Hot Vinyasa and the Mind

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History

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The Indian philosophy is that Yoga analyzes perception and cognition looking at the dysfunctional nature of everyday perception which is the root of suffering. Becoming more conscious and raising awareness to this meditative practice can suppress human cognition which opens the mind to a level of perception that is heightened and less obscure.[1]

Vinyasa

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Vinyāsa is a series of yoga postures that are practiced at a steady pace with an uninterrupted flow. It connects and synchronizes the breath with the postures. Hot Vinyasa is practiced in temperatures around 95 degrees Fahrenheit. Hot yoga is beneficial because it allows the muscles to warm up quicker allowing for maximum posture experience. The heat acts as an aid in flushing ones system of toxins and impurities via sweat. Through the use of the 26 postures used in the series every part of the body is systematically worked. Each movement throughout the practice gives the muscles, veins, and internal organs what they need to maximize their functions and continue in good health. Practicing yoga increases the supply of oxygen in the body through the control of breath.[2]

Breathe

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In the Vinyasa yoga system the body is used as a mantra. One of the fundamental elements of this style of yoga is Pranayama, which means “victorious breath”. Pranayama can take on several meanings but generally is translated into inner breath or life force. Ujjayi pranayama is a technique that stretches the breath. Listening to your own breath aids in withdrawing from the outer world by drawing your attention inward and taking away from external sounds. This form technique is a type of meditation. [3] Research has been conducted to measure the effects that yoga has on patients with depression, and anxiety.

Mind

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Meditation means to listen. Practicing yoga helps one to develop into a meditative listening state. The practice isn’t about how flexible you are or your current strength, or what pose you can hold longest, rather about your mind allowing you to be guided freely throughout your practice. Yoga means yoke which translates into union and joining. The practice of yoga unites meditation with the series of postures.[4] Because yoga involves such concentration on the breath and body, it helps discharge tension and keep a person free from such negative elements. An article by Harvard University explains that yoga is able to regulate a person’s stress response system. It aids in lowering blood pressure and heart rate while improving respiration. Yoga is a great way to clear your mind of the chaotic moments you experience in life. As you rid yourself of the noise of the day stored in your head you will find that you are able to remember things better, and your concentration levels will go up. Mental health and prevention is a topic in the forefront for some individuals. Many mental health problems start to develop during adolescence. Practicing yoga is a method that can aid in protecting against mental illness. Studies have shown that Yogis have lower levels of tension, better anger control, and better moods. [5]


Works Cited

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  1. ^ [Cite Yoga, Brief History of http://press.princeton.edu/chapters/i9565.pdf Yoga, Brief History of an idea] (PDF). Priceton University Press. {{cite book}}: Check |url= value (help)
  2. ^ Hot Yoga 4 You Carle Place http://www.bikramyogacarleplace.com/about-vinyasa-yoga/. Retrieved 21 October 2015. {{cite web}}: Missing or empty |title= (help)
  3. ^ Maehle, Gregor. "Ashtanga Yoga Practice and Philosophy". Google Books. Kaivalya Publishing. Retrieved 21 October 2015.
  4. ^ Schiffman, Erich. "Yoga The Spirit and Practice of Moving into Silln". Google Books. Pocket Books. Retrieved 21 October 2015.
  5. ^ "The Five Mental and Psychological Benefits of Yoga". Examined Existence. Retrieved 21 October 2015.