One of the most common debates among health instructors, gym enthusiasts, and even physiotherapists is the yoga or Pilate conundrum. Depending on which school of thought one belongs to, choosing which is better between the two might depend on the benefits accruable. Having said that, engaging in yoga or Pilates have their attendant benefits and/or drawbacks, however, they are both fantastic ways in getting the body and the mind into great shape. But which is better?
Yoga
This age-old practice developed in the Orients and practiced by millions of devotees worldwide is perhaps the most wonderful means of naturally synchronizing the mind with the body; a means of relieving stress; of getting the mind off the many worries of our daily life, and transporting it into some serene and peaceful place where high level meditation can be achieved without distractions.
Ancient monks and spiritual people just like present day yoga enthusiasts have used this method to bring their body under subjection and control in a very unique way, and this has been attributed to be one of the reasons why they live longer than people who don’t do it.
Yoga generally concentrates on the mind and relaxes the body through measured breathing exercises and body stretching poses that helps relieve all the tension and stress in the body if practiced regularly. Unlike Pilates, yoga can be practiced anywhere and at any time, and without props or support.
Pilates
For those seeking to not only stretch the muscles and tendons in the body, as well as the spine, joints, and other such physical parts of the human body, Pilates is perhaps the best form of exercise. Unlike yoga that dwells more on meditation, breathing exercises, and spiritual trances, Pilates tend to push the body to achieve a state of balance and wellness. Pilates encourages the body to work on exercises that are proven to increase strength and flexibility as well as an increased alertness of the mind.
While yoga does not necessarily require props or support to aid it, Pilates does require straps, wedges and other similar props during any exercise. It is the ideal form of stretching the joints, spine, shin splints, muscles, and tendons without all the heavy lifting or sweaty running, cycling, and jogging.
Though Pilates is relatively new compared to the long history of yoga, it is indeed a good source of stretching the body and relieving stress.
Having looked at both, it is obvious that they are very similar even though their history and methodology are quite distinct. Be that as it may, there is no doubt that both are beneficial to the body as well as the mind. To enjoy the best out of the exercises in a simple yet very effective fashion, it is advisable to alternate between yoga and Pilates. This would help keep the mind free from worries and stress, and the body in optimal physical shape.
