What is the methodology of Yoga taught in yoga school Anadi? Is there any scientific basis for this?
At Anadi Yoga School we have a methodology, which combines the Indian yoga tradition with Western scientific knowledge. Scientific research on yoga practice is not a new phenomenon. All yoga is based on science. In fact, the yogis and rishis of India's past could be considered the first explorers. The methodology of observation and experiment differed from that of modern science, but the results of the practice were based on research, whether it was the effects of asana on the musculoskeletal and digestive systems, or the effects of pranayama and meditation on the nervous, endocrine and immune systems. And new modern research methods give the same results as the results that our yogis described thousands of years ago.
When it comes to modern science and yoga, this is also not a new phenomenon. We have historical evidence of studies going back to the 1920s that examined the positive effects of yoga on the organs and systems of the body, mind and beyond.
We at Anadi Yoga School adhere to the same views when we teach yoga. Our traditional knowledge is harmoniously combined with the modern scientific view of yoga. How can this be, you ask?
The practice of asanas begins with the fact that We explain to the student the general structure of the skeleton and muscular system, and then much attention is paid to the structural features and how this affects personal practice. This gives us the wisdom to change our approach to practice, apply the necessary modifications so that the practice is effective and injury-free.
Analysis of the muscular system and how to stretch effectively muscles, helps students relieve tension from the body on a physical level. In addition, by understanding the difference between proper stretching and acute pain in the joints, tendons or ligaments, the student practically understands the acceptable level of stress.
Through the study of the biomechanics of movement, students will learn such important points , how to place the joints correctly, how to distribute the load during practice, which muscles we should activate, what is their center of gravity. All these aspects of practice, which are based on the research of modern science, help to correctly build the practice of asanas so that it becomes as effective and safe as possible.
In addition, the asana is also explained in terms of therapy and its positive effects on the respiratory, cardiovascular, digestive, nervous, reproductive and immune systems.
And I would also like to say that modern scientifically based research in Anadi is not limited only to the level of asanas in yoga practice. The more we explore pranayama, meditation, Yoga Nidra, mantra repetition, the more we are convinced of the positive effect that all these aspects have on the human body and mind.
Pranayama or controlled breathing techniques such as diaphragmatic breathing, activate the body's response to relaxation, reducing stress and anxiety. All research shows that slow, deep breathing can have a positive effect on the autonomic nervous system and activate the parasympathetic system when we need it.
Meditation practice is associated with changes in structure and function brain Regular meditation can increase gray matter density in areas of the brain associated with attention, memory and emotional regulation. Research also shows that regular meditation can help control diseases such as dementia and Alzheimer's.
Yoga Nidra or relaxation technique Savasasana pose with voice instructions from a facilitator can improve sleep quality, reduce symptoms of insomnia, and alleviate stress-related sleep disturbances.
Repetition of mantras, especially repetition of Om, helps relieve stress, induce a meditative state, enhance awareness and concentration. It also helps increase the release of certain neurochemicals associated with positive emotions.
The practice of mudras involves touching or squeezing certain fingers together, which stimulates the corresponding areas of the brain through neurological connections, leading to balancing of the body's organ systems and calming the movements of the mind.
And, of course, how can we talk about yoga and science and not talk about yoga philosophy? All of Patanjali's yoga sutras speak scientifically about the connection between body and mind, and how to discipline and understand the mind.
In conclusion, we at Anadi Yoga School believe, that combining traditional wisdom with scientific understanding allows for a holistic approach to harnessing the potential benefits of yoga for overall well-being.