Yoga
Ancient Yogis had a belief that in order for man to be in harmony
with himself and his environment, he has to integrate the body,
mind and spirit. For these three to be integrated, there
must be a balance between emotion, action, and intelligence and
this balance is maintained through the three main Yoga structures:
exercise, breathing, and Meditation.
Yoga Exercises stimulate the abdominal organs, improve circulation
and put pressure on the glandular system of the body, which leads
to good health.
T'ai
Chi
Developed as a self-defense strategy, or martial art, t'ai
chi is practiced in modern times primarily as a gentle exercise
technique. T'ai chi consists of a standing person performing a series
of bodily movements in a slow and graceful manner, each movement
flowing without pause, also described as "meditation
in motion. If done regularly, it improves flexibility,
muscle tone, coordination and balance. T'ai chi has both physical
and mental benefits. Many older people find that it boosts their
energy, stamina, and agility, sharpens their reflexes, and gives
an overall sense of well-being.
Pilates
Unlike Yoga and Thai Chi, Pilates (named for its founder Joseph
Pilates) does not have a spiritual side, it is purely physical.
Pilates is a system of movement and exercise that was developed
in the 1920s. The goal of the system is to stretch and strengthen
the core muscles with the mind and body playing a vital part. When
performed regularly, it positively changes bodies - the Pilates
technique is a total conditioning program that works your body form
the inside out by focusing on "core" muscles. It combines
awareness of the spine, proper breathing, strength and flexible
training.
References:
AARP - The Power to make it better
Vhi Health Care
Bodies under construction Fitness Club
Lotus Natural Therapies |
