoga?

Yoga involves a series of different postures in conjunction with stretches. This is practiced within a holistic mindset and deep concentration that results in emotional, spiritual mental, physical and health benefits.

Most people who have been practicing yoga for a long time have understood yoga as a form of meditation. The more one tends to practice this art, the more one feels enlightened and experience transforming effects. Yoga works towards gifting and developing an individual's inner as well as outer personality. It also helps in transforming one into a good human.

B) Yoga as a way of life

Yoga can be understood as a lifestyle or a way of life. It is an art of righteous living. Experts would like to refer it as an effective system to benefit the body mind and inner spirit. This unique are was originated ancient years back.

You can find some excellent references to yoga in 'Puranas' and 'Upanishads'. These were beautifully composed by Indian Aryans in the later vedic and post vedic period.

The principles of yoga were described in full fledged eight fold yogic discipline. This is explained by Patanjali in his 'yoga sutra'. It was composed almost two thousand years ago! The eight important stages of yoga recommended by Patanjali are as follows:

These are the stages of yoga discipline:

a) Yamas - Restrains and abstentions

b) Asanas - Physical exercises or postures.

c) Pranayama - Total control over vital energy or breathing pattern.

d) Niyamas - Observances such as contentment, study, austerities, purity and surrender of the ego.

e) Dhyana - Meditation

f) Partyahara - Withdrawal of the senses.

g) Samadhi - Attainment of the super conscious state

h) Dharana - Contemplation or concentration of the mind.

C) Superb health benefits of yoga

There are several health benefits of practicing yoga.

a) Weight loss and Weight control

b) Enhances immune system and blood circulation in the body

c) Control over anxiety

d) Relief from asthma, multiple sclerosis, headaches, blood pressure and carpal tunnel syndrome.

e) Reduces arthritis pain, depression, stress, heart disease, chronic fatigue and back pain.

f) Helps in removing toxins from the body.

g) Heals several diseases and body ailments

h) Enhances concentration power and creativity; Reduces stress and tension

i) Allows better thinking, enhances flexibility and balance.

j) Leads to spiritual fulfillment.

Sydney Heiden asked:




One of the best things about yoga is you really don’t need any specialized equipment to get all of the major health benefits. Because yoga is traditionally practiced barefoot, you don’t need shoes. If you are working out on a carpet, you don’t even need a mat.

This is not to say that you never need any additional equipment. Some people have found that using an exercise ball is beneficial to their yoga program. Yoga balls have been used for years for physical rehab, but now they are being used in all types of different exercise programs.

Typically, stability balls have been used for abdominal exercises such as stomach crunches, but they can be used for almost any exercise. The theory behind the exercise ball is simple; the body is unstable when it is sitting on the ball and the core abdominal muscles have to work harder to keep the body upright. As a result, you get a more complete workout when using the ball.

It is easy to understand how you change your traditional stomach crunch into a ball stomach crunch, but how can you adapt your yoga exercise to yoga ball exercise? Actually, it is pretty simple. You assume the traditional yoga poses while sitting or leaning on the exercise ball. For some exercises, the yoga ball will make the exercise easier by giving you more support. For other exercises, it will actually increase the energy required to assume the proper pose. As a result, you get increased muscle strength. You also have to concentrate harder to achieve the pose, which results in clearing your mind of your cares and troubles, helping to relieve stress.

Some people swear by their exercise ball, other people swear at them. So obviously, using a yoga ball for your exercises is not for everyone. You just have to try it, you may like it.

Some facts to keep in mind before using an exercise ball for yoga. Not all balls are created equal. Some are larger than others; some are made out of stronger material. The most expensive exercise ball is not necessarily the best.

Be sure you get the proper size ball for your body. Check with the local sporting goods store, they should be able to help you find the right size ball for yoga exercises. If you are just starting out with a ball, you probably do not want to inflate the ball to its maximum. Less air pressure will help make the ball more stable, making it easier to maintain your balance. When you get comfortable using the ball, you can increase the air pressure, making the ball less stable and increasing the core muscle workout.

You can even find videos now that show how to use the exercise ball for yoga. But remember, it is not necessary to incorporate yoga ball exercises into your workout. You can still reap all of the benefits from yoga without using the exercise ball. However, it can add variety to your workout and increase the exercise you get for your core muscle group.

Sarah Freeland asked:




Getting your yoga certification in New Jersey can improve your job prospects and health at the same time. If you feel limited in your options for work, then perhaps yoga instruction is for you. A good yoga teacher is a very valuable member of a community. You will find an enjoyable and challenging job in yoga.

Basic yoga certification is a great way to get started. Learning to teach simple yoga techniques such as hatha yoga will help you get your foot in the door and build a basic clientele for your yoga studio. Yoga certification in New Jersey offers many new and exciting opportunities for you and your new students.

There are additional varieties of yoga certification in New Jersey. Maybe you are looking for yoga teacher training that is a little more advanced. Consider acquiring training in ashtanga yoga. Ashtanga Yoga is a faster flowing, aerobic-style workout. As more people realize the healthful properties of cardiovascular exercise, ashtanga yoga grows in popularity. Get your training now and you can get in on the trend.

Once you have your yoga certification in new jersey, consider teaching a yoga workshop or two. Workshops are a great way for you to get started in the yoga business because they are less like a weekly class and more like a yoga retreat experience. Students can get to know you without making a huge commitment and that is a good way to build your clientele. A workshop is a wonderful option if you are just starting out.