Yoga Therapy – Fitness in a Healing Context

The Proof of Yoga's Benefits
by Dr. Joan Vernikos

In 2012 most all of us have heard of yoga and some of us know, or are ourselves, regular practitioners and familiar with the well-being it seems to encourage.

In the West, people practice yoga for a myriad of reasons. Personally, I began a relationship with yoga almost 10 years ago, and though I greatly enjoy my twice weekly yoga class and love the way I feel afterwards, my understanding of how it works has been minimal. I felt like most in the medical community, that the claims of yoga’s health benefits were overrated, and lacking the scientific research to provide the evidence and credibility.

So I organized a workshop in  Palo Alto, California on “Space Health, Aging and Yoga Therapy” in order to hear what the experts had to say and become better educated. This workshop was scheduled to precede a large international gathering of Yoga Bharati followers, some 400 yoga practitioners, teachers and members of the local community.  Tracks included Philosophy, Health, and Research, where perhaps predictably I spent most of my time. It did not take long until my skepticism was addressed.

Research evidence of Yoga Therapy
All medical research begins with observation and case studies, before progressing to controlled evidence-based research. Today, such research from top US and global research institutions is providing much needed evidence about the significant benefits of yoga practice that is understandable to mainstream medicine. For example:
•    Dr. Sat Bir Singh Khalsa , Assistant Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School focused on the growing body of clinical research showing its efficacy in a wide variety of mental health conditions, particularly in chronic stress, anxiety, insomnia and depression.
•    Dr. Shirley Telles reported on a study in Bangalore, India that after two weeks of daily yoga children were calmer, improved cognitive skills, better focused and memorized verbal and spatial information.
•    Dr. Helen Lavretsky, Professor of Psychiatry at UCLA used PET imaging and changes in cell gene expression to compare listening to music for relaxation to the daily practice of yogic Kirtan Kriya meditation  in stressed family dementia patient caregivers. The daily yogic practice led to reduced stress, better coping and cognitive function as well as a 43% increased telomerase actvivity indicating improvement in the stress-induced biological changes of aging.
•    Several studies reported reduced blood sugar levels in diabetics and improvement in irritable bowel syndrome and multiple sclerosis in other examples of the healing benefits of yoga interventions.

In the West we have come to rely on the wonders of modern medicine to replace our broken parts, taking a pill to cure a discomfort or an illness, relying on expert advice of medical doctors to guide us. Alternately, we sometimes adapt a technique that is popular in the East to a western method intended for a similar purpose. Power Yoga is one such example. We “modify” yoga believing that making a movement faster, stronger, more contorted than the person next to us, will make it more effective on that muscle, bone, balance, circulation or controlling function. Essentially we bolster the egoic when the benefits of a physical yogic activity are rooted in our doing the opposite. The results, in hindsight, are perhaps to be expected.

In essence we have effectively segregated mind and body in the west. We do not fully appreciate it although intellectually we might recognize that separating mind and body will not lead to total healing. I hear stories repeatedly of healing, of the importance of mind, attitude, and faith to healing even in a physically weak body. How else can we explain countless examples of miraculous recoveries in cancer patients, stroke victims and others with incapacitating conditions?

While we are now beginning to successfully demonstrate through evidence-based research how each yogic practice works physically and physiologically, we frequently ignore the context in which it was practiced in the East, the spiritual component of healing and wellness, thus undermining its full benefits.

In the quest for fitness I have learned that Yoga is much more than exercise. This ancient behavioral practice allows for the development of skills of self-regulation of internal physiological states. For this reason its use and promotion for treatment of a range of conditions has increased, including as an adjunct therapy for psychological wellness and psychiatry.

The Search for Healing
A question we must ask ourselves is “What is the healing we are searching for?” And then, “How can we best find it?” In order to answer these two questions we can begin by observing the practices of other cultures, look back into our own, and learn from centuries of observation and successes. Evidence-based research is now clearly showing that greater health and vitality does not come when we separate the body’s needs from those of the mind.

What is highly attractive about yoga is that it works best when it is practiced in this way –  meditative concentration and self-awareness is blended within a comprehensive physical approach. Research is now supporting these long-held beliefs. Yoga stands to be of great benefit to improve health in the west.

101 comments:

  1. Yoga is a mind-body practice that involves breathing, relaxation and stretching. It has been practiced for more than 5,000 years and is known to effectively reduce anxiety and stress.
    Click to get the services of Chiropractor For Shoulder Pain, Active Release Chiropractic and Denver Colorado Chiropractors

    If you go to a yoga class, you will learn about the different physical poses called asanas as well as a variety of breathing and meditation techniques. Yoga also has many kinds and varieties, each of which serves a specific benefit to the body.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Greatist covers all things healthy, providing the most trusted and fun fitness, health, and happiness content on the web — from healthy recipes to workout tips. movementfirst

    ReplyDelete

  3. Massage Therapist has been successfully treating it’s clients since 2005, assisting in everything from injury recovery for athletes to providing relaxing massages to those that simply wish to indulge themselves.

    ReplyDelete
  4. The contents has provided meaningful information thanks for sharing info if you want more information something like visit pain management doctors in dallas texas get more details.

    ReplyDelete
  5. Mental health is interlinked with the physical health that is why yoga is beneficial. The stretching aspect of Yoga will not only improve your physical strength, but also your flexibility.As for long hours people do working which make them tired and stressful , having the yoga is good for physical as well as mental health.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. what you have counted is too low this yoga has many benefits not just flexibility and physical strength.
      Other benefits of yoga

      improved respiration, energy and vitality
      maintaining a balanced metabolism
      weight reduction
      cardio and circulatory health
      improved athletic performance
      protection from injury

      for more: Free Yoga Dubai

      Delete
  6. Bikram yoga has given me new life I found your blog to be greatly interesting,This is very nice blog I am waiting for your next blog post, Yoga is usually taught as a way to achieve physical and mental fitness .
    Yoga Bali

    ReplyDelete
  7. Great article with some good tips . I definitely will start doing yoga now . Seems a lot of people love it . From what i read,seems to do the body good also.

    ReplyDelete
  8. Thanks for the FANTASTIC post! This information is really good and thanks a ton for sharing it :-)
    Pain management Dallas

    ReplyDelete
  9. I have done deep study in the field of physical health and physiotherapy, so according to me physiotherapy is good technique to eliminate your injuries.

    Health - Physio in Cavan

    ReplyDelete
  10. nice post
    Yoga is the natural way to stay happy, healthy and stress free. It is the best home exercises you can do around the house.
    Yoga Teacher Training Rishikesh

    ReplyDelete
  11. A lot of people are now accepting Yoga as a healing technique which is not bad. Basically, it’s up to you on how you see Yoga and practice which Yoga poses. I have joined online yoga classes and really getting in shape back again.

    ReplyDelete
  12. Thanks for this,also i welcome everyone to our motivational health & fitness.

    GE 12L

    ReplyDelete
  13. Wow shared here such a nice blog and post on yoga therapy fitness in healing therapy. Thanks for sharing here about it.

    ReplyDelete
  14. جراحة تكميم المعدة أو استئصال المعدة طولياً لتكون شبيهة بالكم، هي واحدة من أحدث أنواع الجراحات لعلاج السمنة.

    ReplyDelete
  15. Thanks for sharing this wonderful blog about yoga therapy, it is really a good post for the yoga lovers.

    ReplyDelete

  16. The first helpful tool for a total yoga beginner is to build basic familiarity with yoga ... I am so glad this post was helpful to you. ...
    online yoga workout

    ReplyDelete
  17. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  18. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  19. I like this post about yoga therapy. this is really very helpful for me.
    http://www.moderndaymystic.com/

    ReplyDelete
  20. Thanks for the useful information. Your article is beneficial for us and those who are searching for Yoga Therapy.

    ReplyDelete
  21. This is nice blog I have really enjoyed keeping up with you on this health blog.This is very useful post for everyone. Thank you so much this post.Hydroxycut side effects, lipozene reviews, lipozene side effects , Vivexilis, Vivexilis reviews, zantrex3 reviews, zantrex3 side effects, plexus slim reviews, plexus slim side effects.

    ReplyDelete
  22. I agree with you completely, it has been known for many years and meditation are highly recommended to stay strong and healthy. you can also try the reiki which is the essential key to protecting clean alongside stimulating to mind and body.
    Reiki Chennai | Reiki Classes in Chennai | Learn Reiki

    ReplyDelete
  23. Thank you for your post. It is very important for us.If you want more information about health please Click here

    ReplyDelete
  24. I recently came across your blog and have been reading along. I thought I would leave my first comment. I don't know what to say except that I have enjoyed reading. Nice blog. I will keep visiting this blog very often. phenq australia

    ReplyDelete
  25. Great blog. Now I understood the benefits of regularly doing Yoga. After read this I'm really eager to learn yoga. Let me the yoga positions for beginners? and Trainers needed for basic yoga? Thanks for taking time to share great information. Keep blogging.

    Riley Martin from Yoga Classes Sydney

    ReplyDelete
  26. Yoga is the name of exercise which helps the person to be healthy both physically and mentally. There are lot of research being conducted on the benefits providing by the Yoga all over the world particularly in US. No doubt, a lot of pains can be overcome but still there are situation that can be handled by the Physiotherapy North Ryde only.

    ReplyDelete
  27. Excellent article. Very interesting to read. I really love to read such a nice article. Thanks! keep rocking. http://www.asamilwaukee.org/

    ReplyDelete
  28. Nice to read that such training centres are the place to be, because in reality, most students do not fit the format of education. Especially now in the digital era, schools need fresh approaches for education. Thanks for the article.

    http://shop4pills.us/cialis_generic.html

    ReplyDelete
  29. Yoga is the solution for most of the human health related issues. You people can take help from the other natural ingredients like the fruits or vegetables and herbs also to maintain good health as having them in your regular diet can let you avoid the chances of falling ill again and again as they are full of anti-oxidants, antibiotics and anti-bodies. You can go for the Acai Berry Juice as this is my personal favorite.

    ReplyDelete
  30. Yoga is necessary for every person, which people do yoga they become healthy, it reduce the weight of our body, it increases flexibility in our body, it also improves athletic performance, it also improves respiration, it increases muscles strength through the help of Chiropractor near Many vale.

    ReplyDelete
  31. it is true, in fact when it comes to health, there is nothing more important than managing to eat healthy food and doing exercise regularly.

    ReplyDelete
  32. Thank you for sharing such great information.It is informative, can you help me in finding out more detail on Health And Fitness
    ,i am interested and would like to know more about this field and wanted to understand the details about Fitness Experts

    ReplyDelete
  33. Awesome notes regarding the yoga university. It’s truly helpful for the entire student. Who want to develop our future in this trend?For more information about yoga certification visit site

    ReplyDelete
  34. Thanks for sharing in detail. Your blog is an inspiration! Apart of really useful tips, it's just really ! This post will be effectively Just about everything looks good displayed.
    _________________________
    Weight loss Albuquerque

    ReplyDelete
  35. The perfect yoga retreat can enhance your knowledge about yourself as well as your experience on the mat. However, given the sheer amount of yoga retreats cropping up in every corner of the world, Shoes made from yoga mats

    ReplyDelete
  36. On the other hand, your own fitness equipment requires a lot of free space at your home to place it as well as these equipment's are very much expensive, so you have to invest a lot of money on it. Fitness

    ReplyDelete
  37. It is a method of exercise, a way of improving your health, and can be a lifestyle influence as well. Best yoga mat blog

    ReplyDelete
  38. Pleased to know about this yoga therapy. Planning to take this for my fitness and while searching for clothing, came to know about alo yoga pants. Planning to buy these from a reputed online store with good discounts.

    ReplyDelete
  39. Very useful post. This is my first time i visit here. I found so many interesting stuff in your blog especially its discussion. Really its great article. Keep it up.
    yoga teacher training in goa

    ReplyDelete
  40. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  41. The perfect place for Yoga teacher training with its peaceful bohemian vibe. Lots of Yoga schools are available with all kinds of accommodations. There are schools that offer teacher training classes and also located in a retreat setting. Have a peek at these guys

    ReplyDelete
  42. Thank you for sharing those good tips! They are helpful. Fitness Tips

    ReplyDelete
  43. Hi guys
    Your Yoga Therapy – Fitness in a Healing Context rules Very Important.Thank you for Your Yoga Therapy. those extra kilos helps you look better and the good news is you do not need to just rely on doctors or medicines in order to get your desired looks. If you want to look better, you can see here health and fitness

    ReplyDelete
  44. This is such an interesting blog! Daily exercise has made me not only look good but changed my attitude towards life. Its bit hard to exercise by yourself, so i am looking for a personal trainer. Can anyone suggest me in home personal trainers

    ReplyDelete
  45. Great post I would like to thank you for the efforts you have made in writing this interesting and knowledgeable article. Visit Activeman for more health tips

    ReplyDelete
  46. Interesting blog and very amazing detail about the yoga nybörjare well done keep it up.
    yoga nybörjare

    ReplyDelete
  47. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  48. http://weighing-success.blogspot.com/2012/05/national-employee-health-and-fitness.html

    ReplyDelete

  49. it was a wonderful chance to visit this kind of site and I am happy to know. thank you so much for giving us a chance to have this opportunity..
    real user reviews

    ReplyDelete
  50. Yes i am completely concurred with this article and i simply need say this article is extremely decent and exceptionally useful article. dbol steroid pills for sale

    ReplyDelete
  51. the web will be significantly more valuable than any other time in recent memory.
    insert back link in post

    ReplyDelete
  52. Its very informative article.Thanks for sharing ..Therapeutic Yoga Dubai

    ReplyDelete
  53. We will keep on adding more in-home health care services with a vision to bring world class medicalcare into our patients' homes. Physiotherapy. Lab Tests. Nursing Services. Doctor Consultations.Medical Equipment. Care+ Packages. Vaccination. Elder Care.

    https://www.homemedicare4u.com/service.php

    ReplyDelete
  54. Ligue Agora: (61) 3346-0081. Polissonografia em Brasília DF com especialista em medicina do sono pela AMB. Fácil acesso e localização.

    http://www.polissonografiabrasilia.com/

    ReplyDelete
  55. Nice Information provided in the blog
    Panchakarma virechana treatment Baner Pune | Best Ayurvedic Clinic in Sangvi, Pimple Gurav Pune.
    Panchakarma virechana treatment Baner Pune
    Best Ayurvedic Clinic in Sangvi, Pimple Gurav Pune.
    Ayurvedic Clinic near Pimple Gurav


    ReplyDelete
  56. thank you for sharing these information

    ReplyDelete
  57. This is wonderful try for yoga in GULF AREAS. I really very happy when I read this all information. Keep it up...

    ReplyDelete
  58. cycling is the best exercise that gives you relaxation for you legs.

    hernia surgeons in bangalore 

    ReplyDelete
  59. The information you have posted is very useful. The sites you have referred was good. Thanks for sharing...
    guide

    ReplyDelete
  60. Best Yoga Teacher Training in Rishikesh We always aimed to propagate the knowledge of yoga to our students so that their vision for practice & teaching is clear when their respective course gets completed.

    ReplyDelete
  61. I recently came across your blog and have been reading along. I thought I would leave my first comment. I don't know what to say except that I have enjoyed reading. Nice blog. I will keep visiting this blog very often.
    vkool

    ReplyDelete
  62. Pretty good post. I just stumbled upon your blog and wanted to say that I have really enjoyed reading your blog posts. Any way I'll be subscribing to your feed and I hope you post again soon. Big thanks for the useful info.for information regarding personal yoga trainer at home.please visit to the link.
    Personal yoga instructor in Delhi

    ReplyDelete
  63. The craze for Yoga in rapidly increasing day by day and it is really appreciable. Many of the people are also getting certified for the yoga course and as there are many yoga instructors who are providing Yoga Instructor Training In India.

    ReplyDelete
  64. A yoga teacher can provide yoga that is therapeutic in nature.Personal trainer in Mississauga

    ReplyDelete
  65. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  66. Nice Information provided in your blog. Thanks for sharing such great stuff. Please keep sharing and updating us with your authentic ideas.
    Yoga Schools in Rishikesh

    ReplyDelete
  67. Thanks for sharing information tips here.I am always searching tips over the internet. These day we did not get health environment so we have to fit ourself. Thanks once again for posting such valuable post. Keep posting.
    Thanks for sharing. Ayurvedic treatment

    ReplyDelete
  68. At this time yoga become very popular everyone want to do yoga but need to some guidance thanks for sharing great information about Yoga Teacher Training India.

    ReplyDelete
  69. I wish to show thanks to you just for bailing me out of this particular
    trouble.As a result of checking through the net and meeting
    techniques that were not productive, I thought my life was done.
    patient monitor manufacturer

    patient monitor manufacturers

    patient monitor supplier

    ReplyDelete
  70. I simply wanted to write down a quick word to say thanks to you for
    those wonderful tips and hints you are showing on this site.


    lcd vision chart

    lcd vision chart manufacturer

    lcd vision chart supplier

    ReplyDelete
  71. This is the first time I came to this blog and I found some relevant stuff here. Basically I keen to know new parameters of writing every-time and sometime it become really very hard to find such kind of platform. Massage in St Paul

    ReplyDelete
  72. 2016 Global Disc Milling Industry Report is a professional and in-depth research report on the world's major regional market conditions of the Disc Milling industry, focusing on Size, Share, Trends, Growth, Demand, Supply, Application, Segmentation, Opportunity, Market Development, Analysis and Forecast by 2020can inversion table help herniated disc

    ReplyDelete
  73. Your articles are inventive. I am looking forward to reading the plethora of articles that you have linked here. Thumbs up! tubing benders

    ReplyDelete
  74. What sort of health workout routines are we speaking about right here? Energy coaching refers to resistance creating workout routines corresponding to the usage of dumbbells, rubber tubing, kettle bells or the assorted machines obtainable at well being and health facilities. fitnessholic

    ReplyDelete
  75. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  76. Pretty good post. I just stumbled upon your blog and wanted to say that I have really enjoyed reading your blog posts.
    Personal trainer Brampton
    Personal trainer Mississauga

    ReplyDelete
  77. Enlightening Swami’s Ideals through Madhusudan Naidu Muddenahalli
    madhusudan naidu muddenahalli

    madhusudan naidu

    ReplyDelete
  78. An initiative to Fill the Plate and Slate by Madhusudan Naidu with guidance from Swami!

    madhusudan naidu

    madhusudan naidu muddenahalli

    ReplyDelete
  79. Works Cited - Paul, B. “Zinc Testosterone Study: Benefits, Dosage & Side Effects Guide.” Testosteroneofficial.Com Ie. Testosterone Official, 23 Sep. 2018, https://testosteroneofficial.com/research/zinc/.

    ReplyDelete
  80. Thanks for sharing this stuff with us! It's useful and informative.keep up the great.
    Buy mass gainer online
    Buy supplements online india

    ReplyDelete
  81. skinfinity is an informative platform for a variety of skincare and health tips. It is your one-stop solution for all kinds of skin problems that everyone might face in your everyday life.
    skin care in urdu

    ReplyDelete
  82. I recently found many useful information in your website especially this blog page. Among the lots of comments on your articles. Thanks for sharing.
    you can share some info about skincare and beauty tips
    .

    ReplyDelete
  83. Yoga Therapy Foundation supports research and education in yoga and serves as a professional organization for yoga teachers and yoga therapists worldwide. Our mission is to establish yoga as a recognized and respected therapy.


    200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training in Rishikesh
    300 Hour Yoga Teacher Training in Rishikesh
    500 Hour Yoga Teacher Training in Rishikesh


    Best Yoga Teacher Training School in Rishikesh

    ReplyDelete
  84. Very Informative Blog. An interesting and amazing post.
    I am thankful to you for providing this unique information.
    yoga teacher training rishikesh
    200 hour yoga teacher training rishikesh

    ReplyDelete
  85. Join us for YTT 200 Rishikesh Yoga Teacher Training in Rishikesh, India. Experience the yoga retreat yourself with our 200 hour certified yoga teacher training program from the comfort of your own home. We have designed our course to be a comprehensive program that will give you all the tools and knowledge you need to start your own yoga practice or become a professional yoga instructor.

    ReplyDelete
  86. World Yogashala offer 200 hour Yoga Teacher Training in Rishikesh Its residential, affordable and intensive 27- Days Ashtanga vinyasa yoga teacher training course.

    ReplyDelete
  87. World Yogashala offer 300 hour Yoga Teacher Training in Rishikesh Its residential, affordable and intensive 27- Days Ashtanga vinyasa yoga teacher training course.

    ReplyDelete
  88. join our 500 Hour Yoga Teacher Training in Rishikesh India . 500 Hour Yoga TTC is a combination of 200 Hour Yoga TTC & 300 Hour Yoga TTC

    ReplyDelete
  89. Incorporating yoga into your fitness routine can be highly beneficial, as it not only improves flexibility and strength but also complements the services offered at Brookvale Physiotherapy for a holistic approach to enhancing your overall well-being.

    ReplyDelete
  90. Embark on a transformative journey with Shiva Holistic Yoga School's exceptional Yoga Teacher Training in Rishikesh. Our school offers a comprehensive program that equips you with the skills to become a confident and skilled yoga instructor. With a perfect blend of traditional wisdom and modern techniques, our training empowers you to share the gift of yoga with the world.
    Whether you're a seasoned practitioner or a beginner, our yoga teacher training in Rishikesh offers an inclusive environment where growth is nurtured. Upon completion, you'll not only be a certified yoga teacher but also a beacon of inspiration for your future students.
    "visit: Yoga School In Rishikesh
    yoga teacher training in rishikesh
    yoga school in India
    200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training in Rishikesh
    200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training in India"

    ReplyDelete