The Benefits of Yoga

What is Yoga?

There are different types of yoga but the main one that is practised in the west is hatha yoga. This consists of a series of physical body postures performed in sequence, with relaxation at the end. The postures affect the body's energy flow. Breathing practises are also incorporated. These can be done while performing the postures and separately. Breath is seen as the life force and is therefore, very important. Hatha yoga harnesses and controls the energy flow.

Who can do Yoga?

The great thing about yoga is that any age or level of fitness of a person can do it. Even those with disabilities or the elderly can partake. It is not competitive but is about working to your own capacity. It is excellent for back problems and many other illnesses. It is very good to do if you are pregnant, in preparation for giving birth, as long as you modify the postures. It is also great to do after giving birth in order to get the body back into shape.

Stress

In life stress can not be avoided, but by practising yoga and relaxation on a regular basis, we can learn to let go of tension. The postures stretch and flex the body, allowing the muscles to let go of built up tension. Thus after doing the postures, which involve the tightening then releasing of muscles, the body is ready to relax naturally. The body feels naturally heavy and the muscles soft. A tense person can therefore, learn to relax and experience that feeling of release.

Body, Mind and Spirit in Harmony

The aim of yoga is to bring about a state of balance and harmony of mind, body and spirit. The three are inseparable. The postures along with the breathing have an important effect on the mind and spirit as well as toning the body.

A Healthy Body

Yoga works on all the major systems of the body: muscles, skeleton, circulation, digestive and nervous system. As each posture effects a specific area of the body, by working through a series of postures, every muscle in the body is gently stretched and contracted. This has a wonderful tonic affect, not only on the muscles, but also on the joints and the internal organs of the body. Thus the body becomes strong and flexible and a feeling of well being is also felt.

A Toned Body

With regular practise muscles become flexible, strong and well toned. Thus someone who practises regularly will have perfect development, with a full range of movement. It can also help with weight loss, although this is not its main aim. It does help to build a very positive self-image whatever your size. Yoga can help delay the ageing process by keeping muscles and ligaments moving.

Posture

Another benefit is that posture is greatly improved and people may actually feel taller, as they are now holding their spine erect, instead of slouching. Many of the postures work directly on the spinal column and bones move back into a more natural alignment. Also it is possible to sit upright for meditation for considerable lengths of time without feeling any discomfort. With the increased body awareness you will find that you begin to move more gracefully.

Feeling Re-Energised

Yoga will not leave you feeling drained or fatigued like other forms of exercise. Instead, due to the relaxing nature of yoga and the subtle effect that it has on the energy flow in the body, you will feel re-energised and revitalised.

Sally Haigh is trained by the British Wheel of Yoga and has been practising yoga for 16 years. She is available for private yoga tuition.

Telephone (029) 20766357. Tuition is available in the day or evening to suit. A programme can be developed and tailored to suit the individual's needs and level of fitness. Any health problem can be taken into account and a programme of yoga therapy designed if necessary.