02 Dec The Benefits of Yoga
For all of the expats who have found their personal version of paradise in Panama and more specifically the beaches, the new lifestyle will likely be a lot more relaxed and laid back than your previous life. Many come as they begin retirement or to continue their careers in more temperate climate surrounded by natural beauty.
Haven’t met anyone who wanted more stress or a more frenetic pace of life.
Living near the ocean, walking the beaches in the early morning, enjoying the peace and calm goes a long way to improving quality of life.
Many begin a yoga practice to cultivate a closer relationship between mind and body. Yogic poses or asanas are suitable for all ages and abilities though always a good idea to get a doctors go ahead before beginning any new program. This 5,000 year old practice of physical, mental and spiritual disciplines has multiple scientifically documented benefits for young and old.
Sustained yoga practice over time reduces the stress hormone cortisol, anxiety and PTSD symptoms, depression, chronic pain and migraines. Reduction of inflammation associated with diabetes, cancer and heart disease and reduced blood pressure and pulse is well documented.
Improved quality of life, better sleep and social function, improved balance and flexibility, particularly for older folks.
Including mindfulness in your practice can lead to healthier eating as you focus on taste, texture and smell in the moment. Reduce body fat and lose weight as you build lean muscle and endurance.
New research suggests deep breathing activates chemicals in saliva that can change biochemistry and promote healing.
Starting a practice is simple. Check out your neighborhood for beginner level classes. Online there are a multitude of options for programs to meet all your needs. Whether in a social setting or on your own, you can try a variety of practices.
Over time, many forms of yoga practices have evolved, often associated and named for the individual or studio where developed. The differences in practices are related to pace and goal. Most beginners will start with some form of Hatha Yoga, basic poses to gently welcome you to the practice. Other gentle forms are Iyengar, a slow paced, detail oriented practice, Kripalu, a slow progressive form, Kundalini, a more medication and breath focused practice. Vinyasa is a common form of breath and long deep stretches.
Those seeking a greater challenge can check out Ashtanga, a nonstop series of poses, Bikram, 26 hot yoga poses and Power, the most athletic form focused on flexibility and balance.
On the flip side of the yang forms of the practice is yin. Yang engages the muscles. Yin yoga poses stress (not stretch) the deep connective tissues between muscles and fascia to regulate energy flow. Poses are held for a minimum of one minute which extends over time. Most poses are in a supine or seated position. Yin’s slow pace is great for beginners and can be practiced into old age. Attention and intention are key, it is imperative to listen to your body as you move into each pose. Mindful meditation is often practiced in tandem which further relaxes the nervous system and promotes good energy flow. Time is more important than intensity, the time is spent breathing into the pose, relaxing the stress of the pose is what matters.
Many people may begin their practice with yin and then move on to the yang form. Try as many forms as pique your interest, slow, fast, easy, challenging, there is a form for you. Check your neighborhood for schedules and costs, yoga studios are everywhere. Seek online connections of like minded enthusiasts to share information and guidance.
Make your yoga practice a part of your new, healthy, work life balance and join the fun. This can be the first day of a lifelong practice. The worlds oldest living yoga instructor is 100+ years old so get up and get active, the benefits will flow.
Are you ready to give it a try? Here are some classes for you:
Hatha Yoga at El Litoral on Monday and Wednesday from 8.30am
Pilates on Friday from 8.30am
whatsapp: +507-6658-1143