Yoga practice aims for internal balance. Fundamentally this involves optimisation of your endocrine system. Yoga postures and breathing techniques, in conjunction with meditation practices and chanting, stimulate your endocrine glands to enhance their functioning. This is achieved by internal massage on muscles and spine, by internal massage through sounds, by improving circulation, by stimulation of body areas which have connections to specific organs as demonstrated through reflexology techniques, focusing on chakras, and exercising the triple warmer muscles of your thorax.
Your endocrine system consists of glands that release chemical messages called 'hormones' to regulate your organism's functions. Hormones are involved in growth and development, tissue function, metabolism (affecting weight regulation and hunger), and in your mood. They play a role in your experiencing relaxation or stress, pleasure or frustration, and fear or joy. Scientific experiments prove the relationship between our moods as reaction to external stimuli or circumstances, as with film themes, and hormone secretion. We know that hormonal imbalances affect our mood, and thus our decision-making, in undesirable ways. Consequences of our day-to-day choices will inevitably amount to change the direction of our lives. In this light, Yoga's beneficial effect on our endocrine system is of paramount importance to all regardless of age or gender.
Your body 'chakras' or energy foci keep close relation with your internal glands that constitute your endocrine system. Yogis understand that when the pineal gland and the pituitary gland (or hypophysis) receive sufficient energy, they will channel impulses from the other endocrine glands in synchronicity to optimise rhythms for good health. Your pineal gland corresponds to your 'third eye' and is linked to your developing transcendental wisdom. Yoga meditation techniques powerfully stimulate this gland. Your pituitary gland, at the base of your brain, relates to inspiration and intuition. Its functioning is enhanced by The Archway yoga posture. A very pleasant practice to promote emotional balance through your endocrine system is the Kundalini Yoga Sat Nam (True Self) meditation exercise using breathing and chanting techniques.
Your thyroid gland, found below your larynx, or below Adam's apple in men, is responsible for your body's energy burning rate, and for your body's sensitivity to other hormones. It produces the thyroid hormones Thyroxine (T4) and Triiodothyronine (T3), involved in regulating your metabolism, and in the growth and rate of function of other bodily systems. It is controlled by the hypothalamus and pituitary gland. In Yoga, it is connected to your chakra visshudda, which relates to your communication skills. Your thyroid's functions are directly linked to your mood. When this gland becomes overactive (hyperthyroidism) or underactive (hypothyroidism) we experience undesirable effects. Excessive thyroid hormonal secretion produces nervousness, irritability, excessive hunger, palpitations, laboured breathing and an abnormally fast digestion. An underactive thyroid results in our apathy and tiredness. The inverted yoga posture Head Stand greatly enhances the functioning of your thyroid gland by bringing an increased amount of blood to your throat area, resulting especially helpful in execution with the Breath of Fire in Kundalini Yoga. The Throat Lotus Kriya combines exercises with powerful yoga breathing techniques to work your thyroid and parathyroid glands.
The thymus gland, also part of your endocrine system and located under your breastbone, has a central role in keeping a strong immune system. In Yoga, it is connected to your anahata chakra, relating to your capacity for loving and opening up to others. The Throat Lotus Kriya also stimulates this gland.
Your adrenal glands, sitting above your kidneys, release hormones in conjunction to stress due to our fear or frustration, and also when hipoglucemia occurs. This results in the hyperactive state of 'fight or flight'. If we don't respond to this state through movement as intended by its bodily mechanism then we enter a state of stress. These glands of your endocrine system are connected to your manipura chakra relating to power-seeking, perseverance and will-power. The Camel yoga posture enhances blood flow through your suprarenal glands.
Your gonads secrete sex hormones and affect your vitality.They connect with your svadisthana chakra in relation to pleasure, creativity and joy of life. Yoga exercises and meditation are of help to men and women experiencing changes in hormonal levels due to aging. Women dealing with the perimenopause or menopause find relief from stress, and production of stress hormones by their bodies is reduced. Yoga's inverted postures, as the Downward Facing Dog, direct blood towards our pineal, pituitary, thyroid and hypothalamus glands. This can help stabilise severe hormonal fluctuations. It is important here to note contraindications to yoga's inverted postures for people with high blood pressure, hyperactive thyroid, Graves disease, glaucoma, and detached retina. If this includes you, please be sure to consult with a professional for evaluation and advice.
The invaluable benefits to be experienced through our mood and stability by engaging in yoga practice are not to be dismissed by anyone who wishes to enhance their well-being. This holds regardless of your present condition. You will undoubtedly enrich your life through these simple techniques, be it to elevate your wellness to an even higher level, or to mark the start of a rising stage that promotes healing and comfort. Whatever your situation, yoga will lead your way to unprecedented well-being.
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Friday, October 30
Saturday, September 26
Yoga - Guide To Sciatica Exercise
Sciatica Exercise
Sciatica Exercise Benefits
Many health practitioners stress that daily exercises for relieving sciatica are crucial for preventing repeat bouts of the condition. Aerobic exercise increases circulation, stimulating the flow of nutrients to all parts of the body, especially the spinal area. Strengthening sciatica exercise helps with keeping the posture aligned and the back properly supported. Stretching positions are also great exercises for relieving sciatica symptoms and preventing recurrences. When the body is loose and flexible, back related injuries and muscle spasms are less common.
Pilates and the “Core”
One type of sciatica exercise that addresses all three issues is Pilates. This sciatica exercise is actually a routine of exercises that work all the major muscles of the body while placing emphasis on the “core”, a term used to describe the abdomen and back muscles which support the torso. Exercises are performed either on specially designed machines or done as a specific routine on a mat. Joseph H. Pilates, the creator of this type of exercise, believed that the quality of the movements should be stressed rather than the quantity. Each movement is performed an average of only five repetitions and done in cadence to proper breathing. All of the exercises can be modified to fit individual limitations. It is important to find a certified Pilates instructor because the movements need to be done precisely. Also, a trained instructor will have had extensive training in anatomy, rehabilitative techniques and body mechanics as well as being versed in the methods created by Joseph H. Pilates.
Yoga Postures
Yoga, another form of sciatica exercise which strengthens and stretches muscles and increases circulation, can be of great benefit to sciatica sufferers. The study of yoga actually encompasses areas from the spiritual to the physical, but one area, asanas, or the physical yoga postures, can help relieve symptoms of sciatica. While one can benefit from following yoga routines from tapes, DVD’s and generalized classes, private yoga consultations are recommended for treating sciatica. An experienced yoga therapist will create a program of specific yoga positions and breathing exercises for relieving sciatica. Modifications can be made for individuals who cannot perform the sciatica exercise through the full range of motion.
Tai Chi
Tai Chi, a type of martial art, uses gentle flowing movements to strengthen muscles and increase circulation. This type of sciatica exercise can be done by anyone who is able to walk. The movements also increase flexibility in the muscles and joints, improve posture and balance and in many cases have reduced the pain attributed to inflammation.
Feldenkrais, another Mind and Body Discipline
The Feldenkrais Method is a sciatica exercise that uses movement to improve neuromuscular activity. The two areas of discipline in this method are “Awareness through Movement” and “Functional Integration”. The first, ATM, utilizes gentle movements to make the individual aware of body postures and can be done in a class setting. The latter, FI, is a private session where touch is used to increase the communication between the brain and the body. Students of this method have reported these exercises for relieving sciatica have improved the condition as well reducing the pain.
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Sciatica Exercise Benefits
Many health practitioners stress that daily exercises for relieving sciatica are crucial for preventing repeat bouts of the condition. Aerobic exercise increases circulation, stimulating the flow of nutrients to all parts of the body, especially the spinal area. Strengthening sciatica exercise helps with keeping the posture aligned and the back properly supported. Stretching positions are also great exercises for relieving sciatica symptoms and preventing recurrences. When the body is loose and flexible, back related injuries and muscle spasms are less common.
Pilates and the “Core”
One type of sciatica exercise that addresses all three issues is Pilates. This sciatica exercise is actually a routine of exercises that work all the major muscles of the body while placing emphasis on the “core”, a term used to describe the abdomen and back muscles which support the torso. Exercises are performed either on specially designed machines or done as a specific routine on a mat. Joseph H. Pilates, the creator of this type of exercise, believed that the quality of the movements should be stressed rather than the quantity. Each movement is performed an average of only five repetitions and done in cadence to proper breathing. All of the exercises can be modified to fit individual limitations. It is important to find a certified Pilates instructor because the movements need to be done precisely. Also, a trained instructor will have had extensive training in anatomy, rehabilitative techniques and body mechanics as well as being versed in the methods created by Joseph H. Pilates.
Yoga Postures
Yoga, another form of sciatica exercise which strengthens and stretches muscles and increases circulation, can be of great benefit to sciatica sufferers. The study of yoga actually encompasses areas from the spiritual to the physical, but one area, asanas, or the physical yoga postures, can help relieve symptoms of sciatica. While one can benefit from following yoga routines from tapes, DVD’s and generalized classes, private yoga consultations are recommended for treating sciatica. An experienced yoga therapist will create a program of specific yoga positions and breathing exercises for relieving sciatica. Modifications can be made for individuals who cannot perform the sciatica exercise through the full range of motion.
Tai Chi
Tai Chi, a type of martial art, uses gentle flowing movements to strengthen muscles and increase circulation. This type of sciatica exercise can be done by anyone who is able to walk. The movements also increase flexibility in the muscles and joints, improve posture and balance and in many cases have reduced the pain attributed to inflammation.
Feldenkrais, another Mind and Body Discipline
The Feldenkrais Method is a sciatica exercise that uses movement to improve neuromuscular activity. The two areas of discipline in this method are “Awareness through Movement” and “Functional Integration”. The first, ATM, utilizes gentle movements to make the individual aware of body postures and can be done in a class setting. The latter, FI, is a private session where touch is used to increase the communication between the brain and the body. Students of this method have reported these exercises for relieving sciatica have improved the condition as well reducing the pain.
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Thursday, August 27
Yoga - Diet & Eating Habits
Yoga food for health
Yoga diet philosophy does not believe in measuring calorie count or the amount of vitamins, minerals or proteins in the food. Instead stress is laid on type of food and its quality. Focus on nutrition in food without bothering about its taste. Also, moderation is recommended in whatever you drink and eat. Yoga diet principles are very easy but difficult to follow.
Fast foods
Modern fast food items like hamburgers, pizzas, jams, jellies, soft drinks, ice creams etc. have gained control over our eating patterns and is the main cause of obesity we see all around. These fast foods are rich source of sugar, oils and preservatives all of which are not good for our health. People are now attracted by various types of fast food which are very low in nutrition. In addition, these foods tax our digestive system and body has to do extra work for digestion and elimination of such food.
Look towards nature
Yoga diet philosophy emphasizes on the natural sources of nutrition. Nature has provided us several nutritious edible foods in their natural form like whole grains, seasonal fruits, vegetables, milk, honey and dry fruits.
Overeating
More people fall sick due to overeating or wrong dietary habits as compared to people who get sick due to non availability of food. Observe moderation in quantity of food we eat. People who keep on overeating without proper understanding of the principles of eating, gradually begins to harm themselves physically and mentally. One golden rule to avoid overeating is, not to have any type of snacks between your meals.
Balanced diet
Balanced diet is essential requirement of good health. A balanced diet should include plenty of salads, fresh vegetables, fresh fruits, milk and raw nuts. Include these items in your existing dietary choices.Salads. All vegetables eaten raw constitute salad. Fresh cucumber, tomato, carrots, beetroot, lettuce, broccoli, cauliflower etc are used for preparing salad. Salad should be cut into small pieces with suitable dressing of you choice. Ideally salad should form first course of your lunch and dinner. Eat plenty of salad half an hour prior to your meals in case you want to reduce your food intake.
Fresh vegetables
Ideally fresh vegetables from your kitchen garden can be the most fresh vegetables. Fresh vegetables should not be dried or deformed in shape. Vegetables stored in your refrigerator do not remain fresh for a long time.
Fresh fruits.
Fresh fruits are most nutritious food for our body. Regular intake of fresh fruits is essential for good health. Use fresh seasonal fruits. Fruits are better than fruit juices as fruit also provides you fiber.
Raw nuts
Yoga diet should include nuts like cashew, pistachio, almond and walnuts provide essential minerals, proteins and vitamins. For yoga practitioners, a handful mixture of these nuts is recommended for obtaining energy and good health.
Quantity of food
As a general rule, fill only 50% of your stomach with food, 25% of your stomach for water and keep 25% of your stomach empty. If your stomach is overstuffed, it is not properly digested. You will feel uncomfortable and your body is forced to digest extra food and also work for eliminating it. By overeating, your abdominal system is strained and body becomes sluggish. Finally, it leads to gaining of extra weight. Eat only when you feel hungry and eliminate any snacks in between the meals.
Alcoholic drinks
Alcoholic drinks are nutrient thieves, they steal and destroy nutrients available in your system. Alcoholic drinks weaken the individual physically and mentally, if used without restraint. For yoga practitioners, it is best to avoid alcoholic drinks.
Spices
Avoid excessive use of spices and salt. Too much of seasoning of food is also not recommended.Water. Drink 10 to 12 glasses of water everyday. Drink water half an hour before meals. Avoid drinking water with food. Drinking of one or two glasses of water when you wake up is ideal for health.
Coffee and tea
It is ideal if you can avoid tea and coffee completely. Otherwise limit your tea or coffee intake to 2 cups per day. Excess of tea and coffee leads to constipation, insomnia and nervousness in addition to extra calories each cup fo tea or coffee pumps into our bodies.
Method of eating
Eat slowly and chew your food properly. Eating fast does not allow the time for satiating signals to reach your brain from your abdomen resulting in overeating. By chewing the food properly, saliva can better mix with food and make it easily digestible. Body is able to make full use of food you eat and helps you to maintain better health.Principles of yoga diet are time tested and very easy to follow. To lead a healthy life one has to establish a dietary pattern that will sustain good health.
Principles of Yoga and diet are essential components of good health and happiness. Eat to live and not live to eat.
Thursday, July 23
Yoga - Hiatus Hernia Treatment
Hiatus hernias cannot be cured by self-treatment or by drugs but the symptoms can be relieved by certain lifestyle changes. Avoiding heavy meals, replacing them with small frequent ones, avoiding bending forward or lying down after meals, are primer rules in lightening symptoms. Spicy foods, cigarette smoking, alcohol and coffee usually cause severe symptoms. Persons suffering from overweight must rapidly loose weight. Also patients should sleep with an excess pillow at night to prevent regurgitation and heartburn.
The most required medication of patients with hiatus hernia is antacids to prevent chest burnings and pain. These tend to neutralize the acid gastric reflux as they contain magnesium or aluminum. Antacids are available in liquid or tablet form and can sometimes contain an alginate producing an outer protective layer of the stomach. This floats on top of the gastric contents and prevents them from splashing back into the gullet. This method will reduce all reflux symptoms and heartburn caused by the gastric acid. Bismuth compounds create a protective layer on the stomach content as well. Some antacids are mixtures like Rennies and Gaviscon.
Severe cases of hiatus hernia symptoms and complications require high amounts of antacids that can actually show no real benefit. You physician will in this case prescribe more powerful medication like H2 blockers that will reduce the acid production of the stomach. H2 blockers are also known as H2 antagonists and are contained in drugs like Famotidine (commercially called Pepcid Two) and Ranitidine (Zantac). All these medication can be pursued without any medical prescription. Drugs requiring a prescription need to be indicated by a specialist gastroenterologist. Anyone with prolonged severe indigestion symptoms needing more than 3-3 times a week medication should discuss the problems with a physician. Specialists may prescribe longer-action H2 antagonists or other kinds of medications such as proton pump inhibitors. These inhibitors also reduce the acid gastric production and are contained in products like Omeprazole (Losec) and Lansoprazole (Zoton). Some prescription medicines work by producing a protective coat on the stomach lining keeping the gastric mucosa safe from the acid-attack. Such chemical compounds are Sucralfate and Carbenoxolone. Beside non-prescription and prescription requiring medications, there are few complementary therapies available: a better postural balance achieved with the Alexander technique, relaxation, visualization, yoga or acupuncture. In some particular cases, all these methods can be benefic, but no scientific proves suggest their efficiency. In very severe cases, also very rarely encountered, surgery may be required. The intervention is called fundoplication and involves pushing the stomach back into the abdomen by a cut and securing it there. Any further gap in the diaphragm must be repaired. The procedure can be done by traditional or laparoscopic method.
Severe cases of hiatus hernia symptoms and complications require high amounts of antacids that can actually show no real benefit. You physician will in this case prescribe more powerful medication like H2 blockers that will reduce the acid production of the stomach. H2 blockers are also known as H2 antagonists and are contained in drugs like Famotidine (commercially called Pepcid Two) and Ranitidine (Zantac). All these medication can be pursued without any medical prescription. Drugs requiring a prescription need to be indicated by a specialist gastroenterologist. Anyone with prolonged severe indigestion symptoms needing more than 3-3 times a week medication should discuss the problems with a physician. Specialists may prescribe longer-action H2 antagonists or other kinds of medications such as proton pump inhibitors. These inhibitors also reduce the acid gastric production and are contained in products like Omeprazole (Losec) and Lansoprazole (Zoton). Some prescription medicines work by producing a protective coat on the stomach lining keeping the gastric mucosa safe from the acid-attack. Such chemical compounds are Sucralfate and Carbenoxolone. Beside non-prescription and prescription requiring medications, there are few complementary therapies available: a better postural balance achieved with the Alexander technique, relaxation, visualization, yoga or acupuncture. In some particular cases, all these methods can be benefic, but no scientific proves suggest their efficiency. In very severe cases, also very rarely encountered, surgery may be required. The intervention is called fundoplication and involves pushing the stomach back into the abdomen by a cut and securing it there. Any further gap in the diaphragm must be repaired. The procedure can be done by traditional or laparoscopic method.
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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