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In recent years alternative and holistic medicine have become increasingly acceptable within the medical society. Alternative healing has, for many practioners, become an integral part of the treatment and preventative process for patients. One such treatment is yoga. Originally established in India over 5,000 years ago, yoga has been one of the most influential components of Hinduism. In its origin, yoga was followed as a practice in meditation which was believed to bring one closer to spiritual enlightenment. Modern medicine, however, has proven that yoga has definite benefits for the mind and body of anyone who practices it.
The main purpose of yoga is to restore the body and mind to a healthy state. To accomplish this state, yoga exercise is comprised of three components which are practiced simultaneously.
They are: breathing methods; specified body movements or postures; and meditation.
Concentration on breathing techniques enables the body to experience more oxygen throughout the system. Yoga breathing involves learning to breathe deeply and slowly. Most people practice shallow, hurried breathing in their daily lives and are unaware of it. This shallow breathing diminishes the potential for maximizing the bodies energy. The conscious technique of breathing awakens our organs and encourages them to function more adeptly. This breathing technique quiets the mind and enables it to focus on the moment. Breathing is seen as the impetus for the body. With this in mind, the yoga practioner is able to focus on the specified postures practiced and gain full benefit from them.
Like other aerobic exercise, specific yoga postures tone and strengthen muscles as it improves balance and flexibility. Furthermore, other postures involve the improvement of the skeletal system and the bodies overall posture.
Postures encourage release of anxiety, relaxation, and a reduction in stress. As the external body experiences these benefits, the internal organs benefit as well. Correctly performed yoga postures help to release obstructions in the body and thereby promote maximum functioning of the internal and external parts. Toxins and impurities are released and the natural flow of energy in the body is restored.
The meditation aspect of yoga encourages focus of the mind and relaxation of the body. With this focus and relaxation, the body is able to release stress and increase energy. By quieting the mind, one calms and heals the body. Because stress has been labeled as a leading cause of many illnesses, scientists believe the strongest reason for the multitude of health benefits offered by yoga is due to the great reduction in stress.
Although yoga may not necessarily replace medical treatment for health conditions,when practiced on a regular basis most of the following disorders will respond positively: anxiety, depression, fatigue, arthritis, insomnia, digestive disorders,asthma, circulatory problems, and stress related disorders. Researchers in the United States have found that yoga decreases anxiety by lowering a chemical in the bloodstream which causes anxiety.
Coordination, lowered blood pressure, and flexibility are also benefits of yoga. Doctors have integrated the use of yoga in treating patients with cancer, diabetes, and AIDS. When combined with other treatments, yoga can prove to be highly effective.
People of all ages can benefit from practicing yoga -even children. As they experience more stresses in their lives, the need for mental and physical well-being will increase. Yoga offers a safe and preventative way to create and maintain a healthy mind and body.
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