Yoga – How a sceptic becomes a fan!
Well it is fair to say I have passed the tipping point. I suppose what I am saying is I am the wrong side of 50 and cooked breakfasts have been replaced by muesli, pints in the pub replaced by spirits beside the fire, and, impact sport replace with just keeping my bits together!
I think in the opening paragraph I have summed up that age is a significant factor on the new outlook.
I remember years ago singing the praises of stomach crunches and sit ups that were great for your digestion and keeping you regular well twists and bends in a more sedate manner prove equally beneficial and keeps IBS and stomach cramps at a distance. The body is a wonderful thing but just like a well-tuned engine in a car as soon as it is parked up for a few weeks then the brakes seize on, the lubricating oil solidifies and the dust accumulates on the bonnet. The car needs to feel the wind arcing over its curves for the internals to perform properly. So, the car analogy to the benefits of yoga is a good one.
Some of the benefits to the joints and muscles and overall wellbeing are well documented. The therapeutic side and the placebo effects are significant that they not only minimise toxins within the body but reduce a dependency on the NHS. Equally it is very easy to perform Yoga at home, so no wasted gym memberships if you want to start gently and easing yourself in with simple stretches.
Once you have mastered some stretches and holds it then means you can build a simple routine for easing those aches and pains.
As some parts of the body regenerate other parts do not so we all have a responsibility to keep things in working order.
Yoga and walking is great as combining the two will lead to a suppler frame, less inflammation and ultimately a brisker walk. The latter is important as it will increase the cardiovascular impact that is needed to stay fit.
Healthy Body – Healthy Mind, so enjoy life at your pace with some stretches that are good for the brain and release those endorphins to create karma!
So instead of sitting and watching the television tonight mix it up on the rug, stretch those muscles and relieve those aching joints. Get all the family to join in as well! Or, if feeling bold look up a local class.