By Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500
Whether you are a Yoga teacher, or student, it is worthwhile to learn the art of Yoga off the mat. In Hatha Yoga classes, many of the daily benefits are believed to happen only within the confines of the class. It is time for students to discover the benefits of Yoga during daily life.
If you are a student, take the time to talk to your Hatha Yoga instructor about stress reduction techniques that you can practice at work and home. You should learn a daily routine of meditation, posture, relaxation, breathing, and more, which can be practiced when you need them most.
You do not need a Yoga mat to sit, stand, or walk, in good posture. The same is true for deep and slow breathing techniques. Most of us can be quite challenged by remembering to sit up straight, and breathe properly, throughout the day. It seems we have to constantly remind ourselves about basic maintenance.
Yet, the rewards of healthy living are many – especially when you factor in stress reduction. Stress can be stimulating, but when we are overwhelmed by it, we can experience pain in the back, head, and chest. This is only the “tip of the iceberg.” High levels of stress and anxiety can become lethal.
If you teach Yoga classes, you know how many people come to class for stress management, but do you teach them how to compensate for “trying times?” We know that stress is a killer and a drain on the medical industry.
We also know that Yoga, in all of its forms, can reduce, or neutralize, daily stress. If you research statistics about work-related stress, in any country, there are some alarming signs. In many countries, worker’s compensation claims, due to extreme stress, is on the rise.
The term: “Developed countries” comes to mind. At one time, supposedly developed countries were full of opportunities, with employment in manufacturing and service industries. Times have changed, as many employment opportunities in manufacturing industries were exported for less expensive labor abroad.
Some niche industries remain, but one worker may be expected to perform the work of two or three employees. The end result is overwhelming workplace stress. It is debatable whether some employers care about work conditions. The employer’s objective is to remain in business at all costs. Companies of all sizes, and from every industry, close their doors after a finite number of consecutive losses.
What is the solution? Making any form of Hatha Yoga available for employees, and the management, will help everyone reduce stress. Yoga will collectively clear the mindset of a company, resulting in innovative employees, who work together to make stronger companies and vibrant economies.
© Copyright 2009 – Paul Jerard / Aura Publications
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Tags: hatha yoga instructor, teach yoga, teach yoga classes, yoga mat, yoga off the mat, yoga teacher