HealthCare

Yoga stretches are used by physical therapists and professional sports teams, and the benefits of yoga are being touted by movie stars and Fortune 500 executives
Many prestigious schools of medicine have studied and introduced yoga techniques as proven therapies for illness and stress
Some medical schools, like UCLA, even offer yoga classes as part of their physician training program
Classical yoga is separated into eight limbs, each a part of the complete system for mental, physical and spiritual well-being
Four of the limbs deal with mental and physical exercises designed to bring the Yoga PositionsNameDescriptionAbdominal massageKneel with arms folded
Bend torso toward ground and lower forehead to the floor
Slowlly raise up, switch arms, and repeat
BoatLying on stomach, raise head, torso, arms, and legs off the ground and stretch
Arms should be outstretched and pointing towards feet
BowLying on stomach, hold ankles from behind and slowly raise head, torso, and thighs off floor
BridgeLying on back with knees bent and feet flat on floor, raise pelvis off floor and arch back
Arms should be stretched out on floor with hands grasped
COn hands and knees, move head and buttocks as far left as possible
Inhale as you return center and repeat on the right side
CamelWhile kneeling, arch back and bend head back toward feet
Hold heels with hands and exhale while in movement
CatOn hands and knees, arch back and exhale while in movement, rounding shoulders and back
ChildKneeling with arms to the side, roll torso to floor and rest forehead on the ground
CobraStretched out on floor with stomach down, place elbows parallel to shoulders and raise torso up
Arms should straighten with hands flat on floor
CorpseLie on back with feet and arms outstretched
DogOn hands and knees, dip back and lift head and buttocks up
Downward DogOn hands and knees form and inverted V by pushing pelvis up and pressing hands and heels to floor
Half CobraStretched out on floor with stomach down, place elbows parallel to shoulders and raise torso up
Keep arms bent and only raise torso off the ground as far as the navel
Half LocustLying on stomach with hands beneath the body, raise legs one at a time while tensing buttocks
Half LotusSit with legs crossed (only one leg should be over the other) and knees touching the floor
Half-MoonStanding with feet together, hold hands above the head with arms outstretched
Hand and thumb squeezeMake a fist around thumb and squeeze
Release slowly and repeat on other hand

Yoga stretches are used by physical therapists and professional sports teams, and the benefits of yoga are being touted by movie stars and Fortune 500 executives
Many prestigious schools of medicine have studied and introduced yoga techniques as proven therapies for illness and stress
Some medical schools, like UCLA, even offer yoga classes as part of their physician training program
Classical yoga is separated into eight limbs, each a part of the complete system for mental, physical and spiritual well-being
Four of the limbs deal with mental and physical exercises designed to bring the Yoga PositionsNameDescriptionAbdominal massageKneel with arms folded
Bend torso toward ground and lower forehead to the floor
Slowlly raise up, switch arms, and repeat
BoatLying on stomach, raise head, torso, arms, and legs off the ground and stretch
Arms should be outstretched and pointing towards feet
BowLying on stomach, hold ankles from behind and slowly raise head, torso, and thighs off floor
BridgeLying on back with knees bent and feet flat on floor, raise pelvis off floor and arch back
Arms should be stretched out on floor with hands grasped
COn hands and knees, move head and buttocks as far left as possible
Inhale as you return center and repeat on the right side
CamelWhile kneeling, arch back and bend head back toward feet
Hold heels with hands and exhale while in movement
CatOn hands and knees, arch back and exhale while in movement, rounding shoulders and back
ChildKneeling with arms to the side, roll torso to floor and rest forehead on the ground
CobraStretched out on floor with stomach down, place elbows parallel to shoulders and raise torso up
Arms should straighten with hands flat on floor
CorpseLie on back with feet and arms outstretched
DogOn hands and knees, dip back and lift head and buttocks up
Downward DogOn hands and knees form and inverted V by pushing pelvis up and pressing hands and heels to floor
Half CobraStretched out on floor with stomach down, place elbows parallel to shoulders and raise torso up
Keep arms bent and only raise torso off the ground as far as the navel
Half LocustLying on stomach with hands beneath the body, raise legs one at a time while tensing buttocks
Half LotusSit with legs crossed (only one leg should be over the other) and knees touching the floor
Half-MoonStanding with feet together, hold hands above the head with arms outstretched
Hand and thumb squeezeMake a fist around thumb and squeeze
Release slowly and repeat on other hand

"Any reason for practicing yoga is a good reason
Enhancing flexibility and releasing stress are as noble a purpose for performing yoga as the awakening of spirituality
This is the great gift of yoga it serves and nourishes us at every level of our being and spontaneously contributes to greater well being in all domains of life
Yoga will help you discover gifts within yourself that have remained unopened since your childhood gifts of peace, harmony, laughter, and love
This union is described in an ancient text known as the Yoga Sutras, written by the sage Patanjali who explains that yoga is the progressive settling down of the mind in the field of pure silence, which is usually overshadowed by the activity of the mind
The Seven Spiritual Laws of Yoga is a consciousness-based hatha yoga program infused with teachings from Dr
Hatha Yoga is the study of the asanas or postures based on Patanjali's Eight Limbs of Yoga
Our program offers a balanced approach that can be taken more deeply or gently, depending on the needs of the individual
We guide students to experience body-centered restful awareness, which in turn helps each student find the perfect way to do the postures
The Chopra Center in Carlsbad, California, provides yoga instruction seven days a week and offers its world-renowned Seven Spiritual Laws of Yoga teacher certification program twice each year
We also include morning and evening yoga instruction in all of our programs, seminars, workshops, and retreats
Click here for the Chopra Center's daily yoga class schedule or find a Chopra Center Yoga instructor near you
Please note that class times are subject to change
All other classes are held at The Chopra Center
Please arrive early to reserve your space
Family Yoga is open to families with children ages 4+, extended family members, and those with special needs
No previous yoga experience required; all you will need is an open mind & heart
Family Yoga is offered at the Chopra Center every Saturday morning from 10:30 to 11:30
Click here for directions to the Chopra Center
$15 One class$25 Two class pass$65 Five class pass (Valid for 30 days)$120 Ten class pass (Valid for 60 days)$150 One month pass (Unlimited attendance)$350 Three month pass (Unlimited attendance)$750 One year (Unlimited attendance)Call 888
These little "escapes" will be fun, informative, rejuvenating, and connecting for all involved
This will help graduates from our institution's teacher training programs to get certified by Yoga Alliance
There are lots of references to Yoga in Hindu scriptures, especially in the Gita, the Upanishads and other Puranas
Here's a selection of quotations from Sanskrit literature, which try to define or qualify Yoga- The Bhagavad Gita -
"Yoga is known as the disconnection (viyoga) of the connection (samyoga) with suffering
" Yoga is the control of the whirls of the mind
"Yoga is said to be the oneness of breath, mind, and senses, and the abandonment of all states of existence
"Yoga is the union of the individual psyche (jva-tman) with the transcendental Self (parama-tman)
" Yoga is the unification of the web of dualities (dvandva-jla)
" Yoga is said to be control

Yoga Definition The term yoga comes from a Sanskrit word which means yoke or union
Traditionally, yoga is a method joining the individual self with the Divine, Universal Spirit, or Cosmic Consciousness
Physical and mental exercises are designed to help achieve this goal, also called self-transcendence or enlightenment
On the physical level, yoga postures, called asanas, are designed to tone, strengthen, and align the body
These postures are performed to make the spine supple and healthy and to promote blood flow to all the organs, glands, and tissues, keeping all the bodily systems healthy
On the mental level, yoga uses breathing techniques (pranayama) and meditation (dyana) to quiet, clarify, and discipline the mind
However, experts are quick to point out that yoga is not a religion, but a way of living with health and peace of mind as its aims
PurposeYoga has been used to alleviate problems associated with high blood pressure, high cholesterol, migraine headaches, asthma, shallow breathing, backaches, constipation, diabetes, menopause, multiple sclerosis, varicose veins, carpal tunnel syndrome and many chronic illnesses
It also has been studied and approved for its ability to promote relaxation and reduce stress
As of late 2002, yoga is increasingly recommended for dysmenorrhea, premenstrual syndrome, and other disorders in premenopausal women, in Europe as well as in the United States
Yoga can also provide the same benefits as any well-designed exercise program, increasing general health and stamina, reducing stress, and improving those conditions brought about by sedentary lifestyles
Yoga has the added advantage of being a low-impact activity that uses only gravity as resistance, which makes it an excellent physical therapy routine; certain yoga postures can be safely used to strengthen and balance all parts of the body
A study published in late 2002 summarized recent findings about the benefits of yoga for the cardiovascular and musculoskeletal systems
The review noted that yoga is still viewed as a "trendy" form of exercise rather than one with documented medical benefits
Meditation has been much studied and approved for its benefits in reducing stress-related conditions
The landmark book, The Relaxation Response, by Harvard cardiologist Herbert Benson, showed that meditation and breathing techniques for relaxation could have the opposite effect of stress, reducing blood pressure and other indicators
Since then, much research has reiterated the benefits of meditation for stress reduction and general health
Currently, the American Medical Association recommends meditation techniques as a first step before medication for borderline hypertension cases
Some 2002 studies indicate that yogic meditation by itself is effective in lowering serum cholesterol as well as blood pressure
Modern psychological studies have shown that even slight facial expressions can cause changes in the involuntary nervous system; yoga utilizes the mind/body connection
That is, yoga practice contains the central ideas that physical posture and alignment can influence a person's mood and self-esteem, and also that the mind can be used to shape and heal the body
Yoga practitioners claim that the strengthening of mind/body awareness can bring eventual improvements in all facets of a person's life
DescriptionOriginsYoga originated in ancient India and is one of the longest surviving philosophical systems in the world
Some scholars have estimated that yoga is as old as 5,000 years; artifacts detailing yoga postures have been found in India from over 3000 B
Yoga masters (yogis) claim that it is a highly developed science of healthy living that has been tested and perfected for all these years
Yoga was first brought to America in the late 1800s when Swami Vivekananda, an Indian teacher and yogi, presented a lecture on meditation in Chicago
Yoga slowly began gaining followers, and flourished during the 1960s when there was a surge of interest in Eastern philosophy
There has since been a vast exchange of yoga knowledge in America, with many students going to India to study and many Indian experts coming here to teach, resulting in the establishment of a wide variety schools
Today, yoga is thriving, and it has become easy to find teachers and practitioners throughout America
A recent Roper poll, commissioned by Yoga Journal, found that 11 million Americans do yoga at least occasionally and 6 million perform it regularly

Yoga stretches are used by physical therapists and professional sports teams, and the benefits of yoga are being touted by movie stars and Fortune 500 executives
Many prestigious schools of medicine have studied and introduced yoga techniques as proven therapies for illness and stress
Some medical schools, like UCLA, even offer yoga classes as part of their physician training program
Classical yoga is separated into eight limbs, each a part of the complete system for mental, physical and spiritual well-being
Four of the limbs deal with mental and physical exercises designed to bring the Yoga PositionsNameDescriptionAbdominal massageKneel with arms folded
Bend torso toward ground and lower forehead to the floor
Slowlly raise up, switch arms, and repeat
BoatLying on stomach, raise head, torso, arms, and legs off the ground and stretch
Arms should be outstretched and pointing towards feet
BowLying on stomach, hold ankles from behind and slowly raise head, torso, and thighs off floor
BridgeLying on back with knees bent and feet flat on floor, raise pelvis off floor and arch back
Arms should be stretched out on floor with hands grasped
COn hands and knees, move head and buttocks as far left as possible
Inhale as you return center and repeat on the right side
CamelWhile kneeling, arch back and bend head back toward feet
Hold heels with hands and exhale while in movement
CatOn hands and knees, arch back and exhale while in movement, rounding shoulders and back
ChildKneeling with arms to the side, roll torso to floor and rest forehead on the ground
CobraStretched out on floor with stomach down, place elbows parallel to shoulders and raise torso up
Arms should straighten with hands flat on floor
CorpseLie on back with feet and arms outstretched
DogOn hands and knees, dip back and lift head and buttocks up
Downward DogOn hands and knees form and inverted V by pushing pelvis up and pressing hands and heels to floor
Half CobraStretched out on floor with stomach down, place elbows parallel to shoulders and raise torso up
Keep arms bent and only raise torso off the ground as far as the navel
Half LocustLying on stomach with hands beneath the body, raise legs one at a time while tensing buttocks
Half LotusSit with legs crossed (only one leg should be over the other) and knees touching the floor
Half-MoonStanding with feet together, hold hands above the head with arms outstretched
Hand and thumb squeezeMake a fist around thumb and squeeze
Release slowly and repeat on other hand

The basic positions can increase a person's strength, flexibility and sense of well-being almost immediately, but it can take years to perfect and deepen them, which is an appealing and stimulating aspect of yoga for many
Yoga is usually best learned from a yoga teacher or physical therapist, but yoga is simple enough that one can learn the basics from good books on the subject, which are plentiful
Yoga classes are generally inexpensive, averaging around 10 dollars per class, and students can learn basic postures in just a few classes
Many YMCAs, colleges, and community health organizations offer beginning yoga classes as well, often for nominal fees
If yoga is part of a physical therapy program, its cost can be reimbursed by insurance
PreparationsYoga can be performed by those of any age and condition, although not all poses should be attempted by everyone
Yoga is also a very accessible form of exercise; all that is needed is a flat floor surface large enough to stretch out on, a mat or towel, and enough overhead space to fully raise the arms
It is a good activity for those who can't go to gyms, who don't like other forms of exercise, or have very busy schedules
Yoga should be done on an empty stomach, and teachers recommend waiting three or more hours after meals
Loose and comfortable clothing should be worn
PrecautionsPeople with injuries, medical conditions, or spinal problems should consult a doctor before beginning yoga
Those with medical conditions should find a yoga teacher who is familiar with their type of problem and who is willing to give them individual attention
Pregnant women can benefit from yoga, but should always be guided by an experienced teacher
Certain yoga positions should not be performed with a fever, or during menstruation
Beginners should exercise care and concentration when performing yoga postures, and not try to stretch too much too quickly, as injury could result
Some advanced yoga postures, like the headstand and full lotus position, can be difficult and require strength, flexibility, and gradual preparation, so beginners should get the help of a teacher before attempting them
Yoga is not a competive sport; it does not matter how a person does in comparison with others, but how aware and disciplined one becomes with one's own body and limitations
Proper form and alignment should always be maintained during a stretch or posture, and the stretch or posture should be stopped when there is pain, dizziness, or fatigue
The mental component of yoga is just as important as the physical postures
Concentration and awareness of breath should not be neglected
Yoga should be done with an open, gentle, and non-critical mind; when one stretches into a yoga position, it can be thought of accepting and working on one's limits
Impatience, self-criticism and comparing oneself to others will not help in this process of self-knowledge
While performing the yoga of breathing (pranayama) and meditation (dyana), it is best to have an experienced teacher, as these powerful techniques can cause dizziness and discomfort when done improperly
Side effectsSome people have reported injuries by performing yoga postures without proper form or concentration, or by attempting difficult positions without working up to them gradually or having appropriate supervision
Beginners sometimes report muscle soreness and fatigue after performing yoga, but these side effects diminish with practice
Research and general acceptanceAlthough yoga originated in a culture very different from that of modern America, it has been accepted and its practice has spread relatively quickly
Many yogis are amazed at how rapidly yoga's popularity has spread in the United States and Canada, considering the legend that it was passed down secretly by handfuls of adherents for many centuries
There can still be found some resistance to yoga, for active and busy Americans sometimes find it hard to believe that an exercise program that requires them to slow down, concentrate, and breathe deeply can be more effective than lifting weights or running
However, ongoing research in top medical schools is showing yoga's effectiveness for overall health and for specific problems, making it an increasingly acceptable health practice
The growing acceptability of yoga as an alternative therapy for certain disorders or conditions is reflected in the fact that the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) is conducting a series of clinical trials of yoga

There are six major types of yoga, all with the same goals of health and harmony but with varying techniques: hatha, raja, karma, bhakti, jnana, and tantra yoga
Hatha yoga is the most commonly practiced branch of yoga in America, and it is a highly developed system of nearly 200 physical postures, movements and breathing techniques designed to tune the body to its optimal health
The yoga philosophy believes the breath to be the most important facet of health, as the breath is the largest source of prana, or life force, and hatha yoga utilizes pranayama, which literally means the science or control of breathing
Hatha yoga was originally developed as a system to make the body strong and healthy enough to enable mental awareness and spiritual enlightenment
Demonstrations of the tree, triangle, cobra, and lotus poses
The tree and triangle are good for balance and coordination
Cobra stretches the pelvic and strengthens the back
)Yoga is a system that benefits the body, mind, and spirit by teaching self-control through a series of postures and exercises as well as through breathing, relaxation, and meditation techniques
)There are several different schools of hatha yoga in America; the two most prevalent ones are Iyengar and ashtanga yoga
Iyengar, who is widely considered as one of the great living innovators of yoga
Iyengar yoga puts strict emphasis on form and alignment, and uses traditional hatha yoga techniques in new manners and sequences
Iyengar yoga can be good for physical therapy because it allows the use of props like straps and blocks to make it easier for some people to get into the yoga postures
Ashtanga yoga can be a more vigorous routine, using a flowing and dance-like sequence of hatha postures to generate body heat, which purifies the body through sweating and deep breathing
The other types of yoga show some of the remaining ideas which permeate yoga
Raja yoga strives to bring about mental clarity and discipline through meditation, simplicity, and non-attachment to worldly things and desires
Karma yoga emphasizes charity, service to others, non-aggression and non-harming as means to awareness and peace
Bhakti yoga is the path of devotion and love of God, or Universal Spirit
Jnana yoga is the practice and development of knowledge and wisdom
Finally, tantra yoga is the path of self-awareness through religious rituals, including awareness of sexuality as sacred and vital
A typical hatha yoga routine consists of a sequence of physical poses, or asanas, and the sequence is designed to work all parts of the body, with particular emphasis on making the spine supple and healthy and increasing circulation
Hatha yoga asanas utilize three basic movements: forward bends, backward bends, and twisting motions
Each asana is named for a common thing it resembles, like the sun salutation, cobra, locust, plough, bow, eagle, tree, and the head to knee pose, to name a few
Each pose has steps for entering and exiting it, and each posture requires proper form and alignment
A pose is held for some time, depending on its level of difficulty and one's strength and stamina, and the practitioner is also usually aware of when to inhale and exhale at certain points in each posture, as breathing properly is another fundamental aspect of yoga
Breathing should be deep and through the nose
Mental concentration in each position is also very important, which improves awareness, poise and posture
During a yoga routine there is often a position in which to perform meditation, if deep relaxation is one of the goals of the sequence
Yoga routines can take anywhere from 20 minutes to two or more hours, with one hour being a good time investment to perform a sequence of postures and a meditation
Some yoga routines, depending on the teacher and school, can be as strenuous as the most difficult workout, and some routines merely stretch and align the body while the breath and heart rate are kept slow and steady
Yoga achieves its best results when it is practiced as a daily discipline, and yoga can be a life-long exercise routine, offering deeper and more challenging positions as a practitioner becomes more adept

As of the summer of 2004, NCCAM has five clinical trials in progress, evaluating yoga as a treatment for chronic low back pain; insomnia; depression in patients diagnosed with HIV infection; and shortness of breath in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
The fifth clinical trial is an evaluation of yoga in improving attention span in aging and multiple sclerosis
The different systems of yoga all share certain basic principles: control of the body through correct posture and breathing, control of the emotions and mind, and meditation
In the West, yoga is often used for healing and well-being without attention to the larger philosophy
ashtanga yoga a physically demanding style, based in hatha yoga, in which breathing is synchronized with movement between asanas (postures); it encourages profuse sweating to purify and detoxify and it produces strength, flexibility, and stamina
hatha yoga a path of yoga based on physical purification and strengthening as a means of self-transformation
It encompasses a system of asanas (postures), designed to promote mental and physical well-being and to allow the mind to focus and become free from distraction for long periods of meditation, along with pranayama (breath control)
Iyengar yoga a style, based in hatha yoga, that emphasizes correct body alignment in the asanas (postures) and holding the asanas for extended periods of time, using props to help achieve and support them
kundalini yoga a style, based in hatha yoga, whose purpose is controlled release of latent kundalini energy
The goal of yoga is attainment of physical and mental well-being through mastery of the body, achieved through exercise, holding of postures, proper breathing, and meditation
yoga,n a family of mind/body disciplines that share the goals of the integrated body and mind or the union of the self with the divine
Yogic systems are manifold, but all aim at nurturing the body through breath and posture and cultivating the mind through meditation
Also called shavasana ( �corpse pose �), which refers to the supine posture in which the yoga practitioner cultivates and integrates this relaxation
Yoga poses are assigned to patients according to their specific health concerns
Anusara means �following the heart � or �going with the flow � and is rooted in the nondual philosophy of tantra
In this style of yoga, breathing is synchronized with the postures, thus increasing the purify-ing and strengthening qualities of the yoga practice and preparing the ground for inner cultivation
One practices a specific series of 26 postures in 105 � F temperature so that muscles, ligaments, and tendons are stretched and warmed; oxygenated blood is delivered to all organs and tissues; and toxins are flushed out in the sweat
Iyengar; emphasizes the technique (refining adjustments), sequence (sequence of exercises), and timing (duration of exercises) of the asanas and pranayama with the goal of achieving physical, mental, and spiritual well-being
I was told yoga is very good for general balance in all sections of life
Do you guys think it can also help with manic-depression
My partner practices yoga and finds a difference
Like Zorba said it doesnt work wonders but it is helpful combined with other things such as a healthy diet and plenty of sleep
yoga is also challenging and fun while it helps with balance, both physical and emotional
Let us know what you think if you deside to try it
I am thinking of prenatal yoga class
I am 10 weeks pregnant and my age is 25
I had heard a lot about this and some said that it helps in labor
I wish to join the class to have healthy labor
What is the best time to go for this and is it safe to follow throughout pregnancy
Will it be an alternative for exercise we generally do during pregnancy

The basic positions can increase a person's strength, flexibility and sense of well-being almost immediately, but it can take years to perfect and deepen them, which is an appealing and stimulating aspect of yoga for many
Yoga is usually best learned from a yoga teacher or physical therapist, but yoga is simple enough that one can learn the basics from good books on the subject, which are plentiful
Yoga classes are generally inexpensive, averaging around 10 dollars per class, and students can learn basic postures in just a few classes
Many YMCAs, colleges, and community health organizations offer beginning yoga classes as well, often for nominal fees
If yoga is part of a physical therapy program, its cost can be reimbursed by insurance
PreparationsYoga can be performed by those of any age and condition, although not all poses should be attempted by everyone
Yoga is also a very accessible form of exercise; all that is needed is a flat floor surface large enough to stretch out on, a mat or towel, and enough overhead space to fully raise the arms
It is a good activity for those who can't go to gyms, who don't like other forms of exercise, or have very busy schedules
Yoga should be done on an empty stomach, and teachers recommend waiting three or more hours after meals
Loose and comfortable clothing should be worn
PrecautionsPeople with injuries, medical conditions, or spinal problems should consult a doctor before beginning yoga
Those with medical conditions should find a yoga teacher who is familiar with their type of problem and who is willing to give them individual attention
Pregnant women can benefit from yoga, but should always be guided by an experienced teacher
Certain yoga positions should not be performed with a fever, or during menstruation
Beginners should exercise care and concentration when performing yoga postures, and not try to stretch too much too quickly, as injury could result
Some advanced yoga postures, like the headstand and full lotus position, can be difficult and require strength, flexibility, and gradual preparation, so beginners should get the help of a teacher before attempting them
Yoga is not a competive sport; it does not matter how a person does in comparison with others, but how aware and disciplined one becomes with one's own body and limitations
Proper form and alignment should always be maintained during a stretch or posture, and the stretch or posture should be stopped when there is pain, dizziness, or fatigue
The mental component of yoga is just as important as the physical postures
Concentration and awareness of breath should not be neglected
Yoga should be done with an open, gentle, and non-critical mind; when one stretches into a yoga position, it can be thought of accepting and working on one's limits
Impatience, self-criticism and comparing oneself to others will not help in this process of self-knowledge
While performing the yoga of breathing (pranayama) and meditation (dyana), it is best to have an experienced teacher, as these powerful techniques can cause dizziness and discomfort when done improperly
Side effectsSome people have reported injuries by performing yoga postures without proper form or concentration, or by attempting difficult positions without working up to them gradually or having appropriate supervision
Beginners sometimes report muscle soreness and fatigue after performing yoga, but these side effects diminish with practice
Research and general acceptanceAlthough yoga originated in a culture very different from that of modern America, it has been accepted and its practice has spread relatively quickly
Many yogis are amazed at how rapidly yoga's popularity has spread in the United States and Canada, considering the legend that it was passed down secretly by handfuls of adherents for many centuries
There can still be found some resistance to yoga, for active and busy Americans sometimes find it hard to believe that an exercise program that requires them to slow down, concentrate, and breathe deeply can be more effective than lifting weights or running
However, ongoing research in top medical schools is showing yoga's effectiveness for overall health and for specific problems, making it an increasingly acceptable health practice
The growing acceptability of yoga as an alternative therapy for certain disorders or conditions is reflected in the fact that the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) is conducting a series of clinical trials of yoga

The basic positions can increase a person's strength, flexibility and sense of well-being almost immediately, but it can take years to perfect and deepen them, which is an appealing and stimulating aspect of yoga for many
Yoga is usually best learned from a yoga teacher or physical therapist, but yoga is simple enough that one can learn the basics from good books on the subject, which are plentiful
Yoga classes are generally inexpensive, averaging around 10 dollars per class, and students can learn basic postures in just a few classes
Many YMCAs, colleges, and community health organizations offer beginning yoga classes as well, often for nominal fees
If yoga is part of a physical therapy program, its cost can be reimbursed by insurance
PreparationsYoga can be performed by those of any age and condition, although not all poses should be attempted by everyone
Yoga is also a very accessible form of exercise; all that is needed is a flat floor surface large enough to stretch out on, a mat or towel, and enough overhead space to fully raise the arms
It is a good activity for those who can't go to gyms, who don't like other forms of exercise, or have very busy schedules
Yoga should be done on an empty stomach, and teachers recommend waiting three or more hours after meals
Loose and comfortable clothing should be worn
PrecautionsPeople with injuries, medical conditions, or spinal problems should consult a doctor before beginning yoga
Those with medical conditions should find a yoga teacher who is familiar with their type of problem and who is willing to give them individual attention
Pregnant women can benefit from yoga, but should always be guided by an experienced teacher
Certain yoga positions should not be performed with a fever, or during menstruation
Beginners should exercise care and concentration when performing yoga postures, and not try to stretch too much too quickly, as injury could result
Some advanced yoga postures, like the headstand and full lotus position, can be difficult and require strength, flexibility, and gradual preparation, so beginners should get the help of a teacher before attempting them
Yoga is not a competive sport; it does not matter how a person does in comparison with others, but how aware and disciplined one becomes with one's own body and limitations
Proper form and alignment should always be maintained during a stretch or posture, and the stretch or posture should be stopped when there is pain, dizziness, or fatigue
The mental component of yoga is just as important as the physical postures
Concentration and awareness of breath should not be neglected
Yoga should be done with an open, gentle, and non-critical mind; when one stretches into a yoga position, it can be thought of accepting and working on one's limits
Impatience, self-criticism and comparing oneself to others will not help in this process of self-knowledge
While performing the yoga of breathing (pranayama) and meditation (dyana), it is best to have an experienced teacher, as these powerful techniques can cause dizziness and discomfort when done improperly
Side effectsSome people have reported injuries by performing yoga postures without proper form or concentration, or by attempting difficult positions without working up to them gradually or having appropriate supervision
Beginners sometimes report muscle soreness and fatigue after performing yoga, but these side effects diminish with practice
Research and general acceptanceAlthough yoga originated in a culture very different from that of modern America, it has been accepted and its practice has spread relatively quickly
Many yogis are amazed at how rapidly yoga's popularity has spread in the United States and Canada, considering the legend that it was passed down secretly by handfuls of adherents for many centuries
There can still be found some resistance to yoga, for active and busy Americans sometimes find it hard to believe that an exercise program that requires them to slow down, concentrate, and breathe deeply can be more effective than lifting weights or running
However, ongoing research in top medical schools is showing yoga's effectiveness for overall health and for specific problems, making it an increasingly acceptable health practice
The growing acceptability of yoga as an alternative therapy for certain disorders or conditions is reflected in the fact that the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) is conducting a series of clinical trials of yoga