The landscape of yoga has evolved significantly, with non-traditional or novelty yoga practices—such as animal-assisted yoga, themed sessions, hybrid formats, and other entertaining elements—gaining substantial traction alongside traditional approaches.

These trends reflect a dynamic response to changing consumer preferences, broader wellness movements, and the desire for more engaging, accessible, and holistic health experiences .

**Popularity and Market Growth** Novelty yoga practices have seen a marked rise in popularity, driven by the integration of fun, social, and interactive elements that appeal to a wider demographic.

Animal-assisted yoga, such as goat yoga, creates a playful and emotionally supportive environment, making yoga more accessible and enjoyable for participants who might otherwise feel intimidated by traditional classes .

Themed yoga classes—ranging from storytelling and magical motifs for children to laughter yoga and yoga with wine or beer for adults—have also surged in demand, offering unique experiences that foster engagement and repeat participation .

The influence of social media and celebrity endorsements by figures like Jennifer Aniston, Sting, and Madonna has further propelled the popularity of both traditional and novelty yoga, positioning yoga as a desirable path to physical fitness and mental peace .

The global yoga industry is projected to reach a market value of $15.81 billion by 2025, with a compound annual growth rate of 11.7% from 2018 to 2025, reflecting increased consumer awareness and the appeal of diverse yoga offerings .

The rise of online and virtual yoga classes, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, has expanded accessibility and participation, allowing more people to experience both traditional and novelty yoga from home .

**Health Benefits and Effectiveness** Both traditional and novelty yoga practices share core health benefits, including improved flexibility, strength, balance, cardiovascular health, and mental well-being .

Novelty elements do not diminish these benefits; rather, they often enhance engagement and adherence, which are critical for achieving sustained health outcomes .

For example, animal-assisted yoga has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety, elevate mood, and foster emotional resilience through the calming presence of animals .

The playful interaction with animals can also increase motivation and physical activity, contributing to cardiovascular health and weight management .

Themed yoga classes, such as those incorporating storytelling or playful activities, are particularly effective for children, improving emotional regulation, self-esteem, and cognitive functions like memory and concentration .

Laughter yoga, which combines laughter exercises with yoga breathing, has demonstrated significant mental health benefits, including reduced depression and anxiety, improved mood, and enhanced social connection through group participation .

Yin yoga, a restorative style involving long-held postures, is especially valued post-pandemic for its ability to release tension, promote deep relaxation, and activate the parasympathetic nervous system, thereby reducing stress and anxiety .

Research supports that yoga, including its novel forms, can effectively manage chronic conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and chronic low back pain, with participants reporting reduced pain and improved muscle function after regular sessions .

Oxygen yoga, practiced in environments with elevated oxygen levels, is believed to further enhance physical performance, reduce inflammation, and boost immunity, making it accessible to a broad range of practitioners .

**Psychological and Social Benefits** Novelty yoga practices offer pronounced psychological benefits by increasing enjoyment, reducing barriers to participation, and fostering a sense of community.

Themed and animal-assisted yoga classes create joyful, inclusive environments that encourage social interaction, emotional expression, and a sense of belonging—factors that are crucial for mental health .

Group activities centered around common themes or animal interactions help alleviate loneliness and isolation, supporting emotional resilience and overall psychological well-being .

Mindfulness and presence are integral to both traditional and novelty yoga, with themed classes often incorporating breathing techniques and meditative elements that enhance focus, concentration, and emotional regulation .

Laughter yoga, in particular, leverages humor and group dynamics to promote serotonin release, providing temporary relief from negative thought patterns and supporting holistic mental health .

**Inclusivity and Accessibility** A key advantage of novelty yoga trends is their inclusivity.

Practices such as animal-assisted yoga and adaptive yoga studios make yoga accessible to individuals with disabilities or those who may not feel comfortable in traditional settings .

Innovations like yoga leggings with built-in knee pads further reduce barriers, making yoga more comfortable and approachable for new practitioners .

The rise of online classes during the pandemic has also democratized access, allowing people from diverse backgrounds and locations to participate .

**Client Perception and Engagement** While direct comparative client feedback between novelty and traditional yoga is limited, available evidence suggests that novelty elements enhance client engagement, satisfaction, and retention by offering unique, memorable experiences .

Participants in animal-assisted and themed yoga classes often report feeling uplifted, relaxed, and more connected to others, indicating high levels of enjoyment and perceived benefit .

Novelty yoga classes are frequently fully booked, reflecting strong demand and positive reception .

The integration of playful or social elements can attract individuals who might otherwise be hesitant to try yoga, broadening the client base and supporting portfolio expansion for trainers .

**Challenges and Considerations** Despite their benefits, novelty yoga practices present certain challenges.

Animal-assisted yoga requires careful logistical planning to ensure the safety and well-being of both participants and animals, as well as attention to hygiene and participant suitability (e.g., allergies or fears) .

Instructors may need specialized training to effectively integrate animals or themed elements into classes .

Some individuals may prefer the structure and focus of traditional yoga, highlighting the importance of offering a range of options to meet diverse client needs .

**Endurance and Sustainability of Novelty Trends** The persistence of novelty yoga practices is supported by several factors: their adaptability to changing social norms (e.g., post-pandemic demand for restorative and gentle exercise), integration into wellness tourism and corporate wellness programs, and endorsement by public figures and government initiatives such as International Yoga Day .

Educational policies promoting yoga in schools and the growth of the yoga clothing market further indicate long-term sustainability and cultural integration .

Scientific research validating the health benefits of both traditional and novelty yoga enhances their credibility and encourages continued adoption .

**Comparative Effectiveness** While both traditional and novelty yoga share foundational health benefits, novelty practices may offer additional advantages in terms of engagement, accessibility, and psychological well-being, particularly for populations less inclined toward conventional yoga .

The inclusion of mindfulness, breathwork, and meditative elements in novelty formats ensures that core benefits are maintained, while the added novelty can improve adherence and long-term outcomes .

For children, themed yoga enhances emotional regulation and self-esteem; for adults, animal-assisted and laughter yoga provide stress relief and social support .

**Strategic Value for Physical Trainers** For physical trainers, incorporating novelty yoga trends can diversify class offerings, attract new clients, and improve retention by catering to varied preferences and needs .

These practices are not fleeting fads but represent a sustainable evolution of yoga, supported by market growth, cultural integration, and scientific validation .

By offering both traditional and novelty yoga classes, trainers can provide comprehensive wellness experiences that address physical, mental, and social health, positioning themselves at the forefront of contemporary fitness and holistic health trends [649

The landscape of yoga has evolved significantly, with non-traditional or novelty yoga practices—such as animal-assisted yoga, themed sessions, hybrid formats, and other entertaining elements—gaining substantial traction alongside traditional approaches.

The landscape of yoga has evolved significantly, with non-traditional or novelty yoga practices—such as animal-assisted yoga, themed sessions, hybrid formats, and other entertaining elements—gaining substantial traction alongside traditional approaches.

The landscape of yoga has evolved significantly, with non-traditional or novelty yoga practices—such as animal-assisted yoga, themed sessions, hybrid formats, and other entertaining elements—gaining substantial traction alongside traditional approaches.

These trends reflect a dynamic response to changing consumer preferences, broader wellness movements, and the desire for more engaging, accessible, and holistic health experiences .

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Content: Regular exercise has numerous benefits for both physical and mental health. Engaging in regular physical activity can help individuals maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer. Exercise also strengthens bones and muscles, improves sleep quality, and increases energy levels.

In addition to its physical benefits, exercise has a positive impact on mental health. It has been shown to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, boost mood, and improve overall psychological well-being. Regular exercise can also enhance cognitive function, increase creativity, and improve memory and concentration.

Engaging in physical activity regularly can also improve one’s quality of life. It can increase longevity and decrease the risk of premature death. Exercise can also improve one’s ability to perform daily tasks and maintain independence as they age. It can enhance work performance and productivity, as well as improve social interactions and relationships.

There are various types of exercise that individuals can engage in to reap these benefits. Aerobic exercises, such as walking, running, swimming, and cycling, improve cardiovascular health and increase endurance. Strength training exercises, such as weightlifting and resistance training, help build and tone muscles. Flexibility exercises, such as stretching and yoga, increase range of motion and prevent injuries.

It is recommended that adults engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity per week, along with muscle-strengthening activities on two or more days per week. Children and adolescents should aim for at least 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity per day.

In conclusion, regular exercise has numerous physical and mental health benefits. It can help individuals maintain a healthy weight, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, strengthen bones and muscles, and improve sleep quality and energy levels. Exercise also has positive effects on mental health, including reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression and improving overall psychological well-being. Engaging in regular physical activity can improve one’s quality of life, increase longevity, and enhance work performance and social interactions.

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International Yoga Day 2024: Effects Of Laughter Yoga On Mental Health

Human connection is vital for mental health, and laughter yoga excels in building and strengthening social bonds. The group setting of laughter yoga sessions encourages participants to interact, share joy, and build a sense of community.

Image credit: Freepik

Laughter yoga, which involves intentional laughter, offers many benefits. It boosts well-being, reduces stress, improves relationships, and builds social connections. The exercises help people relax, have fun, and enjoy laughing again. Chittrah Kanal, a yoga expert on coto shares the effects of laughter yoga on mental health.

Improved Mood

For those struggling with depression, laughter yoga offers a natural and effective remedy. The practice stimulates the release of serotonin, a neurotransmitter associated with mood regulation. Increased serotonin levels can alleviate depressive symptoms and enhance overall mood. Participants often report feeling lighter, happier, and more optimistic after a laughter yoga session. Furthermore, the act of laughing itself can distract from negative thought patterns, providing temporary relief from depressive states.

Social Engagement

Human connection is vital for mental health, and laughter yoga excels in building and strengthening social bonds. The group setting of laughter yoga sessions encourages participants to interact, share joy, and build a sense of community. This shared experience can foster deeper connections and provide emotional support, reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation. Strong social networks are essential for mental well-being, and laughter yoga facilitates these connections in a fun and inclusive manner.

Reduction of Stress Hormones

One of the most significant benefits of laughter yoga is its ability to reduce stress. When people laugh, the body releases endorphins, often referred to as "feel-good" hormones. Endorphins enhance mood and promote an overall sense of well-being, counteracting the effects of stress hormones like cortisol. Regular practice of laughter yoga can help individuals better manage their stress levels, leading to a more relaxed and positive state of mind.

Sense of Well-Being

The physical act of laughing helps to relax the muscles in the body, relieving tension and stress. This relaxation and happy feeling can persist even after the laughter yoga session has ended, leading to a prolonged sense of physical ease. Regular laughter yoga sessions can help achieve emotional balance. The release of endorphins and serotonin during laughter promotes positive emotions and reduces negative ones, leading to a more balanced emotional state.

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Content: Between my frequent yoga habit and side hustle as a certified personal trainer with a specialization in orthopedic exercise, I spend an inordinate amount of time wearing, thinking about and writing about leggings. I thus couldn’t have been more excited to try out Maät’s leggings designed for practicing yoga without having to source any additional cushioning mid-flow.

While yoga is notoriously gentle on the joints — it’s fairly low-impact if you skip any jumping, and it advocates for deep, rhythmic breaths to facilitate movement — yoga without a mat can be painful and distracting. Grab a mat, and you should be fine, right? Not so fast. While a yoga mat has long been deemed an essential accessory to any successful yoga practice, research from the journal Phenomenology and Practice identifies the yoga mat as a barrier to entry for some folks in the way that it forces us to accumulate “more stuff” in the name of connecting with our bodies. “When it comes to a ‘serious’ practice,” writes author Gillian Lemermeyer, “the idea of the mat being necessary, even essential, persists.”

Like yoga mats, we’re constantly shifting the way we think about and use leggings (how many times is TikTok going to force me to buy the ones that scrunch up like an angry face at the butt?). What was once deemed an ‘80s aerobics essential has now become a wardrobe staple for casual and advanced yogis alike, making room for leggings to enter the market with unique features like built-in knee pads to replace that towel you need to keep on hand for your knees. That’s where Maät comes in.

The addition of a built-in knee pad is a brilliant way to make yoga more accessible to those suffering from pain or limited by the sheer space and weight of a yoga mat.

What is Maät?

When Maät founder and designer Fiona Devaney noticed she needed to keep placing a towel under her knees during yoga poses to alleviate pain, she sought out a more time-efficient solution: leggings with built-in knee pads, inspired by the blissful built-in cushion she once experienced in a wetsuit while surfing. Born out of that discovery was the brand’s 1.0 Legging, which features a built-in moto-like tapered knee pad, and is designed with a soft yet durable material that offers slight compression and four-way stretch. They come in five versatile colors from army green to Metal for $148 a pop. Who are they for? Anyone who needs a little extra TLC at the knee region, or anyone practicing without a mat — either because they’re traveling or can’t be bothered to schlep it to the studio.

What we liked about them

There’s lots to love about these leggings. Their compressive material and high-waisted fit offer a tucked-in feeling, which not only provides extra comfort, but reduces muscle fatigue, increases power output, and reduces joint and muscle strain. During wear-testing in a power yoga class, the seams felt secure during poses that require advanced range of motion at the hip flexors, like standing half-split, happy baby and bound bird of paradise. From a visual perspective, the knee pads are a far cry from something nerdy you’d strap on before rollerblading down a boardwalk. The curved seams surrounding the pads are intentionally designed to elongate the leg while offsetting any bulk.

The pads themselves, made of 100% foam covered by polyester and spandex, are nothing short of genius. When I practiced on both my hardwood floors and scratchy living room carpet, they provided a dreamy, pillowy-like sensation that enhanced my willingness to stay in knee-centric poses I resent, but know I should do more often, like cat-cow, camel and bird dog. While I, luckily, sorted out my patella issues in physical therapy a couple years ago, I can absolutely see how these leggings could support someone during their practice living with knee discomfort, be it degenerative or post-operative (under the supervision of their doctor or physical therapist, of course).

Along with power yoga, I tested these leggings during a Pure Barre class, which requires participants to spend an extended amount of time on all fours during movements like modified push-up and glute kickbacks. This places an inordinate amount of strain on the standing knee, which can detract from staying stable and engaged through the working leg. This time around, I felt like I could go on forever, all because my standing knee felt that much more supported atop the built-in knee pad.

For such a technical legging, I was surprised to see how simple they are to care for. Like any high-performance legging, they hold up best when hand-washed and line-dried, but they can also go in the machine on a cold, gentle cycle inside-out (just be sure to avoid folding them at the knee pad when storing so as to retain their shape).

While I appreciate the yoga-forward marketing, the brand sells itself short by pigeonholing itself into that narrow box. I can see these leggings serving as complete miracles for folks who spend lots of time doing housework, gardening or any other type of physical labor that requires transitional sit-to-stand movements. I kept the leggings on to scrub my bathroom, and let me tell you, my toilet has never been so clean.

What we didn’t like about them

As a short person at around 5 foot 3 inches, my knees are positioned quite lower than the average person’s, or at least lower than that of the prototype the brand used when designing these leggings. That means the built-in knee pads sit right at my shin bone below the knee, where I don’t necessarily need any padding during my workout. Due to this mismatch, I experienced a lot of bunching at the ankle, which not only caused slight discomfort and sensory overload, but limited ankle mobility and range of motion. Once I gathered the material at my thigh, I was able to experience the bliss of the knee pad. While the knee pad is not an eyesore by any means, you do feel its presence when walking or standing, making it — for me — more trouble than it’s worth.

While the brand was kind enough to send me two of their models — the charcoal and black leggings — I gravitated towards the charcoal for their slick, high-performance Tula fabric made of polyester and elastane, which is evocative of the Lululemon Wunder Train leggings I wear for everything from hot yoga to Peloton boot camps. The charcoal model provided more sweat-wicking properties than the black version, the brand’s original offering made of supplex and spandex that reminded me of the lounge-friendly Everlane 24/7 leggings that I reviewed last year (and promptly lived in). If you tend to sweat a lot, the material used in the black legging might not do the trick. Thankfully, because of its dark color, you won’t have to worry about any sweat stains.

The thing about a yoga mat is that it cushions virtually every facet of your body during your practice. What worries me about using these leggings solo — sans mat — is that the user is now lacking wrist support during poses like downward dog or chaturanga, or head support during shavasana or supine spinal twists. Your best option is to pair these leggings with a mat, or if that’s not feasible, some sort of travel-friendly microfiber towel to absorb sweat and additional impact.

Bottom line

Workout clothing — and specifically leggings — is an incredibly personal choice because our bodies are all shaped differently and we all move differently. The addition of a built-in knee pad is a brilliant way to make yoga more accessible to those suffering from pain or limited by the sheer space and weight of a yoga mat. While I had to finagle them to stay aligned with my knee, a taller person may find these leggings to be the difference between skipping a workout due to limitations or enthusiastically maintaining a yoga routine. At the very least, they make for a stellar gift for that one athletic friend who seems to have everything already, but can totally benefit from a functional wardrobe staple on, off — and maybe even without — the mat.

**Popularity and Market Growth** Novelty yoga practices have seen a marked rise in popularity, driven by the integration of fun, social, and interactive elements that appeal to a wider demographic.

**Popularity and Market Growth** Novelty yoga practices have seen a marked rise in popularity, driven by the integration of fun, social, and interactive elements that appeal to a wider demographic.

**Popularity and Market Growth** Novelty yoga practices have seen a marked rise in popularity, driven by the integration of fun, social, and interactive elements that appeal to a wider demographic.

Animal-assisted yoga, such as goat yoga, creates a playful and emotionally supportive environment, making yoga more accessible and enjoyable for participants who might otherwise feel intimidated by traditional classes .

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Content: Tuesday, Aug 09, 2022
Outlook for Brands

The Inspiring Tale Of An Emerging Yoga Practitioner And Fitness Enthusiast Manish

Manish apart from being a fitness freak is also a Yoga Practitioner who aims to connect more and more people with the ancient Indian practice of Yoga to help them lead a healthy life.

The world, with the outbreak of the Covid-19 Pandemic, has realised the importance of being fit and leading a healthy lifestyle. The last two years have been a tough phase for people across the globe as they were confined to their homes due to lockdown and other restrictions in place. With Gyms and fitness centers shut, people had no options other than Yoga to keep themselves in shape. Yoga, an ancient Indian tradition that is now practiced across the globe, is not just good for a healthy mind and body but also beneficial for a robust economy. Unlike the previous time, Yoga is emerging as a new career option among the youth and people have started taking the ancient practice seriously. According to a report, the Yoga Industry was valued at $87,926 million in 2017 and is projected to reach a whopping $15,811 million by 2025, growing at a CAGR of 11.7 percent from 2018 to 2025. This has resulted in youth taking up the profession of Yoga Practitioner as their career choice. One such notable person who is a fitness enthusiast and an emerging Yoga Practitioner is Manish.

Manish apart from being a fitness freak is also a Yoga Practitioner who aims to connect more and more people with the ancient Indian practice of Yoga to help them lead a healthy life. Manish, since his childhood days, was very much into fitness as he used to admire bodybuilders and models. Taking his passion seriously, he started working towards the goal of attaining a healthy & fit body and he enrolled himself into Gym in 2013. Following a strict diet, sweating rigorously in Gyms for hours, and meditating helped him achieve the body that he desired. Having done his Bachelors in Management in 2016 from the prestigious Lovely Professional University (LPU), he is pursuing his Masters in Yoga from Uttarakhand Sanskrit University, following his passion with utmost sincerity.

The young fitness freak entered the realm of professional fitness in 2017 and has done a lot of extensive fitness studies. It is often said that “Hard Work never goes in vain” and the same was in the case of Manish. He was honoured with the prestigious title of ‘Perfect Body’ for the Year 2020-21 at the biggest male pageant of India - Rubaru Mr. India, culminated in Goa on April 8, 2021. Since then, he never had to look back and is slowly becoming an emerging name in the realm of fitness. Manish, with his sheer determination, hard work, and passion has carved a niche around himself and is currently working as a freelancer and Yoga Practitioner. As of now, Manish has successfully mentored numerous young students and has made numerous people connect with the ancient practice of Yoga.

Talking more about his journey and the importance of Yoga, Manish stated, “I always had a passion for fitness since my young days, I sincerely believe that a healthy mind is incomplete with a healthy body and catering to the same, I decided to pursue my career in the realm of Fitness and Yoga. Unlike the general perception, a fit body is not just about hitting the Gym and sweating for hours but it is also about getting proper sleep, following a balanced diet, meditating and practicing Yoga. With the United Nations (UN) officially recognizing June 21 as International Yoga Day, it is indeed a great victory for India where the practice of Yoga originated. I am glad that more and more people have started to realise the importance of Yoga and it is indeed a positive sign that youth today are pursuing their career as a Yoga Practitioner.”

With an aim to open a multidisciplinary fitness and Yoga brand, Manish is working toward making the world a healthier and happier place. Through his franchise that he envisions opening up both in India and abroad, he not only aims to connect more people with Yoga but to also provide a credible platform for Yoga Practitioners to showcase their skills and make a name for themselves.

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Themed yoga classes—ranging from storytelling and magical motifs for children to laughter yoga and yoga with wine or beer for adults—have also surged in demand, offering unique experiences that foster engagement and repeat participation .

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Content: International Yoga Day 2024: Madonna To Jennifer Aniston; 10 Hollywood Celebs Who Swear By The Practice

One of the best products of cultural exports post-globalization, Yoga, is a trend among Hollywood stars. Celebrate International Yoga Day 2024 getting inspired by 10 celebs who share the passion.

Published on Jun 21, 2024  |  03:05 PM IST |  246
Instagram / Kate Hudson, Instagram / Jennifer Lopez, Instagram / Halle Berry

International Yoga Day 2024 is celebrated on June 21. While the practice originated in the Indian subcontinent, the benefits of it spread across the border rapidly and steadily. Today, Hollywood celebrities swear by Yoga as the ultimate golden ticket to unlocking fitness, and good mental and spiritual health.

Actors like Jennifer Aniston, Gwyneth Paltrow, Robert Downey Jr, musicians like Lady Gaga, Sting, Alicia Keys, and many more practice yoga to enhance their day-to-day functionalities, as well as, professional efficacy.

International Yoga Day 2024: 10 Hollywood celebrities who swear by the practice of Yoga

The following 10 Hollywood A-listers not only practice Yoga regularly but also recommend it for health and spiritual benefits.

1. Jennifer Aniston

In February 2005, Jennifer Aniston divorced Brad Pitt and began to work with Mandy Ingber as her fitness trainer, where she found practicing yoga very useful.

She also mentioned to Self, that she wanted mental peace not only physical fitness alone. The Friends megastar is now 55 years old and performs yoga regularly.

2. Sting

Sting is a loyal Vinyasa flow yoga enthusiast whose life changed significantly through this practice including how he relates to his wife Trudie Styler. This has strengthened the bond between them and heightened their spiritual level by practicing yoga together.

He infused some of the rituals into his music routine during his 2010 Symphonicities tour when he was performing orchestral versions of his solo songs and those of Police accompanied by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.

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3. Robert Downey Jr.

Robert Downey Jr., who was arrested on drug charges in 2001, managed to overcome his addiction and has remained clean ever since. One of Iron Man's strategies for managing addiction was practicing yoga. It helped him attain calm and peace to find a mental and spiritual balance, thereby aiding him in getting rid of addiction.

As per Time magazine, the Chaplin actor regularly practiced power-flow yoga with Los Angeles famous yogi, Vinnie Marino.

4. Kate Hudson

Golden Globe-winning actress Kate Hudson has charmed everyone with her on-screen elegance and versatile performances. In an interview with People magazine, the How To Lose A Guy In 10 Days star said, "If I have more time for it, I love hot yoga."

She also added that she incorporates different types of movements into her daily routine such as walking, treadmill use, and Pilates.

5. Halle Berry

Halle Berry has published in Women's Health that she always included yoga in her daily schedule. Her regular sessions with yoga have produced significant positive effects on her ability to live with Type 1 diabetes.

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The actress who is a fitness icon uses a few simple activities which she uses to release stress, fear, and negativity, making her a better parent and thus enabling her to move through life from more grounded and balanced places.

6. Gwyneth Paltrow

In a Wall Street Journal interview in 2018, Oscar winner Gwyneth Paltrow recalled her early days practicing yoga when people did not take it seriously. But she is aware of her impact in introducing Indian Yoga to the Hollywood pop culture.

Goop founder, Paltrow candidly shared, "I went to do a yoga class in Los Angeles and the 22-year-old girl behind the counter was like, ‘Have you ever done yoga before?’ And literally I turned to my friend, and I was like, ‘You have this job because I have done yoga before.’"

7. Lady Gaga

Lady Gaga, who is known for countless hits such as Shallow, Bad Romance, Poker Face, etc., loves performing yoga whenever she’s not in the studio or on stage.

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She made an Instagram post back in 2014 referring to 'hot yoga', a traditional practice of yoga done under heated conditions of up to 105 degrees Fahrenheit.

8. Madonna

To the 65-year-old singer, yoga is life itself. In 2019, she told Life & Style how important it was to gradually do yoga and shun haste when doing poses. The Queen of Pop thinks that through it, one can face difficult situations without criticizing themselves.

She stated, "It is a workout for your mind, your body and your soul." For this reason she supports Yoga's advantages on mental, physical and spiritual health.

9. Jennifer Lopez

The pop singer and actress Jennifer Lopez often posts videos from her workouts on Instagram. In some of her workout clips, the Hustlers’ star is seen doing outdoor exercise combining jogging with weightlifting as well as some yoga moves.

JLo has also supported the Indian brand SARVA which is a yoga chain.

10. Alicia Keys

Alicia Keys, who has won Grammy awards for her incredible music, was advised by one of her close allies to try kundalini yoga. In an opinion piece published in USA Today, Keys wrote about how singing, and chanting the rhythms, sounds, and meanings of these ancient words brought her peace and solace.

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“I started to notice a richer connection with myself, an ability to go deeper,” Keys shared with her readers.

ALSO READ: Halle Berry Drops Hilarious Video Trying To Get Out Of Anna Quan Outfit: 'Hurting Me For Real'

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Content: Yoga Clothing Market Expected to Reach $70,291.0 Million by 2030-Allied Market Research

Yoga Clothing Market

PORTLAND, OR, UNITED STATES, November 23, 2021 /EINPresswire.com/ -- Recent years have seen increased traction toward hybrid form of yoga. For instance, yoga & sports, yoga & surf, yoga cruises, yoga & diving, yoga & detox, and yoga & wine along with the more popular yoga & meditation and yoga & Ayurveda programs are trending among the practitioners. These programs are highly engaging, interactive, and full of fun, which, in turn, has resulted in increase in enrollments for these programs. This trend is likely to prevail in the upcoming years with the relaxation of lockdown and social distancing norms. Therefore, the increased participation in yoga is propelling the global yoga clothing market demand.

According to a new report published by Allied Market Research, titled, “Yoga Clothing Market by Product Type, End User, and Distribution Channel: Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2021–2030,” the global yoga clothing market size is expected to reach $70,291.0 million by 2030 at a CAGR of 7.8% from 2021 to 2030.

Yoga is a combination of spiritual, physical, and mental discipline originated in India. It is a holistic discipline based on an extremely subtle science, majorly focusing on bringing harmony between body and mind. Yoga is well-known for promotion of health, management, disease prevention, of many lifestyle-related disorders. In addition, practicing yoga improves strength, flexibility, breathing & lung capacity, and posture. It thus aids in managing anxiety, stress, depression, and other chronic diseases. The rising awareness regarding the mental and physical health benefits of practicing yoga is compelling the population to increasingly join yoga classes, thereby increasing the number of yoga participants. The rising number of yoga participants is a significant driver of the global yoga clothing market.

Download Sample Copy with TOC, Graphs & List of Figures: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/request-sample/14563

The yoga clothing market growth is propelled by alarming surge in incidence of obesity and health-related diseases. In addition, consumers are increasingly following fitness practices such as yoga and are engaged in purchasing accessories for the same such as yoga clothing, blocks, and yoga mats, which boost the growth of the global yoga clothing market. Furthermore, governments of various countries and yoga & fitness clubs have been actively engaged in promoting yoga worldwide, which has resulted in increased awareness of benefits of yoga globally. For instance, the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi proposed the idea of International Yoga Day at United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in 2014. This encouraged people worldwide to practice and get involved in yoga and Pilates. Moreover, in 2016, the Indian Prime Minister asked his ministers to make Yoga a mass movement. All these factors collectively are anticipated to increase the number of yoga practitioners, which, in turn, will propel the demand for yoga clothing, thereby driving the growth of the global yoga clothing market.

The outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic resulted in increased participation in yoga and other fitness activities. People became more health conscious and started practicing yoga by learning on online platforms. However, the manufacturing plants of apparels were halted during the initial phase of lockdown restrictions and there were significant disruptions in the supply chain. This resulted in certain loss to the yoga clothing industry.

According to the global yoga clothing market analysis, the market is segmented on the basis of product type, end user, and distribution channel. On the basis of product type, the market is segregated into top wear and bottom wear. On the basis of end user, it is classified into men and women. On the basis of distribution channel, the yoga clothing market is segmented into supermarkets/hypermarkets, specialty stores, e-commerce, and others.

On the basis of region, the yoga clothing market is analyzed across North America (U.S., Canada, and Mexico), Europe (UK, Germany, France, Spain, Netherlands, Italy, and rest of Europe), Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, India, South Korea, Australia, and rest of Asia-Pacific), and LAMEA (Brazil, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, and rest of LAMEA).

According to the yoga clothing market forecast, on the basis of product type, the top wear segment is expected to be the fastest-growing segment owing to the growing number of yoga practitioners owing to the rising prevalence of obesity among the global population.Upsurge in investment in R&D to enhance characteristics, usability, effectiveness, and comfort of yoga clothing is anticipated to propel the market growth.

Extensive analysis regarding how the COVID-19 outbreak affects the Yoga Clothing Market: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/request-for-customization/14563?reqfor=covid

On the basis of the end user, the women segment accounted for 60.9% of the overall market share. The increased awareness among the women regarding the body aesthetics is propelling the women participation in yoga. Further, female celebrities such as Kim Kardashian, Demi Moore, Madonna, Shilpa Shetty, Kareena Kapoor, and BipashaBasuencourages the female population to indulge in yoga activities.

As per the yoga clothing market trends, on the basis of distribution channel, the specialty stores segment accounted for 60.8% in 2020 due to their increased penetration in the developed markets like North America and Europe.

Players operating in the yoga clothing market have used a variety of developmental strategies to expand their market share, exploit the yoga clothing market opportunities, and boost market profitability. The key players profiled in this report include Nike, Puma, Asics, Under Armour, Inc., Adidas, Lululemon Athletica, Manduka, Prana, Hugger Mugger, and Aurorae Yoga, LLC.

Key findings of the study

The yoga clothing market was valued at $33,680.0 million in 2020, and is estimated to reach $70,291.0 million by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 7.8% during the forecast period.
By product type, the bottom wear segment is estimated to witness the fastest growth, registering a CAGR of 8.1% during the forecast period.
In 2020, depending on end user, the women segment was valued at $20,520.7 million, accounting for 60.9% of the global yoga clothing market share.
In 2020, the U.S. was the most prominent market in North America, and is projected to reach $5,855.5 million by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 6.4% during the forecast period.

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Allied Analytics LLP
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The influence of social media and celebrity endorsements by figures like Jennifer Aniston, Sting, and Madonna has further propelled the popularity of both traditional and novelty yoga, positioning yoga as a desirable path to physical fitness and mental peace .

Title:

Content: 'Clown Therapy,' Humor May Help Ease Depression, Anxiety

Pauline Anderson

June 29, 2023

TOPLINE:

A new review demonstrates the overall positive impact of humor therapy on depression and anxiety, which may help inform future research, policy, and practice.

METHODOLOGY:

  • Humor, a nonpharmacologic intervention promoting healing through things like funny movies and playful expression, helps people cope with stress, regulate emotions, and promote physical and mental health.

  • The review, which included 29 studies of humor interventions conducted in nine countries, had a total of 2964 participants with a depression or anxiety diagnosis or those facing stressful situations such as children undergoing surgery.

  • Researchers analyzed baseline measurements and statistical outcomes of studies that focused on different types of humor therapy. For example, showing comedy videos or movies; medical clowning that entertained children awaiting surgery with magic tricks or puppets; or laughter therapy such as laughter yoga that incorporates breathing, meditation, and relaxation.

  • All told, 26 studies were quantitative, one was qualitative, and two were mixed studies.

TAKEAWAY:

  • Most included studies found a significant positive impact of humor with various studies showing it improved depression and anxiety in such groups as elderly seniors in nursing homes and those with mental disorders.

  • Several studies showed medical clowning significantly relieved operation-related anxiety in children.

  • Laughter therapy, which along with laughter yoga might include music-related activities like chorusing and dancing, improved anxiety symptoms and depression in patients with cancer, those undergoing hemodialysis, immigrant women, nursing home residents, and other groups.

  • Some papers showed no significant effect of humor on depression or anxiety, although there was some suggestion the intervention period may have been too brief.

IN PRACTICE:

"Humor therapy is increasingly recognized as a cost-effective, safe, and efficient intervention to enhance physical and mental health, as well as social well-being" the authors write. They added that humor interventions have no adverse effects and are easy to implement.

SOURCE:

The study was carried out by Xuefeng Sun, School of Nursing, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, China, and colleagues. It was published June 21 in Brain and Behavior.

LIMITATIONS:

The studies used different forms of intervention, making it difficult to generalize the effects of humor therapy on patients with depression or anxiety. All included studies assessed the effects of depression and anxiety using scales that failed to achieve objective diagnostic results. The review included only one qualitative study.

DISCLOSURES:

The study received support from the Health Commission of Jilin Province. The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

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The global yoga industry is projected to reach a market value of $15.81 billion by 2025, with a compound annual growth rate of 11.7% from 2018 to 2025, reflecting increased consumer awareness and the appeal of diverse yoga offerings .

Title:

Content: Yin yoga, labelled ‘lazy yoga’ (you spend most of this yoga class lying on your mat – not a dynamic sun salutation in sight), is becoming one of the most requested classes in the city.

As London attempts to return to normal, it seems we are reaching for a movement practice that heals as well as invigorates.

Yin yoga is helping us release the trauma and tension of the past two years and find a sense of ease again and people are flocking to these classes,’ says yin teacher Dirish Shaktidas, who runs regular yin yoga sessions at Yogarise studio, in Streatham, London, which now provides daily classes due to the dramatic increase in demand.

It’s the same story, city-wide, with yin classes becoming the most booked class at gyms and studios across the capital since re-opening their doors post pandemic. Why?

‘We are all craving gentle yoga to help restore and nurture ourselves back to health after the constant and persistent stress of the past two years,’ says Paula Hines, whose new book Rest +Calm, about using the power of restorative yoga to heal our lives, launches this week.

Hines became a fan of yin and restorative yoga when she left a career in television over ten years ago and retrained as a yoga teacher.

‘I was burnt out but when I committed to a daily 20-minute practice of savasana (lying still and relaxed on my back) for a year,’ she tells Metro.co.uk. ‘It transformed my health and my life.’

In Covid lockdowns, Hines hosted yin and restorative yoga sessions online. ‘People who were completely new to yoga were signing up,’ she notes. ‘Intuitively, they knew yin yoga would help them through the pandemic.

‘But now they are continuing to practice because it helps them on a daily basis to feel good and less anxious.’

What is yin yoga and how will it help you?

Yin yoga is a slow and therapeutic style of yoga, in contrast to the more dynamic yang styles such as ashtanga or vinyasa, and is mostly done lying down on the mat.

The concept of yin and yang has its roots in Taoism/Daoism, a Chinese religion and philosophy, which states that all things exist as inseparable and contradictory opposites. Yin represents the receiving force, yang the active. Neither pole is superior to the other but a balance between two poles is recommended in order to achieve ‘harmony’.

In yin yoga, postures are mainly passive versus active, held for three to five minutes, encouraging the body to relax into a posture, working deeply into the fascia, the connective tissues of the body.

Yin yoga is known for radically improving your flexibility and releasing any tension that you may be holding. By deep breathing and targeting the fascia, you increase blood flow and circulation which encourages every organ to function properly, helping wounds heal faster and keeping your brain sharp.

It also helps you feel better emotionally. Studies have proven that yin yoga lowers stress, anxiety and reduces the risk of depression – by activating our parasympathetic nervous system, which calms the body and slows your heart rate rather than stimulating the sympathetic nervous system, which triggers your fight-or-flight response.

‘Even though it might appear as though nothing much is happening, there is deep rejuvenation taking placing underneath the surface in a way that zoning out in front of Netflix or watching a back to back box does not achieve,’ says Hines.

Working on your inner energy pathways

Yin yoga is not just a feel-good exercise or relaxation class though, says Sarah Powers, one of the world’s best known and most respected yin yoga teachers and author of Lit from Within.

‘I often call Yin yoga a needle-less acupuncture session,’ she says. ‘Our body’s energy flow can densify, calcify, or stagnate when we don’t move our bodies outside of our more habitual ranges of motion.

‘Obviously, this is why we do yoga postures. But coming into a pose in a consciously slow yin way and staying for many minutes at a time helps us go into deeper energy corridors within and helps us creates a space to ventilate any kind of inner stuckness.

‘Yin teaches us to pause and to soften, to listen to ourselves and to observe and be mindful of our feelings and observe the physical and emotional resistances in our bodies.

‘As soon as we start observing versus resisting, our inner landscape begins to shift and morph. We are no longer stuck.’

Post-Covid, when the world is re-evaluating and reassessing our ‘yang ways’ of working too long and too hard, yin invites you to stop doing and start being, stop pushing and start opening up to new possibilities.

Powers suggests that we combine our yoga practice with journaling and powerful questions like: What if I didn’t tell myself that I wasn’t enough? What do I know about myself that only a wise person would see in me?

‘When we can listen more deeply to ourselves, we can listen more deeply to others, which creates more intimacy and humility, more connection,’ says Powers.

Shaktidas agrees. ‘We heal by slowing down and reconnecting to our sense of self.’

It can also help us process all the information that is being thrown at us, he suggests. In a week where we are been being bombarded by the 24/7 news about the war in Ukraine, it may be a good time to explore new ways of dealing with the constant stimuli.

‘Practising yin yoga quietens the noise and helps you release anxiety,’ he says.

Sarah Alice Lee was a photographer in New Zealand when she took her first yin yoga class: ‘I’m not being overdramatic, but yin yoga quite literally saved my life,’ she tells us. ‘I was living in New Zealand when the Christchurch Earthquakes of 2010 and 2011 hit and I became highly stressed and my physical health and mental health declined rapidly.

‘No amount of running or consumption of wine seemed to achieve a state of relaxation or equilibrium in my body that I was so desperately needing.

Lee was diagnosed with depression and prescribed antidepressants but felt like she ‘was surviving rather than living’. Yin yoga helped her turn her life around.

She says: ‘Rather than keeping busy, trying to sweep my emotions and stresses under the rug in order to get through each day, I gave myself permission to be still, to stop running, stop with the distractions, stop the numbing and allow myself to feel, truly connected to me.’

Lee found the process so transformative that she trained as a yoga teacher, moved back to the UK and now hosts workshops and classes.

‘I didn’t think I was going to change career and become a yoga teacher, but the practice was so transformative that I became evangelical and just want to spread the word,’ she says.

Hines is equally evangelical ‘Yin yoga is about making space and time to come back home to yourself.’

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

MORE : Try these simple meditation techniques to help you relax

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MORE : Try this morning yoga flow you can do from the comfort of your bed

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Oxygen Yoga: What Is It, How Does It Work, and What Are the Benefits?

Oxygen yoga is a kind of yoga that is done in a room with more oxygen, usually around 30% to 40%, compared to the normal 21% in the air. Oxygen yoga can have different good things, such as:

  • Making the oxygen go to the cells, parts, and organs better, which can make the change, energy, and immunity better.
  • Making the stress and swelling in the body less, which can make the chance of long diseases, such as sugar, heart, and cancer less.
  • Making the mood and mind work better, by making more of serotonin, dopamine, and endorphins, which are the things that control happiness, want, and learning.
  • Making the cleaning and clearing of the body more, by helping the taking out of bad things, waste, and germs through the blood, water, and skin.
  • Making the doing and getting better of the muscles, joints, and bones better, by making the blood, oxygen, and healing of the parts better.

Oxygen yoga can be done by anyone, no matter how old, experienced, or fit they are. However, it is good to ask a doctor before starting oxygen yoga, especially if one has any health problems, hurts, or things they are allergic to that may change the breathing. It is also good to do oxygen yoga with the help of a good teacher, who can give right directions and comments. Oxygen yoga should be done on an empty stomach, better in the morning or evening, in a nice and quiet place.

Oxygen yoga can be done with any kind of yoga, such as hatha, vinyasa, ashtanga, bikram, yin, or restorative. The main difference is that the oxygen in the room is made more by using a special thing, such as an oxygen maker, an oxygen giver, or an oxygen place. The oxygen can be changed according to the like and how much one can take of the person. The time and level of the doing can also change, depending on the reason and level of the person.

Oxygen yoga is a new and new way to do yoga, that can give many good things for the mind, body, and soul. By breathing more oxygen, one can feel a higher level of well-being, life, and health.

Reports:

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The rise of online and virtual yoga classes, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, has expanded accessibility and participation, allowing more people to experience both traditional and novelty yoga from home .

Title:

Content: The Astonishing Health Benefits of Connecting with Animals.

VI TECHNO-HUB

In this article, we’ll explore how connecting with animals can have astounding health benefits. From reducing depression and stress to improving physical and mental health, the positive effects of engaging with animals can be far-reaching. We’ll discuss the many ways that incorporating animals into our lives can help us to be healthier and, ultimately, happier. We’ll also provide helpful tips on how to get started connecting with animals. Whether you own a pet or not, we will provide you with ideas to bring animals into your life and experience the health benefits that come with doing so. By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of why connecting with animals is so beneficial. You will also have some great ideas on how to do so.

Introduction: Overview of the Astonishing Health Benefits of Connecting with Animals

Humans have enjoyed a deep and complex connection with animals since the dawn of civilization. Animals have served as powerful symbols of strength, loyalty, and companionship in many cultures since ancient times. In recent years, research suggests that this connection with animals can also have profound health benefits, both physical and mental. These health benefits range from reduced stress levels to improved cardiovascular health and even a boost in immunity. This article will explore the astonishing health benefits of connecting with animals, from reducing stress and anxiety

A Closer Look at the Physical Benefits of Connecting with Animals

The physical benefits of connecting with animals are wide-ranging and can have a profound impact on human health. Studies have shown that spending time with animals can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and improve overall physical health. Animals can even help promote better sleep.

Interacting with animals has been linked to improved cardiovascular health. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, pet owners tend to have lower triglyceride and cholesterol levels. In addition, they have a lower blood pressure than those who do not own pets. The presence of a pet can also stimulate physical activity, which can have a positive effect on cardiovascular health. The emotional connection a person has with animals can also have a positive effect on their physical health. Studies have found that people who have a pet tend to have less depression and loneliness, and better overall psychological wellness. Additionally, studies have shown that those with strong emotional bonds with animals have a greater sense of purpose.

Animals can also be a source of comfort in times of stress and anxiety. The presence of a pet can provide a sense of comfort and security, which can lead to improved mental health. Furthermore, animals can provide physical therapy for those with chronic illnesses or mobility issues. From helping to improve balance and coordination to facilitating physical rehabilitation, animals can make a world of difference for those in need. Overall, there are many physical benefits to connecting with animals.

The Mental Health Benefits of Connecting with Animals

Connecting with animals has amazing mental health benefits. Studies have found that interacting with animals can reduce feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and depression. It can also help increase empathy, happiness, and self-esteem.

For those with mental health issues, connecting with animals can be particularly therapeutic. In addition to providing unconditional love and companionship, animals can offer a sense of safety, security, and stability. Furthermore, animals provide a sense of purpose and can help keep people engaged

The Emotional Benefits of Connecting with Animals

The emotional benefits of connecting with animals are often overlooked. Research shows that spending time with animals can lead to a reduction in stress and anxiety, improved mood, and even enhanced self-esteem and body image.

Studies have found that connecting with animals can lead to an increase in positive emotions such as joy, contentment, and a feeling of connectedness. Animals can also provide a source of unconditional love, acceptance, and companionship. Because of this, interacting with animals can be especially helpful for people who are lonely or feel isolated. In addition, animal-assisted therapy has been used to aid people in the treatment of depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and other mental illnesses.

Furthermore, animals can provide an outlet for physical activity and exercise. Walking, playing, and caring for animals involve physical movement that can be both beneficial and enjoyable. Additionally, interacting with animals can also provide a creative outlet for expressing emotions and sharing feelings. Drawing, painting, and creating art projects with animals can be a unique way for people to express themselves.

Finally, animals can be a source of learning and education. Not only do animals teach us about their behaviors and unique traits, but they also provide a unique opportunity for people to learn more about themselves and their own personalities. For example, spending time with an animal can help people to better understand their own values and motivations. It can also help them to understand how to interact with others in a positive way.

How to Get Started Connecting with Animals

Getting started connecting with animals is not difficult and can be done in a variety of ways. Here are some suggestions:

  1. Start by visiting a local animal shelter or rescue organization. This is a great way to get up close and personal with animals in need of homes and to learn more about the benefits of animal companionship.
  2. Volunteer at a wildlife sanctuary or rehabilitation center. You can help care for injured and orphaned animals, as well as contribute to their rehabilitation efforts.
  3. Attend animal-centered events and festivals in your area. These events give you the opportunity to observe and interact with animals of all types, from birds of prey to aquatic mammals.
  4. Spend time in nature. Take a hike, explore a local park, or simply sit in your backyard. Taking the time to observe wildlife in its natural habitat can be a meaningful way to connect with animals.
  5. Take an animal behavior or animal care course. These courses provide invaluable information on how to interpret animal behavior and how to properly care for animals.
  6. Talk to people who are involved with animals. Ask your veterinarian, pet store owner, or animal trainer for advice. They may be able to provide insights and tips on how to get started.
  7. Get involved in animal advocacy. Participate in petitions, letter-writing campaigns, and rallies to help protect animals and their habitats.
  8. Foster an animal. Taking an animal into your home temporarily can make all the difference in the world. Homeless animals can be given a chance to find a forever home through it.

No matter which method you choose, connecting with animals can be an incredibly rewarding experience. As you continue your journey, remember to have patience, respect, and compassion for all creatures.

Conclusion

In conclusion, connecting with animals is a powerful tool for maintaining mental and physical health. Not only are animals a source of unconditional love, but they also offer companionship and a connection to nature. Through activities such as petting and playing with animals, humans can reduce stress and anxiety, improve social skills, increase happiness, and even lower blood pressure. There are many ways to engage with and benefit from animal companionship, and it is an invaluable resource for those seeking a happier, healthier.

Sources

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I am Rohit Bhoyar and I have been blogging for 6 years on various websites, including NewsBreak, HubPage, PaidfortheArticle, etc. I create blogs on a variety of topics such as food, artificial intelligence, technology, social, etc. Additionally, I have worked for the last 10 years as an HR Recruiter and Affiliate Marketing Trainer.

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Content: Create

The Benefits of Yoga and Meditation for Mind-Body Wellness

Yoga and meditation have emerged as powerful practices that promote mind-body wellness, helping individuals find inner peace, reduce stress, and improve physical health.

In this article, we will explore the numerous benefits of yoga and meditation and how they contribute to achieving a harmonious and healthy mind-body connection. By incorporating these practices into our daily lives, we can enhance our well-being and experience a greater sense of calm and vitality.

The Benefits of Yoga and Meditation for Mind-Body Wellness

1. Cultivating Mindfulness and Presence

Yoga and meditation encourage the cultivation of mindfulness and presence, allowing individuals to be fully engaged in the present moment. By focusing on the breath, sensations, and thoughts without judgment, practitioners develop a heightened sense of awareness and learn to embrace the present moment, rather than dwelling on the past or worrying about the future. This practice of mindfulness brings a sense of clarity, peace, and contentment.

2. Stress Reduction and Emotional Well-being

Both yoga and meditation are powerful tools for stress reduction and promoting emotional well-being. Engaging in yoga postures, known as asanas, helps release physical tension stored in the body and activates the relaxation response. Combined with deep breathing and meditation techniques, yoga helps calm the nervous system and reduces stress hormones, leading to a sense of calm and relaxation. Regular practice can also enhance emotional resilience and improve overall mental health.

3. Improved Physical Flexibility and Strength

Yoga incorporates a wide range of physical poses that promote flexibility, strength, and balance. The practice involves stretching and elongating the muscles, improving joint mobility, and increasing overall flexibility. As individuals progress in their practice, they gradually build strength, particularly in the core muscles, contributing to better posture and overall physical stability.

4. Enhancing Mind-Body Connection

Yoga & meditation emphasize the connection between the mind and the body. Through conscious movement, individuals learn to listen to their bodies, respect their limits, and cultivate a deeper understanding of their physical sensations and abilities. This increased awareness allows practitioners to make informed choices that support their overall well-being and prevents overexertion or injury.

5. Boosting Energy and Vitality

Contrary to popular belief, yoga, and meditation can invigorate the body and boost energy levels. Through gentle movements, deep breathing, and focused attention, yoga and meditation help release tension, clear energy blockages, and activate the body's natural energy centers. As a result, individuals often experience increased vitality, improved sleep patterns, and a greater sense of overall well-being.

6. Improved Cognitive Function and Mental Clarity

Regular yoga & meditation practices have been linked to improved cognitive function and mental clarity. The combination of physical movement, breath awareness, and mindfulness helps quiet the mind, improve concentration, and enhance mental focus. As a result, individuals often experience increased productivity, creativity, and a greater ability to handle challenges and make clear decisions.

7. Promoting Overall Health and Well-being

Yoga and meditation have a positive impact on overall physical health. The practices help regulate blood pressure, strengthen the immune system, improve digestion, and support healthy organ function. Additionally, the stress-reducing effects of these practices can have a beneficial impact on heart health, reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

The benefits of yoga and meditation extend beyond physical fitness and relaxation. These practices offer a holistic approach to mind-body wellness, promoting mindfulness, reducing stress, enhancing emotional well-being, improving physical flexibility and strength, boosting energy levels, and fostering a greater sense of overall well-being.

By incorporating yoga & meditation into our daily routines, we can nurture our mind-body connection and experience the transformative effects of these ancient practices. Embrace the journey of self-discovery and embark on a path of enhanced well-being with yoga and meditation.

Edited by Nihal

**Health Benefits and Effectiveness** Both traditional and novelty yoga practices share core health benefits, including improved flexibility, strength, balance, cardiovascular health, and mental well-being .

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Content: Viral Video of Beer Yoga In Denmark Appalls Netizens, Asks 'What Have You Done To Our Yoga?'

TN Viral Desk

Updated Jun 4, 2023 | 03:16 PM IST

Indians pride themselves on the country's rich heritage and strive to preserve the age-old practices passed over generations. The art of yoga is such a tradition. However, this spiritual exercise is beginning to have varied adaptations in the West, some of which may seem absurd. In a video posted on Twitter by AFP, a group of people in Denmark were seen performing yoga with beer cans in their hands. Well, they were not just holding the cans but even gulping down drinks during the exercise. The clip was captioned, "Around 100 people gather to perform yoga by the Copenhagen harbour - cans of crisp, cold, refreshing beer in hand. The booze-fuelled class has been open for four years and appears popular with its practitioners.” Netizens thought the whole concept was ridiculous. One stated, "What have u done to our yoga? Even we have not done so much variety in Italian pizza.” Another claimed, "White people ruin everything.”

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Content: Benefits of Yoga for Modern Lifestyles: Relieve Stress, Calm Your Mind, and Stay Fit

Learn how yoga is relevant in today's fast-paced world. Relax, relieve stress, and calm your mind by practising yoga. You don't need any equipment. Embrace yoga's transformative power at home with simple exercises.

Updated Jun 14, 2023 | 02:01 PM IST

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Benefits of Yoga | Photo by Jared Rice on Unsplash

Yoga has become popular across the globe because of its relevance to modern lifestyles. Practising yoga has been very helpful to me in relieving stress and calming my mind. One of the best things about Yoga is that you don't need any equipment and you can do it anywhere. I continue to practice yoga even when I travel abroad. The fact that it involves breath control and specifies inhalation and exhalation during the exercise appeals to me. For me, it is ideal for relieving fatigue, calming the mind, and bringing about total relaxation.

Pranayama: The Art of Breath Control

In order to control the mind, our sages devised pranayama, or control of breathing. Their observation was that concentrating on an involuntary act like breathing frees the mind from constant worry and chatter. The best way to learn these exercises is from a trained professional. However, you can also try a few simple exercises at home.
It is important that both nostrils are open at all times. It signifies a harmony or balance between the 'hot' and 'cold' nerves. Using your ring finger, close the right nostril gently and inhale slowly through the left. Close the left nostril with your thumb and exhale through your right nostril. Repeat these 10 to 12 times at an easy pace. Repeat the process; exhale through the left and inhale with the right. By doing this, you will be able to open both nostrils. During this process, do not hold your breath. You'll notice a difference immediately, feeling more alert and awake. In addition, it helps to eliminate waste and toxins. As a result, all of these can help preserve the youthful qualities of the body and enhance its appearance.

Yoga for All

The flexibility of Yoga makes it ideal for people of all ages and capacities. Depending on an individual's flexibility and stamina, the duration and frequency can be adjusted. After exercising, you don't feel fatigued. There is instead a sense of well-being, both physically and mentally. Gradually, stress disappears.
In Yoga, the body is regarded as a temple for the soul. Yoga's appeal lies in its numerous benefits, including its ability to work on all parts of the body, increase vitality, tone internal organs, stimulate nerve centres, relieve stress and clear the mind. Yoga can be incorporated into any exercise program, but it is best to learn it under supervision.
End of Article

Novelty elements do not diminish these benefits; rather, they often enhance engagement and adherence, which are critical for achieving sustained health outcomes .

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Content: Home>>

Furry companions extend healing paws to humans

(Xinhua) 16:23, July 03, 2023

SHANGHAI, July 3 (Xinhua) -- When you enjoy the companionship of pets at home, have you ever thought about the more meaningful things they can do? Wu Qi, a pet trainer in his 30s, have demonstrated their immense potential, as his team has trained over 300 dogs, most of which are pets, to help humans in need.

In a support center for the elderly with cognitive disorders in Shanghai's Fengxian District, the seniors warmly greeted the adorable therapy dogs upon their arrival.

Assisted by dedicated volunteers, the dogs participated in a range of interaction and activity-based rehabilitation training. These sessions include exercises tailored to aid the elderly in muscle recovery, with some focused on enhancing communication skills and self-expression.

The elderly citizens experienced the gentle affection of the meek dogs as they rested their little heads on their palms while embracing these adorable furry companions with their arms.

"My fear of dogs has all gone. They are so cute. I've just petted and caressed a white puppy, and it even allows me to hug it," said Qi Yinfang, a 67-year-old patient suffering from mild cognitive impairment. The introduction of animal-assisted therapy services by Wu's team has had a profound impact, illuminating the spirits of people like Qi, according to the support center.

Autistic children, senior citizens with cognitive disorders, people with disabilities, or even those with mental health problems are all target clients of Wu's therapy dog team.

Over the past decade since Wu initiated the program "Paws For Heal" in 2012, such services have benefited nearly 100,000 people in major Chinese cities like Shanghai, Beijing and Nanjing.

Animal-assisted therapy (AAT) is nothing new overseas. According to a market survey conducted by Wu's team in 2018, there were already over 50,000 therapy dogs in the United States alone. However, such a therapy was still in its infancy in China at that time and Wu only had 20 professionally trained therapy dogs at his base.

Therefore, he decided to train home pets to help more people in need instead of relying merely on existing professional therapy dogs.

According to a report on China's booming pet industry released by China Pet Industry Association and Beijing Pethadoop Technology Co., Ltd. in February, last year alone, Chinese urbanites had more than 50 million pet dogs.

"I hope to reach out to the vast population of pet owners and encourage them to participate in our initiative. Their pet dogs have immense potential in making a difference and helping others," Wu said.

His team has now prepared a set of comprehensive training courses designed to enhance the pets' sociability, obedience and interactive skills, while also mitigating potential overreactions.

Many pet keepers are willing to extend their helping hand, or more accurately their "pets' chubby paws," for those in need.

Jin Pei, a 75 granny from Shanghai, is among the generous pet lovers. Her dog Biubiu is now a frequent visitor to local nursing institutions for the elderly, rehabilitation organizations for children with developmental disabilities, as well as hospitals.

"On a Christmas night, I welcomed Biubiu, a stray dog, into my home, and since then, she has become an integral part of my family. The dog healed me with its all-time companionship and support, and so I would like her to become a therapy dog and cure more people," Jin said.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)

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For example, animal-assisted yoga has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety, elevate mood, and foster emotional resilience through the calming presence of animals .

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Content: Wellness tourism to peak in 2024

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Highlights

Wellness is slated to be a 7 trillion-dollar economy globally in 2025

Wellness is slated to be a 7 trillion-dollar economy globally in 2025. The Indian wellness market is estimated to be worth Rs.499 billion, and India is in the top 20 contributors globally. Based on a survey done by CGH Earth Experience Wellness, there is a clear indication of the rise in wellness tourism. Their centres in Kerala and Gokarna have seen a definite shift from a majority of international travellers to having 50 per cent Indians as of year-end data in December 2023.

The survey reveals some exciting trends:

More than just going to the gym- The centres are seeing an increase in the number of men signing up for wellness and detox-related programs. Post-COVID, they realised that achieving ideal health is not just about going to the gym and lifting weights. It requires a complete mindset change that addresses holistic health and lifestyle.

Sleep epidemic- Another reason why people want to rebalance their lives and look at holistic healing is so that their sleep deprivation and sleep patterns can be corrected. Hence, sleep is becoming increasingly important.

Workforce Wellness- Corporates have Chief Wellness Officers, Chief Spiritual Officers and health apps to help colleagues manage work stress.

Curative Wellness – An age-wise analysis also showed statistics of maximum preventive wellness visitors aged 30 to 50 and guests in the age group of 50- 59 specifically visiting for curative wellness. This age group has been defined as the ‘disease manifesting’ age, and this segment is now conscious that they can’t afford to continue to live the way they currently do and are seeking sustainable long-term lifestyle change.

Women’s Health-related retreats and programs are also becoming more sought after to address both postpartum as well as menopause-related issues.

Doctor Cijith Sreedhar, Chief Medical Officer at Prakriti Shakti-Clinic of Natural Medicine by CGH Earth, said the Yoga & Naturopathy medical system of healing has proved that our body has remarkable recuperative power to heal itself with external medical intervention applied where necessary. This concept of the capacity of a body to heal itself has gained global attention and has now become one of the most significant driving forces in the wellness industry the world over. This concept is the cornerstone of the healing practices followed at “Prakriti Shakti”, CGH Earth’s clinic for Natural medicine.

Additional insights from the report show that a new emerging segment is Family Bonding over Wellness. Whilst wellness has mostly been an individual pursuit, families are now involving their children, and one is seeing multi–generational wellness holidays so kids can inculcate a healthier lifestyle from their early years.

SwaSwara’sSwa Wellbeing program offers a family bonding retreat aimed at fostering healthy eating and exercise habits not just for parents and the kids but also for grandparents – which involves healthy cooking classes, guided art and pottery classes, family fitness activities using Yoga alongside spa time for the adults amongst other activities.

The new mantra of 2024 is “Feeling good is as important, if not more, than looking good. In 2024, the buzzword for wellness will be all about Longevity and the concept of living a longer and healthier life, both of which can be addressed very effectively by the Indian holistic sciences Ayurveda and Naturopathy, which have withstood the test of time and proven to be very efficient healers in the long run.

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Content: Thorpe Bay in Essex is the home of yoga with a twist. Pawsz and Tails Yoga combines zen with something probably a little less calm: puppies and kittens everywhere. The Southend based yoga classes have combined all of your favourite things so you can leave feeling warm and fuzzy.

At £30 for an hour session, you can combine a half an hour class with a full hour of silliness with an army of fluff. Pawz and Tails writes on their website: “If you love animals and would like to cuddle and play with them for an hour incorporating a half hour beginner yoga class then book your class now”. The popular classes are booked up far in advance, with only a handful of classes left in the upcoming months.

They add: “We provide a calm and safe atmosphere for our furry companions. Our puppies are free to roam around during the hour to play, sleep and enjoy the attention they receive from humans. Our classes are there to create playtime and socialisation before they go to their forever home.

READ MORE: RSPCA rescue Spaniel puppy 'dumped in a box with his dying brother' on Essex roadside

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“We have the highest safety standards and you can enjoy our classes knowing that we only work with reputable breeders who have the highest standards of care, we also donate to rescue charities each month.

Classes are for beginners aged 14 and over and aim to create a stress-free environment. A fully qualified yoga teacher will work with you through mainly floor postures, so you’re on a level with the puppies and kittens. Cuddles are optional.

Time spent with a fluffy companion has been proven to have a massive impact on mental health, with 37% of people saying that their pets help them with their lives, according to a Blue Cross study. Just being around animals can have a positive impact on our mental health.

At Pawz and Tails, their classes “provide a haven of pure uplifting bliss, interacting with baby animals is extremely heart warming and you will leave us with a big smile on your face. It's also a fun time for our furry companions, who love to play and be cuddled”.

The animals brought in for the yoga classes are brought from responsible breeders who are looking to socialise the little ones, and Pawz and Tails donate to rescue charities every month.

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The playful interaction with animals can also increase motivation and physical activity, contributing to cardiovascular health and weight management .

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Content: Dibrugarh (Assam) [India], January 28 (ANI): Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways and Ayush, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal along with Assam Chief Minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma on Sunday laid the foundation stone of the Central Research Institute of Yoga & Naturopathy (CRIYN) along with a 100 bedded Yoga and Naturopathy hospital at Dihing Khamtighat in Dibrugarh.

The institution will be developed over a land parcel of nearly 15 acres (45 bighas) at an approximate investment of Rs 100 crore, with an aim at bringing a scientifically valid and useful synergy between traditional knowledge of Yoga and Naturopathy and modern tools of technology.

Also Read | Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla Says Committee To Be Formed Under Maharashtra Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar To Review Country's Anti-Defection Law.

It will establish benchmark standards in education, Preventive healthcare and research in the field of Yoga and Naturopathy. This state-of-the-art institute will focus on fundamental aspects, scientific validation of traditional systems of medicine and practices through evidence based research, apart from functioning as an international collaboration centre for global promotion and research in Yoga and Naturopathy.

The institute will also serve as incubation centres in startups in the field of Yoga and wellness sector.

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Speaking on the occasion, the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways and Ayush, Sarbananda Sonowal, said, "Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji, the Ayush movement has got a tremendous boost as it has become a pioneering force of global wellness movement. Modiji's unrelenting focus to power India's growth engine with Northeast as powerhouse is resulting unprecedented growth. Today, we lay the foundation stone for the first of its kind Central Research Institute of Yoga & Naturopathy with a 100 bedded hospital in Dibrugarh. This is yet another testament of Modiji to empower Assam and the whole of Northeast to harness its rich flora & fauna and drive expansion in Ayush sector, with peripheral growth in hospitality, patient care as well as medical tourism sectors as well. Mother Nature has blessed us with her immense beauty and this will go a long way in providing a healing touch for people, of not just the immediate region but the South Asia region, with the rejuvenated, scientifically validated treatment regime through Yoga, Naturopathy, Ayurveda and other traditional forms of medicine."

"The institution will also offer clinical training facilities to train Yoga and Naturopathy experts for capacity building programs in areas of cardiac rehabilitation, Diabetes Rehabilitation, autoimmune diseases and NCD risk reduction," he added.

Sarbananda Sonowal also said that, with research and development in the protocols of Yoga and Naturopathy, CRIYN will develop evidence based protocols for management of NCDs that can be integrated with conventional care, reinforcing the Integrated Medicine approach of patient care.

The hospital will provide for inpatient services with Yoga and naturopathy protocols to heal and enrich quality of lives.

On this occassion Sarbananda Sonowal talked about Atmanirbhar Bharat stating, Modiji makes it a point to empower, enable and energise Northeast as the Powerhouse of India's economic growth, we stand at the threshold of an opportunity to seize the moment as India cruise towards becoming an Atmanirbhar Bharat.

Adding further, Sarbananda Sonowal said, "Dibrugarh has an illustrious history as the nerve centre of this region. Endowed with natural resources, it has always proved as a major driver of growth. Under the inspiring leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji, this growth saga has gained momentum since 2014. The resurgence of Ayush at the forefront of global wellness movement not only provides an economic rationale for India, but, more importantly, it is the virtuous and apt direction towards building a Swastha Bharat - a vision of Modiji. Today's initiative is a strong step towards realisation of this beautiful vision."

The event was also graced by the Union Minister of State Rameswar Teli, the Minister of Health & Family Welfare of Assam, Keshab Mahanta, the Minister of Industries & Commerce and Culture, Bimal Borah; the MLA of Dibrugarh and Chairman, Assam Industrial Development Council (AIDC), Prasanta Phukan; MLA of Moran, Chakradhar Gogoi, MLA of Duliajan, Terash Gowalla; MLA of Lahowal, Binod Hazarika; MLA of Chabua, Ponakan Baruah; MLA of Naharkatia, Taranga Gogoi among other dignitaries including senior officials of the Ministry of Ayush as well as Government of Assam.

"The centre will provide inpatient, outpatient, and day care services. The services offered by the centre are naturopathy diet and nutrition, yoga therapy, massage & manipulative therapies, acupressure, acupuncture, chromotherapy, magneto therapy, physiotherapy and hydrotherapy treatments," Sarbananda Sonowal said.

"It will help patients to effectively manage Obesity, Metabolic syndrome, diabetes, CVD, stroke, Asthma, COPD, Migraine, IBS, IBD, Arthritis, Autoimmune diseases, cancer, neurodegenerative diseases," he added.(ANI)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)

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Content: Yoga for Children classes in West Sussex

A fun, friendly, and local yoga class in West Sussex for children 2-11 years old. Llamaste!
Watch more videos on Shots!
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Welcome to YOGA FOR CHILDREN. Running classes around Hampshire and West Sussex. Its founder, Susan is a qualified children's yoga teacher, accredited by the Yoga Alliance Professionals and an affiliate with Relax Kids.

Each class begins with a fun yoga welcome, followed by warmup exercises for the body and to focus the mind, then exploring a story adventure all set to yoga poses. There is a new story theme each week, some popular ones are the farm, a magical forest, the ocean, pirates, camping, and superhero week, the possibilities are endless! There are engaging activities including, yoga games, learning breathing techniques, positive affirmations, and age-appropriate mindfulness and stories.

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She has been practising yoga for 20 years, and through the classes, she teaches and regularly observes the benefits of yoga through the children that attend, delighting in their progression, confidence building, enjoyment, and enthusiasm for yoga! She also has slots on local radio discussing yoga and offering practical pointers for all.

So, what are the benefits? Susan explains that teaching children how to connect their breath to their body through movement can be a powerful tool. A regular yoga practice can not only help children when they need to relax their bodies and busy minds but also support confidence and self-esteem, resilience, strength, flexibility, focus, self-respect, and body awareness and to better understand their emotions. Yoga can provide a wonderful ‘toolbox’ to dip into when they need a moment to reflect, create energy, or help empower them to believe in themselves!

Do you work with children in an educational setting or club? Why not get in touch, Susan also works with nurseries, primary schools, home education groups, children’s activities clubs and even yoga children’s parties!

Check out her website and Facebook for regular updates on classes, events, holiday clubs, and weekend workshops. Come and join the adventure!

Related topics:

Themed yoga classes, such as those incorporating storytelling or playful activities, are particularly effective for children, improving emotional regulation, self-esteem, and cognitive functions like memory and concentration .

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Content: STOCK MARKET BSE NSE

Government yoga classes a big hit, 3,000 already enrolled

The government has employed hundreds of professionally-trained Yoga instructors to teach yoga to 40,000 people.

Published: 18th January 2022 07:53 AM  |   Last Updated: 18th January 2022 07:53 AM   |  A+A-

By Express News Service

NEW DELHI:  The government’s initiative of free online yoga classes under ‘Dilli Ki Yogshala’ to assist Covid patients in boosting their immunity has been a hit among the home isolated patients as over 3,000 people have already enrolled themselves.

The government has ensured that only 15 patients will be assigned to a yoga instructor in order for the patients to receive better care and for the instructor to give each patient individual attention. Currently, the government employs hundreds of professionally-trained Yoga instructors to teach yoga to 40,000 people.

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal officially announced this programme on January 11, 2022. Under this, the Health Department sends a link to those who are corona positive. Affected patients can register for online yoga classes by clicking on this link. They can select a time slot for eight one-hour classes from 6 am to 11 am and 4 pm to 7 pm.

Dr Munesh Kasana from East of Kailash said, “I am a doctor who has been practicing yoga for a long time. When I found I had Covid, I enrolled in online yoga classes offered by the government. The government-appointed yoga instructor taught me the yoga asanas in simple ways.”

Amresh Jha, a yoga instructor under the scheme, said, “Yoga and Pranayama are the most effective methods for maintaining physical and mental health during Covid. During the third wave, it must be  observed that most cases of infection have mild symptoms that can be treated in home isolation.”

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Laughter yoga, which combines laughter exercises with yoga breathing, has demonstrated significant mental health benefits, including reduced depression and anxiety, improved mood, and enhanced social connection through group participation .

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Content: MONROE CITY, Mo — Around thirty people and eighteen goats gathered in front of Sweet Water Distillery last Sunday for an afternoon of yoga. As the instructor guided the group through various poses, the goats mingled with the crowd and hopped on people's backs.

"The goats will climb on you. Is everyone okay with that?" Susan Nowell, owner of Show Me Your GOGA of Hannibal, called into the crowd. Everyone in the group nodded in approval, and for most of them the goats are why they came.

It's called goat yoga, and it's exactly what it sounds like - people doing yoga with goats. It's an activity that has been sweeping the nation.

Heather Utterback, owner of Sweetwater Distillery, said that the event is nothing like she has ever done before. “I’ve never done yoga or had a goat climb on me, but there’s a first time for everything,” she said. “We just wanted to try something different to draw people in.”

John and Marcella Starck, came from Glen Carbon, Illinois, and spent the weekend in Hannibal just to do goat yoga. They discovered Sweet Water Distillery while driving back and forth to Nebraska to see their son in college, and saw the event on Facebook.

“Our son did goat yoga with his freshman class as sort of an introduction to college,” said John. “And we thought, we are going to do that too.”

The event at Sweet Water Distillery was one of the biggest for Show Me Your GOGA. Nowell started her business after she received a picture from her sister who was doing goat yoga on a rooftop in Austin. Nowell had recently acquired goats through her son’s 4-H project, and her sister’s picture sparked an idea.

“One of my coworkers is a yoga instructor and I told her ‘I have goats and you do yoga - we can totally do this!’” Nowell said. “She told me that it would be awesome but I don’t think she knew that I would really do it.”

Nowell now has several yoga instructors who work with her as she travels the region with her goats to various venues. She has been to John Wood Community College in Quincy, The Meadow Campground in New London, and will host upcoming events at Hannibal LaGrange University and Tarripen Farms in Quincy for a Quincy High School Fundraiser - just to name a few.

She also has events at her Hannibal farm through all seasons except winter. Popular events at the farm are birthday parties, bachelorette parties, and hayrides where guests can play with the goats, rabbits, and chickens. They can also ride horses and ponies.

Although the experience is different and fun, there are also medical benefits. to goat yoga, as animal therapy is known to reduce stress and anxiety.

"Time with a goat can be stress reducing just like any other kind of animal therapy," said Nowell.

Leading the group at Sweet Water Distillery was Heather Sommers, who has been a yoga instructor for four years and just started with Show Me Your GOGA about four months ago. She said people who come to goat yoga get a lot out of the experience.

“It’s relaxed but with a little more joy,” she said. “People are just laughing and obviously having such a good time.”

For more information on goat yoga, follow Show Me Your GOGA on Facebook.

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Yin yoga, a restorative style involving long-held postures, is especially valued post-pandemic for its ability to release tension, promote deep relaxation, and activate the parasympathetic nervous system, thereby reducing stress and anxiety .

Research supports that yoga, including its novel forms, can effectively manage chronic conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and chronic low back pain, with participants reporting reduced pain and improved muscle function after regular sessions .

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The Boston Globe’s weekly Ocean State Innovators column features a Q&A with Rhode Island innovators who are starting new businesses and nonprofits, conducting groundbreaking research, and reshaping the state’s economy. Send tips and suggestions to reporter Alexa Gagosz at alexa.gagosz@globe.com.

Researchers at Butler Hospital recently conducted a study of how group yoga programs could help teens who had elevated levels of stress and who are depressed.

Dr. Lisa Uebelacker is a clinical psychologist at Butler Hospital and Brown University was the lead on the study. It’s not the first time she’s researched the impact hatha yoga can have on people suffering from depression or chronic pain.

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In various ongoing and completed clinical trials, Uebelacker has focused on people with a partial response to antidepressant treatments, people with chronic pain enrolled in medication-assisted treatment for opioid disorder, people in prison, and pregnant depressed women.

Q: What is the study about?

Uebelacker: We are piloting a group of teens that had elevated levels of depression or stress and comparing the yoga program to a group cognitive behavioral therapy treatment, which is an evidence-based treatment for depression. With the pilot study, we’re really looking at, can we do this? Are kids interested? Will they come to class and how can we make the classes accessible for them?

We took the feedback from the pilot to prepare to be able to do a larger-scale study where we want to ultimately compare a yoga class to a group CBT and whether they both are helpful for teens with depression, whether the yoga is not inferior to the group CBT, and then that will allow us to look at for whom will a yoga class be better or for whom will a group CBT be better?

(The pilot study was funded by the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health at the National Institutes of Health; Dr. Shirley Yen was the director of the study)

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Q: Why yoga?

Uebelacker: Yoga really incorporates aspects of medication, of breath awareness and breath control, as well as movement. What I also really like about yoga is that for both adults and kids with depression, if you think about medication, it may be hard for some people to start a sitting-meditation practice. They are just sitting there with all of these negative thoughts constantly. In yoga, though, it incorporates all of those things that you need: focusing on their breathing, focusing on their movement, it teaches mindfulness but in the context where it might be easier to access for some people with depression.

Plus, if you think about people who are depressed, who are sort of lethargic, it really helps to get them to move in gentle ways.

Q: And when you say “elevated levels of depression,” what does that mean?

Uebelacker: It varies quite a bit. Some of the teens in our program absolutely did have individual therapy that they were engaged in, have a psychiatrist, and might be receiving some kind of medication.

Q: When did this program begin and how many participants did you have?

Uebelacker: It was a three-year study that we’re just at the tail-end of now. In the beginning, we did focus groups with teens and parents. We looked at their needs and ideas about how yoga for teens and stress might look like. Then we enrolled 11 kids in the yoga program.

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In our third phase, we randomly assigned more than 40 kids in either the yoga program or the group CBT program.

Q: How did COVID-19 impact the program?

Uebelacker: Partway through the study, COVID-19 hit and we had to transition everything from in-person to online. But, the silver-lining was that all the kids continued to attend, so they clearly liked it. If kids and parents don’t think something is working for them or they don’t like it, they just won’t return and waste their time. So it seems like the program has been acceptable to these teens, and even doing it online.

Q: The study is nearly over. What have you found so far?

Uebelacker: Many of the teens have said they found it relaxing and helped them get through the stresses of everyday life, especially during the last year. Now they can go to school and if there’s a stressful moment where their heart starts beating hard, they have techniques that they can use (like breathing exercises) to cope in the moment. And that’s exactly what they are reporting to us.

Q: You’ve looked at how yoga has helped other populations as well. What do you see with that data?

Uebelacker: I’m currently wrapping up a study that looks at how health education and yoga compare for depressed, pregnant women. We don’t have results yet, but there’s also preliminary data that shows that yoga can help with chronic pain that could help people with opioid use disorders who were prescribed medication to help with their pain. We want to give them an alternative. So we’re getting read to start a study in both Providence and in Boston of yoga for chronic pain in that population.

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Alexa Gagosz can be reached at alexa.gagosz@globe.com. Follow her on Twitter @alexagagosz.

Oxygen yoga, practiced in environments with elevated oxygen levels, is believed to further enhance physical performance, reduce inflammation, and boost immunity, making it accessible to a broad range of practitioners .

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Content:   • Researchers report that weekly yoga practice improved back pain in a small group of study participants.
  • Muscular electrical activity in the lower back, which is associated with back pain, also improved.
  • The findings indicate that yoga could be an effective therapy for chronic low back pain, but more research is needed.

Yoga could be an effective treatment for chronic lower back pain, according to new research.

A study published in the Journal of Orthopaedic Research reports that individuals with low back pain saw improvements in pain levels after taking part in weekly yoga practice.

Each week participants completed a series of yoga “asanas” — poses designed to move and stretch the body. Researchers also utilized electromyography, which measures electrical activity in muscles, to provide further evidence for their findings.

“The main takeaway from this research is that there is a statistically significant difference in the improvement in pain for the females in the study with non-specific low back pain,” Dr. Hanan Saleh, a spine medicine specialist with the Cleveland Clinic who wasn’t affiliated with the study, told Medical News Today.

Experts say the research lends further evidence to the effectiveness of yoga as a treatment for low back pain.

“Relieving back pain still remains a challenge. Asanas can become an addition to the range of possibilities in managing this disorder,” Dr. Alessandro de Sire, an author of the study and a professor of physical medicine and rehabilitation at Università degli Studi “Magna Graecia” di Catanzaro in Italy, told Medical News Today.

De Sire and his team recruited 21 women, all of them between the ages of 18 and 40, to take part in the research.

Eleven of the women were “healthy” individuals while the other 10 reported having a condition known as nonspecific low back pain (NSLBP), which is low back pain without an identifiable cause.

All participants took part in a four-week yoga program consisting of two sessions per week.

During the first week, the sessions were conducted in person while the remainder were conducted remotely using a “tele-yoga” approach.

Each session included 30 asanas in standing, seated, and supine positions. Researchers continued to follow up with participants for four additional weeks after the therapy.

The primary goal of the study was to see how the yoga practice affected pain levels. In order to track this, both groups did a pain assessment at baseline using the 10-point visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain.

If you’ve ever been to the doctor’s office and they’ve asked you to point at a series of faces from smiling to crying to show how you feel, then you’re familiar with the VAS system. It’s a simple way for anyone to indicate their general pain level.

Women with NSLBP had an average pain level of 6.8 at baseline, indicating moderate to severe pain, but after the weekly yoga intervention that score decreased by more than half to 3.3, indicating low to moderate pain.

Researchers also used electromyography to verify their findings about pain.

By attaching electrodes to the lower back region of participants, they were able to measure electrical activity within the muscles of the lower back. Certain patterns of electrical activity in the region are known to be associated with low back pain.

Specifically, scientists looked at the flexion-relaxation phenomenon, which is a clinical tool to assess back pain. When someone bends forward, as if to touch their toes, this movement is known as trunk flexion.

During flexion, the muscles of the lower back are engaged. However, at a certain point in the flexion, the muscles actually begin to relax again.

How much the muscles are engaged or relaxed during this process can be measured through electromyography and given a numerical value. A higher score indicates better muscle relaxation while a lower one indicates more muscle tension. So, lower scores tend to be associated with the risk of low back pain.

In this study, women with back pain had a baseline flexion-relaxation score of 5.12. After the yoga sessions this number increased to 9.49, indicating improvements to muscle relaxation and electrical activity during flexion.

Although the study was small and relatively short, the authors say they are optimistic about their findings.

Using data forecasting technique known as prophet modeling, the team found that the yoga program would continue to provide benefit over a longer period of time, based on their four-week trial results.

“Clearly, further studies are needed to delve into the long-term results of this asanas approach. However, the prophet model suggests that the results can be maintained, through a relatively simple, openly safe intervention,” said de Sire.

Additionally, the research also raises the profile of so-called “tele-yoga.” Like other forms of telehealth that have become more prominent since the COVID-19 pandemic, tele-yoga also appears to provide benefits for people with NSLBP.

Yoga is an ancient practice that combines breathing, meditation, and physical poses known as asanas. Researchers have increasingly taken an interest in the practice to see how it affects the body and mind in a way that can be proven scientifically.

While there are plenty of personal, anecdotal reports of the benefits of yoga practice, here are some of the benefits of yoga backed by science:

  • Improving flexibility
  • Relieving stress
  • Improving balance
  • Building strength
  • Promoting better posture

“In my clinical experience, yes, [yoga] has been helpful for patients. Of course, it doesn’t help everyone, but I also haven’t seen it hurt anyone. Overall, it is a safe treatment option, and I always encourage my patients to pursue conservative treatment options as tolerated,” said Saleh.

“Generally speaking, some exercises that may be helpful can include the knee-to-chest exercise, piriformis and hamstring stretches, and my favorite ‒ core strengthening. The stronger our core, the more supported our spine is. Of course, not everyone should get the same set of exercises, which is why we focus heavily on physical therapy and personalize exercises based on the diagnosis,” he said.

**Psychological and Social Benefits** Novelty yoga practices offer pronounced psychological benefits by increasing enjoyment, reducing barriers to participation, and fostering a sense of community.

**Psychological and Social Benefits** Novelty yoga practices offer pronounced psychological benefits by increasing enjoyment, reducing barriers to participation, and fostering a sense of community.

**Psychological and Social Benefits** Novelty yoga practices offer pronounced psychological benefits by increasing enjoyment, reducing barriers to participation, and fostering a sense of community.

Themed and animal-assisted yoga classes create joyful, inclusive environments that encourage social interaction, emotional expression, and a sense of belonging—factors that are crucial for mental health .

Title:

Content: 1/15/18 · Psychology and Education Sciences Studies

Yoga improves academic performance in children

A variety of schools include daily relaxation sessions in the class timetable to improve concentration levels among students

Photo: Ilona / Flickr (CC)

Children lying on the floor in silence, with their eyes closed, listening to the music playing in the background, with the blinds down. These are students who take part in the yoga sessions provided during the course of their school day. This has now become a common sight in many Catalan schools as a result of teachers and psychologists confirming the numerous benefits yoga offers for children. For example, a few minutes of yoga a day can make children feel relaxed and calm in moments of tiredness or commotion. According to UOC experts, yoga improves memory, focus and academic performance in children, while also making them aware of their own emotions.

Bachelor's Degree in Psychology course instructor Amalia Gordóvil, referring to a study conducted in 2015 on the effects of teaching yoga at schools, points out that the discipline effected changes among the children in terms of mood, tension, anxiety, self-esteem and memory. In addition, the doctoral degree holder in Clinical Psychology goes on to say that, according to another study carried out in 2016 on the benefits perceived by a group of New York students after practising yoga for one year, the children themselves highlighted a capacity for increased self-regulation, stress reduction, greater self-esteem and improved physical conditioning and academic performance.

Gordóvil sees yoga as a beneficial practice with no adverse effects that allows children to take time out and become aware of their own bodies. This is a particularly important factor in helping children "learn to identify changes in terms of breathing and thoughts to watch out for", while also making them aware of tools that can help them to cope with stressful situations, such as changing the rhythm of their breathing. "When children discover that they can take charge of their own emotions, it’s a triumph because it gives them autonomy and makes them feel capable and empowered", says the GRAT centre psychologist.

Mireia Cabero, psychologist, emotional coach and UOC Bachelor's Degree in Psychology course instructor, explains that yoga develops a child’s ability to connect with their own inner self. "Yoga promotes knowledge of the internal world", while "education stimulates and promotes knowledge of the outside world".

Yoga also allows children to take a pause, says Cabero. "Stopping for a moment in order to feel, to reflect and to breathe", a skill that she considers fundamental to finding "balance and facing the challenges of life". On top of all that, the expert concludes that children who practice yoga are more capable of "managing their own emotions and relating more consciously with themselves, with others and with adversities".

Yoga helps the students to understand and manage their emotions

The relaxation and breathing techniques that children use at school also help with social interactions within the classroom by reducing student stress and improving the relationships between them. The FAROS report produced by Hospital Sant Joan de Déu asserts that working on emotional education in class improves the ambience at school, as well as the relationship that exists between classmates and the teacher and fosters aptitudes and skills that are very useful for the future.

UOC Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences professor Toni Badia believes that "emotional education should be considered a priority in school educational systems and, therefore, should to be included as part of the educational project as a key element in an individual’s total development". He adds that in primary education the development of strong emotional education among students will also have a positive impact on certain fundamental aspects of their communication, social and civic skills, as well as their capacity for autonomy and personal initiative.

Reduced stress and increased concentration

Faculty of Health Sciences professor Diego Redolar explains that the brain is "critical" in the regulation of stress. There are various studies that point to the fact that meditation results in functional and structural changes in the regions of the brain that suffer the effects of stress. "Practising this technique could help minimize the effects that stress causes on the nervous system and, consequently, on our cognitive and emotional capacity", says the UOC neuroscientist.

The experts suggest that children should ideally start yoga after the age of 3 and that it should be taught in the form of a game. The introduction of these techniques in Catalan schools is a relatively recent phenomenon, although they have been used in schools in countries like the United States and France for decades now.

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Content: News

NEP-2020 brings in total reforms in students: Sanjay Kumar

June 23, 2024

Mysore/Mysuru: Sanjay Kumar, Secretary of Department of School Education and Literacy has said, “National Education Policy (NEP)-2020 helps in bringing reforms in a comprehensive manner among the students.”

He spoke during the valedictory ceremony of National Yoga Olympiad organised at Regional Institute of Education (RIE) in the city, recently.

Sanjay Kumar said, NCERT has revised the syllabus by adding new chapters in the text books, which is in fact a matter of pride, for having included the chapters on Indian culture and knowledge.

The whole world will look at our culture with a great surprise, with impetus given to yoga and other extra-curricular activities in the new syllabus. So, NEP helps in overall development of the children, with a progressive approach, he added.

“The yoga enthusiasts who took part in Yoga Olympiad are the ambassadors of yoga in the world. It not just helps in practicing yoga by teaching others, but also in leading a life with self-employment opportunity. By the year 2027, yoga sector is set to emerge as 5.47 lakh crore sector, by recording year-on-year growth of 10 percent,” said Sanjay Kumar.

In his call, Sanjay Kumar said, “Those educated in yoga have the responsibility of building a better society. They should be conscious of their societal behaviour and practice yoga regularly for keeping the society healthy. Yoga is also a part of school education, which has the strength to bind all.”

United Nations (UN) has declared June 21, considered as the longest day in the world, as International Day of Yoga. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, holds the credit of yoga getting world recognition. To ensure people’s health, one should follow the path of yoga, added Sanjay Kumar.

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Mysuru’s favorite and largest circulated English evening daily has kept the citizens of Mysuru informed and entertained since 1978. Over the past 45 years, Star of Mysore has been the newspaper that Mysureans reach for every evening to know about the happenings in Mysuru city. The newspaper has feature rich articles and dedicated pages targeted at readers across the demographic spectrum of Mysuru city. With a readership of over 2,50,000 Star of Mysore has been the best connection between it’s readers and their leaders; between advertisers and customers; between Mysuru and Mysureans.

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Group activities centered around common themes or animal interactions help alleviate loneliness and isolation, supporting emotional resilience and overall psychological well-being .

Title:

Content: Yoga for Children classes in West Sussex

A fun, friendly, and local yoga class in West Sussex for children 2-11 years old. Llamaste!
Watch more videos on Shots!
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now

Welcome to YOGA FOR CHILDREN. Running classes around Hampshire and West Sussex. Its founder, Susan is a qualified children's yoga teacher, accredited by the Yoga Alliance Professionals and an affiliate with Relax Kids.

Each class begins with a fun yoga welcome, followed by warmup exercises for the body and to focus the mind, then exploring a story adventure all set to yoga poses. There is a new story theme each week, some popular ones are the farm, a magical forest, the ocean, pirates, camping, and superhero week, the possibilities are endless! There are engaging activities including, yoga games, learning breathing techniques, positive affirmations, and age-appropriate mindfulness and stories.

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She has been practising yoga for 20 years, and through the classes, she teaches and regularly observes the benefits of yoga through the children that attend, delighting in their progression, confidence building, enjoyment, and enthusiasm for yoga! She also has slots on local radio discussing yoga and offering practical pointers for all.

So, what are the benefits? Susan explains that teaching children how to connect their breath to their body through movement can be a powerful tool. A regular yoga practice can not only help children when they need to relax their bodies and busy minds but also support confidence and self-esteem, resilience, strength, flexibility, focus, self-respect, and body awareness and to better understand their emotions. Yoga can provide a wonderful ‘toolbox’ to dip into when they need a moment to reflect, create energy, or help empower them to believe in themselves!

Do you work with children in an educational setting or club? Why not get in touch, Susan also works with nurseries, primary schools, home education groups, children’s activities clubs and even yoga children’s parties!

Check out her website and Facebook for regular updates on classes, events, holiday clubs, and weekend workshops. Come and join the adventure!

Related topics:

Mindfulness and presence are integral to both traditional and novelty yoga, with themed classes often incorporating breathing techniques and meditative elements that enhance focus, concentration, and emotional regulation .

Title:

Content: STOCK MARKET BSE NSE

Government yoga classes a big hit, 3,000 already enrolled

The government has employed hundreds of professionally-trained Yoga instructors to teach yoga to 40,000 people.

Published: 18th January 2022 07:53 AM  |   Last Updated: 18th January 2022 07:53 AM   |  A+A-

By Express News Service

NEW DELHI:  The government’s initiative of free online yoga classes under ‘Dilli Ki Yogshala’ to assist Covid patients in boosting their immunity has been a hit among the home isolated patients as over 3,000 people have already enrolled themselves.

The government has ensured that only 15 patients will be assigned to a yoga instructor in order for the patients to receive better care and for the instructor to give each patient individual attention. Currently, the government employs hundreds of professionally-trained Yoga instructors to teach yoga to 40,000 people.

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal officially announced this programme on January 11, 2022. Under this, the Health Department sends a link to those who are corona positive. Affected patients can register for online yoga classes by clicking on this link. They can select a time slot for eight one-hour classes from 6 am to 11 am and 4 pm to 7 pm.

Dr Munesh Kasana from East of Kailash said, “I am a doctor who has been practicing yoga for a long time. When I found I had Covid, I enrolled in online yoga classes offered by the government. The government-appointed yoga instructor taught me the yoga asanas in simple ways.”

Amresh Jha, a yoga instructor under the scheme, said, “Yoga and Pranayama are the most effective methods for maintaining physical and mental health during Covid. During the third wave, it must be  observed that most cases of infection have mild symptoms that can be treated in home isolation.”

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Laughter yoga, in particular, leverages humor and group dynamics to promote serotonin release, providing temporary relief from negative thought patterns and supporting holistic mental health .

**Inclusivity and Accessibility** A key advantage of novelty yoga trends is their inclusivity.

**Inclusivity and Accessibility** A key advantage of novelty yoga trends is their inclusivity.

Practices such as animal-assisted yoga and adaptive yoga studios make yoga accessible to individuals with disabilities or those who may not feel comfortable in traditional settings .

Title:

Content: The Most Important Yoga Posture is Breathwork

By IANS | Published: June 21, 2022 02:27 PM2022-06-21T14:27:02+5:302022-06-21T14:35:07+5:30

New Delhi, June 21 "Breathing is simple, gracious, soothing and always there for you" Karenina Ana Murillo ...

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New Delhi, June 21 "Breathing is simple, gracious, soothing and always there for you" Karenina Ana Murillo

I recall my very first yoga session vividly. My teacher asked me to do the Anulom-Vilom breathwork at the end of a slightly exhausting but relaxing session.

"This is the most important posture," she said, "my own teacher taught me that; and it feels like if I don't practice breathwork at the end of a session, the entire session did no benefit.

"It's like a form of meditation," she continued, "Your attention is the most important part. Do this every day."

Pranayama

Prana refers to the breath or life force, and yama refers to control. Breathwork, also known as breathcontrol, is the conscious navigation of the life force that flows through your entire body.

In eastern medicine, blockages of prana in your nadis, or chakras, are the root cause of all disease. Pranayama can assist in clearing these blockages and restoring life by providing you with:

. More energy in day-to-day life

. The ability to handle stress more effectively

. Higher resistance to diseases, according to eastern medical beliefs

Anulom-Vilom

Anulom-Vilom, which translates as Alternate Nostril Breathing Exercise, aids in mind strengthening and complete relaxation.

Make sure to practise Anulom-Vilom 4-5 hours after eating. Cardiac or blood pressure patients, as well as pregnant women, should not hold their breath while performing pranayama, but should simply inhale and exhale.

. Sit comfortably with a straight spine

. Block the right nostril with your right thumb. Inhale for 2 seconds through the left nostril, then hold for 4 seconds

Disclaimer: This post has been auto-published from an agency feed without any modifications to the text and has not been reviewed by an editor

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Content: Try these 3 face yoga exercises for tighter skin and a healthy glow

3 exercises and 5 minutes is all you need to get started with face yoga

(Image credit: Arina Krasnikova / Pexels)

The pursuit of younger, clearer and healthier looking skin feels like it’s never ending. While many people dive into LED face masks, 18-step skincare routines or the occasional Botox treatments, a new trend has popped up called face yoga.

Face yoga, as you can imagine, is quite different from the yoga you see in gym classes and online tutorials. With face yoga, you don’t need to unroll your best yoga mat and contort yourself into different stretches or poses. Instead, you can do face yoga from anywhere. Not only will it take you about five minutes but regular practice can reduce signs of ageing and make your skin feel and look rejuvenated.

To find out more, I spoke to Eva Norlyk Smith, yoga therapist and co-founder of YogaUOnline who explained the benefits of face yoga and her favourite face yoga exercises everybody needs to try.

What is face yoga?

Face yoga is a natural non-invasive technique that involves a variety of massages and exercises to stimulate the muscles, skin and lymphatic system. Using tools or just your hands, face yoga targets the face, neck and shoulders. It’s designed to improve appearance by strengthening the muscles, while also softening and relaxing them to alleviate tension and stress.

According to Smith, “by stretching and toning key facial muscles, engaging acupressure points, and holding strengthening expressions, face yoga ‘works out’ your facial muscles to contour and lift areas that may have weakened over time.” She says that regularly practicing face yoga has been found to sharpen jawlines, plump the under eyes, smooth ageing lines and increase blood flow and lymph drainage.

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♬ Enjoying the day - Arkei

3 face yoga exercises you need to try

Just like any type of exercise, face yoga can have amazing results as long as you keep up a regular and consistent routine or practice. That’s why Smith recommends “setting aside five minutes a day to sculpt and tone your facial muscles to naturally reduce stress and signs of ageing.”

1. Jawline Squeeze

To do the Jawline Squeeze, place your index fingers on your jaw hinge and gently squeeze inward and upward while keeping your lips together. Hold this for five seconds, relax the jaw and repeat a few times along your jawline. This exercise works to slim, define and sculpt the chin and jawline.

2. Cheek Puff

For the Cheek Puff, purse your lips and puff out your cheeks, like a blowfish. Hold this for five seconds before releasing. Repeat this and increase the holding time each time. The Cheek Puff works to tone the cheek area, tighten the muscles and reduce lines.

3. Liquid Eyelids

Liquid Eyelids sounds a little gross but it’s very effective for nourishing, brightening and tightening the skin under the eyes. With your eyes closed, gently pull your eyelids up and outwards as if you’re ‘stretching’ them. Hold this for five seconds before releasing. Repeat this a few times but make sure to keep it slow and steady.

Home Editor

Beth is Home Editor for T3, looking after style, living and wellness. From the comfiest mattresses to what strange things you can cook in an air fryer, Beth covers sleep, yoga, smart home, coffee machines, grooming tools, fragrances, gardening and much more. If it's something that goes in your house, chances are Beth knows about it and has the latest reviews and recommendations!

Having always been passionate about writing, she’s written for websites, newspapers and magazines on a variety of topics, from jewellery and culture, to food and telecoms. You can find her work across numerous sites, including Wedding Ideas Magazine, Health & Wellbeing, The Bristol Post, Fashion & Style Directory, TechRadar, CreativeBloq and more. In her spare time, Beth enjoys running, reading, baking and attempting craft projects that will probably end in disaster!

Innovations like yoga leggings with built-in knee pads further reduce barriers, making yoga more comfortable and approachable for new practitioners .

Innovations like yoga leggings with built-in knee pads further reduce barriers, making yoga more comfortable and approachable for new practitioners .

The rise of online classes during the pandemic has also democratized access, allowing people from diverse backgrounds and locations to participate .

**Client Perception and Engagement** While direct comparative client feedback between novelty and traditional yoga is limited, available evidence suggests that novelty elements enhance client engagement, satisfaction, and retention by offering unique, memorable experiences .

Title:

Content: 10th International Day of Yoga Celebrated with Enthusiasm by PDUNIPPD

Pt. Deendayal Upadhyaya National Institute for Persons with Physical Disabilities (PDUNIPPD) organized a vibrant celebration of the 10th International Day of Yoga. The theme of this year celebrationis “Yoga for Self and Society.”Respecting the ethos directions of the Government of India for inculsive and enabled society. The event hosted at Modern School, Barakhamba Road, New Delhi, brought together 550 persons with disabilities (diyangjans) alongside more than 200 staff and students, marking a remarkable gathering aimed at promoting health, well-being, and inclusivity.

The event was graced by the esteemed presence of Shri B.L. Verma Minister of State for Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India, who attended as the Chief Guest. Also in attendance was Shri Rajesh Aggarwal, Secretary of the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, serving as the Guest of Honour. The event commenced with the lighting of ceremonial lamps in the esteemed presence of dignitaries.

In his address, Shri B.L. Verma expressed profound delight at the overwhelming participation and highlighted the transformative impact of yoga on the lives of persons with disabilities. He extended gratitude to all participants and organizers for their invaluable contributions towards the success of the event. Additionally, he acknowledged the continuous support of the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities. Shri Verma emphasized that yoga is not just a physical exercise regimen but a holistic discipline that integrates breathing techniques, meditation, and mindful movement to harmonize the body, mind, and spirit. He underscored that through regular practice, yoga enhances flexibility, strength, and overall physical fitness.

The celebrations featured inspiring demonstrations of yogasanas by certified Yoga Instructors, showcasing the accessibility and benefits of yoga for all individuals, including those with disabilities.

The event bore a unified look with all the participants wearing customized t-shirts as provided by the PDUNIPPD(D).

The International Day of Yoga celebration at PDUNIPPD exemplified the spirit of unity, health, and inclusivity, resonating with the broader goals of this global observance initiated by the United Nations.

Participants in animal-assisted and themed yoga classes often report feeling uplifted, relaxed, and more connected to others, indicating high levels of enjoyment and perceived benefit .

Novelty yoga classes are frequently fully booked, reflecting strong demand and positive reception .

The integration of playful or social elements can attract individuals who might otherwise be hesitant to try yoga, broadening the client base and supporting portfolio expansion for trainers .

Title:

Content: 10th International Day of Yoga Celebrated with Enthusiasm by PDUNIPPD

Pt. Deendayal Upadhyaya National Institute for Persons with Physical Disabilities (PDUNIPPD) organized a vibrant celebration of the 10th International Day of Yoga. The theme of this year celebrationis “Yoga for Self and Society.”Respecting the ethos directions of the Government of India for inculsive and enabled society. The event hosted at Modern School, Barakhamba Road, New Delhi, brought together 550 persons with disabilities (diyangjans) alongside more than 200 staff and students, marking a remarkable gathering aimed at promoting health, well-being, and inclusivity.

The event was graced by the esteemed presence of Shri B.L. Verma Minister of State for Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India, who attended as the Chief Guest. Also in attendance was Shri Rajesh Aggarwal, Secretary of the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, serving as the Guest of Honour. The event commenced with the lighting of ceremonial lamps in the esteemed presence of dignitaries.

In his address, Shri B.L. Verma expressed profound delight at the overwhelming participation and highlighted the transformative impact of yoga on the lives of persons with disabilities. He extended gratitude to all participants and organizers for their invaluable contributions towards the success of the event. Additionally, he acknowledged the continuous support of the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities. Shri Verma emphasized that yoga is not just a physical exercise regimen but a holistic discipline that integrates breathing techniques, meditation, and mindful movement to harmonize the body, mind, and spirit. He underscored that through regular practice, yoga enhances flexibility, strength, and overall physical fitness.

The celebrations featured inspiring demonstrations of yogasanas by certified Yoga Instructors, showcasing the accessibility and benefits of yoga for all individuals, including those with disabilities.

The event bore a unified look with all the participants wearing customized t-shirts as provided by the PDUNIPPD(D).

The International Day of Yoga celebration at PDUNIPPD exemplified the spirit of unity, health, and inclusivity, resonating with the broader goals of this global observance initiated by the United Nations.

**Challenges and Considerations** Despite their benefits, novelty yoga practices present certain challenges.

**Challenges and Considerations** Despite their benefits, novelty yoga practices present certain challenges.

Animal-assisted yoga requires careful logistical planning to ensure the safety and well-being of both participants and animals, as well as attention to hygiene and participant suitability (e.g., allergies or fears) .

Title:

Content: Wild Ones: Kathryn Budig, Kate Fagan, Ashi & Keonah · The Wildest

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Wild Ones: Kathryn Budig, Ashi & Keonah

The yogi wants you to give senior dogs a chance. Doga, on the other hand…

by Rebecca Willa Davis
July 27, 2021

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The Kathryn Budig universe is a broad one — the unfailingly upbeat yogi wrote a book, hosts a book club and a podcast with her wife Kate Fagan, and is about to launch an online wellness destination dubbed The Haus of Phoenix. But of all the content she creates, the cutest has to be the Instagram profile devoted to her 15-year-old Puggle, Ashi. From her home in Charleston, SC, Budig captures with her trademark humor the highs (think: celery birthday cakes) and lows (early-morning accidents) that come with taking care of two senior dogs. (In addition to Ashi, there’s also Keonah, her much more camera-shy 13-year-old Husky.) She chatted with us about the magic of older pups, making their food from scratch, and why you’ll never, ever catch her practicing doga.

It looks like you’ve nailed the work-life balance. How does your dog help with that?

Considering that Ashi had me up at about 2 a.m. and 6 a.m…. [laughs] But Ashi and Keonah are the loves of my life! They have so much personality and provide constant entertainment and laughs when I feel like I can’t find enjoyment from anything else. And mental health-wise, I think any dog owner would agree that when you sign up to bring a dog into your life, it’s an enormous amount of work, but I would go to the ends of the earth to take care of them.

How do Ashi and Keonah get along?

They tolerate each other. I inherited Keonah from my ex-husband, and anyone who has had a husky can relate: They’re beautiful dogs, but they’re not terribly domesticated. People always stop us and tell us how beautiful Keonah is — she’s stunning, she has glacial blue eyes — but she’s not a companion dog. She likes to keep to herself, she doesn’t follow us around. So they have very different personalities. I would love it to be a fairytale relationship, where they curl up in the same bed, but it’s not that sort of sibling relationship. But I also love that about them: They’re the odd couple. It’s this big, statuesque, stunning husky, and then this weird alien-puppy mix.

These days my Instagram feed is overrun with puppies, so I love that you’re spotlighting life with senior dogs.

Everyone loves puppies, but I do think there’s something magical about senior dogs. Being with them through thick and thin, and adapting to their needs… I’m honored to be doing that. We’re not a respectful society when it comes to our elders, and I believe we do the same thing with dogs; we want something young, flashy, and fun. Think about all the knowledge and experience that comes with age and life — same thing with dogs. We owe them that respect.

What’s been the biggest learning for you as your dogs have gotten older?

Ashi has dementia, and I think rule #1 is not allowing yourself to get frustrated. It’s easy to think they’re being defiant and not listening, but you have to remember that you don’t know what’s going on in their head. So be patient, be kind. Rule #2, create a limited environment. The night is when her dementia gets the worst, so we close the doors so she just has her immediate living room area to pace in. And her spatial awareness isn’t what it was, so like baby-proofing, we dementia doggy-proofed.

Do you feed her any special foods or supplements?

Ashi has her own miniature apothecary in the house! About a month ago we started her on CBD oil from ElleVet, the only scientifically tested and approved CBD oil for dogs. She’s on a ton of different homeopathic powders; she’s been on Standard Process’ Whole Body powder for years, and I swear that’s why she looks as good as she does. We have both of our dogs on the crock pot diet — it was created by a veterinary acupuncturist, so all the different ingredients are about the warming and cooling aspect and what each ingredient does for the animal. It has things like coconut oil and turmeric for anti-inflammatory and garlic for anti-bacterial. We have three crockpots, and we have a day we make all their food and freeze it. It’s a labor of love, without a doubt — but we’re particular about what we put in our bodies, and it should be the same with our dogs.

Do you make their treats as well?

The most creativity definitely goes into the crock pot. Outside of that, we give them Bocce treats, which are so clean. And every birthday it’s a celery cake — I cut off the butt of the stalk and lather it up with peanut butter and put bananas on it. Ashi loves anything with crunch, so she’ll legit eat the entire thing.

How do you keep Ashi and Keonah active?

There’s a beautiful park in Charleston called Hampton Park, which has massive oak trees and lots of shade and different paths. We walk them through the park all year long, but especially in summer. We take them on two walks a day, allowing them to stop and sniff; we jokingly call it “checking their email” — they like to check the messages left for them. It’s easy to get into your head that physical exercise is movement, but also remember how important the sense of smell is to dogs, and give them their moment to do their own thing.

So no “doga?”

Absolutely not! NO! I’m a bit of a purist when it comes to yoga, and I think things like goat yoga and dog yoga are kitschy sales points. When I’m doing yoga, especially if it’s close to chow time, Ashi will circle me like a shark. It’s not unusual to be upside-down and she’ll stick her nose in my armpit. So most animals aren’t going to tolerate doing poses with you. I’ve tried to meditate with Ashi, simply because I like being close to her, but it normally ends up with me being punched in the face. But that’s life, right? [Laughs]

Rebecca Willa Davis

Rebecca Willa Davis is a writer, editor, and brand strategist. She previously worked for Elle, NYLON, and Well+Good, and has written for The New York Times, Vogue, Glamour, Details, and New York magazine. She lives in Brooklyn with her dog, Pepita.

Instructors may need specialized training to effectively integrate animals or themed elements into classes .

Title:

Content: Yoga for Children classes in West Sussex

A fun, friendly, and local yoga class in West Sussex for children 2-11 years old. Llamaste!
Watch more videos on Shots!
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now

Welcome to YOGA FOR CHILDREN. Running classes around Hampshire and West Sussex. Its founder, Susan is a qualified children's yoga teacher, accredited by the Yoga Alliance Professionals and an affiliate with Relax Kids.

Each class begins with a fun yoga welcome, followed by warmup exercises for the body and to focus the mind, then exploring a story adventure all set to yoga poses. There is a new story theme each week, some popular ones are the farm, a magical forest, the ocean, pirates, camping, and superhero week, the possibilities are endless! There are engaging activities including, yoga games, learning breathing techniques, positive affirmations, and age-appropriate mindfulness and stories.

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She has been practising yoga for 20 years, and through the classes, she teaches and regularly observes the benefits of yoga through the children that attend, delighting in their progression, confidence building, enjoyment, and enthusiasm for yoga! She also has slots on local radio discussing yoga and offering practical pointers for all.

So, what are the benefits? Susan explains that teaching children how to connect their breath to their body through movement can be a powerful tool. A regular yoga practice can not only help children when they need to relax their bodies and busy minds but also support confidence and self-esteem, resilience, strength, flexibility, focus, self-respect, and body awareness and to better understand their emotions. Yoga can provide a wonderful ‘toolbox’ to dip into when they need a moment to reflect, create energy, or help empower them to believe in themselves!

Do you work with children in an educational setting or club? Why not get in touch, Susan also works with nurseries, primary schools, home education groups, children’s activities clubs and even yoga children’s parties!

Check out her website and Facebook for regular updates on classes, events, holiday clubs, and weekend workshops. Come and join the adventure!

Related topics:

Some individuals may prefer the structure and focus of traditional yoga, highlighting the importance of offering a range of options to meet diverse client needs .

**Endurance and Sustainability of Novelty Trends** The persistence of novelty yoga practices is supported by several factors: their adaptability to changing social norms (e.g., post-pandemic demand for restorative and gentle exercise), integration into wellness tourism and corporate wellness programs, and endorsement by public figures and government initiatives such as International Yoga Day .

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Content: Former teachers open yoga therapy studio for children

Rebecca Earle and Gemma Carey-Clarke, who run The Snug together in Norwich - Credit: Lauren De Boise

A new studio offering therapeutic yoga sessions for children has been launched in Norwich by two former school teachers.

Gemma Carey-Clarke and Rebecca Earle have more than 30 years of experience working with children and young people between them and have come together to open The Snug in Norwich.

Nestled in St Edmund's Church in Fishergate, The Snug is a new space offering yoga-based therapy for children aged between five and 15.

Mrs Carey-Clarke and Mrs Earle have both retrained as yoga instructors after leaving the teaching profession and together they run individual sessions and small group classes particularly aimed at youngsters struggling with anxiety.

Rebecca Earle and Gemma Carey-Clarke have opened The Snug yoga therapy studio in Norwich - Credit: Lauren De Boise

Mrs Carey-Clarke, 37, said: "When I was working as a teacher I realised that more and more children are having mental health difficulties, particularly those with special educational needs.

"But a big problem is that children can often find it more difficult to talk about things - but they can move, which is where yoga therapy can be useful.

"The sessions are all practical and teach children how to use their bodies and movements to make themselves feel better - then this in turn helps to get them talking too."

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The sessions can be accessed directly, but children can also be referred to The Snug through local authorities, schools or their GP.

The Snug yoga therapy studio, which has opened in Fishergate in Norwich - Credit: Lauren De Boise

Mrs Carey-Clarke added: "Covid has really caused lots of children to suffer from anxiety and we are trying to create small, supportive groups for these children.

"We have done this type of thing together for eight years but this gives us a permanent space to offer our services to the community.

"If children are anxious or not feeling well mentally, they will not be able to concentrate and learn properly.

"We feel like our local community is embracing yoga for wellbeing and health but are perhaps not aware it can be extremely helpful for children too.

"It does feel like a fairly niche approach we are taking but we have really seen the difference it can make to children."

Bookings will be available via the team's website.

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Content: 38°F
Partly Cloudy

Why dogs are good for your health

Question: We’re thinking about getting a dog. We know they’re great companions, but how are they good for your health?

Answer: People with dogs know the benefits of pet ownership. The unconditional love, trust and loyalty shown by your canine companions, coupled with their unbridled enthusiasm on your return home each day, is hard to put into words.

There’s another plus of having a dog by your side: It improves your overall physical and mental health.

Dogs get you moving

A notable benefit is that dogs force you to get up and move. One research study found that dog owners are more likely to report regular physical activity than people who don’t own dogs.

Activities associated with dog ownership, such as feeding, grooming, playing and letting them outside, all increase physical activity levels. Physical activity improves blood flow, induces muscle contraction and reduces joint stiffness.

Dogs also require regular exercise and will greet it with smiles and wagging tails. With a typical walk, you can work hiking and running into your outings with your dog depending on its breed. People who regularly perform aerobic exercise have improved blood pressure, reduced blood sugar levels, better-controlled weight and a reduced risk of developing cardiovascular disease. Other studies have demonstrated that exercise can improve depression and anxiety.

Over time, exercise will help strengthen your muscles, bones and joints. You may notice that your usual route is feeling easier so you decide to stay out longer or walk up that extra hill.

When selecting a new puppy or dog, carefully consider its energy levels and exercise requirements. It’s best when your lifestyle and activity levels match that of your canine buddy.

Dogs help your weight

Exercise burns calories and helps you maintain a healthy weight. In one study, adults who regularly walked their dogs were less likely to be obese than their non-dog-owning neighbors. The same research found that dog owners also are more likely to report a healthy diet and blood sugar at ideal levels, which improves overall heart health. Walking for 30 minutes a day will reduce the risk of coronary heart disease, osteoporosis, colon and breast cancer, and Type 2 diabetes.

That 30 minutes of light-to-moderate dog walking also can help you achieve deeper, more restful sleep. Health care professionals recommend adults aim for 150 minutes of aerobic exercise per week.

One way to get walking with your new dog is to start a 12-week walking schedule.

Dogs promote social connection

Owning a dog has been linked to better mental health and a lower perception of social isolation, which can reduce the risk of heart attacks and cognitive issues. Being socially isolated is a strong risk factor for worse health outcomes and premature death. Dog owners interact more with other people, such as other dog owners and people they encounter on walks, and are less likely to experience depression.

Consider training your dog for pet therapy to gain the dual benefits of connection and volunteering.

For people who work from home, there are four significant ways pets can help with your mental health:

Reducing work-related stress: Two out of three employees say work stresses them out, and 40 percent say their job gets in the way of their health. Pets in the workplace, even at home, reduce stress and improve employee satisfaction.

Managing anxiety: With the increase in work-from-home jobs, more people are struggling with mental health. Pets can provide the companionship and support once found in the office.

Increasing activity: Dogs give you a reason to go outside, breathe in fresh air and get some physical activity.

Combating loneliness: The bond with pets helps people feel less alone. Owners can touch, see, hear or talk to their companion animals, which brings happiness, connection and physical contact.

There’s also research showing the benefits of animal-assisted therapy during rehabilitation for nervous system conditions, such as strokes, seizure disorders, brain trauma and infections. Dogs can be a valuable part of cardiac rehabilitation, occupational therapy and physical therapy programs. They can provide social support, and trained dogs can even participate in your rehabilitation or therapy sessions.

Big decision

Welcoming a dog into your home is a big decision, and you should carefully consider the responsibilities. However, you also should consider the many wonderful health and emotional benefits that come from of dog ownership.

The bottom line is that a dog can help you be more active and socially connected while improving your overall health. It’s a win-win solution.

Dr. Tahir Tak is a cardiologist and Heidi Grafft is an exercise physiologist with the Mayo Clinic Health System in Wisconsin.

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Educational policies promoting yoga in schools and the growth of the yoga clothing market further indicate long-term sustainability and cultural integration .

Scientific research validating the health benefits of both traditional and novelty yoga enhances their credibility and encourages continued adoption .

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Content: Recommended NZ | Guide to Money | Gimme: Competitions - Giveaways

Yogi apprentices 'heal hurting bodies through movement and breath'

Contributor:
Fuseworks Media

Working with people as they find their ‘aha’ moments is what keeps Rebecca Harford coming into work every day.

Rebecca and her husband Jeremy are the co-owners of Adapted Yoga and Pilates, a unique Christchurch-based studio with a mission to help everyone find a practice that’s safe, fun and enriching.

Right now, Rebecca is supporting a number of her staff through the Skills Active Exercise Professional apprenticeship, https://www.skillsactive.org.nz/our-qualifications/exercise/apprenticeship-new-zealand-apprenticeship-exercise-professional-level-4/. But teaching and learning have always been passions for her.

Rebecca first came to yoga during her university years. She was pretty sure yoga was frivolous, so her instinct was to learn more about it to confirm her suspicions.

"I had been playing rugby, and was also right into weightlifting and powerlifting. So yoga was quite a different way of looking at the world," Rebecca says. As it turned out, she disproved her theory, and discovered the beginning of a lifelong passion for yoga, which grew to encompass Pilates as well.

Once she finished her degree in physical education, Rebecca left for a stint working on cruise ships, and for three years she taught as many as 28 yoga and Pilates classes a week - a very solid grounding for her teaching career.

After returning to New Zealand, she ended up in a role with ACC, and it was there, working with ACC clients, that the seeds were planted that would eventually lead to the creation of Adapted Yoga and Pilates. The studio welcomes everyone through its doors, including those with disabilities or conditions, so that they can get the life-changing benefits of moving their bodies and using their breath.

"There are so many broken people that need exercise and wellbeing, and there is just not a huge amount of support for them out there. I got frustrated with that [at ACC] and I wanted to do more to help people.

"The difference between us and some other studios is that we are truly open to anybody. Our teachers are able to create a challenging class for people that need challenge, and a safe class for those who need more support. And our ethos is always ‘first do no harm.’"

Rebecca says yoga and Pilates can help everyone, no matter their limitations, and it’s inspiring to see it happen.

"I just love seeing people get their ‘aha’ moment. So even the really simple stuff like how to breathe deeply. Or how to activate their core. Those really basic things that they can take into everyday life, and which will make life better."

These things may be basic or simple, but that doesn’t mean they’re easy for everyone, she adds.

"Even just how to get the right muscles working [can be challenging]. Especially for people that were too scared to try. There are so many women, in particular, that aren’t happy with their bodies or they are in pain or they are anxious.

"In my job I get to see those people change, and think ‘Hey, this is actually something I can do, and I can do it well, no matter how broken I might be.’ It’s really special seeing things click for people."

Broadening horizons through learning on the job

Rebecca is enjoying supporting her teaching staff as they complete their Skills Active apprenticeships. She gets together with the apprentices for regular practical and theory sessions, and is always available for questions, advice and encouragement.

"There is a lot of work involved but it’s worth it. It’s been a really interesting experience and I’ve learned quite a lot as a mentor to my team.

"You need to have an environment where people are okay to make mistakes and ask questions. And I think it’s helpful to have more than one person on hand to ask, because we all learn differently and present information in different ways."

Rebecca is also a registered Skills Active assessor, and assesses the parts of the programme that are within her assessment scope.

She notes that many yoga and Pilates teachers haven’t gone through what others in the wider exercise industry would see as the foundations of being a fitness professional.

"The training that they’ve done doesn’t usually come with the same level of focus on anatomy and physiology, or the cultural awareness side of things. So it’s great to be able to give them that foundational base, and to fill in any gaps that might have happened between their teacher training and going forward."

It also helps to broaden their horizons as exercise professionals, Rebecca adds.

"They can start to have conversations with allied health professionals and personal trainers about their shared clients. And it gives them an opportunity to work more broadly in the various roles that the industry can offer.

"It’s just awesome to see people who were already good teachers, gaining more confidence in their knowledge and abilities. And it helps them to give even more to their students."

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**Comparative Effectiveness** While both traditional and novelty yoga share foundational health benefits, novelty practices may offer additional advantages in terms of engagement, accessibility, and psychological well-being, particularly for populations less inclined toward conventional yoga .

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Content: For self and society: International Yoga Day, 2024

This year marks an important milestone as we celebrate the 10th edition of International Yoga Day in Ghana and worldwide.

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Yoga has become a global movement promoting health and well-being.

In Ghana, a series of events were organised by the High Commission of India this month in collaboration with Yoga centres and local authorities in different parts of the country, including Ho, Kumasi and Tamale, besides Accra.

These events witnessed active involvement of diverse sections of society in public places, schools, universities and rehabilitation centres, aimed at spreading awareness of the multifaceted benefits of Yoga.

The High Commission of India celebrated the signature event in Accra on the lawns of Osu Castle on June 22, 2024, with the participation of political dignitaries, members of diplomatic corps, UN staff and Yoga enthusiasts from various walks of life.

Yoga, a timeless treasure from ancient Indian culture, is a unique practice that goes beyond physical exercise.

It offers a path to discovering the true essence of life. The term ‘Yoga’ is derived from the Sanskrit root ‘Yuj,’ which means ‘to join’ or ‘to yoke’ or ‘to unite.’ It symbolises the union of individual consciousness with universal consciousness, signifying a perfect balance between the mind and body, man and nature.

Practice

The practice of Yoga transcends geographical boundaries, making it a universal heritage of humanity.  Recognising Yoga’s global appeal, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution by consensus on December 11, 2014, at India’s initiative, declaring June 21 as the International Day of Yoga.

The theme for International Day of Yoga celebration this year was ‘Yoga for Self and Society.’ For society at large, Yoga brings harmony among communities and nature, thereby creating an interconnected tapestry of well-being for individuals around the world.

It serves as a bridge between individuals and society. The practice of Yoga is not only limited to asanas (physical postures), which are the most popular - but also includes pranayama (breathing) and dhyana (meditation).

By integrating these three aspects, Yoga harmonises the body, mind, and spirit. Asanas are a preparatory process that helps the body sustain higher energy levels.

The process begins with the body, then the breath, the mind and the inner self. Yoga cultivates inner peace, clarity of thought and resilience, creating a solid foundation for well-being.

The therapeutic benefits of Yoga extend to reducing stress, improving cardiovascular health, boosting immunity and fostering mental well-being.

Ayurveda

Complementing Yoga is Ayurveda, the world’s oldest healing system. The emphasis of Ayurveda on holistic health, disease prevention, and individualised treatments resonates deeply with a global audience. Ayurveda’s personalised approach to wellness has gained international recognition.

Towards harnessing its full potential, a dedicated Ministry of AYUSH was set up in India in 2014 with a vision of reviving the profound knowledge of our ancient systems of medicine and ensuring their optimal development and holistic health care.

The Ministry of AYUSH has also entered into an Agreement with the World Health Organisation (WHO) to support the integration of evidence-based Traditional and Complementary Medicine in national health systems, biodiversity conservation, and the sustainability of medicinal plants.

There are good prospects for cooperation between India and Ghana in areas of complementary medicine, and we are exploring ways to strengthen this partnership.

Health

In today’s fast-paced world, where stress, sedentary lifestyles, and the relentless pursuit of quick fixes dominate our well-being, we must realise that our health is not a commodity.
Health is priceless, and there is a pressing need for comprehensive well-being. A growing trend is visible toward back-to-basics, mindfulness, and a sustainable way of life.

The Indian heritage of Yoga and Ayurveda hold the key to unlocking a healthier and more balanced world.

Prime Minister Modi has poignantly said, “India would contribute to this healthy trend with new ideas, some rooted in traditional knowledge, and others in 21st-century innovation, as a Vishwabandhu, a friend to the world, for greater global good”.

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It is heartening to see that people in Ghana are increasingly embracing Yoga.

The writer is High Commissioner of India to Ghana.

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The inclusion of mindfulness, breathwork, and meditative elements in novelty formats ensures that core benefits are maintained, while the added novelty can improve adherence and long-term outcomes .

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Content: The weekend is finally here and for those looking to enjoy their time off by getting out of the house, there is a plethora of free events taking place across Dublin over the next two days.

From naked beach yoga to a family-friendly exhibition for children with a keen interest in science to a free walking tour taking you through Dublin's fascinating sites, history, stories & curious oddities, there's plenty to keep you busy this weekend.

Here a selection of some of the fantastic free events on this Saturday and Sunday.

READ MORE - Culture Night 2023 is just around the corner with thousands of free events set to take place

Smithfield Fleadh

When: 12pm-6pm, Saturday and Sunday

Where: Smithfield Square

The Smithfield Fleadh returns to Smithfield Square for the second year running this weekend. The two-day event runs between 12pm - 6pm both days.

Taking to the main stage on Saturday, The Dublin Trio, led by Kevin Conneff of The Chieftains, offers a unique blend of songs and tunes from the nation’s capital and beyond. One of the most in-demand young bands on the festival circuit, seven-piece The Bonny Men will follow for a set of high octane Irish dance tunes on pipes, fiddle, flute, bodhrán, bouzouki, keyboard, guitar and more. On Sunday’s main stage, The Glackin Family, a renowned Dublin musical family including Paddy, Kevin and Doireann Glackin will provide a feast of songs and tunes. Doireann, a TG4 presenter as well as performer, will MC the event over the weekend.

For those who like to dance, Dublin City Council Smithfield Fleadh invites all to join in on the interactive dance events such as the set dancing session on Saturday and the sean-nós dancing session on Sunday afternoon - no experience necessary!

This year’s programme is built on last year’s success and brings some new additions; introducing two workshops as Gaeilge in partnership with Baile Átha Cliath le Gaeilge, a bodhrán workshop through Irish on Saturday - suitable for beginner Irish speakers and beginner bodhrán players and a hands-on workshop in old Irish script on Sunday. More dancing ensues with a Street Céilí on Sunday led by Jerry O’Reilly and Rosie Davis of The Brooks Academy.

The event will also now include a dedicated space, An Puball Cúlstáitse, just behind the main stage, which will encompass the spirit of a fleadh where attending musicians can join in with the scheduled sessions.

The Cobblestone Tent returns again, curated by the talented musicians of The Cobblestone Pub in Smithfield, bringing the atmosphere and energy of the pub session on to Smithfield Square.

Naked Beach Yoga

When: 12pm-1pm, Saturday

Where: Corballis Nudist Beach in Donabate

For the more adventurous, a Free Naked Beach Yoga event will be taking place this Saturday in Donabate.

Known as Nagna yoga or Vivastra yoga, the practice of yoga without clothes dates back to ancient times. So Saturday's Classical Hatha Yoga practice will be following a long tradition.

Hatha yoga focuses on the physical aspects of yoga through asanas (postures) and pranayama (breath control).

Like naturism, yoga is for everyone, no need to worry about experience or flexibility.

For more information on the event, which is being organised by the Irish Naturist Association, click here.

Sunrise Yoga

When: 6am-7am Sunday

Where: Newtownsmith, Dún Laoghaire

For yoga enthusiasts who prefer to keep their clothes on, this event may be more for you.

Organised by Maura, a Dublin-based yoga teacher, this event sees people gather on the seafront area facing into Scotsmans Bay with the sunrise offering the picture perfect background.

According to Maura, the event 'is about creating community and connection' so if you want to kick off your day with some company and a chat this might be perfect for you.

This will be a warming vinyasa yoga flow, followed by a dip in the sea afterwards.

Attendees are ask to bring their own yoga mat, towel and togs, and are encouraged to bring their friends along with them.

More info on the event can be found here.

Original Dublin Free Walking Tour

When: 11am-2pm, Saturday

Where: Newtownsmith, Dún Laoghaire

If you fancy getting out and exploring the city, you can check out this award-winning free tour with professional local guides taking you through Dublin's fascinating sites, history, stories & curious oddities.

On the Free Walking Tour of Dublin, you will be guided through the remarkable history, culture, sights and sites, wonderful stories, and bizarre oddities & characters of Dublin old and new.

The tour guides will cover topics and sites including Dublin Castle, Viking & Medieval Dublin, Christchurch Cathedral, the Temple Bar quarter, Risings & Rebellions, Folklore & Mythology, Dublin Literary greats, Irish Music royalty, street art and plenty more besides, as well as Dublin's 'alternative' side and unique local insider tips you won't get from anyone else.

The team of guides is made up of young, passionate fun-loving professional guides - Fáilte Ireland approved and accredited guides, writers, artists, actors, musicians, and 'all-round sound heads'.

Social Botanist Foraging Walk

When: 12pm-2pm, Sunday

Where: Stillgarden Distillery, Goldenbridge Estate, Dublin 8

Stillgarden Distillery's Social Botanists are going out into the local area's wild spaces in search of some wild seasonal ingredients. Blackberries are on this week's menu.

The group will be meeting outside the distillery at 11.50am, to leave by 12pm sharp, returning at around 2pm.

Anyone who fancies heading along have been told to bring sensible clothes as you may be venturing into long grasses with nettles around, gloves and suncream if you have them.

No experience necessary, as Gardener in Residence and foraging expert, Connor Howlett will be guiding you.

Social Botanists are a group of like-minded individuals who help grow botanicals that are used in the distillery, as well as look after the pollinator-friendly wildflower patches, forage ingredients, and rejuvenate neglected spaces.

Saturday's event is a great opportunity to get involved with an environmentally-friendly project, grow plants, and meet other plant enthusiasts.

Great conversation is provided too, as you get to sit and chat over some refreshments on the distillery terrace after.

Mimi's Rainbow Adventure

When: 10am-2pm, Saturday

Where: Trinity Enterprise Centre, College Green, Dublin 2

Have you ever wondered if carrots can really help you to see in the dark? Or why some energy is green and some isn’t?

If so, then pay a visit to Trinity College this Saturday for a multi-colour adventure and find out how science can provide the answers to these questions.

Get hands-on with fun physics experiments for all the family, be creative with arts and crafts activities, read an inspiring book in our chill-out corner and find out how physicists can answer your big questions about the world.

Perfect for families with children aged 5-9.

More information on this event can be found here.

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For children, themed yoga enhances emotional regulation and self-esteem; for adults, animal-assisted and laughter yoga provide stress relief and social support .

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Content: STOCK MARKET BSE NSE

Government yoga classes a big hit, 3,000 already enrolled

The government has employed hundreds of professionally-trained Yoga instructors to teach yoga to 40,000 people.

Published: 18th January 2022 07:53 AM  |   Last Updated: 18th January 2022 07:53 AM   |  A+A-

By Express News Service

NEW DELHI:  The government’s initiative of free online yoga classes under ‘Dilli Ki Yogshala’ to assist Covid patients in boosting their immunity has been a hit among the home isolated patients as over 3,000 people have already enrolled themselves.

The government has ensured that only 15 patients will be assigned to a yoga instructor in order for the patients to receive better care and for the instructor to give each patient individual attention. Currently, the government employs hundreds of professionally-trained Yoga instructors to teach yoga to 40,000 people.

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal officially announced this programme on January 11, 2022. Under this, the Health Department sends a link to those who are corona positive. Affected patients can register for online yoga classes by clicking on this link. They can select a time slot for eight one-hour classes from 6 am to 11 am and 4 pm to 7 pm.

Dr Munesh Kasana from East of Kailash said, “I am a doctor who has been practicing yoga for a long time. When I found I had Covid, I enrolled in online yoga classes offered by the government. The government-appointed yoga instructor taught me the yoga asanas in simple ways.”

Amresh Jha, a yoga instructor under the scheme, said, “Yoga and Pranayama are the most effective methods for maintaining physical and mental health during Covid. During the third wave, it must be  observed that most cases of infection have mild symptoms that can be treated in home isolation.”

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**Strategic Value for Physical Trainers** For physical trainers, incorporating novelty yoga trends can diversify class offerings, attract new clients, and improve retention by catering to varied preferences and needs .

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Content: 10th International Day of Yoga Celebrated with Enthusiasm by PDUNIPPD

Pt. Deendayal Upadhyaya National Institute for Persons with Physical Disabilities (PDUNIPPD) organized a vibrant celebration of the 10th International Day of Yoga. The theme of this year celebrationis “Yoga for Self and Society.”Respecting the ethos directions of the Government of India for inculsive and enabled society. The event hosted at Modern School, Barakhamba Road, New Delhi, brought together 550 persons with disabilities (diyangjans) alongside more than 200 staff and students, marking a remarkable gathering aimed at promoting health, well-being, and inclusivity.

The event was graced by the esteemed presence of Shri B.L. Verma Minister of State for Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India, who attended as the Chief Guest. Also in attendance was Shri Rajesh Aggarwal, Secretary of the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, serving as the Guest of Honour. The event commenced with the lighting of ceremonial lamps in the esteemed presence of dignitaries.

In his address, Shri B.L. Verma expressed profound delight at the overwhelming participation and highlighted the transformative impact of yoga on the lives of persons with disabilities. He extended gratitude to all participants and organizers for their invaluable contributions towards the success of the event. Additionally, he acknowledged the continuous support of the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities. Shri Verma emphasized that yoga is not just a physical exercise regimen but a holistic discipline that integrates breathing techniques, meditation, and mindful movement to harmonize the body, mind, and spirit. He underscored that through regular practice, yoga enhances flexibility, strength, and overall physical fitness.

The celebrations featured inspiring demonstrations of yogasanas by certified Yoga Instructors, showcasing the accessibility and benefits of yoga for all individuals, including those with disabilities.

The event bore a unified look with all the participants wearing customized t-shirts as provided by the PDUNIPPD(D).

The International Day of Yoga celebration at PDUNIPPD exemplified the spirit of unity, health, and inclusivity, resonating with the broader goals of this global observance initiated by the United Nations.

These practices are not fleeting fads but represent a sustainable evolution of yoga, supported by market growth, cultural integration, and scientific validation .

By offering both traditional and novelty yoga classes, trainers can provide comprehensive wellness experiences that address physical, mental, and social health, positioning themselves at the forefront of contemporary fitness and holistic health trends [649