Total Fitness of the mind and body is one of the ideals that man is constantly striving to achieve. This is because of the premise that mind and body awareness is related to total fitness. Two techniques that bring about mind and body awareness respectively are Yoga and Pilates.
Yoga is about creating physical and mental balance within the individual. Focusing on the spiritual aspect of Yoga brings about physical health and also potentially reduces the risk of some diseases. Achieving spiritual balance does not simply participate in a religious organization but rather, spirituality is a journey of the self. Regular practicing of Yoga results in numerous benefits since it: tones and stretches the muscles, massages and stimulates the glands and internal organs, helps to reduce signs of aging and deepens breathing.
Pilates is a method that focuses on controlling the body to improve self-awareness and well-being. It was developed as a means of assisting with the rehabilitation of immobilized soldiers. Pilates is based on the premise that physical wellbeing is connected to mental health. Pilates benefits the individual by improving flexibility and strengthening muscles hence increasing muscular and physical coordination. Improved circulation and lung capacity are also achieved by focusing on synchronizing breath and muscle contractions.
Pilates and Yoga help alleviate depression, stress, and anxiety; all of which are linked to health problems. It can therefore be seen that mind and body awareness results in numerous physical health benefits which translates to total fitness.