Our human body is marvelous piece of machinery. Proper maintenance of it keeps it going without problems to a ripe old age

The practice of yoga asana and Pranayama is unquestionably an ideal method to preserve the health and longevity of our body. Yoga is unique in that it recuperates the entire system. In the yogic system, the mechanism is quiet and restful. Asana provide a soothing effect on both the outer and inner organs.

• Cells : No cellular exhaustion occurs. The cells are made to liberate their toxins more efficiently due to i nternal massage by Asanas. Blood flow is increased to the tissues with augmented oxygen delivery. The question of accumulation of free radicals never arises with the yogic practices.
• Mind : Modern medicine has now recognized the power of mind over matter. The mind is kept in constant contact with the cells during practice of asanas and the practitioner's awareness is so refined that he becomes conscious of the subtle functioning or malfunctioning of any part of the body
• Asanas work on both gross and micro-structures. For example, the effects on cartilage, synovial lining and bone can be directly observed as Asanas are practiced. Certain Asanas heal the area by their ability to remove the pent up products of inflammation by intra-articular massage.
• As Asanas are both contractions and relaxations, both the softness and rigidity of connective tissue is preserved.
• Shape : due to the peculiar nature of yogic movements, the body is shaped appropriately.
• Joints: Asanas act on the joins. They are given internal massage. The range of movements far surpasses than that in any other science.
• Skin : The sensory nerve endings are razor sharp due the stretch given by the Asanas and this in turn maintains the neuro vascular functions of the skin. The skin blood flow is stimulated preventing senile changes. The skin is adducted, abducted, rotated and circumducted in yogic practices.
• Circulation : In yoga performed shunting of blood is possible. In other forms of exercises it is involuntary. In yogic practices one can shunt blood to any area consciously, as the geometric shapes of the Asanas vary.
• Cardio Vascular system : The massaging action of Yogasanas is valuable for the interstitial space (through which only the nutrients and oxygen pass from the blood to the cells) improving micro nutrition by healthy lymphatic flow. Arteries and veins are massaged and kept elastic and atherosclerotic changes are prevented.
• Respiratory system : Pranayama strengthens the inner vital energy at micro-cellular levels. Elasticity of lungs, is maintained, oxygen uptake is improved. Asanas promote and maintain elasticity of ribs and intercostals muscles. The diaphragm is strengthened. Standing poses stimulate the lung. Inverted poses toughen the lung. Forward bends train one to breathe in a limited cavity. Back bends strengthen circulation in the entire lower respiratory tract. The cartilages are toned up and they remain soft and elastic.
• The digestive system : Yogasanas massages the entire gastro intestinal tract. They promote expulsion of excessive wind; maintain peristalsis, blood supply and freshness of the tissues. All physiological functions are toned up. Pancreas, are benefited by rotational movements. Inverted and twisting poses are very helpful for this organ. Asanas massage liver, improve perfusion, and enhance elimination of toxins. Twisting poses are invaluable for all liver disorders. Asanas massage the gall bladder and prevent any stagnation of secretions.
• The excretory system : The kidney is a vital organ performing many functions. Asanas massages the kidneys and prevent degenerative changes.
• The glands : Yoga is the only system, which exerts a beneficial effect on glandular function. Almost all the glands are thoroughly massaged during the various postures optimizing glandular function.
• The nervous system : There are several major and minor plexuses of nerves throughout entire length of the body. All are in communication with each other and with the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems. All Asanas are helpful. Asanas and Pranayamas refresh the mind as recuperation occurs.
• The special senses : Practice of yoga deeply affects the special senses. Yoga provides relaxation to the body by working through the special senses. Shanmukhi mudra provides complete neuro-muscular relaxation to the special senses.