In his second yoga sutra, Patanjali defines yoga as the “conscious process of gaining mastery over the mind”. By practicing self-hypnosis, asanas, pranayamas, kriyas and meditation, we develop awareness of our body, breathing and thoughts. This awareness awakens inner knowledge and wisdom that helps us better know ourselves.
When we increase our physical activity level, the risk of sports-related injuries often increases. This is especially true of vulnerable areas of the body, such as the Achilles tendons, hamstrings and lower back. The shoulders and wrists are also quite vulnerable to repetitive sports-related injuries, hence the phrase “tennis-elbow.” The type of injuries that a Yogi or Yogini may experience usually depends on a combination of personal history and the kind of activity he or she is engaging in. For example, if you tend to have tight leg muscles, the likelihood that you may experience a tight lower back is also quite high.
Joint and associated muscle group movement helps to augment both Venous and Lymphatic circulation. This helps to prevent venous pooling and lower limb cellular waste accumulation. The venous system does not have the same pressure gradient as the arterial system and relies on venous cusps within the veins and the constant muscular skeletal augmentation to allow the blood to return to the heart for recirculation. The anti-gastric exercises in part II facilitate the gravitational return of blood back to the heart as the lower limbs are often placed at a higher angle than the thoracic cavity.
Certain poses are more conducive to building strong, toned, lean muscles than others, too, so you’ll want to learn the best ones and make them a regular part of your routine. Can yoga be used to get the lean body of your dreams? When combined with the right diet and exercise regimen, it can help you achieve incredible results.
Hold Modified Standing Forward Fold for 3 to 5 complete breaths. When you have completed your final breath in the posture, release the clasp of your hands and bring your fingers back down beside your feet on your Yoga mat. With your next inhale, release the clasp of your hands, stand up and raise your arms overhead with your hands in Prayer Position. With your next exhale, bring your hands back down in front of your Heart Chakra and pause for a moment to enjoy the expansive pulsation of energy throughout your entire heart area.
Regularly practicing yoga asanas, pranayamas, and meditation heightens the individual’s level of self awareness, and this inner wisdom and knowledge guides the individual to the right food. The individual becomes more aware and sensitive to what he or she eats.
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