Yoga and Meditation

By: Emily Long

Yeah, I’ve heard of yoga. Isn’t it that weird stretching thing that really earth-
conscious people do? Is it really exercise? Why should I do it?

Yoga, which originated in India more than 3,000 years ago, is becoming
increasingly popular worldwide. Although yoga is partly about exercise, the
practice also focuses on spirituality, discipline, and mental relaxation. The
physical aspect of yoga practice includes a series of poses, or asanas, that
are performed with controlled breathing, meditation, and chanting. Some
of the different styles of yoga include:

Ananda: This is one of the more
traditional styles and may also be
known as Gentle Yoga. Ananda
focuses on connecting body and
mind and controlling your energy.

Ashtanga: This is an intense series
of poses that build stamina and
strength. You will definitely get a
good workout!

Bikram: Also known as “hot yoga,”
Bikram is practiced in studios
heated to more than 100 degrees,
which helps warm up and stretch
muscles and tendons. Be prepared
to sweat!

Iyengar: One of the world’s most
popular forms, Iyengar teaches
precise poses and attention to
detail. Props, such as chairs,
blocks, and ropes may be used for
poses in this practice.

In addition to these, there are many other forms of yoga; some may be
directly related to an original yoga school, while others may be fusions of
several forms. Every teacher has his or her own way of conducting class,
and every yogi, regardless of his or her level, can create an eclectic
personalized practice that draws from multiple styles. This is the beauty of
yoga: it is intended to fit your needs and abilities each time you do it.

The general benefits of yoga include increased flexibility, strength, balance,
and stamina. Nora Forziati, yogi and owner of Half Moon Yoga and Wellness
studio in Contoocook, NH, reported that increased lung capacity (and
therefore deeper breathing) and a sense of peace and calm are also benefits
of regular yoga practice. Yoga may be particularly important for women
because it helps improve self-esteem and reduces stress.

You may be wondering, “Can young girls actually do yoga?” The answer is
YES! According to Nora, “Anyone can practice yoga. Sometimes there may
be a physical limitation or health concern that requires modification. It is
important to remember that not every person will be able to do every pose,
but they can still have a wonderful practice.” As with any form of physical
activity, people who have concerns should speak with their doctor before
starting yoga.

Nora, who started practicing yoga at age 8, also highlighted the particular
benefits of yoga for young girls. “Kids today, of all ages, are under a lot
more stress than ever before, so learning to deal with stress is enormously
important. Not only that, but the natural flexibility kids have, will be
maintained as they get older through a regular practice. Yoga can also be
beneficial for girls in particular who are entering into the hormonal changes
of puberty, by alleviating PMS symptoms.”

So how can you get started? Check out your local schools or community
centers for age-specific classes, or look into the offerings at yoga studios and
gyms. These classes are often geared towards adults, but some teachers may
offer teen yoga. www.yogajournal.com also has a directory of yoga studios.

If you can’t find classes or don’t want to attend regularly, you can also do
yoga in your own living room. Nora recommended that beginners look for
library books, find video clips on the Internet, or purchase a DVD. www.
yogadownload.com and www.yogichocolate.com offer inexpensive
downloadable classes with accompanying pose guides. The only thing you
really need is a yoga mat (for hard floors) or a beach towel (for carpet), and
you are ready to go. Namaste.