|
Scientific studies have shown that Yoga induces a
|
|
|
|
feeling of well-being in healthy people, and can reverse
|
|
|
|
the clinical and biochemical changes associated with
|
|
|
|
metabolic syndrome, according to results of studies from
|
|
|
|
Sweden and India. Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of
|
|
|
|
heart disease risk factors such as high blood pressure,
|
|
|
|
obesity and high blood sugar. Scientist from Medical
|
|
|
|
College in India evaluated the beneficial effects of
|
|
|
|
yoga and meditation in 101 adults with features of
|
|
|
|
metabolic syndrome. In the study, 55 adults received
|
|
|
|
three months of regular yoga, while the remaining
|
|
|
|
received standard care. Waist circumference, blood
|
|
|
|
pressure, blood sugar, and triglycerides were
|
|
|
|
significantly lower, and “good” HDL cholesterol
|
|
|
|
levels were higher in the yoga group as compared to
|
|
|
|
controls. What's more, at the end of the study period,
|
|
|
|
feelings of anxiety, stress and depression were also
|
|
|
|
significantly lower and levels of optimism significantly
|
|
|
|
higher in the yoga group compared to the control group.
|
|
|
|
Yoga induces a “relaxation response” associated with
|
|
|
|
reduced nervous system activity and a feeling of
|
|
|
|
well-being probably due to an increase in antioxidants
|
|
|
|
and lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol, the
|
|
|
|
scientists suggest. Yoga not only helps in prevention of
|
|
|
|
lifestyle diseases, but can also be a powerful adjunct
|
|
|
|
therapy when these diseases arise. We do not emphasize
|
|
|
|
this point enough in our Western health care.
|
|
|
