Yoga will not only relax your body, but it also has the same effect on your heart as a 30-minute walk or doing laps of the pool.
Researchers at the Emory University School of Medicine investigated 53-year-olds with chronic heart failure who then practised yoga twice weekly for 70 minutes. This consisted of a 10-minute warm-up, 40 minutes of poses and 20 minutes of relaxation, meditation or deep breathing exercise. They found that in eight weeks, the people improved their endurance and increased their ability to use oxygen. It was also found it increased their quality of life and even had an effect on some key blood markers related to heart failure. These results will be published in the American Heart Associations Journal upcoming issue on Cardiac Failure.
In congestive heart failure the heart cannot pump sufficient blood and oxygen to sustain the body and this study shows that yoga could be beneficial for people with this condition. It is the second recent study to come to this conclusion. Research done in India in 2007 found that adults with metabolic syndrome (which also increases chances of heart disease) also had lost weight, lower blood pressure, blood sugar and triglycerides levels after yoga and meditation practice for three months.
In the ‘70s people used to think that yoga was just part of a fitness trend. It wasn't. It’s a 5,000-year-old Eastern practice which has lasted because it does have many health benefits especially when it comes to easing pain and stiffness in such illnesses as arthritis.
Often jogging and aerobics takes its toll on your knees so a gentler form of activity is needed and it is also known to improve balance which will give you a greater ability to walk or cycle as well as being a good way to relax.
Yoga means "to join together" body and mind through breathing, meditation and movement using a series of poses, called 'asanas'. Hatha yoga focuses on breathing and movements to improve balance, stretch and to strengthen the body while some forms, such as 'ashtanga' yoga, are more physically demanding.
You don't need a lot of time to practise but to get the benefits you must practise every day. Just 15 minutes a day will already have you on the way to reaping the benefits of better balance and flexibility, increased strength, concentration, less stress, more energy and a better ability to unwind. Yoga works on the energy centres of the body and balances them.
Classes are available at most gyms or yoga centres and range from one hour to ninety minutes but if you can't get to these why not buy a video and practice at home? However, there is no compensation for an experienced teacher to correct your posture and make sure you align yourself properly. Always remember to do what is comfortable so as not to cause yourself injury. Go slowly and know your limits. Never continue a posture if it hurts.
Before you take your yoga class talk to your health practitioner or yoga teacher if you have an injury or health condition that causes you concern. Don't eat a big meal beforehand as it will make you feel heavy. Tell the teacher about your physical limitations. Use a yoga mat and go barefoot to avoid slipping. After a while you will discover for yourself how this gentle exercise can bring about powerful changes in your body and mind. | 
