25 Nov 09 Yoga Poses for the Spine
Spinal health is of paramount importance in yoga. The spine is seen as a vehicle through which the power of the universe may manifest in the human form. As well, it is through sushumna nadi, the central channel within the spinal column, that the mysterious and powerful kundalini force raises from its dormant state at the base of the spine to the brahmarandhra (the psychic aperture at the crown of the head).
It is the vertical nature of the human spine which aligns the mechanism of our central nervous system with the vertical energy flows of the universe, which the yogis believe is what gives superior intelligence to the human beings.
Thus, in meditation it is of the utmost importance that one’s spine be vertical and straight.
Yoga and Spinal Health
Though yoga is an effective therapy for these and many related conditions, treatment can be slow and requires a great deal of diligence and effort. As most of these conditions have accumulated over a lifetime, they indeed cannot be remedied overnight.
Needless to say, skeletal health, namely spinal health, is at the forefront of overall health and wellness. Sedentary lifestyles, coupled with poor posture and lack of regular exercise and movement, means that the average person today has a terribly inflexible spine.
Yoga poses for the spine
Matsyasana – Fish Pose
Bhujangasana – Cobra Pose
Shalabhasana – Locust Pose
Bow (Dhanurasana) Viparita Karani
Sarvangasana – Shoulder Stand
Halasana – Plough Pose
Ardha Matsyendrasana – Half Spinal Twist
Yoga is a technique that aspires to attain the optimum results with the least energy outflow. All The various Yoga postures have been designed to carry a rich supply of blood to the brain as well as to the different parts of the body. The work achieved by Yoga asanas, viz. stretching, bending and twisting the spinal column in various directions all improve health of the nerves and organs. But never forget, that the spine is the fulcrum of the body and, as such has to be maintained in perfect order, if one is to realize a semblance of perfect health.
Tags: Spine, Yoga poses
19 Nov 09 What is Bikram Yoga(Hot Yoga)?
Bikram Yoga is a Yoga type known as “Hot Yoga“. Bikram yoga is a series of yoga poses done in a very heated room, which is usually maintained at a temperature of 105 degrees Fahrenheit (approximately 40 degrees Celsius). Yoga at this temperature promotes profuse sweating, which is believed to help rid the body of toxins. It also keeps the body very warm and, therefore, more flexible.
Controversy has surrounded Bikram Choudhury’s copyright and franchising of Bikram yoga. There is no Bikram Yoga in India.
Bikram Yoga works toward wellness, restoration and rejuvenation. The heated studio facilitates deeper stretching, prevents injury, and relieves stress and tension. Bikram Yoga was designed to systematically stimulate and restore health to every muscle, joint and organ of the body. Participants are guided through a series of 26 postures during which the heart, lungs, circulation, muscles, brain activity and mental capacity are all affected. There are two descriptions of the 26 exercises and they are asanas (postures) and pranayama (breathing exercises). Both of these rely on each other to deliver positive results. According to Bikram, many people only use up to 50 percent of their lung capacity, and just like any muscle, the lungs must be stretched in order to (through practice) withstand holding more oxygen. When one is practicing the pranayama he will eventually be able to enhance oxygen conversion and absorption, as well as improve blood circulation.
The postures are done in the safe environment of a heated room so that deep penetration can relieve muscle resistance without risking injury. Each posture in the copyrighted sequence of postures is done in specific order, preparing the body for the next posture, resulting in powerful healing and miraculous results.
By the end of a Bikram Yoga class, you will have worked every muscle, tendon, joint, ligament, internal organ, and gland while systematically moving fresh, oxygenated blood to 100% of the body. These postures work synergistically and cumulatively to put the body back on track and in balance. Bikram Yoga builds strength, balance and flexibility by gently stretching and massaging the spine, muscles, tendons, joints, and all internal organs of the body. Lung capacity is expanded, leading to greater vitality. Bones are strengthened. Joints are opened and lubricated. Muscles are strengthened, toned, and made more flexible. Regular practice of this series of postures results in the healing and repair of injuries and illnesses, weight loss, and peace of mind.
Tags: Bikram Yoga, Hot Yoga, Yoga poses
