Biography
Biography: Cathryn Valor
Abstract
The therapeutic effects of yoga provide a comprehensive review of the benefits of regular yoga practice. As participation rates in mind-body fitness programs, yoga continues to increase. It is important for health care professionals to be informed about the nature of yoga and the evidence of its many therapeutic effects regarding many ailments. Therapeutic yoga is defined as yoga postures and practice to the treatment of health conditions. Instruction in practices and teachings prevent, reduce or alleviate physiological, emotional pain, suffering or limitations. Yoga practice has been proven to enhance muscular strength, body flexibility, and endurance; it promotes and improves respiratory and cardiovascular function as well as recovery from addiction, reduces stress, anxiety, depression, and chronic pain. It also improves sleep patterns and enhances overall well-being and quality of life. Continued practice leads to changes in life perspective, self-awareness and a sense of energy and enjoyment. A 5,000-year-old tradition, yoga, is regarded in the Western world as a holistic approach to health and classified as a form of Complementary and Alternative medicine.