Yoga for stress relief

Sir, - The write-up ``IT & health problems'' by Mr. N. Narasimhan (The Hindu, Dec. 19) is timely. It is stated that careers in IT are associated with immense stress. The article should be read by all others as well whose jobs, being result-oriented, involve stress.

I would offer some comments on the excellent write-up:

The author has quoted Dr. Vikram Prabhu to say that the IT professional, with a record of good health before employment, develops heart problems, sleep disorders, diabetes etc., within a year or two. This statement is rather overstretched. Except in the case of past history of such illnesses, the young IT professional may not face such health problems except the ones caused by long exposure of eyes before the computer. I have seen people taking off their eyes from the computer screen for 5 to 10 minutes and/or having a stroll every 2 hours. This takes care of problems to the eyes. However when all is said and done, the IT professional can practise yoga for stress relief and indulge in Thrataka for the eyes.

Again the author says that natural sunlight offers the best source of vitamin E. Sunlight is a good source of vitamin D and one can look to other sources for vitamin E. Further, overexposure to sunlight has risks by way of UVA/UVB radiation.

The author also refers to in-house facilities of gyms and aerobics. One should be cautious in not combining yogic exercises (`Asanas') and aerobic and gym exercises. The professional can practise meditation (a form of yoga) with physical exercises.

K. R. Raman,

Chennai

Send this article to Friends by E-Mail

Section  : Opinion
Previous : Russia & Koodankulam