The Yoga rules

By Glen Wood

For back Pain, this consists of simple yogic techniques that can be enjoyed by everyone, no matter his or her age or physical ability. It is a complete science that includes breath (pranayam), yoga postures (asanas), sound, chanting (mantra) and meditation. It is designed to provide you with the experience of your highest consciousness through the raising of your Kundalini. This is a wonderful yoga practice that is done with your eyes closed and at your own individual pace.

Even with back pain, if you were perfectly healthy, you would be able to do most yoga postures and exercises easily with minimal effort. Therefore as you begin learning the basic stretches, you will immediately discover where your deficiencies are. Do not let yourself be discouraged by this. Your body has adapted itself as perfectly as possible to all of the things you have done (or not done) with it over the course of your entire life up until now.

There are four key words you need to know relating to Yoga: asanas, pranayama, meditation, and mantra. Asanas are the exercises or poses yoga is known for and pranayama is the practice of breath control in conjunction with these exercises. Meditation (mind focus-back pain) is also practiced during yoga and may or may not include the use of a mantra (sound) or chant.

Puja is an ancient ritual practice of meditation and devotion. Showing reverence to the elemental energies of life and other aspects of the divine, through prayer, mantra, and ritual.

Recent medical studies have shown that a regular practice of yoga and meditation is effective at lowering levels of anxiety. Excessive anxiety can be alleviated through a slow, gentle yoga practice focusing on postures that calm the heart and the mind, balance the emotions, and release body tension. Pranayama (yogic breathing) and meditation will also be helpful to calm the mind and body, and to reduce stress and negative thinking.

Most people practicing yoga in the west practice asana yoga. Asana yoga is designed to cultivate the mind and body in a manner that is conducive to long periods of meditation. Physical strength and stamina are key components of asana yoga and will help with back pain.

A Yoga practice can be adapted to all fitness levels and body types and does not require fancy equipment, so the practice travels with you easily. The gentle postures, relaxation and breathing techniques benefit a broad range of health concerns and conditions. Simply taking a few minutes a day to unwind the body with some stretches, to breathe deeply and relax a bit can alleviate a long list of discomforts and complaints.

Glen Wood - The Yoga Teacher, dedicated to unlocking the Real Secrets of Back, Neck and Shoulder Pain.

To help you further with your back, neck and shoulder pain you need to sign up for your FREE "Yoga and You" report at http://www.YogaTeachingwithGlen.com