Yoga
BSTTWTranslationsOver 5,000 years ago Yoga was introduced. It started in India. Yoga has been found to help many people including Burn Survivors. It can reduce symptoms of back & other body parts that are in pain, migraines, carpal tunnel syndrome, emotional stress and other illnesses and problems.
The Yoga poses, which are called asana, are gentle enough for people of all fitness level and ages. Yoga is primarily stretching exercises. The asana also strengthens muscles and increases flexibility. This is excellent for overall physical conditioning. Yoga's meditative aspecyts can help many people to create a profound feeling of relaxation. As stated before this helps to reduce stress, which so many people encounter during their daily life.
Yoga can be practiced anywere. You just need comfortable, easy fitting clothing, a warm - quiet room, and a mat or a towel. Remember that asana are done with deep, controlled breathing, which enhances the flow of oxygen to the brain and our body.
Examples:
Corpse Pose: It is excellent to start you session of asana. This session is designed to relax and center your body. First lie on your back, with your arms by your side, palms up, and legs slightly spread. Consciously relas each part of your body, starting with your feet. Slowly move up your body to your neck and head. Stay in this pose for 10 to 15 minutes.
Seated Forward Bend: Sit on the floor. Stretch your legs out in front of you. Inhale. Grab your big toes with your first two fingers of each hand. Exhale while you are lifting your chest and sitting straight up. Your back should be slightly arched. At this point, keeping your back extended, bend forward at your hips with your thighs and abdominal muscles tightened. Take 5 to 8 breaths while stretched out over your legs. Inhale and lift your head. Then exhale and lower your head.
Bound-Angle Pose: Sit on the floor with the soles of your feet touching each other. Grab your ankles with your hands. Gently pull them toward you. Next inhale, lift your chest, stretch up remember to still hold your ankles. Exhale and bend forward. Keep your back straight. Gently push your thighs down by flexing your inner thighs.
Knee-up Pose:
Stand up putting your hands on your hips. Lift your right leg as you inhale. Flex your foot and take 5 to 8 breaths. Exhale and release. Do your left leg next. Know return to your right leg. This time, grasp your knee with your hands and pull it toward your chest. Repeat this with your left leg.Warrior Pose:
Stand upright, then step forward with your right foot. Bend your right knee, while keeping your left leg straight behind you. Turn your left foot out to the side. Inhale and lift your arms above your head. Keeping your palms together. Hold this for 5 to 8 breaths, then exhale and lower your arms to shoulder height. Have one extended out in front of you. The other arm should be behind you. Take 5 to 8 breaths. Then inhale and return to the starting position. Repeat this on the other side.It is not too late to start Yoga and/or other exercises. Being a couch potato may very well take enjoyment and time away from your life. As a Burn Survivor or other individuals that have been through medical and/or physical problems, taking the time to use Yoga can give you a more Active Life.
Remember it is best to begin Yoga with an instructor. Your instructor should have several years of experience and training. He/She will help you to make any adjustments needed and also learn how to do Yoga at its best.
