Yoga and Health

Yoga is believed to be born in India more than 26, 000 years ago during the Golden Period, more commonly known as the ‘Sat Yug” and means “union” in Sanskrit. Sat Yug was well known for a time of eternal peace and abundant blessings amongst the people who could afford all the time to seek the truth and search within. Nonetheless, historians have argued that Yoga is only 5000 years old – the Indus Valley Civilization is responsible in opening up the various channels of the knowledge and origin of Yoga. The term can be more precisely termed as ‘asana’ (again in Sanskrit) that denotes the practice of physical postures. However, asana forms only one of the parts of the whole yoga that focuses on the physical aspect; the others concentrate more on the mental and spiritual well being of an individual. Nevertheless, in the present world the terms asana and yoga can be used synonymously.

Yoga can be practiced by anyone and everyone. Unlike the aerobics or the other forms of physical activities that are aimed at the young and flexible, this form is meant for older ages like 70 to 80 years. Besides, according to the needs it can be customized, so that you can avail the best benefits.

Yoga has the remarkable ability to cure almost all types of ailments and shows huge amount of health improvements. In fact, medical science is validating all that was known and done by the yogis for thousands of years. So, various yoga therapies are now being incorporated in the field of medicine. There are definitely a lot of practical reasons for encouraging such steps. Even medical insurance companies are honoring yoga as legitimate and authentic healing practices. You will also be surprised to know that this ‘wonder form’ is also much less expensive and more effective method of treatment.

The Benefits of Yoga
In a nutshell these are the benefits of practicing Yoga:
• Well toned body and strong muscles.
• Corrected body posture and alignment.
• Much improved energy and vitality.
• Increased flexibility and all the joint functions.
• Reduced level of stress and strain.
• Improved breathing and circulation.

Doctors and scientists doing research on yoga are trying to analyze its ability to prevent, cure and improve health conditions like heart related diseases, arthritis, diabetes, carpal tunnel syndrome, high blood pressure and asthma.

Let me tell you briefly how these professionals have used yoga to notice significant results for these challenging medical conditions

Asthma – The Northern Colorado Allergy Asthma Clinic in Fort Collins has conducted yoga therapies amongst patients from the age group of 20 to 50 years. The result shows that this treatment if combined with the regular medications can show very positive consequences. Taking the help of some particular asanas, pranayama, and meditation, the patients displayed significant degree of relaxation, optimistic attitude and most importantly tendency towards lesser usage of the beta adrenergic inhalers.

Arthritis – According to a research conducted by the Pennsylvania School of Medicine, yoga therapy proved to be pretty effective for the patients suffering from osteoarthritis of the hands. However, further studies are required to compare this method with the other treatments and examine the long term effects.

Heart Diseases – The Hanover Medical University in Germany found that patients using yoga and meditation have shown remarkable reduction in risk factors for heart disease, including blood pressure and cholesterol.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome – Some specific yoga techniques conducted in Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia has shown considerable improvement in the grip strength and reduction in pain.