Most of us are aware that stress is the lead cause of a slew of medical conditions. Stress causes the chemical, cortisol, to be  released. We have a sympathetic nervous system, which is known as the "fight or flight" system. This SNS is what signals the brain to release cortisol to keep you in high gear to deal with what is going on. The problem is that a lot of people stay in the "fight or flight" mode; therefore, releasing too much of the stress chemical in their body. As a result, health issues ranging from high blood pressure, depression, or heart attacks occur. With the practice of yoga, the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS) is stimulated and this results in the SNS (sympathetic nervous system) being turned off. The PNS is the neurological part of the brain's make up that functions when calmness and peace of mind is felt. The release of the stress hormone is reduced and the functions of the body and mind stabilize.

With a regular practice of yoga, the maintenance of keeping the mindset in the PNS mode enables the memory , cognitive abilities, concentration, balance, and positive thinking to improve. Also, if you suffer depression, it could be due to low levels of serotonin, which is a chemical that is naturally released to keep you stabilized. However, that stress hormone, cortisol, reduces the production of serotonin and depression is destined to settle in if left unchecked. By having the mind in the PNS state more often than not, the release of serotonin can be stabilized. Some people who practice yoga who used to be on anti-depressants no longer need them. However, it is important to note that conditions vary from person to person, so it is important to consult with your doctor regarding the integration of exercise or change of medicines.

Unlike Western medicine, yoga is not a "quick fix" for a physical or emotional challenge. The consistent and long term practice of yoga will reveal its results over time. Some changes appear quickly and some become apparent much later. The bottom line is that yoga is more than an exercise to practice. It  becomes a way of life because as you become more sensitive to what is going on within your body, you learn how to respond in a healthy way. You make your body stronger and more flexible; however, the hardest part of the body to manage (your mind) follows suit and you eventually see things in  a whole new way! For those of you who remember the commercials that showed a fried egg and the saying "this is your brain on drugs", look at the water drop shown on this article and know that eventually, that will be your "brain on yoga"...relaxed, calm, and able to slow down.

Published 10/12/2009 by www.examiner.com