Yoga classes have become popular at studios, gyms and recreation centers. Yoga teaches patience with the self, and it can push you to challenge your body and your mind through physical and mental practice. Yoga increases strength and flexibility while helping to combat stress. Some forms of power yoga can burn a significant number of calories. Whatever style of yoga you pursue, you are sure to get a well-rounded form of exercise.
Features
Yoga originated in India, where it has been practiced for thousands of years. It has been adapted for Western society, with classes offered in various interpretations that range from the athletic to the spiritual. Most yoga classes combine postures ("asanas") with a flowing breath to enhance flexibility and balance. Some classes focus on meditation and seek to open the mind and energy zones along the spine.
Phsyical Demands
Power yoga can raise your heart rate with a rapid flow of breath and strong balancing positions that require core, arm and leg strength. Restorative classes emphasize relaxing poses, tranquil breathing and gentle stretches. If you have joint issues and back pain, seek specialized instruction that can be modified to fit your needs. Yoga may burn as many as 400 calories per hour in very intense practice, but it does not rival running or cycling for improving aerobic capacity and total calorie burn.
Health Benefits
Yoga exercise contributes to your health in number of ways. A study led by researchers at the Cancer Research Center in Seattle and published in the "Journal of the American Dietetic Association" in August 2009 surveyed the eating habits of more than 15,000 people with a median age of 42 years. The survey's findings indicated that yoga practice correlated with more mindful eating and a lower body mass index. In 2007, the journal "Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine" reviewed 32 articles about yoga practice and various health conditions that were published between 1980 and 2007. Conclusive evidence showed that yoga interventions were effective in reducing weight, as well as lowering blood pressure, cholesterol and glucose levels.
Stress Reduction
Yoga emphasizes patience, breathing and mindfulness, all which help lower stress levels. Stress adversely affects your health, as it results in overeating, poor sleeping and greater risk of cardiovascular disease. In an article published in "Yoga Journal," Dr. Timothy McCall explains that yoga quells the sympathetic nervous system. Stress stimulates the sympathetic nervous system, which causes the release of hormones that raise blood pressure, heart rate and blood-sugar levels. Yoga simultaneously activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which helps lower heart rate and blood pressure.
Versatility
Yoga may be practiced anywhere. Gyms and studios offer guided instruction, which is helpful for beginners to learn poses and terminology. DVDs and gaming consoles offer the option of practicing yoga at home. Men, women and children of all ages and sizes can practice yoga and enjoy its benefits. Try to sample different types of classes to find one that works best for your own personal goals.
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