As the Miami Heat begin their abridged season with wins over their previous season's playoff opponents, it appears that the team has stayed strong and prepared during the NBA's extended layoff. Heat star LeBron James has been known to maintain a yoga routine, which he has credited for helping him stay in shape and be at the top level of performance in the NBA. James is not the first NBA superstar to laud the benefits of yoga - Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Shaquille O'Neal, and Phil Jackson have also been proponents of the benefits of yoga. Yoga helps increase flexibility and endurance, as it stretches muscles and enhances breathing. It also develops mental focus and emotional equilibrium, which can be essential when facing the pressure of competitive athletics. LeBron began his yoga routines while playing with the Cleveland Cavaliers, and since he came to Miami his yoga workouts have continued. Now, even the Heat's head coach has reported using yoga to help relieve stress.
While the public may have stereotyped images of yoga practitioners, in reality there are many styles and paths of yoga with diverse adherents. Children and the eldery can practice yoga, those who are sick or injured can practice yoga, and yoga includes activities that range from physical asana poses and breathing practices to meditation, visualization, prayer and devotion, and study of yoga philosophy. Popular yoga routines have been found to help reduce stress and enhance physical health and fitness, and yoga can be practiced in a yoga studio, at one's home, or anywhere else. If you are looking to be highly successful in your own endeavors you may wish to consider trying yoga as a resource to help you be more fit and focused toward your goals.
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