Yoga for Men

Yoga For Men
By Lisa Askem

Yoga is becoming more popular among men, and for good reason. Besides getting rid of stress and increasing flexibility, it may lower the risk of heart disease, depression, and high blood pressure.

Everyone experiences stress almost everyday, and men are not exempt from this reality. The contemporary man is expected to be physically and mentally strong and fit to cope with stress and to meet the demands of everyday life, together with sports activities. They usually see the gym as a way to achieve a fitter body, and often only do exercises like weight training. Some may do classes but many will run or cycle for the aerobic aspect of training .

Weight training exercises combined with yoga can produce an even better result. Yoga not only brings flexibility, it can also improve concentration, and contribute to weight loss and redistribution of fat. Yoga is a mind - body experience where co-ordination, which is a vital part of a person's health and general well-being, is enhanced. The practice of Yoga can also lessen the risk for age related illnesses such as insomnia, impotence, and prostate conditions.

Yoga is also beneficial in counteracting asymmetries one may acquire through engaging in some sports like tennis and golf by loosening the tightness of the muscles in the hips, shoulders, hamstrings and groins.

For many men the thought of attending a yoga class is intimidating. All those bendy women who make it look easy. Men's bodies are very different to women's and lack the natural flexibility that women have. So if necessary look for a class specifically for men where the emphasis can be on tight hamstrings, sports injuries, tight shoulders and maybe a stomach that needs toning.

Take the opportunity to learn the benefits of yoga aiming not just at improving flexibility but approaching the more difficult and strong yoga poses that men have a natural ability to be able to do well.

Lisa Askem has been teaching yoga in London, England for over 10 years. She is trained with the British Wheel of Yoga and teaches at various centres in South West London including the world renown Harbour Club in Fulham.

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