As the weather begins to cool down, people often find themselves indoors unable to keep up with the fitness routines they normally uphold during the warmer spring and summer seasons. Yoga is a fantastic way to keep up a healthy lifestyle while keeping out of the cold and often inclement weather. This is because most yoga styles are easily practiced indoors. Having a variety of yoga styles to choose from means a more appropriate one can be selected for winter. With the colder temperatures, the metabolisms of many species of the planet naturally slow down. It is generally a restful and quiet season.
People often have less energy during the winter. At the same time, many holiday parties and events take place as well as frenetic shopping trips. The less physically taxing styles of yoga will allow an individual to conserve already limited energy reserves while encouraging a healthy lifestyle. This can aid in the reduction of such issues as seasonal affective disorder and winter exhaustion.
Interconnectivity is one of the main lessons of yoga, which has been around for more than 5,000 years. It is based on ancient Hindu practices and teachings designed to integrate the body and mind. Existing in harmony with the environment and the seasons is also an extension of this. Yoga helps build physical, mental, and spiritual strength. The exercises which many Westerners associate with the word "yoga" are actually an aspect of Hatha yoga, only one of many ways to practice yoga.
In Hatha yoga, deep poses and stretches, called asanas, are paired with controlled breathing techniques, or pranayama. Devoted students will experience deep emotional and mental clarity. The discipline is also great for building physical strength and flexibility. Unlike most sports, yoga does not require expensive equipment. The most valuable supply is often the simple mat. Yoga mats are generally made from tacky rubber to prevent slippage.
Apparel for yoga should be comfortable and durable. Cotton, hemp, and spandex are common materials. Pants, shirts, and tank-tops are all appropriate exercise wear and most athletic companies have their own signature styles. Hemp is one of the softest, most long-lasting materials on the planet. This makes it perfect for yoga clothing. Unlike cotton, hemp will become stronger with age and repeated use. It is also grown without the aid of chemicals or pesticides, which coincides with the holistic nature of the discipline.