Saturday, April 18, 2015

Yoga And Meditation are Preferred For Better Health

Since the last decade or so, Americans’ affection towards Yoga has significantly increased due to realization of its various health benefits. According to a national survey, the use of Yoga amongst the U.S. citizens has doubled from the year 2002 to 2012; currently, millions of them embraced this ancient philosophical practice to prevent and overcome debilitating health issues.



Yoga is been practiced since thousands of years as a path to enlighten the spirituality and overall well-being. There are various types of Yoga that are performed in different postures (asanas), and they are considered as gentle forms of physical activities and stress-busters. Worldwide, renowned researchers from different countries have discovered that one who practices Yoga regularly may achieve many healthy benefits to stay fit. People who practice Yoga have experienced enhanced feelings of well-being and happiness, over the time.

Regular practice of Yoga promotes intelligence, confidence, thoroughness, dedication and commitment. According to ancient philosophy, Yoga means to yoke together; it brings the body, mind and soul together through three basic elements viz. physical activity, breathing and meditation. The Yoga postures are designed in such a manner that they put mild pressure on the different organs of the body, especially glandular systems; thereby, improving the body’s physiological functions and efficiencies. The physical activity and breathing techniques involved in Yoga are helpful in preparing the body, mind and soul for meditation.


Why Americans prefer Yoga?

In United States, various studies were conducted to analyze and evaluate the benefits of Yoga on health. Fortunately, they came up with numerous advantages that can help one recover from various diseases. Many health providers in U.S. have incorporated the practice of Yoga into treatment, particularly for long-standing backaches. Interestingly, Yoga is been performed by children in the form of breathing and meditation by joining Yoga and Meditation Centers. Below are the reasons why Americans are embracing this ancient technique to ward off diseases:

·         Improves Blood Circulation

Different postures involved in Yoga are isometric, which means that they hold and relax the muscle tension for a shorter period of time. This helps in improving the cardiovascular system by enhancing the blood circulation throughout the system. Each and every part of the body receives adequate amount of blood for proper functioning, especially heart and blood vessels. Researchers claim that regular practicing of Yoga may prevent and control high blood pressure.

·         Boosts Mental Health

The brain or the central nervous system receives sufficient amount of blood that helps in boosting the mental health activities, such as focus, concentration, response, intellect, cognitive behavior, memory, understanding and will. Yoga is helpful in eliminating chronic stress, depression, anxiety and mental exhaustion. Moreover, this ancient technique brings a great sense of mental peace if practiced with a soothing Yoga music at home or at any well-equipped Yoga classes.

·         Enhances flexibility

The overall musculoskeletal system is improved with Yoga asanas, as they help increase the flexibility in various joints and muscles. This is done through gentle stretching that releases tension in joints and muscles by eliminating pain and stiffness. The physical activities that are involved in Yoga are useful in encouraging endurance and strength. Few weight-bearing postures of Yoga help prevent diseases like osteoporosis, backache, etc.

Apart from the above-mentioned health benefits, Yoga also helps improve digestion, control blood glucose levels, healthy respiration and many more. In short, each and every organ of the body is nourished with the help of Yoga poses. Since there are no known side effects of Yoga, one can completely rely on it to stay fit and fine. These are the sole reasons why Americas prefer Yoga over other alternative therapies. It is important to know how to learn Yoga by joining a renowned Yoga and Meditation class. Since millions of citizens embraced Yoga, there is no shortage of Yoga classes in America.

However, it is highly recommended to practice asanas under a qualified Yogic practitioner, because inappropriate postures and breathing technique may not help you reap the benefits. Usually, asanas do not cause any pain, but if at all they hurt you while performing, don’t do it, approach the practitioner for alternative poses. The Yoga teacher or expert is the right person to guide and observe you while practicing techniques of this ancient workout. If you are above 40 years and haven’t exercised for years together, then consult the medical professional to undergo certain examinations before taking up Yoga.

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