| Yoga
Really is for Every Body By Sarah Supulski, CYI (Published in the Bastrop Advertiser, 2006 Health & Fitness Circular) There are many common misconceptions about yoga: "I have to be flexible to do yoga; I'm not young enough to do yoga;" "Yoga is only done by women;" "I'm too heavy to do yoga;" or "Yoga may interfere with my religious beliefs." Those are just a few examples of commonly held ideas that many people have about yoga. Hopefully after reading this article you will find that it truly is possible for you to not only do yoga, but to benefit from a regular practice as well. First, let's start by answering the question of "What is yoga?' Yoga, as it is most commonly known in the United States, is a form of exercise and relaxation which dates back to approximately 3,000 years ago. Many modern forms of exercise, such as pilates, isometrics, and even some types of aerobics, incorporate aspects of this ancient practice. The literal translation of the word "Yoga" means "to bind" or "yoke." It is said that practicing yoga can "bind" the mind, body & spirit to work as one, thus helping to form a "union" with oneself and one's creative force. The form of yoga most commonly found in the United States is called Hatha yoga. In this style, physical exercise, through the use of slow, purposeful stretching and controlled breathing techniques, allows the practitioner to release tensions which can build up from the repetitive tasks of our daily lives. With concentration upon the breath, participants of Hatha yoga are encouraging the full use of the lungs, as well as focusing the mind on one activity, breathing, thus becoming more aware of their own bodies. Many believe that in order to practice yoga one has to be flexible. However, those who consider themselves to be inflexible often, over time, find that they indeed are much more flexible than they once thought; if even greater flexibility is never gained, the body and mind still benefit from the practice. One of the primary rules of yoga is "one should never do anything that causes pain," and when beginning a yogic practice one should be mindful of this principle taking the stretches only to a point of "comfortable stretch." If ever pain is experienced, the practitioner should ease back to a place where it is comfortable, or even take a moment to fully rest. Unlike many other forms of exercise, yoga does not adhere to the motto of "no pain, no gain." Another misnomer about yoga is that only young people can do it, but in reality, yoga is for all ages, the young and the "less than young." Just as yoga can build flexibility in those who practice it, it is also very adaptive, and as such can make accommodations for almost anyone. An experienced instructor can offer adaptations for most poses, and through the use of what are commonly called "props" (blocks, straps, pillows, and blankets), the benefits of many poses can become more comfortable to perform. There are even chair-forms of yoga which have been developed to help those who are wheelchair-bound or severely limited in their mobility, experience the benefits of the practice of yoga. It is often believed that only women do yoga in the United States; however, nothing could be further from the truth. Although yoga is highly beneficial for females, it is also just as good for males. Yoga offers something for anyone who wishes to discover an effective method of physical, mental or spiritual development and should not be thought of as a discipline reserved for only women or only men. Some believe that one must be slim in order to practice yoga, but this also is not true. Although the practice of yoga can be beneficial in controlling one's weight, it is not imperative that one be close to one's ideal weight to enjoy yoga. Those who are "slightly" or "mildly" overweight can usually perform yoga without any difficulty. And just as was explained previously, adaptations can be made for those whose weight goes beyond the "slightly over" range. Others are fearful that yoga might interfere with their own spiritual beliefs. Although yoga was developed thousands of years ago in India, it is not required that one be of the Hindu or Buddhist faith in order to practice. In fact many Christians say that the practice of mindfulness that is stimulated by yoga has enhanced their connection with their faith. And for those who may feel alienated by organized religions, yoga can still be beneficial in allowing them to become more aware of their own bodies, feelings, and the energy which flows within us all. As would often be imagined, the musculoskeletal system can benefit greatly from the gentle stretching, but yoga has also been shown to offer other physiological benefits as well. Cardiovascular efficiency can be increased by reduction of pulse rates, normalization of blood pressure, and improved circulation. Neurological disorders, such as multiple sclerosis, have also been shown to benefit from regular practice. Digestive ailments such as constipation, flatulence, gastritis, and colitis have also been shown to decrease. There are several yoga teachers in the Bastrop area and they offer classes at various times and days, and offer classes for varying levels of experience. If you've ever wondered about yoga and the benefits that it may offer you, I highly encourage you to take the time to call them, or stop by where they teach and talk with them. Tell them about the reservations you may have that have kept you from trying yoga, listen to what they have to offer that may help you overcome those reservations. Hopefully after speaking with them, and possibly some of their students, you will find that every body can do yoga, that yoga is beneficial and that yoga truly is for you.   |
  (Opening Mantra) Ong No Mo Guru Dev No Mo   (Closing Mantra) May all be happy May all be healthy May all see auspiciousness May none suffer Om, Peace! Peace! Peace!    Sarve = all Bhavantu, santu and bhavat = may be (become) Sukhinah = happy Niraamayaah = free from disease (healthy) Bhadraani = prosperity, auspiciousness Pashyantu = may see/enjoy/experience Maa = not Kaschit = anybody duh:kha-bhak = experience of misery, sorrow; unhappy Ong = the creative aspect of the Universe No Mo = to call upon Guru Dev = knowledge, divine wisdom   |
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