Issue link: http://viewer.e-digitaledition.com/i/778101
STRESS? STRESS? STRESS? STRESS? STRESS? STRESS? STRESS? STRESS? STRESS? IF YOU THINK YOGA IS ALL ABOUT TWISTING YOURSELF INTO A LEOTARD- CLAD PRETZEL SHAPE, THINK AGAIN! Some forms of yoga can get pretty intense, but gentle or introductory yoga classes are an easy way to experience low- impact yoga and find out if it might be for you. Low-intensity yoga classes use physical postures, breath control and meditation to stretch muscles, increase flexibility and promote relaxation. The techniques used in yoga can lead to major health improvements. Because gentle yoga is a low intensity, aerobic activity, it's a great option for all ages and fitness levels. Beginner classes teach poses and how to breathe properly, and you can move forward to intermediate or advanced classes at your own pace. STRESS HURTS Yoga is an especially good practice for someone who suffers from stress and anxiety. Stress causes the nervous system to increase the heart rate and blood pressure. The body's stress response can include blood vessel spasms, heart rhythm disturbances, muscle tension and shallow breathing. This "fight or flight" reaction is very useful in the short term if you are actually fighting or fleeing. When stress continues long term and becomes a chronic state of affairs, it is dangerous. Left unmanaged, this type of stress can take a toll on your health, causing problems such as heart disease and stroke. YOGA HELPS Practicing yoga can bring many health benefits that fight the effects of stress, such as: • Decreased blood pressure and cholesterol • Improved respiratory function and breathing patterns • Improved circulation • Increased muscle tone • Decreased stress through endorphin release • Enhanced flexibility and exercise functionality • Increased energy The Dr. Dean Ornish Program for Reversing Heart Disease at St. Dominic's uses yoga as a form of stress management tailored to a heart patient's need to relax and revitalize. The format used by the Ornish Reversal Program may specifically benefit to the cardiac patient, but according to program director Sean Maily, any safe, well-delivered yoga program offers relaxation, insight, patience and good health to anyone. "With diligence you will feel the benefits yoga promises," Maily said. According to the American Heart Association, a person who practices traditional yoga while leading a heart healthy lifestyle—following a healthy diet and engaging in 150 minutes of moderate intensity or physical activity—will find significant health benefits. If you would like to introduce yoga to your routine, call St. Dominic's Health Plus at (601) 200-3333. STRESS? Got Try Yoga Try Yoga 4 s t d o m . c o m LOOK