Yoga Asanas have a profound impact on the systems of the human body. The muscles, bones, nervous system, respiratory, circulatory and digestive systems of the human body are greatly benefited from regular practice of Yoga Asanas. The body becomes more flexible, and more able to adjust to environmental changes after practising asanas.
Skeletal System and Yoga Asanas
The human skeleton supports the softer parts of the body such as muscles, which are attached to it and the organs, which it protects. The skeleton, its joints and muscles are exercised through asanas that leads to the proper development of the bones and strengthens them with the passage of time. Disorders in the body such as osteoporosis, Scoliosis, spinal pain and Arthritis are all improved in measurable degrees through the practice of yoga.
The gentle stretching of the muscles and joints releases muscle tension, thus increasing flexibility. The result is to reduce stiffness, which will prevent arthritis or improve it if the person already suffers from the condition. Maintaining many of the asanas encourages strength and endurance. Long term benefits of asanas include reduced pain and improved posture.
Respiratory System and Yoga Asanas
Respiration is a two way process. It is the system of supplying oxygen to every cell in the body and then transporting carbon dioxide, the waste product of respiration out of the body. Yoga asanas stretch and strengthen these areas and encourage deep full breathing. Yoga for the respiratory system is a vital means of reducing the symptoms that induce respiratory problems.
Cardiovascular System and Yoga Asanas
Cardiovascular system of the human body includes the heart and its arteries. Many surveys show that regular yoga practise may help the blood pressure to normalise. Yoga Asanas strengthens the heart muscle, thus resulting in better circulation and less possibility of heart disease.
Digestive System and Yoga Asanas
The major functions of the digestive system are ingestion, digestion, absorption and defecation. The regular practice of asanas thus results in an improved blood and nerve supply to the digestive and eliminative systems keeping them functioning well.
Nervous System and Yoga Asanas
By improving blood circulation, easing muscle tension and the focusing the mind on the breath, Asanas combine to ease the nervous system. Long-term benefits include reduced stress and anxiety levels, and increased feelings of calm and well-being.
Since the nerves from the spine reach to all the organs and glands of the body, a healthy spine obviously plays an important role in vitality and renovation. The spine is kept flexible through various kinds of Yoga Asanas and there is much less chance of spinal misalignments.
Endocrine System and Yoga Asanas
The endocrine system is active in regulating metabolism, growth, development and puberty, and tissue function and also plays a part in determining mood. Asanas keep the mind calm and at ease. Yoga Asanas regulate and control the secretion of hormones from all glands in the body.
Yoga experts can suggest appropriate exercises and Kriyas that may heal the patient"s mind and body. It is important to note that yoga exercises for a particular patient are chosen according to the specific disease he or she is suffering from. However, all the yogic exercises work in cycle to provide good health. Yoga Asanas can be used as complementary therapy in association with medicinal therapy.
