Benefits of Yoga
yoga under sakura (Photo credit: soulfish)
If you asked me ten years ago would I do yoga, energy transfer and cleanse my chakras; I would have totally thought you were out of your mind. Now the tables have somewhat changed, those who do know me would never expected me to take a holistic approach to some healing but I have; and I have a very long way to go but learning is something your mind wants. Whether your 2 years old or 90 years old, the mind is a curious place looking for new and exciting things.
So now I am into yoga, I want to go to formal classes more frequently but my schedule does not allow me; so I go when I can and bring the knowledge home with me. I have borrowed library books and made copies of stretches that I feel are important for me a beginner; then I take a few copies from the next stage up.
Yoga has taught me to open up my chest, wide; and breathe deeply and regenerate myself. Sounds very easy and most people do believe yoga is very easy and stupid, to them I say until you try it, be quiet. It is not easy to stretch, breathe relax and concentrate all at once but over time I have learned to, thou not easy at first.
My first yoga class I walked away dripping wet, wiped out; then the next day I had this new found energy but certain muscles ached. I thought “those stretches could have caused this much discomfort”, they were somewhat easy moves; they were not like trying to do a sit ups! I tried to attend more classes but again time. Recently I went to a class and again I felt great the next day and yes I ached, but now I had a book and notes on yoga; and I tried to reiterate what we did in class the day before.
I did it, but not for as long and without the dedication I had the day before since there were others in the class, but I did it. Then slowly but surely I started do one stance for a period of time; I did it over and over again, slowly I added more.
What did I expect from Yoga, I don’t know; but what I can tell you is that people are asking me if I had lost some weight? The best part of that question was I could honestly say yes. They also so I look more confident, which is great it give me a chance to let them know what I am doing and why. I do it for me.
There has to be said about the ways of the past, so much to learn and just not enough time!
Take a yoga class, usually the first one is free, while others may be about 15.00 dollars; you will be surprised.
Mmmm. thank you for peaking my interest….
Well written article and I understand your point of view. I am all for natural health and healing too( exercising, being in nature, healthy foods, herbs ect.), but as a Christian I would never do Yoga, though. Many do not realize it, but Yoga is not just a from of relaxation exercise. It is based on eastern religion of Hinduism and every pose in it is a tribute to one of the Hindu gods, so whenever you do it, you open yourself up to spiritual influence that hide behind these “gods.” You can get the same physical benefits by just doing simple streching or pilates, or by walking in a park and if you meditate on the godness of God the Creator while doing this, you are also getting a true spiritual benefit as well.
I love yoga, and I know what you mean about that lovely energy of the next day. I admire that you persevere, and I hope that you’re able to practice as often as you wish.
Appreciatively, Stessily
Yoga’s Pranayam– breathing exercises and Reiki–self-healing by Touch, will do wonders for Eliz.
yoga opens you up into another world which helps you balance your self and your environment
Great post, very informative. Will be sharing this with the family.