While many people practice yoga simply because it helps them feel good, the physiological basis for yoga's effects on the body and mind is often unknown or misunderstood. Understanding these physiological concepts can help to deepen your yoga practice.

The Physiology of Yoga separates speculation from fact by examining how the body responds and adapts to yoga within many systems of the body: musculoskeletal, nervous, respiratory, cardiovascular, lymphatic, immune, endocrine, reproductive, and digestive. Straightforward explanations guide you in sorting through conflicting information about what yoga really can help you achieve and in evaluating whether certain yoga methods provide benefits to any or all of those systems.

You can experiment with concepts through Try It Yourself sidebars, which focus on mindful movement, meditation, and breathing. The 14 Myth or Fact sidebars explore popular claims about yoga, such as whether a shoulder stand can stimulate the thyroid or if twists can detoxify the liver. You'll get the most current research to determine the validity of various claims so you can avoid practices that could be harmful or counterproductive and can decide for yourself what works for your practice.

Finally, experience firsthand how yoga affects your physiology by exploring specific yoga poses and four sequences. Each sequence explains which of the physiological principles from the earlier chapters may be most prevalent in that sequence.

With The Physiology of Yoga, you or your students can navigate all the conflicting views and opinions about the impact of yoga and learn to practice yoga while fully enjoying the benefits of mindful movement.

CE exam available! For certified professionals, a companion continuing education exam can be completed after reading this book. The Physiology of Yoga Online CE Exam may be purchased separately or as part of The Physiology of Yoga With CE Exam package that includes both the book and the exam.


Chapter 1. Musculoskeletal System
Bone
Joints
Muscles
Cartilage
Tendons, Ligaments, and Aponeuroses
Fascia
The Science of Stretching and Flexibility
Pathologies, Injuries, and Conditions
Conclusion

Chapter 2. Nervous System
Cells of the Nervous System
Central Nervous System
Peripheral Nervous System
Nervous System Conditions
Conclusion

Chapter 3. Respiratory System
Anatomy and Physiology of the Respiratory System
The Biomechanics of Quiet Breathing
All About the Diaphragm
Forced Exhalation and Inhalation
Atmospheric Air and Expelled Air
Good, Wholesome Oxygen?
Ujjayi Breathing
Nose Breathing and Mouth Breathing
The Psychological and Physiological Effects of Pranayama and Slow Breathing
Pathologies and Conditions of the Respiratory System
Conclusion

Chapter 4. Cardiovascular System
Blood
Heart
Circulation
Role of the Cardiovascular System in Maintaining Homeostasis
Resting Heart Rate and Cardiac Output
Heart Rate Variability
Blood Pressure
Cardiovascular Conditions
Conclusion

Chapter 5. Lymphatic and Immune Systems
Lymphatic System
Immune System
Conclusion

Chapter 6. Endocrine System
What Is a Hormone?
Cortisol: The Master Hormone
Insulin
Thyroid Hormones
Endorphins: Our Body's Morphine
Dopamine
Pathologies
Conclusion

Chapter 7. Reproductive System
Female Reproductive System Anatomy
Female Reproductive System Physiology
Male Reproductive System
Reproductive System Conditions
Conclusion

Chapter 8. Digestive System
Anatomy and Physiology of the Digestive System
Diet and the Digestive System
Pathologies and Gastrointestinal Problems
Conclusion

Chapter 9. Practice With Confidence
Strong, Dynamic Practice
Slow Hatha Practice
Chair Yoga Practice
Restorative Yoga Practice
Conclusion