The Power of Yoga

Ah, Yoga -- Squatting Dog, Standing Tree -- there is nothing like it.  Although I must admit, calling my personal experience with Yoga "Limited" would be a stretch; there are many people in my own life who swear by Yoga's healing powers.  And now, science confirms what the Indians have been saying for years (approximately four-thousand years). 

As researchers continue to probe this ancient form of meditation, hundreds of studies are being released -- all praising the positive effects of Yoga.  From the obvious, like stress relief, to the obscure, Yoga can have tremendous effects on the body.  With these effects now well documented, many professional athletes are inviting Yoga into their lives; even our University of Rhode Island Rams football team includes Yoga in their rigorous conditioning regiment.  I can safely say, no activity benefits both body and mind like Yoga, and with literally hundreds of forms to choose from, it is a healthy activity for everybody. 

Unfortunately, not every girl in Yoga Pants is coming from their weekly session, but those who are will swear by its life-changing powers.  Personally, it is these genuine testaments that prove the power of Yoga -- not the ground breaking research.  During her own battle with cancer, my mother dedicated herself to a life of Yoga.  Alongside traditional therapy, she used daily meditations, and the occasional retreat to Kripalu, to overcome her life threatening disease.  Although modern medicine is the true savior, perhaps her "Oms" had an equal part in her amazing recovery.  Now cancer-free, my mother claims she owes her life to this ancient exercise.

Baltimore Raven's Running Back Ricky Williams