Thoughts on Yoga
ARE YOU STRESSED OUT?
2004-10-21
Since the beginning of time, folks have been challenged by the human condition. It wasn't until the mid 20th century that psychologist Hans Seelye came up with with the simple word that is ever so popular in today's society: stress.
Stress shows up in different people in different ways. For some, it's insomnia or migraines. Others experience a tight knot in their stomach, aching shoulders, or back pain. And then there's road rage– a clear indication of stress! Left untreated stress can cause high blood pressure, gastrointenstinal problems and weakened immune system.
So what's to be done? Americans in the last ten years have discovered that YOGA is a wonderful way to counteract stress. Having been around for 5,000 this ancient discipline was created to bring about harmony and balance in body and mine. Yoga not only stretches muscles, it stregthens all the systems, builds bone density and loosens stiff joints. On an internal level, attention to deep breathing helps eliminate toxins, lower blood pressure and slow heart rate and respiration.
According to Rebecca Dennis, a yoga instructor working in Tennessee "the physiological and psychological benefits of yoga can be felt immediately."
Dennis came upon her first yoga class 24 years ago. "The hook for me was not only how great I felt in my body, but the sense of self–control, equanimity and peace I experienced. Being an awkward teenager at the time, this was a whole new world for me."
Yoga is now a household word and even folks who haven't tried it probably know someone who has. It's important to realize that, although yoga comes from another culture which has different religious practices, yoga itself is not a religion. It is really a system to help people deal with the ups and downs of being human. As Rebecca says, "For me, it's about removing any obstacles that keep me from experiencing joy in my body and mind."
YOGA AIDS IN RELIEVING STRESS, AND WHAT BETTER TIME TO BRING STRESS RELIEF INTO YOUR LIFE THAN RIGHT NOW... WHEN YOU'RE TOO BUSY TO TAKE A CLASS – THAT'S THE TIME YOU NEED TO TAKE ONE.