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The Benefit of Yoga - Fight or Flight?
Alden Smith
Medical conditions can be vastly improved through the benefit
of yoga. Yoga can lessen the negative effects of such conditions
as lung disease, Parkinson's, insomnia, high blood pressure
multiple sclerosis, and even joint pain. The benefit of yoga
is being recognized today as a viable alternative not only
by the yoga community, but by many medical doctors.
Stress is the leading cause in many illnesses today. An astonishing
factor in today's world is noted by the Surgeon General who
estimates that "80 percent of the people who die of non traumatic
causes actually die of stress diseases". In this fast paced
world, it is little wonder that people are turning to alternative
solutions.
The use of the benefit of yoga is just one such solution.
Since stress is developed in the mind, it is only natural
that conditions such as depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive
disorder, several auto-immune diseases, some types of diabetes
mellitius, some cardio-vascular diseases, and irritable bowel
syndrome would be at the forefront of human conditions and
the quality of life today.
Outside stress is reflected in the reaction of our nervous
system. The input stimuli, known as "Fight or flight" affects
both our metabolism and well being. When faced with danger,
whether real or imagined, the mind prepares the body for execution
of one of these two conditions. Manifestation is in the form
of increased heart rate, higher blood pressure, and the shutting
down of unnecessary bodily functions, such as digestion. All
systems are focused on one of two things - either "flight"
or "fight." Breathing becomes shallow, muscles tense in anticipation
of action, and blood flow to vital organs is decreased. The
digestive and elimination process shuts down. This can be
a good thing - our body is prepared to defend itself. However,
problems arise when this condition is long term. The "flight
or fight" scenario is only meant to be a very short term event.
One can see that long term exposure to this situation will
have very adverse effects on the body. Yoga can change that.
In nature, the countermeasure for "fight or flight" is known
as the "relaxation response" or parasympathetic nervous system.
The main nerves of the parasympathetic system are the tenth
cranial nerves, or the vagus nerves. They originate in the
medulla oblongata. Parasympathetic stimulation causes a slowing
down of the heartbeat, lowering of blood pressure, increased
blood flow to the skin and viscera, and peristalsis of the
GI tract - the exact opposite of "fight or Flight" symptoms.
Yoga induces this response by teaching the pupil to breathe
deeply and relax muscles. The benefit of yoga is clear. The
body recovers faster, and the harmful effects of stress are
reduced.
Yoga subscribes to the theory that by using breathing and
relaxation techniques, the harmful effects of stress on the
body can be eliminated, or at the very least greatly reduced.
Through meditation and calming of the spirit, yoga teaches
us to face the situation of "fight or flight" from a threat
to a challenge. One is able through practice to focus on finding
a solution, rather than creating an immediate response to
the stimuli. One learns to be proactive, and take care of
the stressors in their lives.
The benefit of yoga is undeniable. By utilizing the techniques
of this ancient practice, anyone can achieve the balance and
harmony so needed in their lives. Remember, however, that
just one thing is not the solution to all of life's problems.
By combining yoga with the miracles of modern medicine and
traditional healing remedies, the average person in today's
world will enjoy a longer, happier life.
Alden Smith is a published and award winning author
who has built the website www.benefitofyoga.blogspot.com
to inform and educate the person wishing to learn more about
the benefit of yoga.
Article Source: http://www.articledashboard.com
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