Yoga for Everybody and Every Body

“Yoga for Everybody and Every Body”


The turbulence of today's economy has many people off course and I have this central thought that most people are searching for a recharging experience that will lend itself to recovery. With that in mind, sometimes allowing the mind to be taken to a safe, harmonious destination while the muscles are forced to expend excess energy is just the way to achieve the desired goal, and Lisa El-Tawil, RYT is just the pilot to guide us there.

     You see, our bodies react to stress and trauma by activating the sympathetic nervous system, also known as the "fight or flight" response. Our heart pounds and chest heaves. Blood flow to the digestive track slows (which may lead to stomach aches and digestive problems). Faced with prolonged stress, our bodies may get stuck in the "fight or flight" mode, gradually wearing down our systems which may lead to chronic anxiety, depression and even physical illness. 

     Studies reveal that yoga activates the parasympathetic nervous system, lowering heart rate and respiration and blood pressure. Cortisol levels decrease (hormone released during stressful situations) and the pituitary gland secretes oxytocin and prolactin (feel good hormones). That is the scientific explanation, which to me is of vital importance however over the last two years I have experienced the true meaning of yoga… union. Practically speaking, the union of concern is the different parts of us to be empowered, validated and than a union is created with all other parts. The union of movement and breath, muscle and bone, mind and body, anatomy and physiology.
     One body in complete union is great and wonderful, a complete accomplishment if you will. However what I experience watching and listening to Lisa is a community of complete strangers that become a family and experience harmony and a sense of calm, comfort and acceptance. Even if Lisa’s students are not able to attend class, they call and check in to let her know they are “okay” and they are thinking of her and what she represents. To me, an over energized “Energizer Bunny”, that finds a sense of calm with a heart rate of 180 bpm, experiencing Lisa’s abilities to find a focus point and guide her students to a union of desire and intent, thought and action is a harmonizing miracle that everyone should experience.
     Lisa explains, "(yoga) teaches us how to find peace and acceptance in times of stress, something I learned firsthand during a particularly stressful time in my own life. I honestly don't know how I would have coped with my situation had I not been able to turn to my yoga practice."
     "Lisa begins each class saying Honor your body today for how it is feeling today: letting go of competition, judgment and expectations.” ...The transformation begins. It is like magic, the stress is released. I invite everyone to experience, first hand, the calming effect of Lisa’s yoga practice.
Additional Ways to combat stress:

• Stretch    How to Get a Flat Tummy.
• Get Moving Everyday Regular exercise is a must.
• Eat a well balanced diet.
• Get adequate sleep and rest.
• Stop smoking and if you don't smoke, don't start.
• Limit alcohol consumption.
• Spend time with friends and family.
• Stay organized.

Tammi Jacobs, Health and Wellness Expert

Results Health and Fitness