Yoga is a highly popular exercise program, which provides many health benefits and can be practiced by anyone. While there is still scope for more comprehensive research in its actual health benefits, most recent research suggests that yoga is an effective and safe way to improve physical health, particularly balance, flexibility and muscle strength. Yoga is also recommended for elderly people at risk of repetitive falls, to improve co-ordination and balance. While yoga has been around for thousands of years, it was only in the late 19th century that it began to be considered a form of alternative medicine. However, some experts believe that it is now widely accepted as a part of a well-rounded health care plan.
The Health Benefits of Yoga is based on the belief that our bodies are made up of energy systems and the practice of yoga allows us to connect all of these systems to one another. By practicing yoga, we learn how to relax and control our breathing in order to facilitate our bodies’ natural flow of energy. The focus in yoga practice is on the development of a relaxed body, increased flexibility, strength and balance – all of which can have a beneficial effect on our health. When our body is in good condition and functioning well, our immune system is able to function normally. The body is in harmony, and we are able to enjoy long periods of rest without interruption. If we are stressed or overburdened by work, life, family or other problems, this can adversely affect our health. Yoga can help us overcome these problems through mental and physical relaxation and stress relief.
Yoga helps to maintain a healthy weight because it promotes a state of calmness and harmony throughout the body. It can help us lose weight through burning calories by calming the nervous system and increasing oxygen supply to the body. It also encourages us to eat correctly, so that our food intake does not trigger unnecessary cravings. All of these effects lead to overall good health and reduce the risk of many common illnesses and diseases. In fact, yoga can be particularly helpful for pregnant women and mothers who want to strengthen their bones and increase flexibility. It also increases the resistance of the heart to attack and strengthens the lungs. This helps to prevent cardiovascular disease, a condition that is becoming increasingly common in the Western world.
