Is yoga really all that it's made out to be?!
Question: If so, what are some good websites or books to help me get started?
Answers: If so, what are some good websites or books to help me get started?
I assume you refer to the physical exercises of Yoga, or Hatha Yoga comprised of body postures (asanas) and breathing exercises, rather than the spiritual practice of Yoga, which encompasses a much broader subject. Hatha Yoga may serve you well as PART of a comprehensive fitness program. Fitness programs should be composed of three essential components: endurance (aerobic) training, strength training, and flexibility training. Yoga obviously promotes flexibility and, to a much lesser extent, strength training. It also promotes body-breath integration and improves kinesthetic perception. It does not, however, serve as adequate aerobic/endurance training, and therefore cannot stand alone as a comprehensive fitness program.
A lot of ridiculous claims have been made for Yoga. A good rule of thumb to remember is that if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Although Yoga improves flexibility and has salutary impact on the musculoskeletal system, and may promote an overall sense of well-being, It has not been shown to prevent heart disease, stroke, cancer, or wrinkles. It won't turn you into a he-man or she-woman. It's not going to cause massive weight loss or make your hair grow back. It's an excellent exercise, but be realistic. There's nothing magical about it.
And there is a definite potential for injury in Yoga if it is practiced incorrectly or injudiciously. If you or your instructor push too hard, you can end up with torn muscles, ripped ligaments, or even spinal injuries. So you need to be careful.
My advice: find a certified instructor with a lot of experience and good references, ease into it, and listen to your body. Keep your expectations realistic, and round out your fitness program with cross training in endurance and strength-building exercises. Good luck and good health.
Ya it is definately all its made up to be. It promotes good posture, strength, flexibility, and soothes stress.
yogajournal.com
Yoga Journal Magazine are my favorite
i don't know for sure, i've just started it myself, but i would recommend skipping books and things to do at home and take a class, i think that a class is helpful first, and then later you can do it on your own.