...t your mind? This is a key question and the answer lies in yoga postures which put gentle pressure on the endocrine glands. The systematic application of yoga postures balances the secretion of hormones from these glands. When your glands are functioning properly your mind also functions well.

Conversely, if we have any physical defect, it usually affects our mental disposition. It is hard to be cheerful if you are suffering from the pain of a stomach ulcer or any other physical problem. It is in the physical realm where yoga postures have an important role to play.

Just as our modern environment is puts maximum stress on our psychic health, it is not stimulating enough on the physical side. One of the secrets of a long life is to do regular physical labor. However, most people today do mental work and not physical work. It is no wonder that obesity has become one of the greatest health problems of our time. But it...more

What Is Ashtanga Yoga? Understanding the Methods

...f yoga.

Ashtanga Poses

As for the Ashtanga yoga poses, they range widely in terms of positioning. You will find yourself moving from standing, backbent, inverted, balancing, seated, and even twisting poses. In power yoga, the sun salutation sequence of poses is very popular as well, so you will often use standing forward bend, upward dog, downward dog, and many other poses sprinkled in as well.

Though much of the focus in Ashtanga yoga poses is on the development of stamina and strength, you will also, as with any yoga, be focusing. You will be asked to focus your eyes on a point as you move through the poses given out by your instructor. In order to get the full effect and benefit of Ashtanga, you should make sure that your muscles and perhaps even the rooms ar...more

Okay, Explain bikram Yoga to Me Again

...As varied as the poses associated with yoga are, it should not be a surprise that there are various styles of yoga. Now, though the poses may more or less be quite similar in execution, each style/technique does have their own unique stand outs.

One of such is the critically acclaimed bikram Yoga.

Defined, it is a series of 26 postures conducted over 90 minutes, beginning with one warming up breathing exercise, progressing through 24 asanas or postures and finishing with one toxin e...more

Yoga vs Gym Workouts - Which is Better?

...ide perspective also plays a key role in developing good form - take advantage of constructive criticism by your peers. Ultimately, it comes down to being accountable for your work; make sure you find an instructor who cares when you miss a class/workout.

5. Short, High Intensity Workouts

The best supplement for yoga training is a strength and conditioning fitness program that focuses on functional movements performed at high intensity. This type of strenuous exercise is the perfect complement for a calm and relaxing practice such as yoga - implementing both into your routine will help you physically, mentally and perhaps even spiritually.

So, do you think yoga can completely replace going to the gym or just the gym you go to?

P.S. If you hate gimmicks for flat abs, treadmills, and advice without substance, then you might just love our free workout blog over at Crossfit Coastal

by Ezekiel Martinez

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