While yoga has its roots in ancient India, today there are a variety of branches of yoga that are popular around the world, and not all of them have a lot in common with traditional yoga outside of some classic poses.
Benefits:
Grounding pose.
Stretches ankles and knees.
Can help calm the brain.
Foundation & General Alignment:
Butt is firmly planted on the ground.
Legs are folded and feet are resting on tops of thighs.
Hands can be on the ground for support or rest on knees.
Back is straight and head is looking forward.
Shoulders are back and away from ears.
Call me crazy, but I actually look forward to hittin’ the gym, and eating a healthy, veggie-packed meal afterward. However, getting to the point of loving the gym and wholesome, nutritious foods doesn’t always happen overnight.
Ultimately, I got a gym membership because I wanted to lose a few pounds. Then, along the way, I’ve discovered so many more added bonuses to working out than just weight loss.
What do you think when you hear the word “dance”? Chances are, you think of dancing at a dub-step heavy club, or perhaps taking your children to their ballet lesson.
I have a shocking confession to make.
I have dreaded yoga and meditation a thousand times. Surprising words from a dedicated yoga teacher? Yes, I have dreaded yoga and meditation a thousand times, but I have never once regretted it. Resistance to the practice is something we might not expect, and when it arises it can really pull us off the mat or meditation cushion if we aren’t ready for it.
Benefits:
Helps strengthen the leg.
Stretches the thighs and knees.
Improves balance.
Foundation & General Alignment:
Start standing on one leg, other leg bent.
Bent leg comes up like tree pose.
Reach down and pull foot across standing leg. Rest foot/ankle on thigh.
Keep foot flexed, not pointed.
Hands can be on hips -- wherever is most comfortable.
Pelvis is in a natural position.
What type of yoga is best for you? Find out here!
From letting you stop to smell the roses to being an exercise far gentler on your knees and ankles – more and more experts are now advising regular walks rather than punishing runs!
Great side opener.
Helps tone core.
Strengthens back.
Start standing in Tadasana with arms above head and fingers interlaced.
Gently bend to one side, make sure not to force body over.
Keep feet firmly planted on the ground, legs are engaged.
Belly is toned and pelvis is in a natural position.
Head is looking forward, in natural position.
Some of the common conceptions of belly dancers are of temptation, seduction, and entertainment. Little do people know that the art of belly dance contains much more history and meaning than what the typical media often portrays. Believe it or not, along with having cultural richness, belly dance can be very healthy and beneficial for both men and women of all ages. As someone who practices this art, I want to share with you 10 beautiful health benefits of belly dancing.