Yoga for Stress Management

Yoga as a relaxation technique is becoming more popular in the West as a stress management tool.

This relaxation exercise is not new however, and has been practiced in the East for many centuries. Many people, however, may not know that yoga is not just a stress reduction technique. Practicing yoga intensely and correctly is an excellent cardio exercise as well.

Although yoga basically involves conscious breathing coupled with movement, you will be surprised that, with the right instructor, an hour long practice can leave you sweating and physically spent.

Throw out the Myths: The Benefits of Yoga are Tremendous

The basic theme in starting what may become your most cherished stretches and bends is the same.

Firstly, correct conscious breathing - you may be surprised that many people don't even know what right breathing really is.

Then add controlled stretching, bending, twisting, and balancing.

As well, these are great metaphors for daily living, and you will find that yoga can also reveal itself as a metaphor for how you are in dealing with life's issues.

For example, if you are feeling out of balance in a certain area of your life, it is not surprising to find yourself tipping over during a balance pose you would normally easily do on a balanced day.

Practicing with a teacher is great as they can help you tweak your poses and help you learn how not to strain or hurt yourself unnecessarily.

Of course, you can do this right at home. There are dozens of instructional DVD's, videos or books that make it possible for just about anybody to get started.

Armed with your yoga mat, and perhaps a set of cool gear to get you in the mood, starting even with a 5-15 minutes a day exercise will do wonders for you.

A consistent and regular practice has been known to help provide incredible benefits.

These include:

• Stress reduction
• General sense of well being
• Reduced alllergies
• Reduced blood pressure
• Good sleep
• Spiritual growth or spiritual well being
• Reduced anxiety

The 5 Principles of Yoga

Relaxing the muscles of the body in the proper way helps attain a deep sense of inner peace by rejuvenating the nervous system.

2. Right Exercise

The physical body is designed to move and exercise. Adopting a lifestyle that denies the body exercise will lead to disease and discomfort.

3. Proper breathing

Deep and rhythmic slow breath, filling the lungs and stomach is not only relaxing but great for properly feeding the body with oxygen. Little babies, for example, breathe perfectly.

To learn more about proper beathing in yoga, visit the online home of Corinne Freisen at Serenity Yoga Program who has an innovative way of teaching yoga through the concept of Breathing Themes.

4. Right Diet

A diet that does not conflict with not only the health of our bodies, but also that of the mind is advocated.

5. Meditation and Positive Thinking

Our thoughts not only affect our inner peace, they also affect our physical health. Daily meditation helps calm the mind and provide a clearer ground for a positive outlook.

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