Even though yoga can be pretty involved, it can be very rewarding for both your body and mind. Yoga is a very unique exercise practice, in that it focuses on the way you should handle emotions and stress, understanding the meaning of life and where you fit in the world, and how to relate to others, in addition to gaining physical strength.
There are different poses that you perform during yoga, and depending on how advanced you are, you’ll be able to demonstrate poses that reflect your flexibility meditation practices.
One of the most comprehensive ways to learn yoga is through a most advanced practice of yoga known as viniyoga. This is a more complete form of yoga, which some people refer to as “emotional yoga.” There are videos and DVDs to teach you more about viniyoga, since it is not as commonly taught in classes as simple meditation yoga. In viniyoga, you learn to contemplate the meanings and complexities of life, and how to incorporate your newfound theories into everyday life. Viniyoga teaches you the principles of good and evil, how to get positive results from positive actions, and how to interact peaceably with those around you.
There is also, of course, fitness-oriented yoga, which teaches you how to use your body to achieve your own optimum physical strength. You can reduce fatigue, lower your blood pressure, decrease joint pain, and even improve asthma or arthritis with this form of yoga, while making the mind-body connection that is necessary for yoga to ‘work’ for you.
When you are trying to practice yoga and aren’t familiar with the movements, it’s best to find a yoga class near you where you can be in the company of others with a common goal and an instructor, so you ask questions any time you need to. An instructor will also be able to correct any yoga postures you may need help on, and some people work better when they can do yoga with people. Usually, you can find a yoga class at any of your local gyms, and there are even yoga centers in most cities where yoga or sometimes Pilates is the concentration. You can check your local fitness centers for times and dates of classes, along with information on which classes are at your fitness level. For some yoga classes, it may be all right for you to take more advanced classes if you are already physically fit, or if you exercise often.
If you work better individually, or won’t feel comfortable learning new exercises around people, there are alternatives for you as well. There are a number of websites you can visit to learn more about yoga and purchase video tapes, books, and DVDs. You can even learn yoga online (with photographs and descriptions of the poses) on sites like Dahnyoga.com and Yoga.org. If you are switching from a strict exercise plan to yoga, or if you’re just trying a new way to get in shape, be sure to work at your own pace and consult your doctor if you have asthma, arthritis, or any other condition that would cause you to tailor some of the yoga movements. Most importantly, keep an open mind and be ready to have fun while you stay healthy!
By Tamiya King