Yoga For Your Health

How to Heal Arthritis and Rheumatism With The Amazing Practice of Hand Yoga.

June 26th, 2010 6:18 am

Hand Yoga is a form of energy healing used predominantly in Buddhist and Hindu cultures, though evidence suggests many other cultures using it one form or another. The science behind hand yoga is based on the fact that the tips of our fingers have thousands of nerve endings that correlate to specific organs and areas of the body. According to the practice, bringing these nerve endings together has profound healing and balancing effects. This practice has been tested and proven over thousands of years and remains effective as ever.

Mudras – special ways of connecting fingers, are the essence of hand yoga, its asanas. By placing fingers in certain, pre-defined gestures certain energies within our bodies are modified, certain nerve endings are connected. The effects of practicing mudras contain healing from any disease, adding energy and balance to life and much more.

The Surhabi Mudra, discussed in this article is mainly for easing or removing completely the symptoms of arthritis and rheumatism.

There is no longer any recognized disorder simply called “rheumatism.” In some places the word Rheumatism describes fibromyalgia syndrome. Ascribing symptoms to “rheumatism” does not say much, as this term covers a broad range of problems. Most sources dealing with rheumatism tend to focus on arthritis. However, arthritis and rheumatism together cover over 200 different conditions. Nevertheless, this hand yoga technique seems to be quite effective against arthritis and many rheumatic diseases. Both diseases usually persist for a long period of time, so it is generally recommended to practice this mudra at least 15 minutes each day to feel the effects.

There are no restrictions on practicing this mudra, it can be performed by anyone at any time but must be done regularly to achieve the desired effect. This simple exercise is more powerful against rheumatism and arthritis than modern medicine that still has no clue about rheumatic and other auto-immune disorders. To make the Surabhi Mudra first extend both thumbs, then try to connect your little fingers to the opposite ring fingers, finally connect the index fingers of one hand to the middle fingers of the other hand.

In addition to practicing the Surhabi mudra, to enhance the effects try meditating daily. Meditation itself is a cure for all diseases. Once mastered, it will enhance your life so significantly you will come to a whole new level of consciousness and appreciation for life and other beings.

Certain herbs such as Black Cohosh and Angelica have also been used by our ancestors to treat rheumatism for centuries. These powerful plants have very enhancing properties. Black Cohosh, actively used by Native Americans is similar to aspirin, taken also for cramps and during menopause, while Angelica (called dong quai in Chinese) is still the most popular herb for arthritis in both China and Europe for its pain-relieving, antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties. When taken for a significant period of time and the Surabhi Mudra is practiced the healing effects are multiplied.

Healing without drugs is possible and actively practiced by many people outside of our world. The emergence of Hand Yoga in the west could begin a new era, when people can finally heal themselves by performing simple exercises with immensely powerful results. Available to anyone with effort to practice regularly and have a strong wish to get better. Practiced with meditation and herbal healing, hand yoga is a powerful tool for self-improvement and advancement.

There’s lots more information at the author’s Resource on Hand Yoga. At his site you read a the complete article on how to use Surabhi Mudra for rheumatism and arthritis and watch some interesting videos on the topic.

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How Yoga Can Assist You Ease Tension

June 25th, 2010 1:10 pm

Though developed in India and considered part of more than one spiritual tradition, yoga has become a widespread practice without religious overtones. It is a form of exercise that is appropriate for almost everyone.

In Sanskrit, the word means yoke or bringing together. However, most people use the term to refer to the poses or asanas. Completing a series of poses involves both stretching the muscles in numerous ways and monitored breathing and can result in a strong feeling of well being

The best approach is to establish a consistent schedule of practice. Though most people think of yoga as involving extreme poses, variations are available so beginners who are not fit or flexible can still participate. All one needs is a mat, some comfortable clothing, and a teacher. Many options are available. These range from classes at community centers to events at yoga studios

There are several branches. They emphasize different types of poses as well as variations in intensity. Finding the form that feels right on one’s body can take time but is well worth the effort. A good version to try first is Hatha. Its pace is slower and its poses are relatively easy.

People who suffer from asthma or PMS may find relief through yoga. Stress reduction is another problem that can be addressed through practicing the asanas. One reason is that the required breath control takes focus. The mind is forced to relinquish its attachment to other thoughts. The body becomes relaxed and positive energy returns.

Here is one asana anyone can try now as long as the back is healthy. It is called the cat pose. It increases familiarity with the body’s center and helps with coordinating movement and breathing. Begin on all fours, preferably on a padded surface so that there will be less pressure on the knees. Make sure the hands are straight down from the shoulders and the knees are straight down from the hips. Rock forward and back gently to find the place where the spine is straight and the body is balanced. Inhale. On the exhale, pull the abdominal muscles up and curve the spine. Drop the head so there is a single semi-circular line running from the base of the spine to the top of the head. Inhale and release the pose.

Though yoga requires consistent and serious effort, the rewards for perseverance are great. Not only does the body become stronger, the mind also gains strength and a sense of calm.

Beginners yoga is simply the most novice form of yoga, and it is the place where anyone who wants to participate in yoga or make the activity a part of their life needs to start. A yoga mat bag is needed because the mat is quite notorious to handle; awkward to carry even if tightly rolled as it is slightly sticky. For more free information, please visit our website.

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Yoga Improves Employees Response To Workplace Stress

April 21st, 2010 9:44 am

Yoga, an age old practice has been known to provide many health related benefits, including enhanced physical flexibility, muscle strengthening, calming the mind, improving the immune system’s function. It has been researched at several institutions globally to determine its health benefits. While many people have expressed concerned about yoga’s religious perspective, during the last 25 years it has become a mainstream American activity.

A recent research study was conducted due to a concern for the degree of stress and emotional well-being among university staff. This study examined the effectiveness of yoga in enhancing emotional well-being and resilience to stress among university employees.

English researchers conducted a randomized clinical study, involving 48 people. They were either placed into a yoga program, or wait listed, as the control group. The yoga group was participated in a six week program, of Dru Yoga, involving one weekly 60-minute class.

These classes were conducted by a certified Dru Yoga instructor during their lunch hour. The wait-list control group did not participate during this six-week study. The participants were measured at the program’s launch and conclusion. They reported their mood and sense of well- being using the Profile of Mood States – Bipolar (POMS-Bi) and the Inventory of Positive Psychological Attitudes (IPPA).

The participants in the yoga program reported significant improved moods and psychological attitudes, compared to the control group, in seven of the eight well-being measurements. Compared to the people in the control group, the yoga participants experienced a significant improvement in feelings of confidence, energy, clear-mindedness, composure, and joyfulness. Also, the yoga group noted an increased sense of life purpose and satisfaction, and feelings of greater self-confidence during stressful situations. These results demonstrate that a brief program of yoga effectively enhances emotional well-being and resilience to stress in the workplace. The researchers recommended that employers should consider offering yoga classes to their employees.

Looking to find the best info on yoga’s health benefits, then visit www.howtogetwellfaster.com to find the best advice on keyword #2 for you.

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Benefits of Yoga for Overall Health and Stress Relief

April 20th, 2010 6:18 am

Yoga combines mental focus and physical exercise to help its practitioners achieve peace of both mind and body. Its stress- and anxiety-reducing properties are well-documented. In India, as well as in many other places in the world, yoga is studied using scientific methods and used to treat many mental and physical ailments. Yogic science seeks to authenticate cause and effect and develop principles based upon impartial observations. Yogic masters with credibility must have an extensive scientific education in the biological sciences and physics, among other disciplines.

Practicing yoga involves learning a series of postures to hold and meditate through, while at the same time paying special attention to one’s breathing – inhaling during specific movements and exhaling with others. From a physical perspective, yoga improves flexibility, strength and endurance while the carefully studied positions develop and promote lubrication of various ligaments and tendons in the body. Besides the mental benefit of stress reduction, many view it as a way to enhance one’s spirituality.

Yoga is also considered a body-mind kind of alternative and complementary medicine, enhancing the practitioner’s overall health and providing numerous other possible health benefits including:
* Stress reduction: Using quiet, precise movements causes the person to focus on the movement and poses that require concentration and balance and can draw one’s focus from a chaotic busy day.
* Improved fitness: Learning and refining yoga poses helps improve flexibility, balance, strength, and range of motion, which makes it less likely that one will injure him or herself while performing routine daily activities or other physical endeavors.
* Managing chronic health conditions: This form of exercise often relieves fatigue, mood, and sleep problems which in turn can help relieve some health problems such as pain, depression, anxiety, insomnia, and some studies suggest it can reduce discomfort in those suffering from diseases such as cancer. It can also help reduce one’s heart rate and blood pressure.
* Weight loss: Through deep stretching, yoga detoxifies the muscles which can, in turn, cleanse the body and promote weight loss. The toning of muscles through poses can also reduce inches on the waistline and increase muscle mass, which assists in weight loss. Through its stress reduction benefits, yoga can also help someone hoping to reduce stress-related eating.

It has become clear, even in western medicine, that physical and mental health go hand in hand, and a calm and a harmonious mind is said to be one of the greatest health benefits of Yoga.

Reproduction permitted only when all active hyperlinks are included. 2010 All Rights Reserved.

In Victoria BC, if you are looking for yoga, pilates and yogilates classes, contact Feel Good Yoga . With sessions seven days a week, their passionate staff works to help students improve well-being and overall health. Distributed by SEO 2.0 Services .

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Yoga Moves Can Result In Injury If Done Incorrectly

April 19th, 2010 5:14 am

Yoga exercises have become a popular way to improve health, maintain a normal body weight, relieve stress and stretch for a more flexible body. All of these are very helpful for any age, but for older Americans, the benefits are even more important. The stretching becomes more important as baby boomers age, and meditation helps in reducing stress that can be caused by not only caring for elderly parents, but also supporting adult children and helping with grandchildren. However, there are warnings that must be taken seriously before embarking upon a program of yoga moves.

Most physicians and health care workers will encourage yoga for their patients, as it is an easy way to maintain health and also improve muscle strength and flexibility, plus reduce stress. However, as with any exercise program, your physician must be consulted and you need to learn the basics from a qualified instructor. Injuries can occur even in this gentle practice, and making sure that you are not stressing your body more than it can handle is very important to remember.

When doing yoga moves for the first time, it is important to let your instructor know if you have any pre-existing conditions related to your health, but specifically any injuries that occurred in the past that may be aggravated by the different positions. Even if you don’t experience any pain from that injury anymore, you never know if the postures might place certain stresses on that previously injured area of the body, thus reawakening the injury.

One of the main problems with yoga is performing the exercises incorrectly. Postures that are done improperly will not provide the correct stretch, and instead could be causing too much strain on the body. You likely won’t realize that you are doing the poses incorrectly until a lot of time has passed, at which point a lot of the damage that has been done is irreversible. Make sure you have an experienced instructor who can check to ensure you are doing the poses correctly. Even if you generally do your postures at home, it is worth going to a class once a week just to confirm that you are doing the exercises properly and they won’t lead to injuries down the road.

This information is important to remember if you are ready to embark upon a program of yoga moves. Knowing the benefits and the risks for any program of exercise needs to be taken seriously. Carefully learning the basics, informing your physician of your plans to practice yoga and telling your instructor of any pre-existing conditions will benefit you in the long run. While another person may be younger and more flexible, it is necessary to go at your own pace and use the instructor to make sure that you are holding the positions correctly in order to prevent injury. It may take you time to do the exercises correctly but you will benefit more if you don’t develop any sloppy habits from the onset.

Yoga helps you focus your mind and improve your body, and choosing the right routine can enhance your workout considerably. Simple yoga techniques are best for beginners. Find out more at Yoga Information.

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How to Meditate: The Steps To Awareness

April 18th, 2010 8:49 am

The 3 steps to awareness, otherwise known as the three stages of meditation are the normal mind, concentration, and finally meditation – or serenity.

1. Normal Mind

In the “normal” state of mind, your mind is functioning in different directions. It is working as it ordinarily does which means it is bouncing from one idea and thought to the next. In fact, this is rather unnatural activity for the human brain due to the fact it needs to focus on a fewer number of ideas if it is to be effective in resolving problems.

Stimuli from all over the place are coming in at the brain. When something new stimulates your mind, it moves from its preceding thought to the new one. Although you feel like you are totally in control of yourself during this type of brain function, you most likely are not.

The body follows the mind’s thoughts; thoughts control the body. If mind is out of control, so is body.

For example, visualize playing basketball. While your mind is engaged in the plays, your body follows suit. However, as soon as you see a vehicle crash, your awareness is on the motor vehicle accident and you cease playing the game.

As you can see, in your normal state of mind, your emotions as well as your physical being are at stake. Each plays their own role in the end result of these occurrences.

In the long haul the stresses from too many bad thought processes can harm body and emotional wellbeing.

For the most part, your “normal” way of thinking may be one of the worst things that you can do for yourself.

2. Concentration

Concentration is a gateway stage of meditation; it’s the starting point of not being swamped with thoughts.

During the second stage of meditation, you might start to get control of your mind. When you learn to hold yourself in this type of mind frame, odds are very good that you will enhance the quality of your life noticeably.

Although it seems uncomplicated, concentration needs effort and in some cases, assistance by doing yoga, taking certain herbal supplements, watching candles, counting breaths, and so forth.

Concentration is merely focusing on 1 thing; whether one thought or one object, or one feeling. The point is staying focused.

During concentration, although the process of focusing on one element is simple enough, the problem is the mind’s capacity to trick you back into its “normal” state of being. By pulling off the actual concentration topic and focusing on another, it pulls you back.

The goal with concentration, though, is to understand what’s happened. When you can understand that you have been sidetracked and that your mind has tricked you into making its own decisions, then you can return and actually concentrate.

When you can master the art of holding your mind focused and concentrating, you will experience a new kind of thinking. You’ll be able to relax more, and you’ll actually feel better about life. That is an incredible feeling!

3. Awareness Meditation

Meditation is the stage where you do not fall back into normal mind. You effortlessly remain focused on the object or thought of your focus.

It’s a stage that you should strive for due to the fact it really can offer you a new way of looking at things. In several ways, you’ll be able to entirely focus so much so that you can much better understand and educate yourself. You make better decisions that are focused.

Even if you’re a newbie meditator, think back and you will probably realize you have entered meditative states before. Often while completely engaged, but not thinking, could well be your meditative state.

Although it takes some time to work by means of these various processes to attain this degree of understanding, the end result is well worth it.

Learn more about yoga for meditation. Stop by Mana Mind and Body where you can get meditation tools to attain awareness meditation.

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What Is The Philosophy Of Yoga?

April 17th, 2010 6:10 pm

When people hear the word yoga, they think of somebody sitting in the louts position and possibly meditating while in that position. This discipline is more than just sitting with the feet on the thighs; it is a combination of physical and philosophical foundation for leading one’s life. The word comes from the ancient Sanskrit writings and translates in English to “royal union.” This basically means a union of the body and mind.

The ancient text that gives the basis for it is the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali. This ancient text is made up of four books written over 2000 years ago. These books are the Sadhana Pada, Samadhi Pada, Kaivalya Pada and the Vibhuti Pada. The Sadhana Pada is where the physical pieces of yoga are to be found.

In this book, you will learn of the “eight limbs.” The limbs referred to here at in essence steps known as Ashtanga yoga. The first five limbs deal with the external and the remaining three are about the internal. Of the first five, the third is Asana and is all about the physical body. Its main idea is that the body needs to be kept disease-free and have a maintenance of energy. It is this book from which people in the west have learned of yoga and transformed it into its modernized, western form.

Asana is simply the plural from of the word asan which means posture or body position. The purpose of asana is to make improvements in vitality and flexibility and to promote meditation. Proponents of asana believe that doing the various positions opens the channels for physical and psychic energy in the human body. Any positions practiced should be held firmly and steadily while remaining comfortable.

This means that there should be no physical pain while in any of the positions. There are several poses that a person practicing the discipline may strike. These range from beginner poses to a more advanced level of positions.

No matter what your level of expertise is, there are a few fundamental concepts to always keep in mind. Any exercises should be done on an empty stomach. Your body should never quiver or shake because of too much pressure or force being exerted. It is important to always keep controlled breathing-no do hold your breath or gasp. Most of the time you want to do yoga on a mat and not the floor. At the end of each session, you will want to spend some time maintaining a state of deep relaxation.

Poses vary in their execution. Some are done seated while others are performed standing, lying on your back, balanced against another object or with the back bent. Poses are generally classified as beginner, intermediate and advanced. Beginners may start with the Downward Facing Dog, The Pyramid or the Standing Forward Bend. These are standing positions. Some seated poses for beginners are the Cobbler’s Pose, Seated Wide Legged Straddle and Half Lord of the Fishes.

Again, yoga is more than just getting into a certain position. It is an entire philosophy that centers around not only tangible needs but spiritual well being as well. In fact, the first limb of the Sutras teaches the virtues of nonviolence, truth in thought and word and celibacy for the unmarried and monogamy for the married.

Attending itness clubs is an excellent way to maintain a healthy lifestyle and keep your body in shape. They offer personal training Toronto too. Alternatively, you may prefer yoga Toronto for a further enriching fitness experience.

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Chair Yoga For the Office

March 26th, 2010 12:42 pm

By Angelena Craig

Learning to practice Yoga while sitting in a chair has a multitude of benefits for anyone of any age, shape, size or and fitness level. Chair Yoga is sometimes called Office Yoga. It is a wonderful alternative for anyone who sits at a desk long hours and needs a way to stretch those tired muscles, particularly the back, neck, shoulders and hips, without leaving the office station… and you get all the benefits of regular yoga without ever having to change your clothes or get up or down off of the floor.

Taking a Chair Yoga break, even a five minute break, can increase efficiency and effectiveness while at work and clear the mind. If you can do this several time during the day, even for a few minutes, you will be happier in your body and your mind will defog.

Here are a few easy seated yoga stretches for the back:

1. Push or roll your chair away from the desk so that you are back as far as you can go with your arms straight and your hands resting on the edge of the desk. Your head is between your arms and you drop your shoulders down away from the ears.
Press your hips back and your chest forward a bit more to make space between the vertebrae.
Hold for several deep breaths and then look up and lift the torso up to sitting.

2. Come forward to the front of the chair, with your feet firmly planted. Reach you arms back to the back of the chair and hold on. Press the front of your torso forward. Look up, but keep the shoulders down neck comfortable in this back bend. Hold for a few deep breaths.

3. Again, come forward to the front of the chair, separating you feet wider than your hips. Place your elbows on your thighs. Press the elbows and the hips back toward the back wall and look straight ahead for a lengthened spine. Then tuck your chin and look down between the legs of the chair as you release the neck. Come up slowly, one hand on one thigh and then the other to draw you up.

Sit back in your chair and let those stretches settle in.

Chair Yoga DVDs may be purchased which then can be slipped into your computer to help guide you. Some of them are segmented so that you can focus on the particular body part you need to stretch, such as the shoulders, the neck or the wrists.

Chair Yoga for Boomers, Practice Yoga While Sitting, Chair Yoga, Office Yoga, Easy Seated Stretches for the Back,Promote efficiency and effectiveness at work and clear the mind, Chair Yoga DVDs.

Chair Yoga for The Office
by
Angelena Craig

Angelena Craig

Angelena Craig is a professional level Kripalu Yoga Instructor with fifteen years of teaching experience. She was the founder of Beacon Light Yoga Center of Boston and has trained thousands of beginning and more experienced yoga students.

As a teaching consultant for the Massachusetts Department of Housing of Finance she created her Chair Yoga program primarily for seniors. She then produced Chair Yoga DVD, “Angelena’s Yoga Using a Chair” to make this easy to follow program more accessible to anyone of any size, shape or fitness level in a format that can be used in the comfort of the home or the office.

In 2008 Angelena opened her new business The New Aging Movement, how to stay young while growing older. She offers private and group Yoga classes and Wellness workshops in Sarasota Florida and in the Boston area and each winter leads a yoga retreat to Jamaica, WI.

She may be reached at http://theNewAgingMovement.com

Article Source: Chair Yoga For the Office

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Helpful Tips About Beginners Yoga Classes

March 24th, 2010 5:28 am

A beginner to yoga is well advised to take yoga classes. While it is possible to learn the basics through a book or yoga videos, a qualified teacher will make sure that you are doing the exercises correctly. Injuries can occur in yoga if you haven’t done your research first or don’t have a qualified teacher to make corrections to your stance, posture or breathing. Certain items are important for yoga and a quick search online of what you will need is a first step.

Some yoga studios will require the use of certain props, though generally speaking there is not much required in order to practice yoga postures and positions. You may be required to wear appropriate clothing and to bring in your own yoga mat. Some gyms will provide mats for those who don’t have one, yet most people will want their own personal mat for hygienic reasons. There are lots of options out there, and you can usually find cheap deals with a bit of research.

Almost all classes, whether it’s a yoga beginners or advanced class, will begin with a warm up. A beginner’s class will then usually cover the yoga basic poses, that usually involve a mix of sitting and standing postures, as well as different exercises that utilize stretches and twists. You can practice these types of poses at home, by looking up the techniques on the internet, or by buying a book or DVD. Once you have started your classes, your teacher will make any required corrections to your techniques.

Yoga classes present different forms and styles, yet most of them end with a meditative approach. Meditation has been used for centuries by monks and in Asian cultures, and it is a very powerful means of slowing down the body and brain to bring about total relaxation. The yoga positions may take some time to learn, but meditation is a skill which also takes time to learn. It is very difficult to not only focus upon your breathing but also to clear your mind of random thoughts. One way to do this is to focus totally upon your breathing, or your instructor will provide you with a word or mantra, or scene to focus on, as is practiced in Kundalini yoga. Meditation brings about great relaxation and it is useful if you have problems falling asleep at night.

Many beginners will just assume that they can learn everything about yoga through a book, information on the internet or through the purchase of a DVD. However, yoga classes for beginners are very important. Knowing what to wear, what type of mat works for you, and having a teacher to correct your poses, posture and stances are all necessary to prevent injuries and to keep you motivated. The yoga basics taught by an instructor may take time to learn, but they generally hand out diagrams so that you can practice at home in front of a mirror. All the components of a class are built into it for a purpose. Relaxation and meditation are a major part of yoga, and while it is possible to do this at home, learning the basics in a classroom environment will enable you to follow through on your own.

Yoga DVDs are a great way to get the benefits of yoga without having to leave your house and go to a class. To find the best workout for your personal situation, click here to read yoga DVD reviews of some of the best workouts on video.

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Let ‘Yoga Mat Reviews’ help you find Your New Yoga Mat

March 23rd, 2010 5:30 am

Today’s market features dozens of companies manufacturing the Yoga Industry. A Yoga Mat is probably one of the most popular products. This seemingly basic piece of synthetic or natural rubber can end up pulling over $100. Do you think you are ready to invest so much money into a Yoga Mat? This article will discuss the most important aspects of choosing your mat, whether you desire an inexpensive but disposable alternative, something more durable, or simply to use one at your studio.

Your Practice Level:

Most Yoga studios have their own inventory of mats for their students. Studios usually purchase thick, durable mats that perform quite well for many people. To keep the inventory expenses down, studio mats are generally well-maintained, replaced and cleaned on a regular basis (something we can’t say about our personal mats, in most cases). I suggest the beginner students to try using the mats provided by their studio, to minimize the hassle of picking your own mat and the risk of being stuck with a mat and no desire to practice.

If you practice yoga once a week or more and plan to do so, consider purchasing your own mat. You will feel much more comfortable in it. Coming to class with your mat has many benefits. First of all, you will get used to practicing on the exact same mat with exact same characteristics (impossible if you keep borrowing one from your studio). Eventually you will form a bond, and your mat will begin accumulating your energy, keeping your comfortable and stable, once you get used to its characteristics, including smell and color. A higher quality mat than one in your studio will noticeably enhance your performance, especially after your practice becomes regular.

Advanced practitioners usually choose a mat based on personal preferences for durability and appearance. Having enough experience, they will pick a mat based on their professional judgment.

Choosing the size:

Most yoga mats are about 24 inches wide. The lengths vary. Most mats are between 60″ and 75″ in length. Choosing a shorter mat is appropriate for kids and smaller people. A longer mat, however, may be easier to use, as some poses require moving around. An average length is between 70″ and 72″. If you are getting started, a longer, wider mat would make your practice more comfortable.

Material Composition:

The ensure stability and comfort during practice, it is important to make sure your mat is made of proper material. Look at the following issues when choosing:

* Traction – A good mat will provide enough traction to support your poses, but it will not be so sticky you can’t peel it off the floor. Extremely sticky mats are usually cheap, and they provide too much grip when it is not needed. As with everything in Yoga, there must be a balance between grip and slip. Another important factor to consider is how well the mat holds when wet. Some cheaper mats completely loose traction when a little sweat is applied. This may not be apparent when you purchase the mat, but becomes a significant problem during class. Natural rubber is usually the best material, though it is costly.

* Composition – What Your Mat is Made Of. This is important and your mat’s performance depends directly on the material composition. Most yoga mats are made of either PVC, natural rubber, natural material (jute) or a combination of all three. PVC is the cheapest option, it comes in a few varieties, recently earth-friendly and recyclable. Most PVC mats smell awful during the few weeks of their “break-in” period. The environmentally-friendly version are better, but their durability is questionable. Natural latex or rubber is the material best Yoga mats are made of today. It is heavy, sticky and porous enough to provide the ultimate combination of stability, durability and comfort. Organic jute mats, when combined with rubber are lighter, but harder and tend to shed their fibers a lot.

* Durability – How long is your mat going to last? The more your pay – the longer it will serve you. This rule is applicable to yoga mats, with some exceptions – all-natural jute and cotton mats break down pretty quick. All-rubber mats will last a lifetime, wearing off only slightly if taken care of properly.

Your Mat’s price

Your mat’s price is usually directly proportional to its quality, the more your pay, the better your mat will be in all aspects, except may for weight. There are options to buy less expensive mats, but prepare to dispose of them quicker. Some may even prefer to replace their mats by tossing them after a short period of time. This works well, especially if you can’t clean your yoga mat properly.

Reviews and ratings of top-selling yoga mats are available at Ken’s website – http://yogamatreviews.net. Check out the Reviews of Top 10 Yoga Mats of 2010, the best in cheap, middle and premium categories.

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