Just Say "Om"

November 15, 2005 by Renee @ 09:08 AM

Your kids are demanding the latest video game, your boss wants that report done yesterday and your spouse wants to know what's for dinner. Stress is everywhere. If it's getting the best of you, you might want to make like a downward-facing dog or a cobra and take some time for yourself through yoga. The series of postures — sometimes named for animals like the dog, fish and cobra — and breathing exercises have become a popular way to de-stress.

What is yoga?
Yoga is a way of life and is part of traditional Hindu religion. The ultimate goal of yoga is to reach complete peacefulness in your body and mind. While traditional yoga philosophy requires that yoga students adhere to this mission constantly through behavior, diet and meditation, chances are you aren't looking for a complete change in lifestyle but instead simply some flexibility, relaxation or stress relief.

If that's the case, then like most people in the United States, you're interested in hatha yoga — a style of yoga that uses physical postures and breathing exercises designed to encourage relaxation and meditation.

Without a doubt, yoga is the hardest things for me to do. To stay still, for more than 5 minutes, makes me crazy. Yet, I know it serves a purpose in overall health and well being. If only I can find the time to fit it in.