Yoga is a great form of exercise for all sorts of ailments. If you have been wanting to start, but were not clear how, then this page will give you some guidance.  (The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please contact your doctor/medical adviser before using the information presented here).

What is yoga?

When some people think of yoga, they imagine a bunch of “weird” people twisting themselves into a pretzel shape. This is a sad misconception that keeps many people who think that they are too stiff from ever walking into a studio. The truth is you’re never too old to improve flexibility and the rest of your body and mind as well. Why is it that we fear what we do not know about?

Yoga means a union, a yoke or binding. Yoga refers to traditional physical and mental disciplines originating in India approximately 5,000 years ago. Yoga in and of itself is not a religion; it’s best described as a tool that is used to purify the mind and body to prepare it to serve a higher power more fully. Yoga strengthens your body and tones your muscles with your own weight as resistance. You can learn to listen to your body and to develop a feedback loop that allows you to tune in to subtle changes in your awareness of sensation. This can help you to avoid injuries as your attentiveness improves.

Yoga has both preventive and therapeutic benefits. It has been shown to offer both physical and mental benefits to the body and the mind. Benefits range from improving strength, posture, breathing, and flexibility to enhanced concentration in mood, reduction for chronic disease, and boost in immune response to improved relationships with yourself and a higher power and so much more. (Many believe it even fends off the ravages of old age.)

The only way to become truly aware of the health benefits of yoga is to try it for yourself and see. Open mind and open heart.