All About Yoga and Pilates

Yoga and Pilates are two of the most widely known and used methods of gaining physical strength, mental balance and other positive effects at the same time, by practicing some exercises in a correct manner, of course. Both of these techniques involve the control of mind over the body and also breathing control.

Yoga is a practice that originates in India. The practice implies a series of spiritual but also physical exercises supposed to attain the practitioner’s control over his mind and body. The procedure begins with the correct positioning of the body, that is, in a manner which must not obstruct in any way the person’s capacity of concentration. By controlling his breathing, the yogi begins his contemplation, which can offer him access to superconscious awareness and union with the Supreme Being. The purpose is that of achieving mental, spiritual and physical improvement.

The Pilates method was named after its inventor, Joseph Pilates, and it represents a special and original technique of fitness exercises which implies the control of the mind over the muscles. Breathing correctly is also very important because it contributes to the efficiency of the exercises.

Both of these methods have experienced a great success. People are interested in practicing them due to their proven efficiency not only in strengthening the mind and body, but even in what physical recovery and rehabilitation is concerned. Beside the positive physical effects they have (mobility, muscles flexibility), these methods also reduce the stress and bring along emotional balance. In a world that’s filled with constant worries and nervous tension, relaxation is sometimes avidly desired and Yoga or Pilates are miracle workers in this field.

For most people Yoga or Pilates are hobbies, but some take these techniques to a higher level. For them and for those who want to become instructors there are special training centers that offer the proper education. To have the right to teach others, a Yoga or Pilates instructor needs certification which can be obtained even by attending online courses. This may be more simple and pleasant for some.

Beginners should know that for their own comfort during the exercises, they need some special Pilates mats (yoga mats). These mats can be of different colors, materials and sizes. One can buy rubber Pilates mats, natural rubber Pilates mats, blue, yellow, green or pink, antibacterial Pilates mats, slim or thick Pilates mats or printed Pilates mats. Whatever their aspect may be, the purpose of these Pilates mats is to make you reach harmony and best fulfill your exercise needs and preferences.

People are offered a great variety of models to choose from (long, short, colored or back mats) depending on every person’s taste and on the type of technique they practice, beginning with towels and ending with ecological, antibacterial or microfiber Pilates mats. For hatha yoga, for instance, it would be appropriate to use a mat with a very stable surface. You may also need fitness balls used in Pilates and yoga for strengthening the muscles or antibacterial yoga mat sprays which will keep your mats clean. In what the young yogis are concerned, yoga mats for kids are the perfect choice!

The good news is that Pilates mats, mat rolls and even traveling bags are available online, saving you a lot of time and stress. So, if you want to be a more relaxed person, more in touch with yourself and the Universe, you have everything you need to get started at the tip of your fingers. You just have to visit some websites and check out their products.