By Christy Milan
The mountains and streams call out for you to come and search out your adventure. The streams beckon to the fishermen and the waters entice swimmers and boaters. The valley hosts events and festivals, while the mountains entice you to explore. There are many activities to enjoy here in Northern California. However, at times the spirit is willing but the body may question your decision to hike the trail, go fishing or enjoy the many other activities this area has to offer. So how do you help your body get back to its vitality? Try yoga!
Yoga to some may seem a little new age or even complicated. The great thing about this activity is that it can help your body be able to do what you set your mind out to do. Of Course, there are other benefits as well:
• Lowers chronic pain. Lower back, arthritis, headaches, carpal tunnel
• Lowers blood pressure
• Helps sleep
• Increases flexibility
• Increases muscle tone/strength
• Improves breathing, energy and vitality
• Helps maintain metabolism
• Weight control/reduction
• Helps Cardio/Circulatory health
• Improves athletic performance
• Protects against injury
Other benefits include the mental health aspect such as:
• Managing/reducing stress
• Coping skills
• Positive outlook on life
• Mental well-being
• Mental clarity
• Calmness
• Increases body awareness
• Relieves chronic stress patterns
• Relaxes the mind
• Centers attention
• Helps concentration
There are many different kinds of yoga practices. This makes it easier for anyone no matter their age, physical ability and size or fitness level. Yoga offers modifications to yoga poses and styles to accommodate beginners or the masters. It is also beneficial to add a form of meditation just before yoga or after. Many believe the goal of meditation is to be focused without distraction. In fact, meditation is a reflection or contemplation of your thoughts and feelings. It is consciously allowing your mind to quiet; in turn this relaxes the nervous system. Adding meditation to your yoga practice can help you achieve those goals of exploring the many adventures in the North state.
The teachings of yoga help us to explore limit, get in tune with our body as well as the opportunity to truly get to know ourselves. The benefits of yoga can help you to be able to get out and enjoy life. After all, life is full of wonderment, experiences and beauty. To find local yoga classes, please visit the following for more information.
Yoga Classes Local
• On Water Yoga
• Whiskey Creek boat launch
• Onwateryoga.com
Community classes
Toxic free- no perfumes,
colognes etc. allergy
purposes
Audrey Delong
Private/Group sessions, paddleboard yoga
Cheri Davis
Certified Massage Therapist, Certified Yoga Teacher
The American Osteopathic Association has more information about yoga benefits as well as my website
www.christywellness.com
If you have an existing medical condition, consult your healthcare provider. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and products or information are not intended to treat, diagnose, cure, or prevent or any illness disease.
