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<!--Generated by Squarespace Site Server v5.9.2 (http://www.squarespace.com/) on Thu, 11 Mar 2010 02:19:25 GMT--><rss xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/" xmlns:itunes="http://www.itunes.com/dtds/podcast-1.0.dtd" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" version="2.0"><channel><title>Power Yoga Dallas - Yoga &amp; Health</title><link>http://www.poweryogadallas.com/yoga-health/</link><description>Power Yoga Dallas - Yoga &amp; Health</description><lastBuildDate>Tue, 01 Sep 2009 19:40:56 +0000</lastBuildDate><copyright></copyright><language>en-US</language><generator>Squarespace Site Server v5.9.2 (http://www.squarespace.com/)</generator><item><title>Harvard Health Publications</title><dc:creator>Power Yoga Dallas</dc:creator><pubDate>Thu, 04 Jun 2009 03:38:26 +0000</pubDate><link>http://www.poweryogadallas.com/yoga-health/2009/6/3/harvard-health-publications.html</link><guid isPermaLink="false">365492:3967052:4185655</guid><description><![CDATA[Studies suggest that this practice modulates the stress response.

Since the 1970s, meditation and other stress-reduction techniques have been studied as possible treatments for depression and anxiety. One such practice, yoga, has received less attention in the medical literature, though it has become increasingly popular in recent decades. One national survey estimated, for example, that about 7.5% of U.S. adults had tried yoga at least once, and that nearly 4% practiced yoga in the previous year.

Yoga classes can vary from gentle and accommodating to strenuous and challenging; the choice of style tends to be based on physical ability and personal preference. Hatha yoga, the most common type of yoga practiced in the United States, combines three elements: physical poses, called asanas; controlled breathing practiced in conjunction with asanas; and a short period of deep relaxation or meditation.

Many of the studies evaluating yoga's therapeutic benefits have been small and poorly designed. However, a 2004 analysis found that, in recent decades, an increasing number have been randomized controlled trials — the most rigorous standard for proving efficacy.

Available reviews of a wide range of yoga practices suggest they can reduce the impact of exaggerated stress responses and may be helpful for both anxiety and depression. In this respect, yoga functions like other self-soothing techniques, such as meditation, relaxation, exercise, or even socializing with friends.

Taming the stress response]]></description><wfw:commentRss>http://www.poweryogadallas.com/yoga-health/rss-comments-entry-4185655.xml</wfw:commentRss></item><item><title>The Johns Hopkins Arthritis Center: Yoga for people with Arthritis</title><dc:creator>Power Yoga Dallas</dc:creator><pubDate>Sat, 30 May 2009 03:13:55 +0000</pubDate><link>http://www.poweryogadallas.com/yoga-health/2009/5/30/the-johns-hopkins-arthritis-center-yoga-for-people-with-arth.html</link><guid isPermaLink="false">365492:3967052:4139176</guid><description><![CDATA[Introduction

Holistic (or mind-body integrating) movement practices with origins in eastern philosophy and culture are receiving a great deal of attention recently. For many adults, yoga, t'ai chi, qi gong, and various dance forms are joining the treadmill and exercise bike as way to safely and effectively increase physical activity. Having arthritis should not prevent individuals from trying these alternatives to traditional exercise. However, for many people, yoga, in particular may bring to mind pretzel-like poses requiring considerable strength and balance. In reality, beginner yoga classes provide simple, gentle movements that gradually build strength, balance, and flexibility - all elements that may be especially beneficial for people with arthritis. In this article, Steffany Haaz MFA, a professional choreographer, certified movement analysis (CMA), registered yoga teacher (RYT) and Research Coordinator with the Johns Hopkins Arthritis Center will demystify yoga for arthritis patients and their providers.

What is yoga?
Yoga is a set of theories and practices with origins in ancient India. Literally, the word yoga comes from a Sanskrit work meaning "to yoke" or "to unite." It focuses on unifying the mind, body, and spirit, and fostering a greater feeling connection between the individual and his/her surroundings. Yoga has spiritual roots, with the main goal of helping individuals to realize true happiness, freedom, or enlightenment. Beyond this, however, yoga has several secondary goals, such as improving physical]]></description><wfw:commentRss>http://www.poweryogadallas.com/yoga-health/rss-comments-entry-4139176.xml</wfw:commentRss></item></channel></rss>