Yoga Preconditions

Types Of yoga

Yoga

How To Do

The very best time to practice yoga is first thing in the morning before breakfast. Upon waking, empty the bowels, shower if you wish, then commence the day with your regime of yoga practices. The second most conductive time is early evening, around sunset. But is it of course far better to do something at a time of the day which suits one, rather than to miss out by being too rigid or idealistic. Always remember integral yoga is a balanced recipe which maintains: That to get the best from your yoga practice, you should whenever possible, mix and match the necessary elements of practice which will improve and enhance your spiritual growth and awareness. Yoga Positions (Asanas) may be practiced at any time of day except within 2-3 hours of having eaten. You can do postures when the body feels stiff, tense, tired or hyped-up. Be aware not to do too many over-stimulating postures just before bedtime. Asanas are best practiced first in your yoga routine, followed by breathing (Pranayama) and then meditation. Pranayama may be practiced at any time of day except within 2-3 hours after meals. It may be done when tense or tired or when space does not allow room for postures. Pranayama is best practiced straight after asanas without breaking the flow of awareness. Pranayama is a necessary pre-requisite for successful meditation.

Breathing

Always breathe through the nose both in and out, unless specified otherwise. Remember “Nose for breathing-Mouth for eating.
If you do have trouble breathing through your nose, practice “Jala Neti” (Nasal Cleansing) or visit a doctor for medical inspection.

Precautions

There are no age limits either young or old for the practice of yoga. However the application of the techniques will vary according to the abilities of the practitioner. Keep in mind the following.
Never practice any yoga techniques under the influence of alcohol or mind altering drugs.
There are no hard and fast dietary rules necessary to begin the practice of yoga. One does not have to give up smoking, become vegetarian, or be a purist to learn yoga.
Those with disabilities, severe, acute or chronic medical conditions should consult both with their medical practitioner and their yoga teacher to assess any dangers or difficulties which may arise.
Never practice any yoga techniques under the influence of alcohol.

Yoga Benefits

I recently told you all about the benefits of yoga, but you should also be aware of some precautions to take to make sure your yoga experience is positive and you avoid injuries. Luckily, I just found this great article on Fitsugar outlining Ways to Stay Injury Free in Yoga Class. And for those of you with back pain, be sure to read About.com Back Pain Guide Anne Asher's Yoga for Back Pain Overview before you get started.

One should remember that

Practising yoga in the wrong manner can aggravatethe negatives, rather than developing positive changes in the body and mind. Therefore it is advised that yoga should not be practised without suitable professional guidance and knowledge. If you're physically unwell, do not practise yoga.
People suffering from serious problems like heart trouble, high or low blood pressure or any serious organic disease should also avoid asanas (postures) which may prove dangerous.
Avoid strenuous physical exercises like gymnastics, weightlifting, jogging, tennis, swimming etc. after asanas and prayama. Allow at least 20 minutes after yoga before other exercise.
In attaining peace of mind, yoga should be practised in a quiet, secluded place, where fresh air envelops you for fresh breathing of the mind.
It is recommended that you either practise early in the morning, or in early evening on a relatively empty stomach. You are allowed the flexibility of practising yoga four hours after a heavy meal and 20 minutes after a glass of juice or a cup of skimmed milk. After practice, meals after half-an-hour is optional.
Avoid tea, coffee, smoking, alcohol, zarda, pan masala, sweets, fried food and spices as they activate chemical toxins, which are harmful and lead to stress and illness.
Initially one may feel stiffness in muscles but it will ease out after regular practice.Physical comfort is as important as mental comfort while practicing yoga. Hence, clean, loose, free-flowing clothes; preferably cotton garments should be worn. In cold climates, a shirt or sweater can be worn. Jewellery and accessories should be avoided and practise with bare-feet to ensure contact with the ground.

Overview of Yoga for Back Pain

Maybe you've heard that yoga can help you reduce your back pain. Or maybe instictively you feel that if you did yoga you could "work out the kinks" that cause the discomfort in your back. Most likely, you are on the right track with that thinking. But if you suffer from back or neck pain, some preliminary knowledge is in order to keep your yoga practice safe, productive and tailored to your specific needs. This overview ariticle talks about choosing a style of yoga that will help your back, rather than re-injure it. It also addresses about how to work with your doctor, your yoga teacher and pose modifications so that you remain safe as you practice. It is a must read for back pain sufferers who are starting a yoga program.

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