How Does Yoga Work

Yoga was first started in India about 1700 years ago and means discipline. The main objective is to strengthen your muscles, as well as your whole body, and improve concentration. It basically involves body, mind, and spirit collectively rather than treating them as separate entities.

Practitioners (also called Yogis), attempt to reach a higher level of consciousness. They abstain from things considered harmful such as: lying, being greedy, stealing, or harming other people. Instead they focus on more positive aspects such as: being clean, content and self controlled, as well as being studious and devoted.

Physically, they practice a number of different exercises (which may seem quite awkward at first). You can gradually work your body to start doing these; the old adage of “no pain, no gain” does not apply here. Breathing correctly is also an important factor.

All yoga poses focus on balance. This vastly improves concentration because you cannot focus on 2 things at the same time; (this trains your mind to “zero in” on the present task only). This principle can then be applied to almost all situations you will encounter in life.

Many poses copy nature, particularly animal postures and their mobility. The different species all have their own individual characteristics so this in turn gives you quite a wide variety of exercises you can copy.

In addition all Yoga exercises promote strength and calmness. The effect of different moves on your muscles, glands, and nerve center have all been carefully planned out and perfected over the centuries this ancient art has existed.

Many of the exercises also target different pain trigger points. Your back, arms, legs and other joint pains can all be alleviated through different exercises. Yoga can also condition you to overcome certain feelings of fear or depression.

For the exercises all you need is a mat and some loose fitting clothing. Yoga should be done on an empty stomach, or at least 2 hours after a meal. These exercises should be done daily with a minimum of 15 minutes of exercise, and a short rest period followed by another 15 minutes of breathing and meditation.

The same breathing and meditation exercises at night help to promote a deep restful sleep. This obviously will keep you more calm and relaxed throughout your day to deal with every day stresses.

In addition you should also be on a regular diet and exercise program as well as practicing your Yoga routines.