Most Americans who make New Year’s resolutions put losing weight/getting healthy on the top of the list. Unfortunately, most people don’t keep their resolutions.
But a great way to both lose weight and be in overall better health, which includes less stress and better health that you might just be able to stick with, is a regular yoga practice.
A resent research study, published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology, found that those who practiced yoga had significant improvement in their BMI, blood pressure, heart rate and cholesterol. Surprisingly, yoga was found to be just as effective as cardio exercise such as brisk walking or cycling. Yet, yoga has additional benefits and has little risk of injury.
According to the American Osteopathic Association, the physical benefits of yoga include increased flexibility, increased muscle strength and tone, improved respiration, energy and vitality, maintenance of a balanced metabolism, weight reduction, circulatory health and protection from injury.
In addition to the physical benefits, yoga also helps manage stress which can have a negative impact on the body. By focusing on the breath and taking time to unclutter one’s mind, yoga has a calming effect that leaves you feel stronger physically and mentally. The mental component of yoga—the deep breathing, positive meditation and awareness—can boost confidence for people of all waistlines and reduce stress.
Looking for a yoga class here in Paris? Visit Everyday Yoga at the PCT Brown Centre for Creative Arts (115 Clarksville Street in downtown Paris). Classes are held Monday, Wednesday and Thursdays at 8:30am. Power Yoga on Mondays, Combination Yoga/Pilates class on Wednesdays and Hatha Flow Yoga on Thursdays.
There is no registration required and no membership fees. Pay just $5 per class when you arrive. Classes are one hour long. Wear comfortable clothing and bring a yoga mat (extra mats available to borrow).
For more information on yoga classes, email jenny_3155@yahoo.com.
“Healthy plants and trees yield abundant flowers and fruits. Similarly, from a healthy person, smiles and happiness shine forth like the rays of the sun.” ~ B.K. S Iyengar ( founder of the style of yoga known as “Iyengar Yoga”)