Yoga Facts & Myths

by: AndreaDow
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Tuesday, June 5th

Some of my clients have been talking about an article they read in the paper about yoga helping to fight wrinkles. Apparently, the downward dog pose does more than just lengthen the spine! Could it be true that a few downward dogs can take the place of botox? Here is the truth about yoga and wrinkles and more.

Dana Sullivan, writer for Health magazine, helps us separate fact from fiction. Do you think the following statements are true or false?

1. Yoga reduces low-back pain.
2. Yoga can help you lose weight.
3. Yoga cures asthma.
4. Yoga can ease carapal tunnel pain.
5. Yoga makes your skin look younger.

1. FACT: Several studies have shown the benefits of yoga and back pain. A study in the Annals of Internal Medicine in 2005 demonstrated that yoga was even more effective at treating back pain compared to traditional exercises.
2. FACT: Yes! Yoga burns calories (even more calories if you are doing power yoga) which can help you achieve a caloric deficit. Remember, if you consume more calories than you need, you will gain weight. A 150 pound woman can burn 460 calories during power yoga and 170 calories during a traditional yoga session.
3. FICTION: The medical journal Thorax, suggests that yoga's breathing techniques do not cure asthma.
4. FACT: The Journal of American Medical Association found that carpal tunnel sufferers found relief in wrist pain and better grip strength with a regula yoga practice.
5. FICTION: Yoga can help relax your face muscles, but it is not going to erase any wrinkles. Practicing yoga and livng a yogic lifestyle has many other benefits besides erasing the wrinkles. A few laugh lines remind us of our great experiences in life, right?!

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