yoga bucuresti is a mind-body practice that originated in ancient India. It is a series of physical, breathing exercises and meditation that bring the body to awareness of itself and the world. Yoga is a path to liberation, meaning freedom from the suffering of the mind and the physical body.
The word “yoga” derives from the root yuj, which means to bind or unite. It refers to the union of the individual self with the universal consciousness, neutralizing ego-driven thoughts and behaviours in order to foster spiritual awakening. Although different styles and interpretations of yoga exist, most emphasize the unity of body, breath and mind to alter energy or shift consciousness.
Adding yoga to your routine can boost your immune system, and help you feel better physically and emotionally. Several studies show that regular practice of yoga improves heart and lung function and increases muscular strength. It also helps balance blood pressure and reduces stress hormone levels, including cortisol. The calming effect of a yoga practice and its emphasis on relaxation, often ending with a short savasana (corpse pose) at the end of class, make it an effective antidote to stress.
While most people begin a yoga practice for physical benefits, the psychological effects of it are equally important. Cultivating friendships, compassion and greater equanimity are among the key yogic principles that can have a powerful impact on health and healing. Yoga encourages mindfulness, which is a state of non-reactivity, and cultivates the ability to observe one’s thoughts, actions and sensations without judgment, leading to self-awareness and a deeper connection with ourselves and others.
Yoga’s meditative and mindfulness practices encourage the practitioner to be in the moment, which has been shown to decrease chronic pain and stress. It also enhances the effectiveness of treatment for conditions such as fibromyalgia and cancer, as well as improving general wellbeing.
The physical poses in yoga help to build core and leg strength, and the combination of stretching and strengthening increases flexibility. In addition, the focus on breath and attention to alignment promotes good posture and joint mobility. Some yoga asanas (poses) can be challenging to maintain, especially for the inexperienced, but over time, the practice can help to increase both balance and stamina.
The controlled breathing and relaxation techniques in yoga reduce stress and anxiety, and the calming breath work can help prevent heart attacks and strokes. The focus on balance can also improve the symptoms of conditions such as arthritis and osteoporosis. For example, poses such as chair pose and half-moon pose, which require a combination of core strength, shoulder and back extension and balance, can promote stability and help to avoid falls as we age. Studies show that a regular yoga practice can also help to strengthen the spine, which can reduce back pain and prevent osteoporosis.