Yoga For Men's Health

All social categories and age groups, and both sexes, can enjoy yoga recreationally or as a life style commitment. Yoga practitioners have, however, studied at length the physical and psychological differences between men and women. They have found that men are generally less emotional and often suppress their emotions. This can lead to high stress levels, and consequently, to increased risks of heart-related health problems.

It goes without saying; physical yoga training greatly reduces the likelihood of an assortment of serious and chronic illnesses, including lowered blood pressure, heart attacks and osteoporosis.

Most dedicated yoga practitioners acknowledge that men also have the higher physical strength of the 2 sexes. For this reason some poses are dedicated to men, as they involve more muscle power and stamina. Many male yoga practitioners have determined that by combining yoga and weight training, they find the necessary vitality and positive thinking they need.

The balance between mind and body is often broken by a range of adverse outside factors such as social problems, stress, pressure and so forth. The close link between body and spirit can be sometimes be seen in these cases -- if the spirit is defeated, the body will soon become weakened and then ill.

For this reason, the more physical aspects of yoga are highly recommended for men. Society imposed standards -- remaining fit and looking good -- are among them. To have self-confidence and self-respect, you need to properly care for your body. Some yoga poses are great for keeping the body in perfect physical shape, especially when combined with a balanced and nutritious diet.

As an efficient shield against stress, yoga also favors meditation and relaxation. A half-hour of breathing deeply and muscle stretching can provide a relaxation and peaceful state that replenishes both mind and body.

Improving Circulation

Specific yoga poses such as the Head Stand are excellent for improving circulation, which allows the heart rate to drop. The Head Stand also "forces" deep breathing, which results in improved brain oxygenation. A similar pose, the Shoulder Stand, also enhances the positive effects of breathing by increasing the lung's capacity to process oxygen. Both of these poses benefit the spine, as well, by allowing it to stretch and relax.

The Plough Pose strengthens the abdominal and lower back muscles, while the Savasana, also known as the Corpse Pose, is excellent for relaxing the body between asanas.

Breathing Techniques

All of these posses need to be accompanied by some special breathing techniques. The Anuloma Viloma technique balances the prana levels and is recommended during physical exercises. The Ujjayi breathing method clears the nasal passages and throat of phlegm and allows for improved air circulation. This technique also works well for improving the responses of the nervous system.