Yoga techniques can help
improve heart health

By BARBARA HAYS KLEIN

When it comes to cardiovascular disorders, many doctors are routinely recommending yoga to heart patients along with other gentle mind-body practices.

The physical practice of yoga and the lifestyle inherent to yoga philosophy work together to calm your heart and mind and bring your circulatory system into balance.

Several reputable studies have established the benefit of using yoga to treat high blood pressure. In one study, 25 patients with hypertension were give yoga therapy, and after six months all showed a significant decrease in blood pressure, and several were able to decrease their dosage of medication.

Adding a yoga routine can have tremendous benefits for cardiovascular health. The calming nature of yoga, especially the breathing exercises, relaxation techniques and meditation can reduce stress and tension. Herbert Benson,
a Harvard physician, found in his research that the relaxation breathing done in yoga practice stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for telling our bodies to relax, which in turn reduces the heart rate, and lowers blood pressure.

Practicing yoga and the yoga lifestyle puts us in touch with ourselves with greater understanding and teaches us to honor our bodies and take better care of them.

Some of the yoga principles that lead to a healthy lifestyle include:

• Treating others as you would like to be treated.

• Working on self-discipline to exchange bad habits for good ones.

• Practicing breathing techniques.

• Avoiding over-stimulation of the senses.

• Developing focus and concentration.

• Meditation.

For a healthier lifestyle, keep the following goals in mind:

• Have a positive outlook.

• Exercise faith and prayer.

• Indulge in humor and laughter.

• Take time to do what you enjoy.

• Eat a healthful diet.

Barbara Hays Klein, a certified Phoenix Rising Yoga Therapy practitioner, is owner/instructor of Universal Yoga Center, New Hartford. She is registered with KYTA and YogaAlliance. Write to P.O. Box 833, New Hartford, NY 13413 or e-mail: universalyogacenter@adelphia.net or visit the Web site: www.universalyoga center.com.