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Yoga Meditation and Pranayama
Yoga
Yoga comes from Indian
philosophy, and its physical techniques have become widely popular
as a form of exercise. According to the American Yoga Association (AYA):
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Yoga involves gently
increasing breath control to improve the health and function of
both the body and the mind.
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The two systems of
exercise and breathing then prepare the body and mind for
meditation.
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The Yoga student finds
an easy approach to a quiet mind, which promotes healing from
everyday stress.
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it emphasizes a harmony
between yin and yang (passive and active
principles)
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it involves different
body poses and movements done slowly and with feet planted
firmly on the ground
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it increases the
strength of the entire body
Meditation
while both Yoga and Tai Chi are forms of meditation, there are
less physical forms of meditation that can be done anywhere.
Meditation can be as simple as sitting in quiet contemplation. You
can focus on your breathing, on a sound, or on a simple, peaceful
thought. Meditation is a private activity that is about disciplining
the mind to focus or concentrate on peace and tranquility. It can
provide momentary—yet quite effective—relief from chaotic, stressful
thoughts and feelings. Meditation has been found to have many
healing and relaxing effects on the body.
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