A new way of fitness that the western world is waking up to is Yoga. It works on all aspects of the person: the physical, mental, emotional, psychic and spiritual. Being over 5000 years old, there are so many misconceptions about yoga. Some believe it to be witchcraft; others think that it's a gymnast way of life. There are many questions that rise about yoga among the general people. The following points would try to throw a little light on different aspects of yoga by answering some of the most frequent asked questions about it:
What is Yoga?
Developed in India, Yoga is a psycho-physical discipline with roots going back about 5,000 years. The word 'yoga' is taken from the Sanskrit word ‘yuj' which means to bind and is often interpreted as "union". Yoga is the union of physical, mental and spiritual self. It involves a number of exercises that both stretch and strengthen the body through physical exercises, breathing exercises and meditation exercises.
What are the benefits of Yoga?
The benefits of yoga are tremendous. A few of them are:
- It can help relieve stress.
- It can protect you from a number of diseases including cardiovascular diseases and diabetes.
- It can increase strength and flexibility of the body.
- It keeps one young and healthy.
- It helps reducing excessive body fat.
- It improves sleep.
- It improves posture and breathing.....and the list just goes on!
I am a bit out-of-shape, can I still do yoga?
Yes of course. Basic Yoga is appropriate for you. It consists of deep breathing exercises, meditation and very light, easy-to-do asanas. It will make you strong and flexible. Start slowly and modify the poses as you need to — and never stretch to the point of pain. Within a few weeks, you should see noticeable improvements in your flexibility. Once you are in the mode, you can go for more complex exercises.
Can Yoga help me to lose weight?
Yes again! Yoga practices like Yogasana and Pranayama can improve the digestion capacity of the body and helps to reduce excessive fat consumption of the body. Yoga also promotes you to eat healthy diet consisting for fresh vegetables and fruits.
What do I need to do yoga?
Technically, you do not need anything to do yoga. But there are a few accessories that will help you in the process. Buy some loose fitting clothing which would allow your body to stretch without any effort or restraint and a slip proof mat.
Do I need to take classes?
If you are a beginner, it is recommended that you take classes to know the concept much better. But it is not necessary as you can learn through various videos on Internet or even buy DVDs for the same. There are many books that are written on yoga that will also help you to learn better.
When should I do Yoga?
Early in the morning is the best time to practice yoga. But if it is not possible for you in the morning, you can practice Yoga in the evening at least 4 hours after your lunch. Make sure that when you practice yoga your stomach should be empty. Even if you only practice for 2 times a week for 20 minutes, you will experience the desired benefits.
Should women practice Yoga?
Yoga is equally beneficial for men and women. However there are some asanas that should be avoided if you are in the menstrual period. There is also a special branch of yoga, called prenatal yoga, which will help you during your pregnancy.
Is there any age limit?
Anyone from the age of 12 to the age of 60 can practice yoga. But it can also be practiced at the age of 80 years if your body permits you.
Do I have to be a vegetarian to practice yoga?
Although Yoga does promotes vegetarian eating for a lifestyle but it does not imposes it on you. Being a vegetarian is a personal decision that everyone has to make for themselves.
If your aim is to recuperate vigor, health, and feel stronger and younger, then yoga is your exercise of choice. So start your yoga sessions today!
Really, yoga is the best workout for all kind of peoples including all age group. Really a great article to read.