For disabled people and people with health issues most studies suggest yoga is a safe and effective way to increase physical activity, especially strength, flexibility and balance
What is yoga?
The practice originated in India about 5,000 years ago, and has been adapted in other countries in a variety of ways. Yoga is now commonplace in leisure centres, health clubs, schools, hospitals and surgeries.
“The traditional purpose of Yoga, however, has always been to bring about a profound transformation in the person through the transcendence of the ego,”
In Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism the word yoga means “spiritual discipline”. People often associate yoga with the postures and stances that make up the physical activity of the exercise, but after closer inspection it becomes clear that there are many more aspects of yoga. It is an activity that has been practiced for thousands of years, and it is something that has evolved and changed overtime. Different factions of yoga have developed since its conception.
The exact history and origins of yoga is uncertain; however, there are pieces that have been connected and allow us to make some conclusions. It is known that yoga originated from the East. The earliest signs of yoga appear in ancient Shamanism. Evidence of yoga postures were found on artifacts that date back to 3000 B.C. Evidence of yoga is found in the oldest-existing text, Rig-Veda. Rig-Veda is a composition of hymns. Topics of the Rig-Veda include prayer, divine harmony, and greater being.
“The primary goal of shamanism was to heal members of the community and act as religious mediators,”
Yoga originally focused on applying and understanding the world. Its focus later changed to the self. Self-enlightenment became the ultimate goal.
It was not until the sixth century B.C. that the poses and meditation became a critical element. They were implemented by Buddhist teachings.
What are the health benefits of yoga?
Dozens of scientific trials of varying quality have been published on yoga. While there’s scope for more rigorous studies on its health benefits, most studies suggest yoga is a safe and effective way to increase physical activity, especially strength, flexibility and balance. There’s some evidence that regular yoga practice is beneficial for people with high blood pressure, heart disease, aches and pains – including lower back pain – depression and stress.
Does yoga contribute towards my 150 minutes of activity?
Most forms of yoga are not strenuous enough to count towards your 150 minutes of moderate activity, as set out by government guidelines. However, yoga does count as a strengthening exercise, and at least two sessions a week will help you meet the guidelines on muscle-strengthening activities. Activities such as yoga and tai chi are also recommended to older adults at risk of falls to help improve balance and co-ordination. More advice on preventing trips and falls at home and the workplace:
Flow Yoga: Elements of Yoga:
Air & Water with Tara Lee
Everyday Yoga for Stress
Release with Nadia Narain
Yoga for You (Healthy Living):
A Step-by-step Guide to Yoga at
Home for Everybody
Can yoga help prevent falls?
Yes. Yoga improves balance by strengthening your lower body, in particular your ankles and knees, thereby reducing your chances of falling. However, falls may sometimes be caused by a health condition, in which case it’s a good idea to see your GP or visit a falls clinic at a local hospital.
Can yoga help with arthritis?
Yoga is popular with people with arthritis for its gentle way of promoting flexibility and strength. Some research suggests yoga can reduce pain and mobility problems in people with knee osteoarthritis. However, some yoga moves aren’t suitable for people with the condition. Find a teacher who understands arthritis and can adapt movements for individual needs, especially if you have replacement joints. Check with a doctor or physiotherapist to find out if there are any movements to avoid.
Am I too old for yoga?
Definitely not. People often start yoga in their 70s, and many say they wish they had started sooner. There are yoga classes for every age group. Yoga is a form of exercise that can be enjoyed from childhood to your advanced years.
Do I have to be fit to do yoga?
No, you can join a class that’s suitable for your fitness level. For example, to join a mixed ability yoga class, you need to be able to get up and down from the floor. Some yoga classes are chair-based.
Don’t I need to be flexible to do yoga?
Not necessarily. Yoga will improve your flexibility and help you go beyond your normal range of movement, which may make performing your daily activities easier.
Can I injure myself doing yoga?
Yoga-related injuries are uncommon. Some injuries can be caused by repetitive strain or overstretching. But yoga is the same as any other exercise discipline. It is perfectly safe if taught properly by people who understand it and have experience. Learning from a qualified yoga teacher and choosing a class appropriate for your level will ensure you remain injury-free.
What style of yoga should I do?
There are many different styles of yoga, such as Ashtanga, Iyengar and Sivananda. Some styles are more vigorous than others. Some may have a different area of emphasis, such as posture or breathing. Many yoga teachers develop their own practice by studying more than one style. No style is necessarily better or more authentic than any other. The key is to choose a class appropriate for your fitness level.
What type of class should I look out for?
Classes can vary in duration, but typically last between 45 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes. A longer class will give you more time for learning breathing and relaxation techniques, and will give the teacher time to work with your individual ability. It’s worth speaking to a teacher about their approach before you sign up for a class.
Where can I find a yoga class?
No specific qualifications are required to teach yoga in the UK. However, it is generally accepted that teachers need to be insured and have a teaching certificate and accreditation from a yoga association.
A best-in-class yoga guide: https://samsaramindandbody.com/different-types-yoga-classes-ultimate-guide
The main UK yoga associations are:
- British Wheel of Yoga (BWY), the Sport England-recognised governing body for yoga
- Independent Yoga Network
- Iyengar Yoga Association UK
These associations all list teachers and classes near you on their websites. You can also search for a local class or teacher using the following websites:
Can I use a book or a yoga DVD instead of going to a class?
It’s better to start with a class to learn the poses and breathing techniques correctly. With a DVD, there will be nobody to correct your mistakes, which may lead to injury over time. With some experience of being in a class, a DVD can then be helpful for keeping up practice.