Personal Best Health Wellness - Stress Relief through Yoga
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| HEALTH & WELLNESS RESOURCES |
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 The ancient Hindu practice of yoga has many Western followers of all ages. A system of physical and mental exercises, yoga means union — the joining of mind, body and spirit. Yogis believe health and happiness spring from keeping all parts of your life in balance. Yoga incorporates various movements, postures, breathing, relaxation techniques and meditation. Each session can leave you feeling calm and energized.
Regardless of your flexibility or fitness level, yoga allows you to enjoy results with your first lesson. Studies suggest that by practicing yoga regularly you may reap many rewards, including improvements in:
Physical Health
- flexibility, strength, coordination, grace, poise, posture and balance
- heart and lung function, circulation
- immunity and digestion
- relief of chronic pain associated with arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, headaches, irritable bowel syndrome and fibromyalgia
Mental Health
- vitality, sense of well-being
- ability to sleep, relax and cope with stress
- control of eating, smoking or alcohol abuse
What makes all this possible? Primarily, breathing. Our bodies tend to tighten in response to physical and mental stress, which constricts the chest and diaphragm, making it hard to take in oxygen. Yoga teaches you to release the tension by breathing properly to get the "life force" flowing better.
Tips for Beginners: Consult your health care provider before your first yoga lesson, particularly if you have arthritis or back problems. Start with the basics; don't do too much or you could get injured. Some yoga poses should only be done under the supervision of an experienced instructor.
Sources: Chopra Center for Well-Being; The Wisdom of Healing: A Natural Mind Body Program for Optimal Wellness, by Simon
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A copy of this 16-page report is FREE to you as a benefit to you and your organization.
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