Exercise Physiologist, Yoga Teacher
When most people think of Yoga, they are thinking of the practice of a set of physical postures (asanas) typically practiced in Yoga classes across the west. The style of Yoga class you attend will determine the specific benefits you acheive, however, typically the postures included in Yoga classes help to improve upper and lower limb strength, lower back and core strength and whole body flexibility, with a particular focus on lengthening of the hamstring and gluteal muscles. Many classes also include a set of postures that focus on challenging balance from standing postures (tree pose) or even balancing on the hands (crow pose).
What makes the practice of Yoga different from attending a stretching or gymnastics class is the focus on breath awareness or control (pranayama) and the practice of savasana or meditation at the end of the class. These practices can help people attain the benefits of stress relief and a sense of calm which many practitioners of Yoga report.
You must be a HealthShare member to report this post.
to your account or now (it's free).