Here’s an article I wrote for livestrong
Unless you’ve been detached from society for the last 10 years, you are well aware that yoga is everywhere.
Yoga – Is it time to revisit this ancient practice?
In the athletic world, “yoga” frequently has a negative connotation. It is thought of as “too easy,” “meditative,” and a non-workout workout.
Let’s examine this mindset and perhaps dispel some old beliefs:
Yoga can be meditative, and it can be a gentle workout; it simply depends on the style or type.
A great thing about yoga is that it can be modified for use with older folks or those that are recovering from injuries. They may continue to engage in a physical activity that allows for increased flexibility and circulatory benefits.
It’s also stress reducing which is something the majority of the population needs!
For those that think a yoga workout cannot compare to going to the gym- say “hello” to hot yoga, Bikram, Ashtanga, and Power yoga. A single session in one of these yoga styles will have you sweating for 75-120 minutes. Not to mention the lunges, handstands, and core work. The great thing about yoga workouts is that they are also “bodyweight” workouts. Simply put: you are using your bodyweight as resistance instead of lifting a weight. This is advantageous to other workouts that do not provide a load on the musculoskeletal system. It’s not just for the ladies; this type of exercise is definitely unisex! And deceptively difficult!
Yoga is also economical and these days, who couldn’t use a little bang for their buck? One session of yoga will provide you with your daily quota of exercise, flexibility and stress-busting needs. Most yoga studios offer a free initial class for you to see if the style is right for you. Once you have a basic knowledge of a practice, you take your practice anywhere: travel, home, work…
Studies show that people who regularly engage in yoga tend to have lower blood pressure readings and make healthier food choices. When you are sweating it out in an intense style of yoga, you are less apt to choose foods that are unnatural and may upset your body.
These days most professional athletes incorporate some type of yoga into their routines. And the model or celebrity-set often credited the practice with giving them their rocking bodies!
Yoga has gone mainstream. If you’ve previously thought that this workout wasn’t for you, it may be time to re-visit the “sport”.
Tags: ashtanga, bikram, celebrity fitness, fashion blog, fit, fitness blog, women's workout, workout, yoga, yoga blog
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