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Yoga has become a very fashionable word in the west over the last decade. Numerous celebrities have endorsed it and thousands of studios have sprung up to meet the ever-growing demand to learn yoga. However, practicing yoga is not a status symbol, nor is it a quick fix to any problems, whether they are physical, psychological or emotional. It is true that yoga has been extensively studied in the west and its merits have been proven. It is also a fact that many physicians, surgeons and therapists recommend yoga as an alternative therapy for a number of ailments. However, what you need to decide is whether yoga therapy is right for you. And for that you need to know what yoga is and whether yoga works?

What is Yoga?

Yoga is a science that originated in the Indus Valley more than 3000 years ago. The word Yoga is derived from the Sanskrit word ‘yuj’ which means ‘to unite’ or to ‘yoke’. Yoga endeavors to unite the body, mind and soul of a person as well as ensures that it is in harmony with the world around it. Yoga attempts to rid the body of all its unhealthiness and to control the mind and free them both from all their distractions. This then allows for spiritual self-actualization, which is the main aim of Yoga.

What is Yoga Therapy?

Yoga therapy is the use of Yoga in meeting specific therapeutic ends. While Yoga is actually an entire philosophy and a way of life, it can be used to address specific ailments. There are many Yoga benefits that can be channelized to be used as therapy for specific ailments. Listed here are some yoga benefits:

Physical benefits:

• Improves metabolic, cardiovascular, circulatory, digestive and respiratory systems. Most illnesses are rooted in malfunction of these systems. By regular practice of Yoga, a large number of ailments can be avoided.
• Lowers heart rate and blood pressure
• Improves immunity system
• Detoxifies the body
• Makes the body supple and flexible
• Increases energy levels, stamina and vitality

Psychological benefits:

• Relieves stress
• Reduces depression and anxiety
• Makes you more alert, with a greater ability to concentrate
• Helps cope with unresolved mental or emotional issues

So, Is Yoga Therapy Right For You?

As you have seen, practicing Yoga regularly can rejuvenate both your mind and body. Yoga works wonders for people suffering from ailments like high blood pressure, back problems, joint problems, weak heart or lungs, respiratory problems, etc. On the other hand, Yoga also has great effect on people suffering from stress, anxiety, paranoia, depression, etc.

But, these are not the only reasons you can practice yoga. Yoga goes beyond physical and mental health. Once you master the physical and mental realm, yoga has a lot to offer in terms of spirituality. If you want to transcend the material, find inner peace and feel connected with the whole universe, then Yoga therapy is certainly right for you.