When Taking Up Yoga Washington DC Citizens Hope To Improve Their Lives

By Jeffrey Adams


There are many millions of people in every country across the world that have become supporters of Asana. Asana is the name that the Indian philosopher Swami Vivekanada called his particular philosophy. When he visited Canada and the United States in the late eighteenth century to promote this philosophy he surely never thought that it will take on so quickly and that so many people will embrace it. With yoga Washington DC residents always feel better about life.

There are still many misconceptions about Asana, despite its immense popularity. Asana is not a religion or, nor is it an exercise program, as so many people still think. It is, instead, a holistic discipline that aims to improve the mind, body and spirit of the practitioner in a balanced manner. There is nothing mystic or mysterious about it. It is, in fact, a practical philosophy.

It would not be completely erroneous to think that the discipline consists of a series of low impact stretching exercises and poses. These poses and exercises are not the focus of Asana, however. They are merely vehicles that are used to enhance the fitness, concentration levels and internal discipline of practitioners. The fact remains that brute physical strength is not necessary to practice Asana.

Most practitioners love the fact that Asana does not allow any form of competition. Every practitioner progresses at his own pace and master new techniques when they feel up to it. For this reason, classes routinely consist of individuals at various levels of competency. This is a big benefit because it means that families or groups of friends can all practice together without being forced to follow any program.

Several empirical and a number of more informal studies into the benefits offered by Asana have all concluded that it offers numerous benefits indeed and absolutely no drawbacks. It is of particular benefit to those suffering from hypertension, heart conditions, asthma and respiratory difficulties. Those with mental conditions such as high anxiety levels, depression and post traumatic stress syndrome also benefit greatly and some therapists actually encourage their patients to take it up.

Anyone can take up Asana regardless of age or physical condition. It is easy to begin and no special clothes or equipment is required, which makes it affordable and accessible to everyone. One can start off in isolation at home, but it is recommended that beginners join at least a few classes. Reputable instructors will help beginners to identify their needs and to choose an approach to Asana that will suit them best.

There are numerous books and manuals that aim to teach people how to practice this discipline. There are also many websites that offer training videos and forums where people can connect with each other and give and receive advice. Beginners may need some guidance, however, because of the fact that there are so many different ways of practicing Asana. It is easy to become bewildered by the vast array of materials on the subject.

There can be no doubt that yoga offers many benefits and no drawbacks whatsoever. It offers better health, physical fitness, mental clarity and a better quality of life. It is easy to get started and the cost involved is minimal. Beginners will find classes just about everywhere, even in smaller towns and they will start reaping the benefits almost immediately.




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