an A-Z of alternative therapies
Yoga
Yoga is a healing system of theory and practice. It is a combination of breathing exercises, physical postures, and meditation that has been practiced for more than 5,000 years.
May be used for:
- Stress
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Migraine
- Depression
- Circulatory disorders
- Asthma
- Bronchitis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Digestive disorder
- Back pain
- Menstrual problems
- P.M.T.
- Improved mobility
How does it work?
Best known in the West as a form of gentle exercise consisting of body postures and breathing techniques, yoga is in fact a complete system of mental and physical training, originally developed as preparation for spiritual development. It has been practiced for thousands of years in India as part of Ayurveda, and has now become popular around the world.
Yoga asanas and relaxation techniques were developed to bring physical and spiritual benefits. Asanas are designed to have an impact on the physical body, stimulating nerve centres and organs. Spiritual benefits are derived from using breathing techniques and meditation to influence the flow of prana or life energy, which flows through the subtle (non-physical) body in invisible energy channels known as nadi.
When mind and body are in harmony, the individual can focus on spiritual goals by practicing the higher disciplines of meditation.
Experiences
Most people find it helpful to join a beginner's class before continuing on their own. It is advisable to attend classes given by a qualified teacher. Classes vary widely, but between 5 - 20 people is common.
You should take light clothing to wear, but do not worry about footwear as yoga is best done barefoot. You may need a rug or blanket to cover yourself during the relaxation posture and a mat if the floor is hard or slippery.
Your teacher will guide you through gentle warm-up exercises, then show you the correct way to perform yoga asanas, or postures, which you will then be asked to practice with the other pupils in the class. Asanas should never cause prolonged pain. Some may be more difficult than others initially and beginners should avoid advances asanas such as the Lotus position.
Side effects
You may feel a slight stiffness of the joints when starting to practice yoga.
Duration and number of sessions
Most yoga classes last 40-90 minutes.
Safety issues
- Allow 2-3 hours after a meal before exercising.
- Take care during pregnancy and menstruation.
- Avoid certain exercises such as the headstand during pregnancy and menstruation.
- Headstands and some other asanas are not advised if you have a neck or back injury, high blood pressure, circulatory problems, heart disease, disorders of the brain, ears or eyes.
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