Sunday, August 29, 2010

# 62 - Moving the Body to Still the Mind

Postures that involve controlled stillness help stabilize any erratic rush of blood flow to the brain. Full back bends contract and tone extensors of the spine, while forward folds contract and tone spinal flexors; both strengthen the back. Compacting the lower extremities involves tightening of sphincter muscles in the pelvic region. Forward folds involving whole upper body help stretch and strengthen back of thighs.

Wednesday, August 25, 2010

# 61 - Body Breakdown

When air intake is insufficient, or food intake is surplus; when hygiene is inconsistent or blood circulation is inadequate; the body is unable to function naturally at optimum levels, and the result is a body breakdown. Nourishing regions of the body with diet, breath, water, and movement ensures optimum functioning of glands, organs, nerves, and muscles for a more healthful lifestyle.

Sunday, August 15, 2010

# 60 - How the Body Works

Calcium is needed for bones, iron for blood, and protein for muscles. Glands produce hormones to boost the immune system; and lungs transport fresh air to various parts of the body. While the small intestine carries nutrients in liquid form, the large intestine absorbs water and minerals.

Glands and organs need nourishment too. Besides transporting oxygen, blood carries various nutrients to different parts of the body. Circulation is therefore of utmost importance, and we all know that conscious movement enhances circulation of blood. And here is where yoga can help.

Monday, August 9, 2010

# 59 - The Domino Effect

The human body is an engine that needs a lot of tlc. The food we eat and the air we breathe gives us the energy to power this engine. When organs are refreshed, glands are re-vitalized, and muscles are re-trained, the body produces an inner heat that uses up excess calories.

But like all engines, our body needs to be fed, cleaned, watered, and aired from time to time to stay functional. The various systems are so inter-dependent that, when one fails, others are impacted too. That is why it is vital to develop a routine that mobilizes the whole body.