Hi Yogis! My inquiring mind wants to know – do any of you supplement your yoga with other forms of exercise? You probably know this by now, but my other exercise of choice is running. It is as calming and rejuvenating as yoga, but in a very different way. It isn’t so much about being still as it is about complete release.
Running allows me to soak in the outdoor air as I jog through the streets. I’m cooped up indoors way more than I’d like. Depending on what I’m listening to, it can either calm me down or pump me up, relieving of the unnecessary tension that gets built up over time. After years of depending on music, I can actually run without music now! Over time, I’ve learned to appreciate the sound of silence or the echoes of my thoughts.
When I’m out and about, running my heart out, I feel incredible – all you really need is your two feet and a good pair of running shoes – forget about spending excess on needless accessories… it is the PERFECT recession workout.
So what are some benefits to running?
- One of the BEST forms of cardio.
- A cheap way to exercise.
- Great for your heart.
- Increases your stamina and lung capacity.
- Lowered risk of heart attack & stroke.
- Psychological benefits – increases your endorphins and feel good centers of your brain.
- Weight loss. Always a plus.
The list can go on forever – I am a strong strong advocate! What’s your preferred form exercise and why?
For Further Reading: The Benefits of Running [Runner's World]
Lisa-Anne says:
Haha, I was JUST about to e-mail you to ask what you suggested outside of Yoga & how to balance both activities. Both are so time consuming!
5th June 2009 at 11:21 am
Jiggly says:
I know it’s tough and definitely time consuming! Well, once I took up yoga I started replacing some of the running so it ended up being a give and take – so it wasn’t really ADDITIONAL time – it was more like replacement time.
I wish we had more hours in a day… it’s tough trying to fit in everything I want to get done in a day… *sigh*.
5th June 2009 at 3:16 pm
Jiggly says:
By the way, how has trying Bikram Yoga been for you this past week? You hanging in there ok?
5th June 2009 at 3:17 pm