By Claire Diab and Dennis Boyle
“Yoga” is a Sanskrit word that means “union”; a means of achieving this union includes nourishing your joints through the sun. Research has shown that joint condition can improve tremendously through the eyes when exposed to sunlight (remember to never stare directly into the sun). Sunlight stimulates the pituitary and pineal glands, key glands to our endocrine system. These glands are imperative to our overall health.
You can incorporate these amazing sunlight benefits into your yoga practice by moving your yoga practice to an outdoor location, unencumbered by trees. Stand facing the front of your mat. Gently close your eyes and absorb the soothing benefits of the UV rays. Remember to always wear sunscreen and limit your sun exposure.
Claire Diab is an internationally recognized yoga therapist. She is the director of the Yoga Program for the Chopra Center founded by Dr. Deepak Chopra and Dr. David Simon. She is an adjunct professor of Asian Studies at Seton Hall University. She is the author of several books and DVDs on yoga including “Yoga for Firefighters.”
Dennis Boyle is a retired fire director and acting chief with the West Orange (NJ) Fire Department. He was the recipient of the 1999 New Jersey Deputy Fire Chiefs “Fire Officer of the Year” award.
