Why Yoga?

In Sanskrit, the word yoga means union or joining.  As we practice yoga, we enhance the union of body, mind and spirit, and cultivate the body's capability to relax.  This reduces the negative effect stress plays in our lives.  Practiced in India for thousands of years, yoga has become increasingly popular in the West as a means of promoting health and relaxation, and of treating chronic conditions such as back pain and coronary artery disease.  It is also the oldest holistic system of personal development. Yoga achieves the union of our physical, mental and spiritual aspects through a combination of postures, breathing exercises and meditation. The postures strengthen the musculoskeletal system, increase flexibility, and improve joint functionality, while enhancing the suppleness of the spine. They also stimulate internal organs, glands and nerves. By releasing physical and mental tensions, the practice of Hatha yoga brings clarity, focus and consciousness into our daily lives.

Namaste'...what does it mean, and why is it so popular?  CLICK here to find out!

Benefits of Yoga*

Studies have confirmed that yoga can enable people to control a wide range of body functions, including:

1. Stress level

2. Quality of sleep

3. Metabolic rate and vitality

4. Heart rate and circulation

5. Posture and body alignment

6. Blood pressure

7. Glandular functionality

8. Brain waves (as measured by EEG)

9. Joints' functionality

10. Respiratory performance

11. Intuitive awareness

12. Sense of well being

13. Digestion

14. Muscle tone and strength

*Although yoga has been shown to be beneficial in a variety of conditions, it is not considered a therapy for specific illnesses. Rather, yoga employs a broad holistic approach that focuses on teaching people a new lifestyle, way of thinking, and way of being in the world.  If you wish to learn more about yoga, we suggest a search on the Internet using the word "yoga" in any Internet search engine.