Most people use only a fraction of their lung capacity when breathing. They breathe shallowly, barely expanding the rib cage. Their shoulders are hunched they have painful tension in the upper part of the neck and back and they suffer from lack of oxygen. These people become tired easily and don't know why. Yoga teaches correct techniques for breathing, allowing the individual to obtain the maximum amount of air possible for the minimum energy expended. The techniques of pranayama taught in a Sivananda yoga class will strengthen the lungs and bring new energy and vitality to the student.

PROPER EXERCISE:
Muscle development does not necessarily mean a healthy body, as is commonly assumed. Health is a state wherein all the organs of the body are working perfectly under the intelligent control of the mind.
Yoga physical exercises are called asanas, a term which means steady pose. Initially the students concern is to increase body flexibility. The body is only as young as it is flexible. Yoga postures focus first on the health of the spine, its strength and flexibility. The spinal column houses the all important nervous system. By maintaining the spine's flexibility and strength, circulation is increased and the nerves are ensured their supply of nutrients and oxygen.
Asanas work on the internal machinery of the body, the glands and organs, as well as the muscles. The internal organs receive massage and stimulation through the various movements of the asanas. The endocrine system (glands and hormones) is rejuvenated, helping to balance the emotions and improve the mental outlook on life.
One hour of practice will give one hour of exercise, one hour of deep relaxation and one hour of meditation, through developing the concentration powers within the pose. The yoga system of exercise can be compared to no other in its complete overhaul of the entire being. Performed slowly and consciously the asanas go far beyond mere physical benefits, becoming mental exercises in concentration and meditation.

PROPER DIET:
Proper diet is one of the 5 fundamental points of Yoga.
Besides being responsible for building our physical body, the foods we eat profoundly affect our mind. For maximum body-mind efficiency and complete spiritual awareness, Yoga advocates a diet consisting of pure, simple, natural foods which are easily digested and promote health.
Nutritional requirements fall under five categories: protein, carbohydrates, minerals, fats and vitamins. One should have a certain knowledge of dietetics in order to balance the diet. Eating foods first-hand from nature, grown in fertile soil (preferably organic, free from chemicals and pesticides) will help ensure a better supply of these nutritional needs. Processing, refining and overcooking destroy much food value. Quality is more important than Quantity.

"Eat to live, not live to eat". We need to understand that the purpose of eating is to supply our being with the lifeforce,or Prana, the vital life energy. So the greatest nutritional plan for the Yoga student is the simple diet of natural fresh foods.

When the body and the mind are constantly overworked, their natural efficiency diminishes. Modern social life, food, work and even entertainment make it difficult for people to relax. Many have forgotten that rest and relaxation are nature's way of recharging. In the west we have even forgotten what relaxation is. When asked what people do to relax, many will reply they read a book, go for a walk or go to the pub. Although these activities may have a cathartic effect, they are neither true relaxation for the mind, nor body. Yoga teaches specific relaxation techniques that begin with the muscles and progress deeper to the organs. With relaxation comes minimal activity for the body and mind, giving the student a chance to recover from the trials of modern life.

When we take up some recreation such as golf, through concentration on putting the ball into the hole, the other thoughts are slowed down and stilled. We feel we have played a good game when we have achieved perfect concentration. The happiness we experience comes because the mind has been concentrated. At that moment in time all the worries and problems of the world disappeared. Western culture promotes and encourages concentration on external factors; positive thinking and meditation in yoga turns the focus inward, helping the student to concentrate on the positive aspects of life and with regular practice, allows lasting happiness.