In the ongoing discourse concerning the superior fitness regimen for overall well-being, the comparison between ancient practices of yoga and meditation versus modern activities like running and weightlifting sparks curiosity and attention.
A recent episode of the Realign podcast, featuring Dimple Jangda, the founder of Prana Healthcare Centre, delved into the debate of whether yoga and meditation surpass running and weightlifting in terms of effectiveness. Jangda emphasized the potential longevity benefits of yoga and meditation due to their capacity to lower heart rates.
To provide further insights, Ujjwal Kalra, a corporate yoga trainer and The Art of Living teacher, sheds light on the advantages of these contrasting fitness approaches. While running and weightlifting primarily target physical benefits such as strength-building and cardiovascular health, yoga and meditation offer a more holistic approach to well-being.
Kalra elucidates that yoga, meaning ‘union’ in Sanskrit, emphasizes the interconnectedness of body, breath, and mind. Through physical postures (asanas) and mindfulness techniques, yoga enhances flexibility, strength, focus, and stress reduction. Additionally, meditation complements yoga by fostering inner peace and emotional regulation.
He highlights that yoga and meditation contribute to mental calmness and physical benefits like improved form, injury prevention, and relaxation, which traditional exercises like running and weightlifting may not directly address. In essence, yoga provides a comprehensive approach to fitness, encompassing physical strength, cardiovascular health, and mental well-being.
Regarding cardiovascular fitness and strength, Kalra notes that yoga can be vigorous, citing suryanamaskar, a dynamic sequence that synchronizes breath with movement. He advocates for a balanced weekly workout schedule that incorporates elements of cardio, strength, flexibility, and meditation to achieve overall fitness and well-being.
By structuring workouts to include breathing exercises, cardio warm-ups, yoga postures, and meditation cooldowns, individuals can attain a harmonious blend of physical and mental fitness, catering to their preferences and goals.
