BETA
Chapter 1
The ancient origins of yoga
Chapter 2
How yoga became physical
Chapter 3
The science of breath and body
Chapter 4
Yoga across the globe
YOUR GOAL
Master of The journey of yoga
Ch 3 · The science of breath and body
esther Yoga does not just stretch muscles; it targets fascia, the connective tissue wrapping around every muscle and organ.
esther Neuroscientists have found that regular yoga and meditation can physically increase brain gray matter and improve memory.
Fun Fact
Vagus nerve: Deep belly breathing tricks your brain into thinking you are completely safe, stopping the fight-or-flight response instantly.
Glossary
pranayama (noun)
The practice of breath control, especially as a method of purification and meditation in yoga. The fifteenth-century Hatha Yoga Pradipika outlines these breathing techniques to purify the physical system.
The practice of breath control, especially as a method of purification and meditation in yoga. The fifteenth-century Hatha Yoga Pradipika outlines these breathing techniques to purify the physical system.
Quiz
A major cardiology study found that yoga is as effective at improving heart health as which activity?
Quiz
What is the classic relaxation pose, usually done at the end of a yoga class, called in Sanskrit?
Quiz
According to brain scans, what physical change occurs in the brains of people who practice yoga regularly?
Quiz
Which major nerve is stimulated during deep breathing, helping to trigger the body's relaxation response?
Quiz
What is the Sanskrit term for the practice of breath control and life-force expansion in yoga?
Quiz
What is the name of the web-like connective tissue in the body that yoga helps stretch and hydrate?
Quiz
Which stress hormone's level is significantly reduced in the body after a session of yoga?