September is National Yoga Awareness month. Yoga combines physical and relaxation modalities originating back from ancient Indian traditions. Endurance training, breathing techniques, and meditation merge to create mind and body health and wellbeing. Yoga practices vary; some target physical training while others concentrate on stress reduction. Researchers continue to highlight positive attributes of yoga, making its practice a building block in the management of chronic diseases. As noted in WebMD, “Yoga has long been known to lower blood pressure and slow the heart rate…Yoga has also been linked to lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels, and better immune system function.” 

              According to the National Center for Complimentary and Alternative Medicine:

Recent studies in people with chronic low-back pain suggest that a carefully adapted set of yoga poses may help reduce pain and improve function (the ability to walk and move). Studies also suggest that practicing yoga (as well as other forms of regular exercise) might have other health benefits such as reducing heart rate and blood pressure, and may also help relieve anxiety and depression.

“Yoga, an ancient but perfect science, deals with the evolution of humanity. This evolution includes all aspects of one's being, from bodily health to self-realization. Yoga means union - the union of body with consciousness and consciousness with the soul. Yoga cultivates the ways of maintaining a balanced attitude in day to day life and endows skill in the performance of one's actions.” - B.K.S. Iyengar

Tips to Consider Before Starting a Yoga Program:

1. Research the instructor’s credentials. It’s crucial to verify classes are lead by certified yoga instructors to prevent possible injury to the body.

2. Consult with your physician before starting yoga. This is particularly important if you’re pregnant or have underlying health concerns. Although the side effects of yoga are rare, certain health conditions require strict adherence to a tailored plan of care.

3. Research various types of yoga to determine which practice is best for you. Most yoga centers offer classes for beginners, intermediate, and advance practice.

4. Create a routine that fits your schedule and lifestyle. Explore yoga centers in your community for times and available program options.

The essence of yoga practice is maintaining health through physical and mental balance. Yoga poses enhance flexibility and muscle tone, while visualization and breathing invites relaxation. WebMD comments, “When you're stronger and more flexible, your posture improves… Some yoga styles use meditation techniques that help calm the mind. Focusing on your breathing during yoga can do that, too.”

* All information shared in this article should be discussed with your healthcare provider prior to incorporating any suggestions. This article is for informational purposes only, and is not intended to provide advice or direct client decisions.