It's not stretching the facts to say yoga is good for you
By: Judi Stuart
Port Discover: Visitor Services Manager
Maggie is a pretty smart person, even if she is a
dog.
Our eight pound, fluffy, black poodle has many
admirable qualities which I have observed and wondered about. For example,
almost every time she gets up from lying down for any period, she takes a long
stretch. She doesn’t rush it and lengthens herself as far as she possibly can
and seems so satisfied when she is finished.
Since it is the time of year when we all try to find
something about ourselves to improve, I’ve been thinking about Maggie’s exercise
and have decided that stretching is something I could do that would bring
benefits to an aging body. People around the world find increased stamina and
satisfaction in the practice of yoga.
Yoga Journal reports that 8.7 percent of the adults
in the United States practice yoga. Seventy-eight percent say they are motivated
by a desire to improve flexibility, conditioning, stress relief, and general
health and fitness. Of the 15 million involved, 72 percent are female and 27
percent are male. Twenty-seven billion dollars are spent on yoga products
yearly.
Various forms of yoga have been practiced for over
5,000 years and several world religions have taught yoga and meditation as part
of their activities. In the West, the focus tends to be on mastering physical
poses, practicing certain breathing techniques, and simply relaxing.
The ultimate goal is the improvement of balance,
flexibility, and strength. As with all exercise, it is wise to consult with a
physician about personal benefits and limitations.
Advantages of regular yoga practice may include
better breathing and increased lung capacity, improved concentration and
posture, lowering of blood pressure and heart rate, and lessening of stress.
Medical researchers are studying the effects of therapeutic yoga on conditions
like asthma and arthritis.
The stretching done during some of the yoga motions
safely extends muscles and may release the lactic acid that builds up causing
stiffness, tension, pain and fatigue, thus improving flexibility. Yoga may also
increase the range of motion in the joints and improve muscle tone.
The term yoga means union or yoke and its goals are
the strengthening of one’s body, mind, and spirit and the pursuit of inner
harmony.
After school, daycare, physical education, and
community programs are exploring the benefits of yoga for children. Increased
self-esteem, self-discipline, and sense of wellbeing seem to be major benefits
for students. Ability to focus, balance, concentration, and confidence are also
improved by the activities that increase physical and mental self-awareness.
Studies have revealed that yoga can be helpful for
children with ADHD and autism, too. Port Discover offers a “Mommy and Me Yoga”
class for mothers and young children. The first Tuesday morning class was
successful and will continue to be held monthly as part of our health and
wellness program for children.
There is something for everyone in the practice of
yoga. You are never too young or too old to improve yourself.
(Source: www.npr.org)
