This week we are really talking about how to get/build energy from what we are doing. It is no secret that if you know how what you are doing for yourself is beneficial, you will want to do more of that. So I figured that since there is more research coming out that is relevant to our practice, I could share it.

Dark Chocolate!

A University of Melbournes Study, published in the British Medical Journal on May 31 (BMJ 2012; 344:e3657) Showed that dark chocolate had the following health benefits:

-Anti-hypertensive

- Anti-inflammatory

-Anti-thrombic

-May decrease LDL Cholesterol

-Increases HDL Cholesterol

The study suggested that daily intake of dark chocolate was recommended. Other sources I have read suggested small amounts of dark chocolate that is at least 70% dark chocolate (check for lower sugar) are better. However, this study made no distinction.

 

Yoga Helps with Metabolic Syndrome

A group of studies published in India support the claim that yoga works with multiple areas of the body to help regarding metabolic syndrome. Many would think that Bikram or Hot Yoga would be the most supportive, but it appears that restorative yoga is what is the most helpful.

http://www.yogajournal.com/health/2527

 

Medicare now Covers Yoga Program to Reduce Heart Disease 

The Integral Yoga-based practice that we do at Coldwater Haven is related to the Dean Ornish program covered by Medicare. What medicare covers is a hospital-based system which includes diet (plant-based, meatless diet), regular yoga practice, and regular meditation.

http://www.cnn.com/2012/02/25/health/medicare-covers-yoga-heart-disease/index.html

 

 

With all of these benefits, it seems keeping to a yoga practice and eating a little chocolate is a great way to increase the sense of energy and ease felt in the body.

 

Yoga Pose of the Day: Legs up the Wall

Yogic Concept of the Day: I can have a little chocolate.