| Stemming from India's complex spiritual traditions, | | | | combined with guided stretching can lead to relief |
| yoga has the reputation of unifying body, mind and | | | | from difficulties caused by asthma or PMS. Yoga may |
| spirit. However, today, many people choose it for | | | | also be a powerful tool in stress reduction. Because |
| non-religious reasons. It is an exercise regimen that is | | | | the body becomes relaxed yet energized and the |
| gentle enough for almost anyone. | | | | mind is required to focus on breathing, the effects of |
| The name came from a Sanskrit word that means | | | | anxiety and stress are often diminished. |
| yoke or union. However, today, people think less of | | | | The cat pose is a good asana to try for a moment |
| the religious pursuit and more of the poses or asana | | | | of stress relief as long as there are no back |
| and the potential for physical fitness. The poses, | | | | problems. It is a basic pose that will increase |
| breath work, guided imagery, and meditative | | | | awareness of centering the body and help coordinate |
| interludes offer more benefits, including stress | | | | breath and movement. Start on hands and knees on |
| reduction and a feeling of well being. | | | | a padded surface. Make sure the hands are below |
| Choosing yoga means committing to a regular | | | | the shoulders and the knees are below the hips. |
| schedule, diligently followed. This doesn't mean that | | | | Move slightly forward and back and check to see |
| beginners are excluded. With a mat and some | | | | whether the spine is straight and the body is |
| comfortable clothing, anyone can get started. Fitness | | | | balanced. Once at that place, pause and inhale slowly. |
| and flexibility are not required because there are | | | | On the exhale, tighten the abdominal muscles and lift |
| many ways to modify the poses. Qualified instructors | | | | them up. As they approach the spine, curve it |
| can be found at yoga studios, health clubs and | | | | upward. Lower the head so that the line from the |
| community centers. | | | | bottom of the spine arches gracefully to the top of |
| It may take some experimenting to find the class | | | | the head. Inhale and return to the neutral position. |
| that best suits one's body because they vary in | | | | Though yoga requires consistent and serious effort, |
| intensity. A good place to start is in Hatha classes | | | | the rewards for perseverance are great. Not only |
| where the poses are simpler and the pace slower. | | | | does the body become stronger, the mind also gains |
| Whatever branch is chosen, control of breathing | | | | strength and a sense of calm. |