Monday, March 28, 2011

West Virginia University learns how to breathe

by Natalie Snyder and Allie Bonazzo

Yoga is a growing exercise trend that has reached West Virginia University’s student body.

Yoga is a Sanskrit word that means “union” originating in India. The practice unifies body and mind to create a balance of strength and flexibility using breathing and concentration techniques.

WVU offers classes not just for personal preferences, but to also offer a way for students to reduce stress from classes and work.

“I try to do Yoga every morning,” said WVU chemistry major Beth Ann Bolte, “even if I cannot make the class at the Rec Center.”

WVU offers multiple Yoga classes throughout the semester. A monthly schedule is posted on the website to prepare students for any changes of instructors or times.

A woman practices the Pigeon Pose.
During March, there is Yoga Flow on Mondays and Wednesdays at 6:40 p.m. and on Wednesdays at 5:30 p.m. This class is choreographed with basic dance moves while still using a series of poses. It is supposed to increase flexibility, concentration and release stress.

Basic Yoga is also offered on Wednesdays at 4 p.m. This class focuses on strengthening the body while learning basic breathing practices. The beginner class also shows proper posture and relaxation techniques.

“My favorite Yoga class is definitely the Yoga Flow,” Bolte said. “It makes you really focus on putting all the poses together by using breathing techniques and patience.”

Yoga Alliance, the national registry of Yoga teachers offers classes in many areas if WVU’s class times are inconvenient to student’s schedules. All YA teachers must have 200 hours of training in order to make sure the class is a safe environment.

Lacey Walker, a former Yoga instructor, said being a Yoga instructor was a great experience. It taught her self-control and the true meaning of dedication.

A common morning Yoga routine is the Sun Salutation show step by step in this chart.
“Even though I am not an instructor anymore, Yoga is still a huge part of my life,” Walker said. “It has proven to have more than just physical benefits, and that is something I cannot risk losing in my life.”

Walker continued to emphasize the importance of Yoga in her daily routine with classes and work.

There are many benefits of Yoga other than reducing stress levels. Research has shown that Yoga helps boost self-esteem, improve circulation and lower fat. It also lubricates the joints, which is very good for knee or hip injuries.

“I love to do yoga when I know I have a big test coming up,” Sarah Moody, junior international relations major said.

There are many types of Yoga styles, some are focused on meditation while others are focused on the heart. 

Fast paced Yoga styles like Vinyasa and Power, are designed to raise the heart rate and strengthen the body’s endurance. The purpose of fast paced Yoga is concentration.

A man practices the Dancer's Pose.
Vinyasa is a more vigorous style of Yoga. The word Vinyasa means “breath synchronized movement.” That means as a person moves from pose to the other as they inhale or exhale. Most beginners do not like fast paced Yoga because it is so intense. Because of the fast paced movement, there is a greater risk of injury. Fast paced Yoga can also be very beneficial to athletes.




A rough illustration of the bone alignment with the Dancer's Pose.
Slow paced Yoga styles like Hatha are perfect for Yoga beginners. Hatha is the style of Yoga most often taught in the United States. Hatha classes provide a good introduction to the basic Yoga poses. Viniyoga or gentle flow, is often used for therapeutic reasons. People who are recovering from surgery or have suffered injuries often partake in this kind of Yoga.


 “Yoga makes me feel like I am becoming a better student while being healthy,” Moody said. “I feel like it’s the best way for managing my time."





A guide to Basic Yoga for a 90-minute series. 

Check out the links below for instructional videos and more helpful websites dedicated to Yoga. 

Videos:


Websites:

yogajournal.com Read about poses and effective ways to practice while connecting with experienced teachers. 

yogaworks.com Find classes in your area and events based around your interests.

yoga.about.com Read about at-home props that can contribute to your Yoga experience.