Being Yoga
By Rob Baldaro
There is more to yoga than using it to just get a workout. There are a number of different types of yoga, a quick search on the internet will bring back sites that will help you choose which one best suites you. You might want to try a few types out before choosing the right one going forward. Although there are a number of different types of yoga, they are all about using your body and breathing to calm your mind and produce a feeling of well being.
Anyone, regardless of age, can take up yoga. It is a great stress reliever, promotes flexibility, both physically and mentally. Yoga generally uses ancient names for the asana (postures), e.g. the bridge, the scorpion, the fish. Each position is held for a period of time which stretches and strengthens the muscles. The boat asana tones and strengthens the abdominal muscles, improves balance and confidence, and stretches the backs of the legs. The most basic asana is called the corpse position which entails lying on your back on a flat surface with your eyes closed and your arms 45% away from your body. Whilst in that position, slow down your breathing.
Yoga should be a way of life, not just an exercise routine. If you have enough discipline, you can learn the positions from a DVD, but I recommend at least go for a few classes before going on your own. You can then learn the basic positions as well as some of the breathing techniques from a professional instructor. Although you don't need to follow a diet according to yoga, there is the option to adopt a vegetarian yoga diet called sattic. Yoga separates all foods into three main sections. The sattic foods are wholemeal grains and fresh fruit and vegetables. Rajastic foods are hot and bitter foods, e.g. coffee, chocolate, fish which are suppose to destroy the mind and body equilibrium. Finally tamasic foods are meat, alcohol, onions, garlic which do not benefit the mind or body. Stales foods are also considered tamasic.
If you wish to try out yoga and the diet but don't know where to start, then how about going away on a yoga holiday. You will have professional instructors throughout the week taking you through the different positions and breathing techniques. You can also have the option of following a yoga diet and see if it suites you or your lifestyle.
You can go for yoga classes if you are pregnant, but you must go to a qualified teacher who will take you through a set of safe exercises and they can also show you which ones to avoid.
About the
author:
Rob produces articles about health and fitness. You can also checkout his latest website over at Island Range Hoods and Island Vent Hoods
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I wish you all the best on your yoga adventure!
To your health,
Thomas T :)
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