Thick Yoga Mat - What You Need to Know

In my experience Yoga is one of the most enriching and invigorating forms of exercise you can do. It can compliment the workout regime of the most active health enthusiast as well as enable simple and easy physical activity for those who are quite sedentary during the day. This includes 9-5 office workers who are at a desk all day. The importance of a good Yoga workout though is not just knowing how to do it but also setting up an area where you can perform Yoga in the most comfortable way.

One of the most crucial factors that attribute to the comfort level of any Yoga session is your Yoga mat. Now some people can make do without a mat, and that's fine. However, most people, and that includes me, can't sit on a hard floor for too long without getting sores so I need a good thick yoga mat to cushion the floor. I have noticed from personal experience that when I do Yoga with no mat or with a mat that is too thin I come off much worse that before I started the session. This includes sore feet and ankles. However, after using a thick or extra thick yoga mat not only can I have a Yoga session that is extremely comfortable but I can have it for a lot longer. This makes me look forward to my Yoga every morning because I know how amazing I will feel after and that the rest of my day will be energised.

There are a few things you need to consider before getting a Yoga mat that suits you. Different people will feel different on different types of mat:

• Standard mat - this can be fine for some people as some people prefer having a session on a solid, firm ground
• Cotton mat - these can be quite comfortable, but may not provide enough cushioning on a hard floor
• Eco mat - These mats prioritize the eco-friendliness of the materials used to make the mat rather than the comfort, although some eco mats are of a really good quality.
• Thick or extra thick yoga mat - these are my favourite as the provide a good level of cushioning on a hard floor. Some people worry about balance being effected but my balance has been the same on these mats and even better in some positions.

So how do you go about finding a mat for you? The best way is to try them out first, if possible in order to check the comfort level of each one. I personally bought all of mine until I found the one that was perfect for you. At the end of the day all I want is a good Yoga session and my thick yoga mat always ensures I have one.

K. Patel, Yoga enthusiast, Visit my blog at http://www.thickyogamatblog.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ketan_M_Patel

How Dahn Yoga Can Change Your Life

Dahn yoga is a form of yoga that involves training the mind and the body and combines deep stretching, meditative breathing and other techniques that include energy awareness training. The objective is to help those who practice yoga to achieve a high level of potential for their personal selves. Dahn yoga was created by Ilchi Lee and is considered to be a highly effective method of exercise for those individuals who are enamored of its effect and its ability to create harmony in the practitioner.
Dahn Hak is the established term for Dahn yoga. When translated, it signifies the study of energy. In the Korean language, Hak signifies the study of a specific theory or philosophy, whereas Dahn signifies the essential, ancient energy which is intrinsic in all life forms. Combined, the term signifies the study of the energy and the system of energy for the goal of individual self development and well-being. The literal translation is a very clear-cut indication of what the ritual is all about, as people are looking to enhance their capacity to control the power of the body and the Spirit.
Through the discipline of the training, people learn to impart the energy with their bodies. The capacity for vigorous activity that exerts from the body stimulates the ability to heal activating the natural power one already has. Staying persistent with the exercise creates the best result in health enjoying the healing power that Dahn yoga embodies. Becoming a master over the body by using a medium of energy called ki, control is gained over the body, making it possible to improve the life and health of the individual with repeated intense exercise over a period of time.
Although physical health isn't the only benefit of this sort of intesense training, the idea behind it is encompassing in the learning of Dahn yoga. Ideally health goes past just simply staying fit and being able to function. It also touches on balance and harmony in the areas of your life that aren't governed by just simple fitness. Certain people who train repeatedly, say that through their efforts their lives improve in many different areas. These areas include: greater confidence in their job, a lot of burdensome emotions released, and a stronger family life. It's not surprising that a lot of people have taken up yoga in the past few years with all of these great benefits that yoga brings. It continues to be extraordinarily popular with people who are interested in improving their health.
Practicing Dahn yoga has a lot of advantages. It helps the individual to be in a harmonious relationship with friends and family. It also give him the ability to extend this relationship to his community and to the rest of the world. Thus he becomes a creator of harmony wherever he is. The conscious effort of a person to become a better individual will create a happier and peaceful world around him. Taking into account all its positive aspects the practice of yoga will soon take the world to a new stride.

By: Rex Freiberger

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Top Yoga Cures For Winter Blues

Just in case all the rain and cold are getting to you - fear not. Yoga still works even if you're having to battle with torrential rain, gales and storms. Believe me - all of us at the Dru Yoga centre in Snowdonia have been practising in the last few weeks! We've come up with our top 10 things which keep us happy even when it's raining. We hope you like them too.

1. Warm pyjamas. On a cold winter's night there's really nothing like putting your nightwear on a radiator before you slip into bed with your hot water bottle. Some luxuries are quite simple!

2. A favourite here is Dru Meditation. Just a few minutes of silent sitting daily, using Dru meditation techniques, makes us feel glad to be alive. Take a meditation retreat, or create one in your home. Clear a space, light a candle and gaze at the flame without blinking for as long as possible. Then close your eyes and focus on your breathing for five minutes. Stretch gently and open to eyes to a brighter day!

3. Visualise being Australian. Out in Aus, rain is seen in quite a different way than it is here. That's pretty understandable as they hardly get any! When I was out there teaching Dru Meditation holidays last spring, much of the country was in severe drought, and any drops of rain were greeting with celebration. I've found that just changing my attitude to the wet stuff can make life a little brighter.

4. Surya namaskar. The ancient yogis really knew a thing or two about winter. We find that a good flowing Dru yoga sun sequence blows away all those winter cobwebs, brings a wonderful sense of energy and positivity to even the darkest morning. If you don't know all the movements, get to a Dru Yoga class near you! And fast!

5. Do a Cleopatra. Nourish your skin and your soul with a warm milky bath. Add 1 tablespoon runny honey and a cup of milk to a running bath then lie back and listen to some relaxing music. Simple, cheap and just so effective!

6. Laughter. Get the endorphins flowing with our favourite funny movies - here at Dru we're still debating the best list, but it must include The Man Who Knew Too Little, Groundhog Day, Monty Python and the Holy Grail, and Airplane. And it tones up the abdominal muscles better than sit-ups!

7. Barley grass smoothie. Sometimes a boost of nutrients can really help our mood - try our favourite: blend one banana, 3 tablespoons organic bio yogurt, ½ glass fruit juice, 1 teaspoon dru barley grass powder, 1 teaspoon omega oils. This also is great for the skin, fantastic for improving mood and contains nearly 3 portions of fruit and vegetables!

8. Plan an uplifting retreat. In the dark, cold winter months, somehow just planning such a holiday can be an uplifting experience. Make a list of what's important to you in your perfect yoga or meditation break - and affirm that you'll find the perfect environment for you. Then get googling!

9. Have a good breakfast. It might sound like something your Mum might say, but having a substantial meal first thing really does make life seem much better. Our favourite is millet or oat porridge with tahini and honey. Put one handfulls of porridge oats to soak with a cup of water the night before and it'll cook really quickly in the morning. Sultanas and honey are optional!

10. Buy yourself flowers. I've got a small bunch of tulips in my living room and the whole atmosphere feels so much brighter. If you want an added feel-good factor - give some flowers to a friend - for no good reason. The inner glow you'll get will warm the cockles of your heart.

http://www.druworldwide.com/ is the website where you'll find Dru meditation tips, retreats and holidays. Jane Clapham is a Dru Meditation teacher, and trains people to become meditation teachers in the glorious surroundings of Snowdonia, in North Wales, UK. She also leads meditation retreats and holidays in the celtic mountains of Wales and worldwide. Contact her at hello@druworldwide.com to be included in the weekly newsletter from Dru worldwide, which includes yoga and stress-busting tips. For more information about Dru Yoga, which is the perfect preparation for meditation, visit http://www.druworldwide.com/ You'll find yoga classes, yoga holidays and yoga training courses which are taught in the UK, North America, Netherlands and Australia. Have a stress-free day!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jane_Clapham

Yoga As An Alternative Health Practice

Alternative health practices have been realized as effective methods to eliminate toxins which we accumulate from the unpreventable rise of different toxic substances which are mostly dominant in the environment. They are likewise invasive in nature so they easily get inside the body. Getting rid of these toxins can relatively increase the progression of our well- being. All aspects of life are involved when doing alternative health practices. Aspects such as the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual must be possessed by alternative health practices. Yoga is the foremost method in alternative health.

This comes in a form of physical exercise, meditation, concentration and spiritual healing. Yoga opens an avenue to improve the way we look at life in general. There are numerous benefits of yoga as an alternative health practice. As time passes by, there are many modified and developed techniques in performing yoga sessions. Sourced out from different approaches, yoga is becoming the most effective alternative health practice. More and amore people believe in the power of yoga in releasing mind power and spirituality.

Yoga does not only benefit us with mostly emotional and spiritual healing. It can also define and improve your physical strength and flexibility. Also, yoga can increasingly improve your physique and the build- up of muscles. Stretching your muscles can significantly improve blood circulation, thus releasing the hazardous toxins deposited in the body. Strengthening your joints and muscles can also provide extra agility and tolerance to muscle and joint pains and removes toxins accumulated in the skin.

Also, yoga as an alternative health method helps us to get better night sleeps. Insomnia is one of the conditions which can trigger the production of toxins. With meditation through yoga sessions, your cardiovascular functions relatively improve affecting the way you sleep. Yoga can also take effect in the stabilization of blood pressure levels. Your breathing will swiftly improve with meditation.

Yoga teaches us to use our mind power to protect ourselves from harmful toxins. More so, yoga serves as a spiritual practice which can enhance our general perception on our health and moreover on life overall. With yoga as an alternative health practice, you will learn to manage your frequent mood swings and substitute them with more worthwhile reactions. It also improves our capability to focus and decreases much confusion brought about by stressful activities at work. Diseases will be slightly decreased once enrolled in yoga classes. Also, your tolerance level, especially your temoerance will improve on a positive basis.

Yoga is simply a method that generates a more appropriate attitude in us on how we perceive the treasures of life.

By: Tim Tropical

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

How to Choose the Perfect Yoga Class For Your Type

With seemingly endless choices available - how will you know which yoga class suits you best? Here are a few general principles which will help.

What's the right style for you? You need to be honest about your fitness level, commitment and intentions in starting a yoga class. Is it to reduce stress? Get super-fit? Reduce your back pain? Calm your thoughts? Get in touch with your inner wisdom? Each yoga school has a different focus - some are more physically demanding, others focus more on meditation and chanting. See our guide to the some of the most popular styles available in the UK today.

Yoga style guide

Astanga vinyasa yoga

This is potentially very energetic and physically strong. It involves a lot of movement, a fair amount of upper body work and you will get hot and sweaty!

Ideal - if you are fit and want to be physically challenged

Sweat rating - 5

Peace of mind rating - 3

Bikram

Created by Bikram Choudhury in Los Angeles, this style is performed in a heated room to allow the muscles to relax. A bikram class usually consists of twenty six asanas (yoga postures) and two breathing exercises, which maximises oxygenation and detoxification of the entire body.

Ideal - if you are very fit and want a vigorous workout

Sweat rating - 5

Peace of mind rating - 2

Dru Yoga

Dru Yoga, one of the largest yoga training schools in the UK, offers a graceful yet potent form of therapeutic yoga. Based on soft flowing movements, the emphasis is upon creating a supple spine, to free the energy within the body.

Ideal - for all levels of fitness, if you want a deeper approach to health and happiness

Sweat rating - 2

Peace of mind rating - 5

Dru Yoga Dance

This is a more upbeat and physically demanding form of Dru Yoga. It takes flowing Dru Yoga sequences and puts them to great music creating a great sense of wellbeing, and a good physical workout.

Ideal - if you like Dru's heart based flow but want to be more challenged physically

Sweat rating - 4

Peace of mind rating - 4

Hatha

Hatha yoga is the generic term for any sort of yoga practise which involves a combination of postures, controlled breathing, and some kind of concentration and relaxation.

Ideal - if you want a safe local yoga class

Sweat rating - 2

Peace of mind rating - 5

Iyengar

Iyengar yoga originates from B.K.S. Iyengar. 3 elements distinguish Iyengar from other styles, namely technique (getting the alignment right), sequence (varying the order in which asanas are performed) and timing (holding the postures).

Ideal - if you want to strengthen your body and mind and love attention to detail

Sweat rating - 3

Peace of mind rating - 3

Kundalini

Kundalini Yoga includes a series of classic poses done repeatedly, kriyas, meditation and chanting. Spiritual transformation is the main aim of practice.

Ideal - if you want spiritual development and love singing

Sweat rating - 2

Peace of mind rating - 5

Sivananda

Sivananda Yoga is a style of traditional yoga practice formulated by yoga masters Swami Sivananda and Swami Vishnu-Devananda. Sivananda classes use a set sequence of exercises, always in the same pattern.

Ideal - if you're interested in learning about a disciplined, yogic lifestyle

Sweat rating - 2

Peace of mind rating - 5

The four questions you must ask your yoga teacher

Are you qualified? Make sure that your teacher has a current qualification, and is registered with the Yoga Alliance, Independent Yoga Network or the British Wheel of Yoga. This may seem obvious, but some teachers out there have bogus qualifications. Also ask if they do regular training to keep their yoga education up to date. Good yoga teachers will do a couple of continued training courses a year to keep their knowledge current.

Is there an emphasis on safety? Safety is crucial - many people get injured every year from over stretching when they haven't adequately prepared. Does your teacher offer modifications and contra-indications to each posture? Do they do enough warm-ups and cool-downs? Is there an adequate period of relaxation at the end of the class?

Does your teacher walk their talk? Yoga is more than an occasional hobby. It's a way to unite body, mind and soul. To be a good yoga teacher, daily practice is crucial - your teacher should enjoy what they teach - or else you won't! They should also be approachable and get on well with their students. In the ancient tradition of yoga, the relationship between teacher and student was one of the most important - and it's true today as well.

Is the class conveniently located? If you're going to get to your class, rain or shine, then choose a location that's realistic. I've seen so many students attending classes enthusiastically at the beginning of September, only to decide that it's just too far when the cold, dark nights set in.

To conclude, I suggest that you try different styles of yoga until you find one that suits you. The benefits of attending a regular class are enormous - for example:

'I've lost over a stone in the last 6 weeks through doing Dru Yoga. I do the flowing, graceful Sun Sequence at a Dru Yoga class and at home, and it seems to balance my body and take away the edge of my hunger. When I do Dru Yoga I can feel my body's natural intelligence kicking in.' Helena Davey, Lecturer, North Wales.

http://www.druworldwide.com/ is the website where you'll find Dru yoga tips, retreats and holidays. If you're looking for a Dru Yoga DVD, yoga book or CD, then visit http://shop.druworldwide.com/

Jane Clapham is a Dru Yoga teacher, and trains people to become yoga teachers in the glorious surroundings of Snowdonia, in North Wales, UK. She also leads yoga retreats and holidays in the celtic mountains of Wales and in sunny places worldwide. Contact her at hello@druworldwide.com to be included in the weekly newsletter from Dru worldwide, which includes yoga and stress-busting tips. For more information about Dru Yoga, visit druworldwide.com. You'll find yoga classes, yoga holidays and yoga training courses which are taught in the UK, North America, Netherlands and Australia. Have a stress-free day!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jane_Clapham

Yoga Classes As Motivation

Naturally, the only way that you'll get good at yoga is to attend yoga classes. If you've never tried yoga before and would like to find out how to get started, yoga classes are a great way to motivate you to learn. You don't need experience before you start yoga classes. All you need is the desire to learn and the motivation to continue. No special equipment is required neither do you need to be an athlete or exceptionally flexible. A person of any age can enroll in yoga classes and successfully complete them. With proper instruction from an expert, you'll become adept at yoga in no time.

Choose Between Home And Attending Classes

If you're brand new to yoga, it's better for you to take yoga classes so that you can learn how to do the basic poses correctly. Once you know the basics, you can try to do the poses at home. But before you do this, you need to be sure you know all the proper techniques. You need to be sure that you'll be able to perform the exercises on your own the same way they were taught in yoga class. Once you've internalized this knowledge, you can explore the option of doing your practices at home.

If you would prefer to do yoga at home instead of continuing with yoga classes, you need to make the decision of the type of yoga you'd like to practice very carefully. The yoga form you practice should meet your individual needs and skills. Don't be afraid to be aware of your limitations. Scheduling also has a big affect on yoga home practices. Decide a time that works best for you and stick with it, just as you would if you went to any out-of-home yoga classes.

Those who prefer to take yoga classes should choose a class that best suits their needs and aptitude. It helps if you enjoy working with the instructor as well. You never want to end up in a yoga class you can't perform or one where you detest the instructor. If you have any health issues or concerns, it's important to let your yoga instructor know this. He or she may be able to cater to your needs and guide you in the poses that are best for you.

Do not do anything that hurts you when you attend yoga classes. It's important not to push yourself beyond your capabilities or acceptable limits for your body. Yoga classes are not always meant to be seen as a challenge, but should be a way for you to work with what your body will allow you to do. Do not overstep your limits otherwise you will hurt yourself. It's not necessary to do what everyone else is doing.

When you attend any yoga classes, dress comfortably. Stretchable clothes are important. Also be sure to remove your shoes and stockings. At home, dim the lights to create a peaceful atmosphere to help you relax.

More interesting and valuable information on the most important yoga types and yoga classes can be found on my website yogaexpertise.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rob_Forchet

Yoga For Kids - Teach Them Young!

Life can be stressful and as adults we are quite aware of that, but most of us are not aware that our children can also feel quite stressed in their lives. As time progresses, life seems to travel at a much faster speed and as a result of this both adults and children seem to be under a great deal of pressure.

Yoga is a great way to relieve stress and to teach your children how to use yoga for stress relief can help them do deal with the pressures that they will face in life. Teaching your child at a young age will give them the stepping stones to cope with stress throughout their life as they grow and become adults.

Yoga can also help your child to develop high self esteem and also teach them how to relax so that they will not feel so overwhelmed when life throws something stressful their way. These skills will help them throughout their life and they will also learn to develop compassion and cooperation.

Yoga will help your child to improve their strength, coordination and flexibility. This will also help them to improve their concentration levels helping them to perform better at school and in sports. They will improve their sense of calmness which will enable them to deal with any situation in a more effective and efficient way.

As we get older we tend to lose our flexibility that we have as a child, and by teaching your children yoga it will help them to keep that flexibility which will benefit their health as they mature.

There are many benefits that yoga will offer your child and as well as the benefits it is also fun for them to do. Yoga instructors will often teach children the different yoga poses by playing and imitating different animals and plants. This also help to nourish the child's natural talents and it makes yoga classes fun and also very effective.

Many kids find it hard to sit still for long, they love to be on the move and love to chat rather than sit and listen. Instructors that can encourage children to have fun and make yoga exciting by allowing them to move and imitate animals are very successful at teaching children the art of yoga. The children can roar like a tiger and bark like a dog which is great fun for them and also helps to improve their self esteem and at the same time keeps them interesting and excited about attending their yoga class.

Yoga really is one of the most beneficial exercise programs for anyone, both young and old, and by teaching your children yoga from a young age they will enjoy the life long healthy benefits that yoga has to offer them.

By: Sheryl Polomka

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Find a Yoga Retreat and Have Healthy Fun

Yoga retreats are offered throughout the year offering classically-based practice, or creatively-explored approaches to all forms of yoga, meditation, self-inquiry, nature and deep silence. This creates an environment for deepening your practice, personal renewal and spiritual reflection. Yoga Retreats to beautiful outdoor locations can give you time to explore beaches, mountains or other landscapes, have massages or just exploring the local culture. Yoga retreats are offered all over the world. Yoga vacations and retreats are an uplifting journey into self.

Fun Retreats

These are also casual, fun yoga retreats where all ages and levels can participate. Some Retreats are dedicated to promoting the authentic spiritual tradition of Yoga in a spectacular environment. There are a huge number of yoga retreats available in a number of wonderful and powerful locations. I highly recommend a retreat for spiritual seekers of all levels, or for people just looking for a time of inner peace in a beautiful outdoor setting for a few days. Caribbean retreats are even available. Most will offer you itineraries with two yoga classes daily, some time for meditation, guided and even let you choose personal hiking and lots of free time to explore and connect with nature. They also usually feature sumptuous organic foods. Unique yoga retreats provide a wide array of yoga experiences in combination with just about any type of diverse and complimentary activity you would want.

Teacher Retreats

I believe that attending a yoga retreat is essential if you are to grow as a teacher and become a teacher who can communicate with all levels of students. They will let you touch base with your inner self, practice daily meditation and yoga, and find excellent treatments. You can learn all about yoga retreats from your yoga teacher, magazines, friends and by looking up retreats that may interest you online. Many people are drawn to yoga retreats like this because they offer the chance to combine a great vacation with another activity that they love: yoga.

Yoga Retreat

Retreats are a wonderful way to give yourself a well deserved vacation, meet new friends and try something new. The retreats and the fantastic people met are special and there are opportunities to connect and create long lasting friendships. When you attend a Yoga Retreat it's an opportunity to reflect and re-evaluate your entire life from a much different different perspective. A lot more than a pamper or health holiday, the retreat offers a potentially life-changing experience. At times the retreat is a journey to the heart, and yet at other times it's an experience of freedom and inner joy, or a sense of connectedness. The effects can often be felt for weeks after the retreat is over and this can create a great opportunity for one huge life changing experience.

Yoga Retreat Activities

Yoga and meditation is usually offered daily (for example from 7am-9am), pranayama, chanting, relaxation and pilates and various activities and other rituals throughout the day, of course this all varies based on which retreat you choose, so make sure that you find one with a good balance of activities that interest you. The outcome is usually an incredible amount of time for you to relax and rejuvenate. Some even offer a chance to nurture the body and release unwanted tension including excellent on site massage, or an opportunity to cleanse the entire body of toxins which may build up from a poor diet, or lack of exercise.

Advantages of Yoga Retreats

A retreat is often a time to disconnect from the entire outer world, and to re-connect with your own inner soul. It's an excellent chance to have a yoga experience and to immerse yourself in practice in a supportive and healing environment all at the same time. Yoga holidays are also available: giving you an ability to take a vacation and experience a yoga retreat during busy holiday times - this is especially helpful for singles or others who may not have a close family to enjoy the holidays with. Many times a retreat is designed for you to find rest, relaxation, and a place for reflection and growth in a natural environment. Some companies even offer customized personal retreats that will let you fit it to your own schedule. A yoga vacation, holiday, getaway or retreat offers the ultimate opportunity for a healthy, fun and fantastic adventure to exotic places, or interesting places close to home.

Brett Simpson has practiced yoga for many years. For more useful articles, videos and a free eBook: Easing Your Stress With Yoga, visit his ~Dream Yoga~ website.

~Dream Yoga~
Your Yoga Resource
http://www.dreampublishers.com/healing/yoga

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Brett_A_Simpson

Popular Yoga

Yoga, the ancient practice of postures, breathing and meditation, is gaining rising popularity of yoga nowadays. Exercising yoga has many psychological and spiritual effects.

Some measure the soaring popularity of yoga by the skyrocketing sales of yoga books, classes and equipment. Others note that yoga classes are overtaking traditional aerobics classes in popularity in health clubs throughout the nation. Yoga has grown in popularity likely because people have realized the benefit of low-impact activities and the need to keep an active lifestyle.

Yoga strives to increase self-awareness on both a physical and psychological level. When you achieve the yogic spirit, you can begin knowing yourself at peace.

Yoga helps you to move better and feel better. It stretches muscles and joints and can result in improved posture, energy levels and overall health. The regular practice of yoga can promote body wellness by gradually increasing overall flexibility. By easing muscles and joints into various postures, tension is released and the body becomes less rigid. The key to gaining real benefit from yoga is consistency of practice and maintaining just the right level of difficulty.

Yoga has positive effect on outlook and energy level. Yogic stretching and breathing exercises have been seen to result in an invigorating effect on both mental and physical energy and improved mood.

The yoga practice has certainly gained some popularity during recent years. This interest in yoga has also been fuelled by the advantages that are associated with the practice of yoga. Indeed, Yoga is an excellent means to achieve total body conditioning.

By: kate001

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Yoga - Better Remedy For Stress Relief

Yoga is a very old routine which dates as far back as 4000yrs, and is said to have originated from India. This act was said to have been formed from the act the various acts, stance and movements of animals. The main goal/aim of yoga is to bring about unity of the mind, body and spirit, which is the center of one's existence and oneness.

Yoga is considered to be a very reliable method when one is trying to relieve themselves from stress. Though not many people are in tune with this method for the fact that to them it involves very difficult routines and positions to get in, hence they try to stay away and opt for an easier way out. But yoga involves various routines and the harder routines are major for advanced practioners, while there are simpler and easier routines for those who want to ease off all the stress and tension for the day or right before the beginning of daily activities.

There are various simple yoga routines which one can engage in right before the start of the day. For example, an exercise which is used and widely recommended for every start of the day to ease off the stress and tension of the body is the thirteen routine, it involves a gentle forward bend, backward bend, and a little routine that looks like pushups.

The act of yoga involves is divided into eight parts, the first two are based on our general attitude and perspective towards life which is for us to live in peace, harmony, oneness and in unity with one another. Also for us to live a hygienic life, have a good feeding regiment plan and to always study. The next two focus on the various exercises and carrying them out. . While some are focused on the improving the totality of the physical being, others are concerned with rejuvenating and bringing about the peace of mind of man. The last four involves the merging of one's mind with the growth of his spirituality. The final goal is the knowledge the trainee has acquired in the deep insight of the things of the world.

In yoga patience and persistence cannot be over emphasized, this is because yoga involves a lot of techniques and a lot of patience and practice is required to reach your set goal. There are various ways of learning yoga, you could learn through books, tapes, or sign up for yoga classes. If interested in the classes, it's always advice able you pick a place that has a friendly, peaceful and welcoming ambiance. Yoga therapy is fast on the rise, therefore there are qualified yoga masters out there who are available to meet to your needs and requirements. Also in a fast growing society where yoga thrives, yoga tutors are usually recommended by physicians in dealing with stress.

In as much as yoga is important in bringing about a balance in the peace of mind and body of a person, yoga is not for everyone.

Persons with certain health conditions shouldn't go through with yoga without the permission of a doctor, the same with aged persons and pregnant women, but the bottom line is that when going through with yoga, make sure you do so with your doctors approval.

Learn more about my recommended Stress Relief Product

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ryan_English

Yoga & Stress Relief

Yoga is an ancient practice of exercise come into light from the rishis and maharishis. Yoga is the holistic name that includes exercise, meditation and ultimately moksha – meaning relief from the material world.

Now why are we talking about yoga? In today’s fast paced world where one does not have time to sleep and eat, stress is inevitable. Everyone wants a shortcut to success and make more greens, but in the bargain they compromise on their health, relations and life on the whole gets into a dump.

Yoga can help you. Firstly understand that when you get tensed your muscles get tightened, your breathing is fastened making your blood flow recede. This leads to more palpitation, high blood pressure, headaches, body aches and ultimately leading to sickness.

When you practice simple yoga for breathing known as pranayam, you let air in and out at a steady pace. Nadi shodhanam is one yogic breathing posture where you sit cross legged on the floor with an upright back.

Take left hand palm and curl your fingers to the centre leaving your thumb and little finger straightened out. Press the thumb to your left nostril and breathe in from your right nostril, then hold your right nostril with the little finger and release the air through your left nostril. This simple alternating breathing exercise allows air to pass through your nerve channels releasing all your tensed muscles.

When you breathe normally, you think normally and when you breathe well your body is happy and so is your mind. Enroll yourself to many of the yoga classes if you are a beginner as you need to know the right posture and style of exercise.

Sometimes when you get stressed some of your body organs too get tightened and do not function as required due to the pressure you are putting on it leading to sickness and pain. Hence yoga practiced everyday for atleast half an hour helps in regulating your body metabolism and breathing. Your concentration increases and the focus. You will be able to deliver more and be more productive than you ever think and even multi-task which is the need of today’s world.

Once you master the breathing exercises get to the next step of asanas, there are pure exercises that help functioning of your organs. These exercises if practiced everyday go a long way in helping you enjoy the good life as it lasts for years and years. There are no side effects if you leave it and you will see your weight and body size stabilize for years together. Slowly but surely.

By: Jennie Gandhi

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Ten Quick Yoga Tips to Beat Stress

Feeling stressed? Tired? Overwhelmed by all the demands made on your time?

Choose one of these easy-to-do yoga stress busting tips to relax, unwind and regain control.

1. Sit down, close your eyes and relax your shoulders. Breathe in through your nose for a count of 4 and slowly breathe out through your nose. Repeat 3 -5 times.

2. Shake and flap your hands for 1 -3 minutes. Rest them on your lap. Stroke down the left arm with your right hand. Repeat on the other arm.

3. Pretend to chew a large piece of gum, loudly smacking your lips as you chew.

4. Thump your chest and roar like Tarzan for 10 - 20 seconds.

5. Smile, laugh and share a joke with someone.

6. Grab a pen and a piece of paper - write the number 8 out at least 80 times.

7. Sitting on the edge of your chair, slowly bend forward and let your head hang down, grab hold of your ankles and stay like this as your take 5 - 7 rounds of deep breathing. Slowly come up.

8. Sit or stand comfortably, scrunch your face up, like a dried prune. Open your eyes look upwards; open your mouth, stretch out your tongue and Roarrrrrr like a lion. Repeat until you feel powerful, calm and in control.

9. Stand up and tap your whole body with your cupped hands. Keep cupping and tapping over your whole body and gently tap your head.

10. Stand straight/sit comfortable with a straight spine. Inhale and raise your arms out to either side and upward. Place your palms together over your head. Exhale. Keep your palms together and lower your hands to your heart. Close your eyes and quietly smile to your self as you Give Thanks for your health, your life and the magic of your soul.

That's it. Choose any one of these Quick Yoga Tips to reduce stress and see what difference it makes to your mood. I am sure who will feel calm, refocused and energised.

Ntathu Allen, Yoga and Meditation Teacher works with women who want a richer, more fulfilling life for themselves and their families. She teaches you easy yoga postures, meditation practices and relaxation techniques to help you live a healthier, wealthier and happier stress-free life. To find out more go to:> http://www.yogainspires.co.uk and sign up for your copy of Ntathu's free monthly yoga Inspires enewsletter. The newsletter contains a goldmine of tips, techniques and strategies you can use to become healthier, wealthier and happier.

Email:> ntathu@yogainspires.co.uk

http://www.yogainspires.co.uk

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ntathu_Allen

The Many Health Benefits of Yoga

Yoga has been practiced for centuries for health, exercise and meditation. Beginners should be taught by a trained expert to reduce risks of injury or torn muscles. Yoga classes can be found locally at YMCAs, gyms, and exercise classes. The benefits of Yoga are extraordinary, and many classes are being offered in communities all over. There are numerous physical, emotional and also mental benefits to these exercises.

Increased flexibility and range of motion is one benefit you will notice from Yoga. Your joints and ligaments receive increased lubrication through this increased motion and flexibility. Research has found the non-strenuous positions benefit other parts of the body as well

Muscle tone improves and is stimulated with strengthening moves and repeated motion. Strengthening and stretching increases Blood supply to the body's organs and muscles. Toxins are flushed out through this process and nourishment is provided to the cells.

An Added bonus is the autonomic nervous system and pulse rate are stabilized through meditation; also decreased respiratory rate, blood pressure is also decreased, and improved cardiovascular function as well as improved dexterity and reaction time. Better sleep, an increase in endurance and energy and altogether better body parts function are what people notice as a result.

A better frame of mind and less mood swings are also reported by individuals who begin to practice yoga. They also noticed better social adjustment as well as an improvement in concentration, better memory and a greater attention span. Many have noticed that there was a decrease in hostility and their learning ability and depth perception also improved.

A calmer attitude and mind that lasted all day was one of the benefit reported. This also leads to less stress and anxiety, which ultimately reduced weight gain. Practicing Yoga has many benefits for the body and mind. This translates into health improvement, a calmer mind and spirit, and a more flexible body. Practicing yoga helps to maintain normal weight and have fewer arthritic and joint problems.

The author, Troy Broussard, believes in healthy lifestyle and natural botanical supplements such as Kiiera Viv. For a Free Sample of Kiiera Viv or to buy Kiiera Viv stop by the authors online website.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Troy_Broussard

10 Great Reasons to Go on a Yoga Retreat

1- Recharge your Batteries: Sometimes we just need to relax and recharge our batteries. Get away and just lounge around by pool, relax and do nothing. The result is that you will feel better when you return and probably more efficient.

2- Relax from daily routine: Break the routine, get out ! Do something new, see places, take a yoga class. It will make you appreciate life better when you break out of that boring day to day routine. A change of ideas brings new ideas.

3- Do Yoga: A little yoga can not hurt, especially if you are always sitting on a desk. This will help your flexibility and breathing, and it is a great mental healer too. Most Retreats have Yoga and daily meditation classes that are somewhat easy and for all levels.

4- Re-focus on your future: Notice how motivated you are after a vacation with fresh new ideas? It helps you focus on what is important to you and your life and assess your strategies better if you got off track along the way.

5- Be happy, change of Attitude: A change of attitude is always good. If you are happy the people around you will probably be happy too.

6- Eat well (organic): Most retreat centers offer organic and healthy meals which are just very good for you, overall. Your body will de-stress and heal better with the healthy, good foods you give it.

7- Tranquility : Get some mental Peace and Quiet. Finally, the only thing you need to hear is nature, beautiful ocean or rivers, trees, AH !!!! Reconnect with the essence of you, the spiritual.

8- Connect with Nature: It is beautiful to connect with nature because you connect with yourself, and your soul. It is truly rewarding when you take time to breathe and relax with nature

9- Get to Know Yourself Better: A retreat is the perfect time to get to feel your true self and get to realize what is important to you, and how you have changed throughout the years. Things that mattered to you before will probably not matter anymore. It is good to realize the change within us and celebrate this.

10- Plan your next retreat: By the end of your retreat week, you will want to plan your next yoga retreat because you enjoyed it so much. You will feel refreshed and youthful.

Lea Longo is a full time mother, an award winning singer/songwriter, and the co-producer of Zen Voyage.

For more on mantra music, please visit http://www.lealongo.com You can also e-mail Lea at: media@lealongo.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lea_Longo