There are many benefits from practicing a form of the martial arts. Here are some thoughts on some of them.

The Benefits of Martial Arts Training By Clint Leung

As any martial artist will tell you, there are multiple benefits in martial arts training. Of course, the most obvious benefit is a knowledge of self defense which is one of the major reasons why systems were developed in the first place. Knowing how to defend oneself and loved ones in a potentially dangerous situation is an asset in today’s world just as it was hundreds of years ago. Unlike often portrayed in the movies, training is not just about fighting. Many people take up martial arts for the fitness benefits as well. Training in karate, tae kwon do, kung fu and other styles will improve one’s cardiovascular fitness as well as tone the muscular system. Strength will increase from the calisthenics usually employed within training but perhaps not to the same extent as working out with weights. But overall power of one’s body will definitely increase since the techniques teach how to use strength effectively.

Most people will also improve their flexibility significantly while training since entire ranges of motion from the body are exercised. This is especially true with styles such as tae kwon do, Thai kickboxing as well as some schools of karate and kung fu where high kicks are used. All martial art styles will result in an improvement of one’s coordination as well.

Unlike many other forms of physical activity, martial arts also have a mental and sometimes spiritual element which not only improves the mind’s focus but also helps in self control. Emotions such as anger and fear are better controlled through training. Many martial artists can find an inner peace through their training. In today’s hectic world, these particular benefits translate into one of the most effective stress management tools available. When training in a session or in a group class, all the day to day troubles of the world seem to be forgotten. People come out refreshed, energized and ready to tackle the big world out there.

Training in martial arts usually involves many little steps and progressions. As one advances, the feeling of accomplishment comes with added confidence. This is especially beneficial for children who were not very confident in the first place. An increase in self confidence for kids (as well as adults) will have a cross over effect in other areas of life such as in other sports and general self esteem. Other challenges in life, both physical and mental, will be met with much less fear.

An important benefit of martial arts training for parents to note is that children will generally become more disciplined from the unique formalities of martial arts classes. This is one benefit that is often lacking in other sports. Former ‘problem’ kids with bad attitudes could become well behaved and respectful as a result of taking classes a few times per week. Respect is something that all instructors place great importance in during their classes. Martial arts kids are often very well behaved children no matter what social economic backgrounds they come from.

Martial arts training has so many great benefits covering physical, mental and emotional aspects that it’s no wonder why it has become one of the most popular activities for both adults and children. However, it is important to point out that not all programs will produce the range of benefits discussed. Programs that teach just combat fighting techniques may not result in the desired mental and spiritual benefits so it is important to search around for the right school that will offer the benefits one wishes to achieve.

Clint is a lifelong martial artist with over 36 years of training experience in kung fu, tae kwon do, karate, kickboxing and martial arts weaponry. He has won Canadian and world championship titles (NASKA, NBL and WSKF). He is also owner of Martial Arts Articles Online (http://www.martialartsarticlesonline.com), an online martial arts information resource.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Clint_Leung

TODAY’S TIP: If you practice a martial art if will not take long for you to see improvement in how you look and feel.

Hope you have a Merry Christmas. My next post will be Monday.

Do you enjoy Christmas?

Practicing the martial arts increases the Qi or Chi or life force. Here are some thoughts on that subject.

Martial Arts Chi By Dean Walsh and Kephrira B

One of the most unique and fascinating aspects of oriental martial arts such as kung fu is the use of a mysterious ‘internal’ energy called chi, or qi. Amazing claims are made by practitioners of these martial arts about what can be accomplished using chi energy. Examples of what can be done using martial arts chi include: more powerful strikes, the ability to fight for extended periods of time without fatigue, the ability to withstand attacks, even from blunt weapons like bats / sticks without injury, and many more things as well. And it is, at least in part, the mystique of ‘chi’ energy that drives the popularity of kung fu in movies and popular culture. But despite the mass appeal of chi very few people have any real idea about what is it or how it can be cultivated and used, which is why I decided to write this article and try to help shed some light on the subject.

Chi itself is the vital life force which we all posses. It flows through and around the body along pathways which are known as meridians. According to traditional Chinese medicine blockages in these channels which impede the flow of chi are the cause of many illnesses. Treatments such as acupuncture, herbal remedies and massage are used to free these blockages and reinstate the normal flow of chi around the body, thus healing the illness. The exact nature of this energy flow is not known for certain in terms of modern science, but many practitioners believe it to be electromagnetic.

In addition to this normal flow of chi which maintains a healthy functioning of the body, there is also a reservoir of stored chi called the ‘Dan Tien’. This is located in the lower abdomen about 3 inches below the navel. A special system called chi kung, or qi gong, can be used to increase the amount of chi in the dan tien, by using a combination of gentle physical stretching and exercise, special breath control techniques, and the meditative control of the mind. Increasing levels of chi will improve your health and vitality, slow the aging process, and give you a feeling of joy and optimism. This abundant chi is also used in some higher mystical meditative practices, and chi can be drawn from this storage reservoir for specific purposes, as is the case in martial arts.

The classic exercise for martial arts chi is called ‘One Finger Shooting Zen’ (see supporting links). This exercise teaches you to draw chi from the dan tien and channel it through the arms and to the hands for use in strikes. It is an exercise that originally comes from the Shaolin temple teaching syllabus.

Beyond this the various types of martial arts chi kung can be classified using two main divisions containing two categories each, with one category corresponding to yin, and the other corresponding to yang. The first division is between moving and still chi kung. The one finger shooting zen exercise is an example of moving chi kung, which is considered to be yang. Still martial arts chi kung usually involves holding a kung fu stance whilst performing the abdominal breathing technique and entering a still, meditative state of mind. The most widely practiced martial arts application of this is ‘rooting’, which teaches practitioners how to establish a very stable stance so that they cannot be moved even by ten people pushing against them.

The other main division is between hard and soft chi kung. Hard chi kung often combines breathing techniques with tense body movements. It can be used to strengthen the muscles, tendons and sinews, and increase the density and strength of the bones. It is also used in techniques such as ‘iron palm’, or ‘iron short’, where chi is lead to the outside to the body to form a hard barrier. This kind of chi is called guardian chi. If you are interested in learning some hard chi kung practices then please take a look at the supporting links where you will find some useful videos and articles.

Soft chi kung usually uses very relaxed and expansive movements, which look very soft and gentle but actually contain a great deal of power which can, in some techniques, be expressed suddenly in an explosive burst. The ability to sense the flow of energy (either chi or subtly movements) in your opponent and use this to control them and redirect the force of any attack they make also comes into the category. tai chi is almost entirely based on this soft kind of chi kung.

There are many different styles of martial art which incorporate some element of using chi into their system, and they all have a different approach and a different set of techniques, so what I have said here is by no means comprehensive, but I hope that it has at least made an interesting read, and perhaps stimulated your curiosity enough for you to want o learn more.

Dean Walsh is the webmaster of a martial arts website http://www.esotericmartialarts.com which has many free video lessons, articles and other resources. He also writes a regularly updated martial arts blog at http://www.esotericmartialarts.com/digital-warrior To learn some powerful martial arts chi training practices, including ‘one finger shooting zen’ and ‘iron arm’, take a look at the articles and video lesons at http://www.esotericmartialarts.com/hard_chi_kung.html

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dean_Walsh

TODAY’S TIP: Any discipline that strengthens your Qi or Chi is worth the effort.

How strong is you Chi?

One must maintain a good degree of flexibility to be proficient in the martial arts. Here is why stretching is so important.

Martial Arts Stretching – The Methods of Stretching That Will Make You Flexible Fast! By Donald Borah

The proper knowledge of modern scientific stretching applications applied to a martial arts stretching routine can help the new martial artist achieve maximum flexibility, or allow the experienced martial artist to easily move up to the next level in a fraction of the time it used to take with traditional stretching methods.

There are several methods used for improving flexibility which should be incorporated into a martial arts stretching routine. Stretches are either static which means the stretch uses no motion to achieve extended flexibility or dynamic which means they use movement to increase the range of motion. There are several variations of these categories to be used to increase your flexibility and we will include an explanation of the primary methods.

Static-Passive Stretching

Static-Passive stretching (also referred to as relaxed stretching) uses the process of extending a muscle group to the maximum point of flexibility and holding this position until the muscle tension relaxes.

Ballistic Stretching

Ballistic stretching uses a rhythmic bouncing or bobbing motion, relying on the momentum of the moving limb or body part to forcibly move the concerned muscle group to a position beyond the normal limits of flexibility. Ballistic stretching can be dangerous and although it was once a popular method used by martial artists it is not recommended. The risk of injury far outweigh the potential for gains in flexibility using this technique.

Dynamic Stretching

Dynamic stretching involves moving a body part or limb in a controlled manner. Dynamic stretching is similar to ballistic stretching but does not use any bouncing or bobbing motions. Movements are typically performed using a full range of motion at near full speed and typically imitate specific motions used in the martial art itself. Examples of dynamic stretches are leg raises or arm swings beginning with slow controlled movements and quickly moving up to a full speed and range of motion.

Isometric Stretching

Isometric stretching is a form of static stretching which uses resistance or tension of the muscle groups being stretched. Isometric stretching increases the strength as well as the range of motion of the muscle groups being worked on and is much more effective than simple static or dynamic stretching for the modern martial artist.

PNF Stretching

PNF is short for proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation and is the most effective and fastest method known to achieve maximum flexibility as part of a martial arts stretching regimen. PNF was initially developed by the American Neurologist Herman Kabat with physical therapists Margaret Knott and Dorothy Voss in the mid twentieth century as a treatment for paralysis in stroke patients. These techniques have been modified since the 1970′s for effective use as a sports flexibility method. PNF stretching is a combination of passive stretching and isometric stretching methods to achieve maximum static flexibility.

The proper application of the stretching methods discussed can help the modern martial artist realize rapid increases in flexibility far beyond what could have been accomplished just a few years ago. With the knowledge of which method to incorporate into his or her martial arts stretching routine the modern martial artist can accomplish mastery of their art in a fraction of the time it used to take.

I invite you to use these methods to increase the benefit of your stretching routine

And I also invite you to visit MartialArtsStretching.com to complete your knowledge of the martial arts stretching methods, routines and applications needed to rapidly increase your flexibility to the point of performing full splits easily and mastering high kicks and effortless technique.

From Donald Borah – The Martial Arts Stretching Master and MartialArtsStretching.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Donald_Borah

TODAY’S TIP: Stretching is good for overall wellness, so practice, practice, practice.

Can you touch your toes?

This week we will look at another great discipline for those who wish to improve the quality of their life.

We have looked at QiGong, Pilates, and Yoga. Forms of the martial arts, such as Kung fu and others, are very beneficial in all areas of life. Martial Arts practice is more intense than those we have talked about, but is an excellent way to keep the physical body and the mind in shape.

The Martial Arts are a great way to build confidence in everyone from children to adults. It will flow into all areas of life because with the discipline you are establishing makes it easier to become discipline in other things that you wish to accomplish.

The martial arts encourage you to be form habits that get and keep the physical body in tip top condition. They are physically demanding and work to keep the body flexible and build strength.

The arts also work on strengthening the mind and giving the practitioner more control of their mind. The more mental control one has when practicing the martial arts the easier and faster one becomes skilled.

Practice of the martial arts is good for the entire family. It is especially good for children. I would suggest that as soon as a child shows interest int the arts that lessons should begin.

When looking for a teacher be selective. Find a master that is truly concerned with the well being of his students and who has the moral and ethical values that lead to the well being of the student.

Avoid those Martial Artists who are full of themselves, have a big ego, and who convey a sense of humility.

When I started practicing the martial arts back in the 1960s it was considered a religion in that there was a heavy emphasis on the spiritual values of the Arts. These values were things like never strike first and use your ability only when it is the last resort. There was also a strong emphasis on meditation. We practiced meditation for some time before we began studying the movements.

The attitudes have changed over the years. Now we have what is called Ultimate Fighting, or the martial arts as a sport. When I practiced it was no contact. We pulled our punches just before the point of contact. I think this resulted in greater control and timing.

If you wish to explore your interest in martial arts visit the Dojo, studio, of different styles to find the one that interests you. There are two divisions, the hard style and the soft style. The soft style would include Tai Chi Chuan and Aikido.  Hard styles include Kung Fu and others.

TODAY’S TIP: Find a discipline that you can embrace. It will enhance health and well being.

Have you tried the Martial Arts?

We end the week with an article on truth or myth in the practice of Yoga.

Yoga Myths Dispelled By Angelena Craig

To better understand why you should have a yoga practice, we need to look at the myths surrounding what yoga is, and what may be preventing you from getting started.

MYTH #1

You have to be young, thin, and extremely flexible to do yoga.

THE TRUTH

Those pictured in the magazines or on commercials are most likely either professional models, ex-gymnasts, or they are advanced yogis demonstrating poses that only 15 to 20 % of all yoga practitioners could possibly execute, at least in this lifetime.

In fact, those of us doing yoga are of all ages, sizes, shapes and fitness levels and twisting our bodies into pretzel-like shapes is never, ever required. You can, of course, depending on your body type and dedication, advance in yoga and work at a very high level.

MYTH #2

Yoga is too far out, they’ll make you chant or do something weird. And it is probably too hard for me.

THE TRUTH.

In our modern, westernized world yoga is made to be mainstream. You won’t be out of your element in a yoga class, as long as you find the right one for YOU.

Yes, some classes include chanting, but know every teacher is different, every style varies, the intensity of the physicality can be any where from highly athletic to very gentle or restorative, and for those who can not easily get up and down off the floor, yoga may be practiced while sitting in a chair.

You have to find the right class not only for your physical level and your temperament, but also if you resonate well with the teacher, it will be a positive experience, one that will keep bringing you back.

MYTH #3

It’s too hard to find a class that is the right fit for me.

THE TRUTH

Of course this depends on where you live, but most towns offer some choices. Finding the right class and teacher for you requires you do the research. Interview a potential teacher and ask them questions about their training and experience. Describe your needs and interests and ask if they think their class is right for you. Ask how large is the class and how much individual attention you will receive.

If you are a beginner, try to find a class that does start at the beginning, or take a few individual private classes if that is possible. It is very difficult to jump into a group class that may move quickly, a class where you are not being taught yoga, but rather required to just follow along.

If you can’t find a class close to your home then another idea is to purchase a Yoga DVD, but make sure it is one that you can easily follow and that will keep you safe.

MYTH #4

Yoga is a religion which may be in conflict with my own religious affiliation.

THE TRUTH

Yoga is not a religion; there is no church, no preaching (well maybe a little) or doctrines or creeds. That said, your practice may become a part of your own spiritual path, if you choose to walk it. Yoga opens the body, which might be thought of as the vessel through which the divine works in our lives. Many practitioners find they just naturally want to further explore spirituality, developing this side of their nature which may have been dormant.

For the most part Yoga is simply the way to have a good work out and at the same time learn the tools of healthful living, including the practice of deep and conscious breathing, and calming the mind through relaxation techniques. Whatever reason you find to go to a class, you will leave feeling very peaceful, yet fully energized and happy to have found what works for you.

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. She also offers in the summer Yoga on the Beach on Plum Island, MA and each winter leads a yoga/adventure retreat to Jamaica, WI.

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

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Angelena_Craig

TODAY’S TIP; The practice of Yoga will bring you closer to Spirit and who you really are.

Have you heard the myths about Yoga?

Today we take a look at why Yoga has become so popular and practiced by millions of people.

The Popularity Of Yoga By Greg Pierce

From celebrities to athletes to court judges, yoga has become so popular that everybody is already indulging to free their minds from the bondage of stress. It is not only a good exercise, but one can also learn how to practice meditation when doing yoga.

All over the continent, Americans run from the pressure of their jobs and listen to the calm yet firm voice of an instructor softly goading them to ‘solder a union’ connecting the body & the mind. 15 million Americans bring in some manner of yoga in their exercise routine. Several in these classes are not looking internally but externally, they want to improve parts of their bodies. But others have high hopes of finding remedies for their conditions.

Oprah dedicated a single episode to the advantages of yoga with special appearances by celebrities, testimonies about quitting smoking, saved marriages, improvements on attitudes & grades, beating insomnia, etc.

But can yoga cure cancer, or protect against heart attacks, and can the alleged benefits pass measurements by known standards of medicine? To put it in another way is yoga a science? With this question, we are challenging a worldview that is different from ours. The Indian practice treats these things as mystical developing ways of depicting the body as it is undergone, from the inside to the outside. The Western practice looks at the body from the outside going inside, unwrapping one coating at a time, measuring and testing thru experiments, believing only in concrete things. The East cures the individual while the West cures the condition. Here we refer individuals to various specialists to patch up the different parts of our bodies. The Eastern practice is more holistic; it integrates the mind with the body.

The results of some studies look bright; a group of people with coronary heart disease used some yoga exercises coupled with a vegetarian diet made the blockages in their arteries stable, it even reversed it in others. Another study, still halfway through, includes males who have prostate cancer. So far the results are heartening. This ancient way could turn out to be the medical phenomenon of the future.

Yoga became popular in the US in the late sixties as Mia Farrow and the Beatles trekked to India to learn from the yogi Maharishi Mahesh. Through the years it evolved from cleansing & rebirth of the spirit to a method of prevention & management of stress. We are already at the latest wave of evolution which is about fitness of the body as well as the mind.

You can become a yoga instructor by enrolling in a yoga certification course. You can find out first hand the effects of yoga on the body by taking this yoga training course.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Greg_Pierce

TODAY’S TIP: As my Mother used to tell me, “everybody can not be wrong.” There is a reason why Yoga is so popular.

Have you checked out a Yoga class near you?

Today we will take a look at some of the history of Yoga.

History of Yoga By Rob Daniels

Yoga is a union of body, mind, and spirit. The history of yoga is long and steeped in tradition. Yoga is an ancient system of health and fitness which originated in India. The word yoga has its first mention in the Rig Veda, the oldest of the sacred texts. Those that study Yoga estimate it’s age to be four thousand year.

The history of Yoga can be divided into four main periods which are the pre-classical period, classical period, post-classical period and modern period. In the history of yoga, the book is called the yoga sutras. The history of yoga would not have been completed in the classical stage of yoga.

The word Yoga literally meant the Yolk that joins something together, such as an ox to a cart. The idea is that yoga unites all aspects of being into one.

What most people envision to be Yoga, those contortionist postures, is really only one small aspect of a much larger field of practices. The methods of yoga includes ethical disciplines, physical postures, breathing control and as well as meditation.

The 20th century witnessed a renaissance of yoga that caused a globalization of this ancient tradition. Modern approaches to yoga have created a clear delineation between the Hindu religion and the practice of yoga. Through the practice of yoga, an individual can gain information about physical, emotional, mental and spiritual well being.

Over the long history of yoga, different schools have emerged, and there are numerous examples branches and philosophies that have spawned. Ultimately, all agree on one common element the fundamental purpose of yoga is to foster harmony in the body, mind, and environment.

Today yoga is accepted as a comprehensive exercise to promote control of the body and mind. More than just a means of being fit and trim, yoga can help you live a healthy, whole, and empowered life. In recent decades, yoga has greatly and swiftly evolved. Yoga is the most diversified spiritual practice in the world. The living tradition of yoga now recognizes no borders as it continues to spread globally.

Rob Daniels is a long term practitioner of Yoga and Pilates additional articles available at Pilates Shop http://www.pilates-shop.net and Yoga Store http://www.yoga-store.net.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rob_Daniels

TODAY’S TIP: No matter what discipline you decide to try, stick with it for at least a couple of months. This will give you a good evaluation of the practice.

Did you practice today?

Today I present a testimonial for Yoga from a dedicated practitioner.

Lessons I Have Learned From Yoga By Julie Devine

My yoga experience started with the local park district about 10 years ago. The class was called, “Practical Yoga”. I made the investment in a basic yoga mat and strap as well as two foam blocks at our local Target store.

It felt wonderful and was affordable. I was so excited to learn different poses and find that each practice was massaging all of my inner organs. I slept so well after my evening yoga class. My flexibility improved greatly. I repeatedly signed up for more.

Then as life would have it, I experienced some serious health issues that required surgery. My yoga practice derailed! I went from doing shoulder stands and plows to becoming increasingly sedentary and depressed. Thoughts of being too old and being out of shape bubbled up into my thoughts. I spun myself into a very negative tail spin.

I realized I have to control my own life. I’ve made many healthy life style changes. I no longer drink coffee and avoid all caffeine. Yogi tea is a real treat to enjoy. I focused on the tags on Yogi tea bag to read wonderfully uplifting messages. I read the side of the box and learned yet another new pose with meaning.

Alas, it took a few years but my yoga connection was reestablished. This time it is in a gentle yoga environment. It seems like no pose is off limits. I believed my stronger poses to be a thing of the past. There is some truth to this, but with aids, I’m getting better all the time.

I’ve learned to use my breath properly with movement. It’s been recommended to use a 5/7 method. Inhale deeply for 5 counts and exhale for 7 counts. Stale air trapped inside doesn’t help at all.

My yoga instructors have taken the time to show me modifications and allowed the use of chairs when needed. The bridge pose is one of my favorites. I’m told it can help with depression. It’s working for me. I’ve learned that while lying down, my head should be higher than my heart. I’ve learned that placing my feet up the wall with elevated legs is a very restorative pose.

One yoga instructor shared that any amount of time with the feet up the wall allows the blood to fill the trunk of the body and provide extra blood to the organs. If time permits 15 minutes of elevating my legs against the wall it is equivalent to 2 hours of restful sleep to the body! Bring me to the nearest wall!

I’ve learned to use the yoga blocks made to lean on, placed under my hips for support, placed under my sacrum, and even squeezed between my thighs for proper distance and sensation awareness. Sometimes I rest my forehead on a block when my back is tight while in child pose.

I’ve recently had a Master Yoga teacher put pressure on my elevated feet pushing the head of the femur (thigh bone) into the hip socket. I was told that would help my body create more bone density. I just ordered two sand bags from a yoga website to fill and use for that purpose. I might as well put pressure on the top of my feet when they rest against the wall.

Balance is a key factor. Always do both sides of your body with poses. Your body may feel differently from side to side and on different days. I know mine does! I’ve seen the tree pose with strong yoga practitioners when the foot is to the side and pressed up the inner thigh. I’ve learned that there are different heights to achieve and beneath the knee is an acceptable modification. Actually, moving my foot perpendicular above my inner ankle is my most common tree pose and it’s just as effective! It’s essential to line up over the joint with the knee and ankle.

I’m learning that no matter how crazy my mornings begin, I can usually fit in a couple of sun salutations and downward facing dogs before brushing my teeth. Even my pets do that pose stretch upon rising. Now I know where the name “downward dog” came from! Sometimes, just a couple “cat/cow” flexes when on all fours helps my spine stretch and realign. I guess we can learn from some poses used in the animal kingdom.

I still am not able to pronounce many of the Yoga Sanskrit names for poses, but continue to learn the English versions. I’ve been so lucky to rediscover the wonderful world of yoga and blessed to have patient teachers. I won’t become disconnected from yoga ever again.

The blissful night’s sleep has returned. My body loves it! Yoga brings me both peace and ignites my inner warrior! Acceptance is so important, especially of one’s self. Yoga allows for that.

Julie Devine is a gentle yoga enthusiast who loves using her body. She loves to learn and share helpful information about yoga.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Julie_Devine

TODAY’S TIP: If you have not tried Yoga, try it. Many classes are free the first time you attend.

did you try it and did you like it?

This week we will take a look at yoga. Yoga has been around for ages. As with other forms of discipline, such as martial arts and  Qigong, there are many different techniques.

It is like anything that becomes popular. Once it catches on people start to develop their own style by changing the way it is done. Their are many different techniques and styles.

This is the reason why, if you are starting to study yoga, that you find a style that suits you. If you are looking for a teacher, be selective. You want to find a teacher that teaches because of a genuine love of yoga, not because they can make a living teaching.

The practice of Yoga will have life long benefits of promoting physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Your practice influences every area of your life.

You are able to deal with the challenges of life in a much more peaceful and open way. You are able to make better decisions, that enhance your life. You feel better about yourself and the world around you.

Yoga will effect the  rate at which you age. The more dedicated in your practice the slower you age.  you will enjoy more balance and flexibility. You will experience more energy and your life will seem to flow more fluidly.

Yoga is a great way to control stress. With regular practice you will always be more at ease and not be so quick to react to circumstances around you.

The benefits of Yoga are varied and many. The longer you practice with regularity the more beneficial it becomes. It is low impact and requires little in the way of equipment.

Yes, there are many props that can be purchased.  However I recommend that you  keep it simple, you don’t have to look like a million dollars in your class. Make sure you are in it for life before you start investing your money in the props. They can be helpful but in the beginning you just need to concentrate on the technique.

If you cannot afford classes there are some excellent DVDs or tapes with which you can begin to practice at home. The more popular Yoga becomes the more classes are available. Check at your local community center. Many offer classes that cost little and sometimes free. Where I live the local Dept of Parks and Recreation offer classes at very reasonable cost.

It is your life and it feels good to feel good. So investing your time into some type of discipline that will enhance your health and well-being is the best thing you can do for yourself.

TODAY’S TIP: Find a discipline that you can embrace. It does not matter which discipline you choose, just do it.

What discipline have you chosen?

Today we will talk about how Pilates helps foster better balance and flexibility.

How Pilates Can Help Improve Your Balance and Flexibility By Judy Christensen

Pilates workouts are designed to strengthen your “core,” or abdominal and back muscles, as the basis for a strong and healthy body.

Pilates workouts elongate the muscles along with strengthening, and the movements require precision and control. “Flinging” your arms or legs is most definitely not a part of the Pilates method!

Controlled, flowing movements contribute to both flexibility and balance. The stretching movements which elongate the muscles also increase flexibility, while strong core muscles help you to stand up straight and improve posture and balance. Many of the exercises themselves, especially those performed on a large inflatable ball, work on balance as well as strength.

The Pilates method was developed by Joseph Pilates in the 1920′s. The program emphasizes physical and mental control of the muscles resulting in movements that are both fluid and precise. Controlled breathing helps to regulate the movements of the exercises. Slow, measured breathing prevents rushing through the exercises.

While Joseph Pilates invented machines to assist in the performance of the movements, today we use other props, such as small weights, large exercise or balance balls, resistance bands, and floor mats. As a result, Pilates has become more readily available in exercise classes in schools or community centers, as well as exercise studios. It can also be easily done at home, following one of many available exercise videos using the Pilates method.

The Pilates name is not trademarked, however, which has resulted in a number of wide-ranging variations of exercise to be labeled “Pilates”. It is often associated with yoga, and the two exercises are complementary but not the same. Both provide flexibility and balance, but yoga does not generally emphasize strength training.

The benefits of Pilates include stronger and more flexible muscles, better posture, better balance, and better breathing. Pilates can also be used to support weight loss efforts, although it does not have the calorie-burning effects of aerobics or cardio exercise.

Great spa vacations begin with Great Spa Vacations!

As a former travel agent, I have traveled extensively thoughout the US, as well as Asia. My favorite destination is Hawaii!

I focus on the travel interests of women – cooking trips, spas, sightseeing, river cruises – and always travel with my sisters.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Judy_Christensen

TODAY’S TIP: Set your intention to build a better you one step at a time each day for the rest of your life.

Has this week make you curious about Pilates?