Yoga Vs. Exercise

Yoga

1. Stimulates parasympathetic nervous system (hence relaxing)
2. Subcortical regions of brain dominate
3. Slow dynamic movements
4. Reduced muscle tension, progressive movements
5. Low risk of injuring muscles and ligaments
6. Low caloric consumption
7. Effort is minimized, relaxed
8. Energizing (breathing is natural or controlled)
9. Noncompetitive, process-oriented
10. Awareness is internal (focus is on breath and the infinite)
11. Limitless possibilities for growth in self-awareness

Exercise

1. Stimulates sympathetic nervous system (hence tiring)
2. Cortical regions of brain dominate
3. Rapid forceful movements
4. Increased muscle tension
5. Higher risk of injury
6. Moderate to high caloric consumption
7. Effort is maximized
8. Fatiguing (breathing is taxed)
9. Competitive, goal-oriented
10. Awareness is external (focus is on reaching the toes, reaching the finish line, etc.)
11. No aspect of self awareness