ONE of the ways to achieve physical and mental fitness is through Vinyasa, certified National Academy of Sports Medicine personal trainer Jerry Diaz said.
Vinyasa is one of the most popular forms of yoga practiced today, he added; it focuses on flow movement workouts and delivers many health benefits.
Vinyasa may have originated in India during the early half of the 20th century, and today, it is included in various training programs, especially for mental health awareness.
“During my personal training or clientele session, I apply Vinyasa Movement Flow,” Diaz said. “It is very important to pay close attention to the quality of our breathing. The proper breathing technique allows me to slow down my breathing rate, increase mental focus while warming and energizing my body.”
He said he applies the same breathing technique throughout the day every day, “and this allows me to be 100% self-aware and present at every moment to make the best decisions, especially during crisis moments at home, work or the community.”
Diaz said Vinyasa can be best described as dynamic meditation. It helps connect the mind and body, and relieves stress and anxiety, he said, adding that once you’ve finished a session, you will feel calmer and more relaxed.
“As you focus your mind on the breathing technique throughout the duration of a session, your central nervous system enters an elevated state of calm,” Diaz said.
He noted that numerous studies have linked the nervous system to the brain. If one or the other isn’t functioning correctly, it can have a direct impact on one’s mood, Diaz said. A calm central nervous system equals a calm brain.
Diaz said Vinyasa also helps burn calories. An average woman who weighs 150 pounds can expect to burn up to 594 calories in an hour-long session.
Diaz said ideally, Vinyasa should be performed in combination with other types of workout.
He said Vinyasa can also improve blood circulation, and this in turn will help your organs function better.
In addition, Diaz said Vinyasa enhances strength and flexibility through a combination of flow and sedentary poses that challenge the body.
“Range of mobility and motion will also increase as the tension within the muscles is released when they are flexed throughout the practice to minimize the risk of injuries like muscle tears and pulls,” Diaz said.
For professional fitness nutrition inquiries, contact Jerry Diaz through Instagram at @BBJ_Athletics or Facebook.
