Mainstream society’s acceptance of yoga is gaining ground. What once was thought of an esoteric tree-hugger’s preoccupation from the 1960s, yoga has become a daily part of American life. In fact, according to the most recent Harris Interactive Service Bureau study called “2008 Yoga in America Study”, 15.8 million people practice yoga in the United States. These yoga practitioners invest an astounding $5.7 billion a year on yoga classes and products, an increase of 87 percent compared to the previous study in 2004.
The study reports a desire to improve overall health as the motivating factor for almost half the current practitioners or 49.4 percent. Another significant finding was that yoga seems to have emerged as a medical therapeutic practice that for many was recommended by a doctor or therapist.
Five things all Boomers should know about yoga
This interest in improving overall health is of particular importance to the nation’s Boomers aged 45-64. Here are five key health areas that are documented benefits of a yoga practice:
1. Stress reduction – The Mayo Clinic credits stress reduction due to deep breathing and required concentration during deliberate movements as one of yoga’s benefits.
2. Lower blood pressure – A Yale University study in 2007 concluded yoga practice reduced systolic and diastolic pressures.
3. Reduce or eliminate back pain – MSNBC reported these findings from the October 2011 Annals of Internal Medicine study. Visit this link http://on.today.com/OPzjJy to read the summary.
4. More restful sleep – Reducing stress, eliminating pain and increasing the body’s relaxation response smoothes the way to a good night’s sleep.
5. Improve balance and posture – Continued yoga practice improves balance and posture contributing to the reduction of lower back pain and neck pain. Poor balance and posture also contribute to falls.
“Yoga is a great way to stay fit and healthy,” says Phyllis Johnston, M.Ed., E-RYT, owner of Every Body Yoga, Maryland Eastern Shore’s only Registered Yoga School (RYS). “Many people come to me initially because they want to relieve pain or stress. The overall health benefits are what keeps them coming back. Anyone regardless of age or fitness level can practice yoga,” she adds.
For more information on fall classes or yoga teacher training beginning September 28, call (410) 758-0403, email info@everybodyyoga.biz or visit www.everybodyyoga.biz.
Every Body Yoga and Wellness, 205 E. Water St., Centreville, is Maryland Eastern Shore’s only Registered Yoga School (RYS). It has been serving the Mid-Shore since January 2000. The studio offers general group classes and private instruction. Every Body Yoga specializes in the therapeutic uses of yoga for healing and wellness and offers classes and workshops on back pain, stress, and headaches, arthritis, osteoporosis and menopause. Corporate stress management and wellness programs are also available on site at local businesses.
The owner of Every Body Yoga and Wellness, Phyllis Johnston, M.Ed., E-RYT, has been studying yoga for more than 25 years and teaching on the mid-shore for 13 years. Her extensive experience earned her the distinguished “experienced registered yoga teacher” designation by the Yoga Alliance® for practitioners who can train other teachers.
For more information on the upcoming teacher training or yoga classes, call (410) 758-0403, email info@everybodyyoga.biz or visit www.everybodyyoga.biz.
In photo: Phyllis Johnston, M.Ed., E-RYT, owner of Every Body Yoga, works with local clients through private therapeutic yoga instruction as well as general classes and certified teacher training. For more information on the upcoming opportunities, call (410) 758-0403, email info@everybodyyoga.biz or visit www.everybodyyoga.biz.