When Yoga first became popular in the western world back in the 1980's, many saw it as yet another fitness FAD that will probably blow over as quickly as some of the other diets and crazes that swept the world at that time. What most people did not know is that Yoga was much more than just a workout. Its an ancient spiritual practice that's been around for centuries. As western medicine started catching on to the mind-body connection Yoga became one of the most important shifts in our thinking and understanding of health and fitness.
Like me, you probably grew up believing that if you want to exercise and get fit you have to sweat it out. No pain, no gain right? Well, although there is some merit in this Yoga follows a completely different angle. Over the ears we've become much more open to the power of the mind and mind-body medicine is revealing some startling facts about the real power of your mind and how it affects the body.
The problem with western fitness philosophies is that it focused 100% on the body. Not only was the mind discarded, but it was actually encouraged to "block out" the mind altogether. Yoga is the exact opposite of this. Yoga quite literally means "union" and by fusing mind and body you can not only accomplish much more in terms of physical fitness but you can train much more than just your body. Not only does this improve your overall health and fitness but it gives you that feel good factor that is responsible for good mental health and happiness.
Pilates, although it has similarities with Yoga is yet another approach to health and fitness that is different from traditional workouts. Like yoga it involves the mind but it focuses heavily on balance, posture and involving the entire body during your workout.
If you are someone who likes to grind it out in the gym, why not challenge yourself to try out Yoga or Pilates. Not only will it help you tone up and get fit, but it will give you that mental balance that will give you health and a sense of well being.
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Read more about the Pilates Magic Circle and see how different Pilates accessories can help you.
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