Yoga is skillful action ~ Swami Rama
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Polly Liontis
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What is Therapeutic Yoga and Meditation?
Yoga is a 2,000-year-old science, philosophy, set of physical postures (asanas), breathing exercises (pranayama) and meditation techniques that enable us to control the nervous system, relax the body and focus the mind in order to transcend stress, prevent disease states and minimize the negative effects of a hectic lifestyle on our health and well-being.
The physical postures (asanas) of yoga increase flexibility in the spine and throughout all the joints of the body, relieve stiffness in joints, develop muscle and bone strength, improve posture, increase blood circulation, detoxify the lungs, stimulate healthy digestion and promote deep sleep.
The breathing exercises (pranayama) increase lung capacity, detoxify the lungs, increase pulmonary output, increase cardiac circulation, and help us to relax the nervous system. If practiced regularly, they can lower high blood pressure, slow the heart rate and promote deep sleep patterns.
Meditation includes practices to quiet the mind, deepen focus and concentration, relax the nervous system and learn to control the chaotic nature of the mind. Benefits include deeper sleep, stronger concentration and increased feelings of tranquility and calm. The practices of meditation counteract the effects of a stressful lifestyle and promote an attitude of gratitude.
The practices of Therapeutic Yoga and Meditation give each individual specific tools to work on their own personal growth physically, emotionally and spiritually, as well as giving them a deeper awareness of how they are being in their own body and in their own breath and in their own spirit at any given moment. These practices promote balance in the body and peacefulness in one’s demeanor. The benefits include:
| • greater flexibility |
• sharper, sustained concentration |
| • greater lung capacity |
• heightened awareness |
| • increased cardiac health |
• deeper relaxation |
| • excellent back care |
• gracefulness |
| • deeper sleep |
• ability to handle stress with ease and compassion |
Many of the ancient practices of Yoga can assist us on the road to recovery and radiant health. Yoga includes the art and science of meditation, along with postures, breathing exercises and relaxation techniques. In counseling sessions we focus more on the spiritual and philosophical aspects of ones being.
A typical session may include:
- breathing pattern assessment
- diaphragmatic breath training
- systematic relaxation
- therapeutic postures
- practices to increase spiritual awareness
- basic meditation techniques
What are the benefits?
The benefits of the mostly internal practices of Yoga/Meditation are:
- the ability to maximize ones oxygen and energy uptake by developing efficient diaphragmatic breathing patterns
- a better understanding and awareness of the gross and subtle aspects of the body and it's movements
- the ability to develop control over certain aspects of the nervous system, which results in greater control of mind and emotions
- one learns to unravel the mystery of the subconscious mind and relate to the themselves in a more positive manner
- one learns tools which will enhance their spiritual journey and enrich their particular religious beliefs and experiences
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Jerome Smith, RYT
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The Divine energy permeates the universe and is the substance and driving force of creation. One's relationship with the Divine is the key to health, happiness, and evolution.
For an appointment call 847.657.3540
Note: A physician referral is not required for any Integrative Medicine treatments, including a physician consultation.