Acupuncture is a healing technique developed by the Chinese who believed that the mind and the body of a person are one complete unit and a sickness cannot be treated in isolation. In fact, Chinese medicine has based the technique of acupuncture on five basic concepts. These are described briefly below:
1. THE YIN AND YANG
Yin and Yang are two opposites in nature. Both continuously flow in and out of each other and play an important role in the treatment of acupuncture. For instance:
Heat and Cold:
The acupuncturist must learn about the heat and cold in the body of a person. If a person feels too hot then his yang is too strong and he will be subjected to urinary problems, constipation and fever etc. If he feels cold then his yin is too strong, which means he will be subject to diarrhoea, a pale face and pale tongue
Dry and Wet:
When a patient has a dry cough or dry skin or any symptom of dryness in the body then there is too much of yang in the body. When there is too much of sweating, running nose, frequent urination then there is too much of ying. Thus the acupuncturist can understand the basic nature of the disease by categorizing it as predominantly Yang or Yin
It is when yin starts to dominate that yang suffers and vice versa. So it is up to the acupuncturist to bring the yang and the yin to a desirable balance.
2. THE FIVE ELEMENTS
The five elements of fire, wood, earth and water form an essential concept of Acupuncture. It is believed that these five elements make our whole physical and mental system. Any change or imbalance in our body can be related to a change in one of the five elements.
3. THE QI
'Qi' means energy and is the most basic concept over which acupuncture is based. When the flow of energy is disturbed imbalances of various kinds occur, making one prone to diseases. Thus, an acupuncturist first studies the Qi of a person. He studies the path of the energy, its nature, the changes in it and its rhythm and balance before embarking on a course of action.
4. THE 12 MERIDIANS
The 12 Meridians are the pathways of the Qi or energy. Each path is linked to some organ. The organs in acupuncture are not known by their name, location or the basic structure but by their functions. Imbalances in these meridians lead to different ailments and problems. Each meridian is linked to a particular organ that can be treated by treating the different points on that meridian. The liver, heart, spleen, lungs are amongst the 12 meridians.
5. THE POINTS
The Points in acupuncture are those pin points on the 12 meridians which when touched upon or treated, affect the whole meridian thus increasing the Qi and also treating the problem. There are a number of points on each meridian and a good acupuncturist is able to identify the right points that have to be touched so as to cure the disease.
So the next time your acupuncturist talks of the yin and yang or the meridians, don't look foxed! An understanding of these elements will help you grasp the intricacies of this ancient science.
Monday, October 6, 2008
A Brief History of Herbs and Herbalism
What is an herb? You could agree with the modern definition that states an herb is any part of the plant that is useful for healing, food or dye. However, the horticultural definition, which is the more common definition that was used hundreds of years ago, is the non woody part of a plant such as leaves, fruit and the soft green stems. For thousands of years, herbs have been used as scents, food, flavorings, medicines and disinfectants.
Herbalism is the practice and study of the uses of plants. How far back in our past does herbalism exist? There are sources that suggest the Stone Age. A 60,000-year-old burial site in Iraq contained evidence of eight different medicinal plants. Every continent seems to have their own practice of how to use herbs.
Ayurveda originated in ancient India. It is from the words Ayus meaning 'life' and Veda meaning 'knowledge'. This form of herbalism dates back about 5000 years with a detailed history, which I will cover in a future article. Ayurveda is still practiced today and uses herbs, breathing, meditation and diet for ever all wellness. It is based on rebalancing and maintaining the five elements of the body?earth, water, air, fire and ether.
Chinese herbalism was founded by ancient spiritual leaders roughly 3500 years ago. Rodale's Illustrated Encyclopedia of Herbs states, it 'is widely acclaimed as one of the most complete and effective herbal traditions today'. Chinese herbalism is practiced in conjunction with acupuncture, massage, diet an Tai Chi--the art of movement and breathing.
Egyptian medical history was rejected by many cultures because it was thought to be a violation of humanity. This line of thought came from the fact that the Egyptians were the first to perform surgeries and to study the human body. From there study of the human body, they were able to discover and perfect the art of embalming the dead with herbs and spices. Where would we be today if they hadn?t committed such ?horrendous? acts?
Folk medicine seems to remain somewhat a mystery. I believe this is due to having a combination of so many different influences. We can see an assortment of inputs from the Native Americans, Mexican, African, European and Caribbean. Is there any wonder why it may difficult to target a specific origin? However, it does appear that the base of our folk medicine does originate from European Western Herbalism.
Native American Indian medicine continues to be practiced in America today. There are many tribes and the herbal practices of each tribe could be listed, but it does appear that they all agree on most of the uses of herbs.
There are other types of herbalism such as those practiced in Ancient Greece, the Aborigines, as well as the Hawaiians. I hope this brief little history has gotten you interested and ready for more of similar articles relating to the use of herbs and the different types of herbalism.
Herbalism is the practice and study of the uses of plants. How far back in our past does herbalism exist? There are sources that suggest the Stone Age. A 60,000-year-old burial site in Iraq contained evidence of eight different medicinal plants. Every continent seems to have their own practice of how to use herbs.
Ayurveda originated in ancient India. It is from the words Ayus meaning 'life' and Veda meaning 'knowledge'. This form of herbalism dates back about 5000 years with a detailed history, which I will cover in a future article. Ayurveda is still practiced today and uses herbs, breathing, meditation and diet for ever all wellness. It is based on rebalancing and maintaining the five elements of the body?earth, water, air, fire and ether.
Chinese herbalism was founded by ancient spiritual leaders roughly 3500 years ago. Rodale's Illustrated Encyclopedia of Herbs states, it 'is widely acclaimed as one of the most complete and effective herbal traditions today'. Chinese herbalism is practiced in conjunction with acupuncture, massage, diet an Tai Chi--the art of movement and breathing.
Egyptian medical history was rejected by many cultures because it was thought to be a violation of humanity. This line of thought came from the fact that the Egyptians were the first to perform surgeries and to study the human body. From there study of the human body, they were able to discover and perfect the art of embalming the dead with herbs and spices. Where would we be today if they hadn?t committed such ?horrendous? acts?
Folk medicine seems to remain somewhat a mystery. I believe this is due to having a combination of so many different influences. We can see an assortment of inputs from the Native Americans, Mexican, African, European and Caribbean. Is there any wonder why it may difficult to target a specific origin? However, it does appear that the base of our folk medicine does originate from European Western Herbalism.
Native American Indian medicine continues to be practiced in America today. There are many tribes and the herbal practices of each tribe could be listed, but it does appear that they all agree on most of the uses of herbs.
There are other types of herbalism such as those practiced in Ancient Greece, the Aborigines, as well as the Hawaiians. I hope this brief little history has gotten you interested and ready for more of similar articles relating to the use of herbs and the different types of herbalism.
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Controlling Hypertension with Natural Foods
Hypertension is a medical term given to high blood pressure. High blood pressure is often referred to as the "silent killer" as it usually has no symptoms but can still lead to life threatening situations. However, there are ways to manage this silent killer.
Food is one of the main factors implicated for causing hypertension. Your blood pressure can shoot up or remain normal as a result of what you eat. This means that food can help you in controlling your blood pressure. You take in more salty foods and chances are that your blood pressure will go up. Which other foods can help you control your blood pressure?
Apples: One of the most valuable fruits, an apple is a rich source of vitamins, minerals and pectin. Pectin is the active therapeutic agent present in apple. Apples are considered invaluable in case of hypertension. It has a diuretic effect, which causes increased secretion of urine and brings back the blood pressure to normal. Due to increased urination the sodium chloride levels in the body goes down and this relieves the load on the kidneys to process excessive sodium chloride. At the same time apples being rich in potassium result in a fall in the tissue sodium levels.
Lemon: One of the richest source of vitamin C is lemon. For proper functioning of vitamin C, lemon has an abundance of vitamin P. This vitamin is essential for controlling hemorrhage as well as prevents the formation of fragile capillaries. As a result of this function lemon helps in preventing the adverse effects of high blood pressure. It helps in strengthening the entire circulatory system and at the same time helps in controlling many circulatory diseases.
Garlic: This is regarded as one of the most effective remedies to control blood pressure. Owing to its properties to reduce the spasms of small arteries, garlic helps in lowering the blood pressure. It slows the pulse rate while at the same time modifies the heart rhythm. Garlic also has the property of relieving the symptoms of dizziness, shortness of breath and acidity. One can take about two to three commonly available garlic capsules as an aid to control blood pressure. Studies have shown that due to its dilatory effect, garlic helps in widening the blood vessels, thereby reducing the pressure.
Rice: Whether rice helps in controlling blood pressure or it just prevents it is an controversial issue. Rice in itself is a low fat, low salt and vitamins rich food. It has been seen that communities where rice forms the main food have a lower incidence of hypertension. So it can be said that owing to its properties rice can help in preventing this silent killer.
Levels of sodium restriction
200 to 300 mg (extreme sodium restriction): no salt in cooking
500 to 700 mg (severe sodium restriction): no salt in cooking
1000 to 1500 mg (moderate restriction): no salt in cooking
2000 to 3000 mg (mild restriction): some salt in cooking can be added
Thus it can be said that natural foods are great healers to control hypertension.
Food is one of the main factors implicated for causing hypertension. Your blood pressure can shoot up or remain normal as a result of what you eat. This means that food can help you in controlling your blood pressure. You take in more salty foods and chances are that your blood pressure will go up. Which other foods can help you control your blood pressure?
Apples: One of the most valuable fruits, an apple is a rich source of vitamins, minerals and pectin. Pectin is the active therapeutic agent present in apple. Apples are considered invaluable in case of hypertension. It has a diuretic effect, which causes increased secretion of urine and brings back the blood pressure to normal. Due to increased urination the sodium chloride levels in the body goes down and this relieves the load on the kidneys to process excessive sodium chloride. At the same time apples being rich in potassium result in a fall in the tissue sodium levels.
Lemon: One of the richest source of vitamin C is lemon. For proper functioning of vitamin C, lemon has an abundance of vitamin P. This vitamin is essential for controlling hemorrhage as well as prevents the formation of fragile capillaries. As a result of this function lemon helps in preventing the adverse effects of high blood pressure. It helps in strengthening the entire circulatory system and at the same time helps in controlling many circulatory diseases.
Garlic: This is regarded as one of the most effective remedies to control blood pressure. Owing to its properties to reduce the spasms of small arteries, garlic helps in lowering the blood pressure. It slows the pulse rate while at the same time modifies the heart rhythm. Garlic also has the property of relieving the symptoms of dizziness, shortness of breath and acidity. One can take about two to three commonly available garlic capsules as an aid to control blood pressure. Studies have shown that due to its dilatory effect, garlic helps in widening the blood vessels, thereby reducing the pressure.
Rice: Whether rice helps in controlling blood pressure or it just prevents it is an controversial issue. Rice in itself is a low fat, low salt and vitamins rich food. It has been seen that communities where rice forms the main food have a lower incidence of hypertension. So it can be said that owing to its properties rice can help in preventing this silent killer.
Levels of sodium restriction
200 to 300 mg (extreme sodium restriction): no salt in cooking
500 to 700 mg (severe sodium restriction): no salt in cooking
1000 to 1500 mg (moderate restriction): no salt in cooking
2000 to 3000 mg (mild restriction): some salt in cooking can be added
Thus it can be said that natural foods are great healers to control hypertension.
Acupuncture: Frequently Asked Questions Answered
Your first visit to an acupuncturist may be full of apprehension, trepidation and many unanswered questions. You will probably wonder what the acupuncturist is going to do, is the treatment going to be painful, if it is going to bleed, how long the course is going to take and so on. Here are some answers to your frequently asked questions:
What is the practitioner going to ask me?
In your first visit the practitioner is going to ask you to list all the symptoms that you are experiencing. You need to let him know all the physiological and psychological effects. Your family history is going to be inquired. Next is going to be a physical examination.
What is the physical examination like?
The Chinese believe that the tongue and the pulse can signify all sickness. Thus he will examine the tongue, its colour and coating. Next will be the pulse. According to the Chinese, there are six pulse positions on our wrist and each of these positions represent two organs.
How long is the treatment going to take?
Each visit might take anything from 20 minutes to an hour or maybe even more if it is the first visit. The number of visits, however, is dependent on the ailment. If the sickness is chronic then it takes more visits (which could be weekly), and if the symptoms are severe then the visits required could be more frequent but stretched over a shorter period of time.
What if I am undergoing some other treatment too?
Usually it does not matter if you are undergoing some other treatment as acupuncture really does not affect their process. However, you must let the acupuncturist know whatever treatment you are taking.
Is the treatment going to be painful?
The thought of needles does make you apprehensive but the real truth is that the acupuncture needles are so thin that you will not feel any pain. In fact, the moment the needle reaches the right depth you will feel a dull ache or a tingling sensation. This sensation will hardly last a minute or two. So it's an all gain and no pain treatment!
Is it going to bleed?
The acupuncture needles are so thin that the question of blood oozing out does not arise. The needles are only supposed to prick the point and not draw out any blood.
Will I feel relieved immediately?
If you are suffering from something like a headache then you would feel some relief immediately but mostly you just feel a bit drowsy after the treatment. However, the acupuncturist can come to know if there has been some effect by feeling your pulse.
Is acupuncture safe for small children?
It is not really advisable to treat small children with acupuncture not because of the nature of treatment but because you need to be sure that the practitioner is experienced and really good. Children in fact are easy to treat because the sickness would not be chronic.
What if I am pregnant?
Acupuncture is definitely not advisable for pregnant women.
Can acupuncture help me lose weight?
Acupuncture can help you lose weight if excess weight is because of over-eating or a low BMR (basal metabolic rate). If it is due to overeating then acupuncture can help you by lessening the craving to eat. Excess weight due to a low BMR means that the body is not able to utilise all the food that it is receiving and is storing it away. In such a case, acupuncture can help increase your BMR thus help you shed weight!
These questions, though not exhaustive, will definitely help you in understanding this ancient science better.
What is the practitioner going to ask me?
In your first visit the practitioner is going to ask you to list all the symptoms that you are experiencing. You need to let him know all the physiological and psychological effects. Your family history is going to be inquired. Next is going to be a physical examination.
What is the physical examination like?
The Chinese believe that the tongue and the pulse can signify all sickness. Thus he will examine the tongue, its colour and coating. Next will be the pulse. According to the Chinese, there are six pulse positions on our wrist and each of these positions represent two organs.
How long is the treatment going to take?
Each visit might take anything from 20 minutes to an hour or maybe even more if it is the first visit. The number of visits, however, is dependent on the ailment. If the sickness is chronic then it takes more visits (which could be weekly), and if the symptoms are severe then the visits required could be more frequent but stretched over a shorter period of time.
What if I am undergoing some other treatment too?
Usually it does not matter if you are undergoing some other treatment as acupuncture really does not affect their process. However, you must let the acupuncturist know whatever treatment you are taking.
Is the treatment going to be painful?
The thought of needles does make you apprehensive but the real truth is that the acupuncture needles are so thin that you will not feel any pain. In fact, the moment the needle reaches the right depth you will feel a dull ache or a tingling sensation. This sensation will hardly last a minute or two. So it's an all gain and no pain treatment!
Is it going to bleed?
The acupuncture needles are so thin that the question of blood oozing out does not arise. The needles are only supposed to prick the point and not draw out any blood.
Will I feel relieved immediately?
If you are suffering from something like a headache then you would feel some relief immediately but mostly you just feel a bit drowsy after the treatment. However, the acupuncturist can come to know if there has been some effect by feeling your pulse.
Is acupuncture safe for small children?
It is not really advisable to treat small children with acupuncture not because of the nature of treatment but because you need to be sure that the practitioner is experienced and really good. Children in fact are easy to treat because the sickness would not be chronic.
What if I am pregnant?
Acupuncture is definitely not advisable for pregnant women.
Can acupuncture help me lose weight?
Acupuncture can help you lose weight if excess weight is because of over-eating or a low BMR (basal metabolic rate). If it is due to overeating then acupuncture can help you by lessening the craving to eat. Excess weight due to a low BMR means that the body is not able to utilise all the food that it is receiving and is storing it away. In such a case, acupuncture can help increase your BMR thus help you shed weight!
These questions, though not exhaustive, will definitely help you in understanding this ancient science better.
Acupuncture: The Art of Alternative Healing
It has been quite some time and you haven't been able to get rid of that nagging backache. It started as a small twitch near the shoulder but has now spread to the lower back. Popping painkillers has had no effect except giving you a stomach ache! Your doc says to cut down on your stress and strain, but he doesn't tell you how? Is there any help?
Yes, there is! There is something better than popping pills day in and day out. It has hardly any side effects compared to those painkillers and it is called - Acupuncture, a traditional Chinese method of treating different physiological and psychological problems.
The Chinese treated patients for different ailments by observing their pulse and their tongue. The whole treatment was undertaken on the basis of these two. They realized that the human body was basically made up of energy or Qi, which flowed through a specific path called the Meridians. Each meridian is connected to some organ in the body. Over each meridian lie specific points that have the ability to increase or decrease the quantity and quality of energy flowing through the meridians. Thus by treating these points, specific ailments are cured.
An often-asked question is: Is Acupuncture effective? Research has proved that acupuncture has provided physical as well as psychological relief to patients. Today, Acupuncture is recognized as a complete science in itself and is extremely popular worldwide as an alternative form of healing.
There are two techniques in acupuncture:
1. Insertion of needles
First the acupuncturist collects the patient's detailed medical as well as family history, gains knowledge of his/her eating habits and lifestyle. Then comes the physical examination. There is a very strong stress on pulse taking. The Chinese have identified six main pulse points: three on each wrist and use two kinds of pressures to gain an in depth knowledge of the cause of ailment. The second most important thing is examining the tongue. The acupuncturist watches out for the colour, shape, area and coating of the tongue. This gives him knowledge of the inner physical condition.
Next the meridians and the points are identified. In the actual treatment tiny needles are inserted at specific points identified on the body. In fact this is what acupuncture means --puncture by the needles. After insertion the needles are stimulated either by twirling them or by passing a mild electric current which results in a mild tingling sensation. The needles are inserted for a length of time that ranges from a few seconds to 30 minutes.
2. Use of Moxa
After going through the preliminary examinations the acupuncturist will embark on the actual treatment. In this a herb called Moxa is used. Small cones of the herb are burnt and then rested on the skin to warm and supply energy to the acupuncture points. This energy is then passed through the meridians to the whole system thus striving to overcome the problem
Treatment time
The treatment takes anything from 20 minutes to 1 hour. The first session might turn out to be a bit long but things soon even out.
Frequency of visit
The frequency of the visit is dependent on the nature of the ailment. In the beginning it might be a couple of times a week and then weekly or maybe even less till none is required.
Acupuncture is known to have treated many ailments such as headaches, stress, insomnia, arthritis and many others and that too successfully. It is safe, without any side effects and leads to an overall feeling of well being.
Yes, there is! There is something better than popping pills day in and day out. It has hardly any side effects compared to those painkillers and it is called - Acupuncture, a traditional Chinese method of treating different physiological and psychological problems.
The Chinese treated patients for different ailments by observing their pulse and their tongue. The whole treatment was undertaken on the basis of these two. They realized that the human body was basically made up of energy or Qi, which flowed through a specific path called the Meridians. Each meridian is connected to some organ in the body. Over each meridian lie specific points that have the ability to increase or decrease the quantity and quality of energy flowing through the meridians. Thus by treating these points, specific ailments are cured.
An often-asked question is: Is Acupuncture effective? Research has proved that acupuncture has provided physical as well as psychological relief to patients. Today, Acupuncture is recognized as a complete science in itself and is extremely popular worldwide as an alternative form of healing.
There are two techniques in acupuncture:
1. Insertion of needles
First the acupuncturist collects the patient's detailed medical as well as family history, gains knowledge of his/her eating habits and lifestyle. Then comes the physical examination. There is a very strong stress on pulse taking. The Chinese have identified six main pulse points: three on each wrist and use two kinds of pressures to gain an in depth knowledge of the cause of ailment. The second most important thing is examining the tongue. The acupuncturist watches out for the colour, shape, area and coating of the tongue. This gives him knowledge of the inner physical condition.
Next the meridians and the points are identified. In the actual treatment tiny needles are inserted at specific points identified on the body. In fact this is what acupuncture means --puncture by the needles. After insertion the needles are stimulated either by twirling them or by passing a mild electric current which results in a mild tingling sensation. The needles are inserted for a length of time that ranges from a few seconds to 30 minutes.
2. Use of Moxa
After going through the preliminary examinations the acupuncturist will embark on the actual treatment. In this a herb called Moxa is used. Small cones of the herb are burnt and then rested on the skin to warm and supply energy to the acupuncture points. This energy is then passed through the meridians to the whole system thus striving to overcome the problem
Treatment time
The treatment takes anything from 20 minutes to 1 hour. The first session might turn out to be a bit long but things soon even out.
Frequency of visit
The frequency of the visit is dependent on the nature of the ailment. In the beginning it might be a couple of times a week and then weekly or maybe even less till none is required.
Acupuncture is known to have treated many ailments such as headaches, stress, insomnia, arthritis and many others and that too successfully. It is safe, without any side effects and leads to an overall feeling of well being.
Monday, September 8, 2008
Reiki and Breathing Exercises
Did you know that Reiki actually originated many years ago in Tibet? However, it was then rediscovered by the Japanese who developed and propagated it further. Reiki is a very popular practice today because it doesn't involve any side effects or any harmful techniques and chemicals. It is based on the most natural and basic concept of cosmic energy. This is referred to as 'ki' in Japanese, 'chi' in Chinese, 'prana' in Hindi or 'bioenergy' in science. All that Reiki involves is the replenishing of this 'ki' and it's correction.
If you are a beginner to Reiki or want to have an idea before you enroll into a course then this is just the place for you. Here are some simple exercises that will help you stay fresh after a long day and help you eliminate all the stress in your daily life.
STEP 1
You can do this either sitting down or lying down, and practice it anywhere and everywhere be it the office or home.
Close your eyes and concentrate on your breath, how it flows in and out, then in and out again in and out and carry on.
STEP 2
Once you have established this rhythm you will start feeling a bit relaxed but at the same time you will be able to feel a few tension points in you body. Put your hands softly wherever you feel the tension. you will be able to know the points or places automatically, don't strain yourself much.
STEP 3
Once you have placed your hand at a specific spot imagine that your breath is energy. Now you are directing this energy towards your hands. Let it flow through your whole body and collect and expand in your hands. Relax at the same time. You will feel relaxation spreading in that specific part of your body. Next the relaxation will spread in your whole body through that area. Do this for about 5 minutes.
STEP 4
Now take your hands to another spot and repeat the same process. Breathe into your hands and feel the 'ki' flowing through the spot in your whole body. You might find your mind drifting towards past experiences and memories, don't get into them. However just let go of yourself and feel the flow inside your body.
STEP 5
Give the above step 5 minutes and then pick up 2 more places of tension, if you are not feeling any kind of physical strain and continue with the exercise. If you are feeling some strain, go to step 6.
STEP 6
Slowly open your eyes.
Stretch your whole body and breath deep.
Get back to your normal activities.
You will feel a new kind of relaxation pervade your mind and body and feel calmer and rejuvenated after doing this exercise.
If you are a beginner to Reiki or want to have an idea before you enroll into a course then this is just the place for you. Here are some simple exercises that will help you stay fresh after a long day and help you eliminate all the stress in your daily life.
STEP 1
You can do this either sitting down or lying down, and practice it anywhere and everywhere be it the office or home.
Close your eyes and concentrate on your breath, how it flows in and out, then in and out again in and out and carry on.
STEP 2
Once you have established this rhythm you will start feeling a bit relaxed but at the same time you will be able to feel a few tension points in you body. Put your hands softly wherever you feel the tension. you will be able to know the points or places automatically, don't strain yourself much.
STEP 3
Once you have placed your hand at a specific spot imagine that your breath is energy. Now you are directing this energy towards your hands. Let it flow through your whole body and collect and expand in your hands. Relax at the same time. You will feel relaxation spreading in that specific part of your body. Next the relaxation will spread in your whole body through that area. Do this for about 5 minutes.
STEP 4
Now take your hands to another spot and repeat the same process. Breathe into your hands and feel the 'ki' flowing through the spot in your whole body. You might find your mind drifting towards past experiences and memories, don't get into them. However just let go of yourself and feel the flow inside your body.
STEP 5
Give the above step 5 minutes and then pick up 2 more places of tension, if you are not feeling any kind of physical strain and continue with the exercise. If you are feeling some strain, go to step 6.
STEP 6
Slowly open your eyes.
Stretch your whole body and breath deep.
Get back to your normal activities.
You will feel a new kind of relaxation pervade your mind and body and feel calmer and rejuvenated after doing this exercise.
Heal Your Mind, Body and Soul with Yoga
What is yoga?
Yoga is a complete science that originated in India thousands of years ago. It is the world’s oldest system of fitness, encompassing the mind, body and spirit. The word `Yoga’ means "union". It is derived from the Sanskrit word "yujir " meaning "to yoke" or "to join". Yoga is the practical aspect of a philosophy called Vedanta, which is laid out in the Upanishads and maintains that there is one absolute reality that underlies everything in the universe. Among the most important teachings of Yoga are instructions on how to control your body through your mind.
Yoga helps you in keeping your body fit and mind peaceful. In recent years, medical research has begun to pay attention to the effects of Yoga. Studies have shown, for instance, that relaxation in the Corpse Pose or Shavasana effectively relieves high blood pressure and that regular practice of asanas and pranayama can help relieve diverse ailments such as arthritis, arteriosclerosis, chronic fatigue, asthma, varicose veins and heart conditions.
Is yoga a religion?
Yoga is not a religion nor is it a mystic cult. It is a spiritual technique, which has something to offer to everyone, religious and the non-religious, men and women irrespective of age, faith or race factors.
Is yoga effective in modern life?
The pressures of work and home, coping with deadlines, and just the business of daily living has become too stressful today. You’ve probably tried everything under the sun from tranquilizers to pills to even dancing your blues away. But nothing seems to help you. Go for Yoga. It acts like a balm and soothes your mind, body and soul.
Yoga is an effective stress-buster and helps lower your stress levels. Here's how:
It controls stress not only on a physical level, but on a mental and spiritual level too.
Yoga asanas release the physical tension of your body and lubricates it. It keeps your muscles and joints running smoothly, tones all the internal organs and increases circulation, without creating any fatigue.
Pranayama gives vitality by increasing the supply of oxygen to the brain.
Finally, meditation stills the mind and enhances your powers of concentration.
Yoga improves the strength and flexibility of your mind and body, and helps you to relax. It frees you from stress both physically and mentally, often heightening your powers of intuition and creativity. Thus you can leverage this ancient science perfected by Indian sages over the centuries to work for you today.
Yoga is a complete science that originated in India thousands of years ago. It is the world’s oldest system of fitness, encompassing the mind, body and spirit. The word `Yoga’ means "union". It is derived from the Sanskrit word "yujir " meaning "to yoke" or "to join". Yoga is the practical aspect of a philosophy called Vedanta, which is laid out in the Upanishads and maintains that there is one absolute reality that underlies everything in the universe. Among the most important teachings of Yoga are instructions on how to control your body through your mind.
Yoga helps you in keeping your body fit and mind peaceful. In recent years, medical research has begun to pay attention to the effects of Yoga. Studies have shown, for instance, that relaxation in the Corpse Pose or Shavasana effectively relieves high blood pressure and that regular practice of asanas and pranayama can help relieve diverse ailments such as arthritis, arteriosclerosis, chronic fatigue, asthma, varicose veins and heart conditions.
Is yoga a religion?
Yoga is not a religion nor is it a mystic cult. It is a spiritual technique, which has something to offer to everyone, religious and the non-religious, men and women irrespective of age, faith or race factors.
Is yoga effective in modern life?
The pressures of work and home, coping with deadlines, and just the business of daily living has become too stressful today. You’ve probably tried everything under the sun from tranquilizers to pills to even dancing your blues away. But nothing seems to help you. Go for Yoga. It acts like a balm and soothes your mind, body and soul.
Yoga is an effective stress-buster and helps lower your stress levels. Here's how:
It controls stress not only on a physical level, but on a mental and spiritual level too.
Yoga asanas release the physical tension of your body and lubricates it. It keeps your muscles and joints running smoothly, tones all the internal organs and increases circulation, without creating any fatigue.
Pranayama gives vitality by increasing the supply of oxygen to the brain.
Finally, meditation stills the mind and enhances your powers of concentration.
Yoga improves the strength and flexibility of your mind and body, and helps you to relax. It frees you from stress both physically and mentally, often heightening your powers of intuition and creativity. Thus you can leverage this ancient science perfected by Indian sages over the centuries to work for you today.
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