Yoga. It either invites people in to a session relaxation and meditation or scares people off. The thought of holding certain poses for a lengths amount of time does not sounds enjoyable to everyone. However, there are some unprecedented benefits to trying even beginner level yoga. The most common and achieved positive outcome from practicing yoga is increased flexibility. Increasing your flexibility is going to allow your bones and muscles to stay in the best condition as you age. Secondly, yoga, breathing techniques and the held poses all can lead to increased improvements in respiratory function and energy. Finally, yoga is also a form of exercise. 30 minutes of yoga can help you reach the recommended daily cardio level and if your trying to lose weight this is a great way to kick start your metabolism.
When practicing yoga or any other form of exercise that is new to you, talk with a doctor or professional first. If you practice wrong it can lead to injury. If you have never tried out yoga and it seems like a daunting exercise, approach it humbly. The goal of standard yoga is not about how many calories you can burn, it's more about the mind and body. It's about connecting both of these individualistic components and creating a place in time for meditation and clearing of the conscience. To start of your yoga journey, here are a few moves to help you enter the blissful meditation.
Mountain Pose
This pose looks boring but it is basic and still very beneficial. It improves posture, strengthens thighs, ankles and knees. Helps strengthen the abdomen. It can also help people with flat feet.
Tree Pose
This is the stereotypical "yoga pose." A lot of people associate it with yoga. Although this seems like one of the easiest poses to hold, it is still fun and quite good for your body. This pose can help improve flexibility of the knees and hips. This pose also helps increase balance.
Upward Facing Dog
This is an awesome pose. It strengthens the spine, arms and wrist. It is also thought to be able to relieve mild depression, fatigue.
Downward Facing Dog With Toe Rises
This pose calms the brain and relieves stress. It is also practically a full body stretch. It can prevent osteoporosis and improves digestion. If you struggle with high blood pressure, this pose can also help you.
Revolved Chair
This standing twist pose is like a prayer pose but in the seated position. It increases flexibility of the back area. It is thought to be a detox pose that gets rid of toxic food, drink and thoughts.
I tried all of these poses at home (as you can see by dogs in some of the pictures). Try some of these moves and hold them for about 10 to 30 seconds! You will find your zen.
