Mind-Body (also See Pilates And Yoga) Articles

The Mind-Body Boom: The Evolution Continues Why mindful activities are in demand, and how you can develop a successful program. By Shirley Archer, JD, MA T The single most popular and enduring form of group exercise, practiced by millions around the world, is tai chi. This and other forms of mind-body exercise are now thriving in today's fitness industry. The 2006 IDEA Fitness Programs & Equipme...

In an era in which Americans are primarily concerned with losing weight and gaining muscle mass, it is no wonder that the slow-moving martial art of tai chi has been a bit of a hard sell. Tai chi won’t fold under your bed for easy storage, nor will it claim to reduce inches off your waistline in “just 3 minutes a day.” The reality is, however, that those who practice tai chi are likely to get stronger, have less anxiety, move more organically and gracefully, improve their balance and enjoy more flexibility.

Now, more than ever, mind-body exercise programs are hot. From 1998 through 2002, yoga and tai chi participation increased by 95 percent in the United States, according to American Sports Data (ASD) Inc. (ASD 2003a). By 2002, an estimated 11.1 million Americans were practicing tai chi or yoga and 4.7 million were doing Pilates (ASD 2003b). New participants are attracted partly by savvy marketing but also by the lure of programs that might offer them peace of mind as well as fitness gains.

andout Relaxation 101 Ready to rip your hair out? So stressed you can't sleep? Tired of tense muscles? It's time to relax. Stress isn't good for you. Mentally, stress causes anxiety, tension and hyperalertness. Prolonged, unmanaged stress leads to irritability, loss of concentration and a weakened immune system. Learning how to relax can counteract these stress responses. By releasing both physica...