The gesture of bowing to acknowledge the soul in one by the soul in another.

Namaste:Yoga is a physical discipline that focuses on developing control of the mind and body through postures and breathing. Here are some of the main benefits of yoga that will have you signing up for your first class in no time.

Breathing: Because of the deep, mindful breathing that yoga involves, lung capacity often improves. This in turn can improve sports performance and endurance.

Flexibility: The series of yoga poses called asanas work by safely stretching your muscles. This releases the lactic acid that builds up with muscle use and causes stiffness, tension, pain, and fatigue. In addition, yoga increases the range of motion in joints.The outcome is a sense of ease and fluidity throughout your body.

Posture: With a stronger core, you're more likely to sit and stand "tall." Another benefit of yoga is the increased body awareness. This heightened awareness tells you more quickly when you're slouching or slumping so you can adjust your posture.:

Strength: Many of the poses, such as downward dog, upward dog, and the plank pose, build upper-body strength.The standing poses, especially if you hold them for several long breaths, build strength in your hamstrings, quadriceps, and abdomi-nal muscles.

Mood: Recently, researchers have begun exploring the effects of yoga on depression, a benefit that may result from yoga's boosting oxygen levels to the brain. Yoga is even being studied as an adjunct therapy to relieve symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder.

•Always keep an open mind.•Practice often to achieve desired results.• Don’t over exert yourself to avoid injury.

15 million adults have tried yoga

13.4 million Americans practice yoga or other mind-body exercises such as tai chi.

1.6 million were 55 or older.

Who practices yoga?

Wear loose clothing.

Invest in a mat.

WHITNEY GIBSON

Tips for beginners:

•http://www.webmd.com/balance/the-health-benefits-of-yoga•http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/yoga/CM00004

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