Not Just for Illness

Not only can Yoga be effective on people with health conditions, but also those without. In one study a group of women who were fairly healthy individuals were offered a class in Hatha-Yoga. Measurements were taken regularly of heart rate, blood pressure and hormone levels, while the subjects sat in a comfortable position and read a book. Although there was no detectable change in blood pressure, the heart rate noticeably decreased, especially during the Yoga exercises. "In the personality inventory the Yoga group showed markedly higher scores in life satisfaction and lower scores in excitability, aggressiveness, openness, emotionally and somatic complaints" (Schell 1994). Researchers concluded, "the Yoga group had significant higher scores in high spirits and extrovertedness" (Schell). Thus it is proven once again that the practice of Yoga is highly influential in lowering levels of stress and promoting wellness. It is always beneficial to find ways to prevent stress, but when the inevitable does occur, it is also beneficial to have a sufficient defense, such as Yoga.

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