Demystifying Yoga and Meditation by Hari Das Kaur

A regular yoga practice can reduce stress, enhance flexibility and help to prevent disease.

A regular yoga practice can reduce stress, enhance flexibility and help to prevent disease. Yet, despite these benefits, some people are hesitant to try yoga because they believe it’s a spiritual practice based on religious beliefs.

“Yoga is not a belief system, but more a science of how the body works as a whole,” says Mimi Trotter (aka Hari Das Kaur), certified yoga therapist. “For example, a common misconception is that yoga is derived from Hinduism when, in fact, yoga predates Hinduism by many centuries. The practice of yoga shouldn’t conflict with an individual’s religious beliefs.”

For many people, yoga enhances their spirituality and makes them more open to following their own religious traditions.

“Instead of just reading a book or pumping your biceps, yoga brings the body, mind and spirit together into one harmonious experience. The postures, breathing techniques and meditation practices affect your brain and body in a positive way and leave you better equipped to accept and face life’s challenges,” explains Ms. Trotter, who has been teaching the Kundalini style of yoga for 30 years and is certified by the International Kundalini Research Institute.

Benefits of Yoga

•  Reduces stress
•  Enhances flexibility
•  Nurtures self awareness
•  Boosts energy
•  Improves overall body function
•  Increases mental focus
•  Lowers blood pressure
•  Relieves symptoms of asthma, depression, addiction, back pain and arthritis

For more information about yoga and meditation classes, call 1-800-SCRIPPS.

This article was published in the e-newsletter from Scripps Center of Integrative Health in La Jolla in April 2010.